New police records detail a disturbing Arizona abuse case showing that 10-year-old Rebekah Baptiste begged for help months before she was allegedly killed by her father and his girlfriend, despite documented injuries and repeated warnings to authorities. The Arizona abuse allegations raise serious questions about systemic failures in child protection.
According to FOX 10 Phoenix, Rebekah approached a gas station clerk in October 2024 and pleaded for help, prompting a 911 call. Police reported that she said her father’s girlfriend, Anicia Woods, struck her with a brush and belt and forced her into physical punishment for “acting out.” Officers documented visible injuries, and Rebekah was treated at Phoenix Children’s Hospital for a bloody lip and bruising. Investigators later closed the case after her father, Richard Baptiste, and Woods claimed the injuries were self-inflicted.
Rebekah was found unresponsive on July 27, 2025, near a remote campsite outside Concho, Arizona, where the family had recently moved and was living off-grid. A probable-cause affidavit described escalating abuse, repeated escape attempts, and severe physical decline. Woods, who claimed a nursing background, told investigators she believed the child “would be fine” and delayed medical care.
Medical findings later revealed extensive abuse, including a brain hemorrhage, burn marks, missing toenails, and numerous injuries. Investigators wrote that Baptiste showed little reaction when shown “horrendous photos” of his daughter. He later admitted to striking her with a belt.
Both adults now face first-degree murder and multiple child abuse charges. Arizona’s Department of Child Safety has launched a review, and Gov. Katie Hobbs pledged a full investigation as lawmakers cite the Arizona abuse case as a warning sign of broader failures.
