SPRINGFIELD — A 16-year-old girl is now safe after local police intervened in what they describe as a case of “severe emotional and psychological abuse” by her mother.
Authorities say they were called to a home on Elm Street Tuesday evening after neighbors reported hearing a loud argument and what sounded like someone crying for help. When officers arrived, they found the teen visibly shaken and afraid to speak in front of her mother.
After separating the two, investigators say the girl revealed a long history of verbal degradation, control, and isolation. According to police, she was rarely allowed to leave the home, had her phone confiscated regularly, and was threatened whenever she tried to talk to relatives or teachers.
Body camera footage reportedly shows officers consoling the girl as she described how her mother constantly belittled her, calling her “worthless” and “a failure.”
Detectives contacted Child Protective Services, who immediately took the teen into protective custody. She is now staying with a foster family while officials work to find a long-term placement with relatives.
Police say the mother is undergoing a mental health evaluation and could face charges related to child endangerment and emotional abuse.
“This was one of those situations where quick action likely saved a young person from years of trauma,” said Lt. Marcus Hill of the Springfield Police Department. “It’s a reminder that abuse isn’t always physical — words and control can be just as damaging.”
Authorities are urging anyone who suspects a child is being abused — even emotionally — to report it immediately.