Chester police say a teacher observed numerous bruises and marks about the face of a student and contacted Delaware County Children and Youth Services.
Upon observing the injuries of the 6-year-old victim, the 8-year-old brother was summoned from class also exhibiting similar injuries.
Medical examinations performed on the children revealed welts to all parts of their bodies. Most of the marks were long and looped at various stages of healing.
Officials say more than 30 marks could be observed in a U-shape appearing to be from a belt, buckle or a cord. Photographs indicated injuries extended over the backs, legs, buttocks, arms, heads, ears, chests and faces of the young children.
Police say such beatings were administered for lying or doing poorly on a school tests.
Cassandra Williams, the children's stepmother was taken into custody on Friday, November 11 for simple and aggravated assault, reckless endangering another person and endangering the welfare of children. She was released on unsecure bail.
The father of the children 26-year-old Nathaniel Ballard continues to be sought by police on a warrant with similar charges.
Anyone having information on the whereabouts of Nathaniel Ballard should contact Chester Police Juvenile Division, Officer John Kuryan at (610) 447-8447 or Sgt. Lamont Graves (610) 447-8457.
