2 women allegedly tortured boy for more than a decade, starting when he was 6 months old

RIALTO, Calif. (TCD) -- Two women are accused of torturing a 12-year-old boy for more than a decade, starting when he was 6 months old.

According to a news release from the Rialto Police Department posted on Wednesday, Jan. 25, police learned of the alleged physical and emotional abuse of the 12-year-old victim, and an investigation was launched. As a result, 69-year-old Juanita Shorty and 51-year-old Lenora Harrell were reportedly arrested.

The alleged abuse "occurred over the course of several years" and began when Shorty gained custody of the boy at 6 months old, police said.

The victim was interviewed, and police learned the boy "had been subjected to various forms of physical abuse and torture, including being burned by scalding hot water, being struck on the head causing scars, and being threatened with a firearm."

Shorty and Harrell were reportedly arrested and booked into the West Valley Detention Center on charges of torture and enhancement for great bodily injury/child abuse. Their bail was set at $1 million each.

The investigation is ongoing, and police have asked anyone with information regarding the allegations to come forward.

MORE:

• Two Suspects Arrested for Child Abuse and Torture of Juvenile Victim - Rialto Police Department