Lester, WV (WOAY)- The initial case against a woman accused of pulling her daughter’s teeth out in an alleged exorcism has been dismissed, at least for now.
Deputies were called to the Lester area on June 19 after reports of child abuse.
According to the sheriff’s department, 41-year-old Rebecca Bailey allegedly pinned down her 5-year-old daughter and forcibly removed two of her bottom teeth, claiming the child “had a demon in her” while holding a cross.
A family member, awakened by the noise, intervened and stayed with the child until help arrived.
Bailey was arrested and charged with felony Child Abuse Resulting in Injury.
She was held in Southern Regional Jail on a $50,000 cash bond.
CPS and EMS ensured the child was treated and placed with a responsible family member.
The case was dismissed in the magistrate court after the investigating officer failed to appear for the preliminary hearing.
The case is now expected to be presented to a grand jury.
