Horror in Cojedes: Stepfather abused 6-year-old girl, mother covered up crimes

Authorities in Venezuela's Cojedes state have arrested a couple accused of systematically abusing a six-year-old girl, with the child's mother implicated in covering up the crimes. The disturbing case came to light when medical staff at a local health clinic alerted the police.

The girl was taken to the La Herrereña health module in San Carlos municipality, complaining of severe pain in her intimate areas. A doctor on duty detected clear signs of abuse and immediately notified the police. The National Bolivarian Police (PNB) transferred the initial responsibilities to the Council for the Protection of Children, Girls, and Adolescents to ensure the child's safety.

Psychologists interviewed the young victim, who recounted recurrent touching of her private parts by her stepfather. Investigations revealed the mother was present during the assaults and actively protected her partner instead of defending her daughter. Police apprehended Carlos José Guite Muñoz, 33, after an intensive search as he attempted to flee. Ana Karina Bareño Rodríguez, 37, was arrested at the health center on charges of omission and complicity. Both are now in police custody and awaiting prosecution by the Sixth Prosecutor's Office of the Public Ministry.