Carvajal

A Kissimmee woman was arrested and charged with aggravated child abuse after allegedly hitting a 6-year-old relative in the face with a belt

Osceola County Sheriff's Office deputies arrested Rebeca Carvajal, 28, and charged her with domestic aggravated child abuse and child neglect.

The investigation began on Tuesday, when deputies took a possible child abuse report. The complainant said her relative, a 6-year-old girl, was under the care of Carvajal when the suspect struck the child with a belt. The child had bruising around both of her eyes, Sheriff’s Office reports said. Deputies spoke with Carvajal who said she watches the child frequently and typically disciplines her by spanking the child with her hand or a belt. In this case, which took place several weeks ago, Carvajal accidentally hit the child's face with the belt. She did not seek medical attention for the child even though there was severe bruising on her face. Deputies also spoke with the victim who confirmed Carvajal hit her on the back of the head with a belt. The belt hit her face.

Based on the information, Carvajal was arrested. The Department of Children and Families was notified and the child was placed with another family member. The investigation is ongoing with additional charges pending.