Case Background
Arizona child protection officials had been investigating abuse allegations involving 10-year-old Rebekah Baptiste’s family long before her death.
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| Arizona officials admit child protection failures in the case of 10-year-old Rebekah Baptiste. |
Charges Against Father and Girlfriend
Richard Daniel Baptiste, 32, and Anicia Woods, 29, now face first-degree murder, kidnapping, and multiple child abuse charges in connection with Rebekah’s death.
How Rebekah Was Found
On July 27, 2025, authorities discovered Rebekah unresponsive with visible injuries in a wash near State Route 77 and U.S. Route 180 in Holbrook, about 200 miles from Phoenix. She was pronounced dead three days later.
History of Child Safety Concerns
According to Arizona DCS records, concerns about Rebekah’s welfare began when she was just 8 months old. Over the next decade, the agency received more than a dozen reports of abuse and neglect.
Prior Removals and Custody
DCS previously removed Rebekah and her siblings from their parents’ custody. However, the children were later returned to their father, despite ongoing concerns.
Reports Against Girlfriend
In the 18 months before Rebekah’s death, DCS received multiple reports accusing Woods of physically abusing the child.
System Failures Acknowledged
The agency admitted it lost track of the family after they moved, leaving Rebekah unprotected in the weeks leading up to her death. Officials say an internal review of the case is now underway.
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