A Cincinnati woman is facing serious charges after police say she tied up her young children with a rope, pushed them down a flight of stairs, and beat one with a belt so severely that the child required overnight hospitalization. According to newly filed affidavits, investigators allege that 28-year-old Daisha Phillips abused her 4-year-old son and 5-year-old daughter last month inside their Winton Hills home.
Court records state that Phillips struck her daughter “numerous times with a belt, causing serious physical injury which required (her daughter) to be admitted overnight to a hospital.” Police wrote that Phillips admitted responsibility when speaking to a social worker from Hamilton County Job and Family Services, reports Fox affiliate WXIX.
She allegedly told the worker that the injuries were the result of her “normal discipline.” The children later confirmed the abuse during forensic interviews at the Mayerson Center for Safe and Healthy Children. Investigators said both victims disclosed details of what happened to them during sessions conducted by a licensed social worker.
Authorities reported that Phillips not only bound the children’s wrists with rope but also shoved them down the stairs during the incident. The repeated belt strikes inflicted lasting injuries on the 5-year-old, leading medical staff to keep her in the hospital overnight.
Phillips was arrested Monday and booked into the Hamilton County Justice Center around 2:30 p.m. She is facing two felony counts of endangering children.
Her first appearance in court took place Tuesday morning before Hamilton County Municipal Court Judge Jackie Ginocchio. During the brief hearing, the judge set Phillips’ bond at $50,000 straight, ruling out the option for her to post just 10 percent.
The court also issued an order requiring Phillips to have no contact with her two children while the case proceeds. A public defender has been appointed to represent her as she awaits further legal proceedings.
The case has drawn strong attention in Cincinnati, both because of the serious nature of the injuries and the disturbing details contained in the sworn affidavits. Authorities emphasize that the children are now under protective care, and additional steps are being taken to ensure their safety.
With charges filed, Phillips will remain in custody unless she can meet the bond requirements. Further hearings are expected to determine the next stage of the case. The allegations highlight once again the role of forensic specialists, social workers, and law enforcement in documenting abuse and protecting children who may not otherwise have the ability to speak for themselves.