A 40-year-old Alexandria woman was indicted on child abuse and neglect charges Wednesday for allegedly abusing a three-year-old and six-month-old child in her care last year.
Rhonda Holland was arrested on July 1 and is being held without bond. She was indicted for two felonies — aggravated malicious wounding and child abuse/neglect.
On May 15, 2023, a concerned citizen brought the three-month-old into the Alexandria Fire Station 208 (175 N. Paxton Street). Alexandria Fire Department staff found that the child “exhibited symptoms consistent with neglect and abuse,” according to the office of Commonwealth’s Attorney Bryan Porter.
The three-year-old received medical care and was placed in protective custody with the assistance of the Alexandria Department of Community and Human Services.
The investigation into Holland then revealed that she was also taking care of a six-month-old child who allegedly showed similar symptoms. The infant was also placed in protective custody.
The investigation remains active, and more people could be charged in connection to these incidents, Porter said.
“I cannot confirm or deny that any particular person is being investigated at this point,” Porter said. “We consider the investigation to be open at this point.”
Holland’s trial date will be determined today in court.
