Couple accused of taping girl, 4, to garbage bag for soiling herself

Hoover is the former mother-in-law of Crystal Lynn Jedrzejek, 31, the mother of a four-year-old girl who police say, was abused so badly she was left with a liver injury.

"Her belly was so swollen and tight because of the damage," Hoover said.

Police say Khristopher Newman, 34,  is Jedrzejek’s boyfriend. He is accused of punching the victim, tying her hands together and taping a garbage bag to her as a form of punishment for soiling herself.

“If I put myself in her position, I would be terrified,” said Capt. Andrew Frear of Johnstown Police. “She's so little. She's so innocent."

Jedrzejek lived with Newman and her two other kids. She is facing charges as well because police say she knew about what was happening and did not get help.

The girl was being punished for soiling herself, and she was forced to use the bag to go to the bathroom, police said.

Jedrzejek and Newman allegedly abused the girl over a long period of time.

Hoover said her granddaughter is doing well but she is now hoping for justice.

"She needs to go to jail just like he did. She's just as responsible as if she did it herself," Hoover said.

According to a criminal complaint, the couple is also accused of having locked the girl in a cold, dark basement.
Newman is charged with aggravated assault, simple assault, reckless endangerment, endangering the welfare of children, corruption of minors and disorderly conduct.

Jedrzejek is charged with endangering the welfare of children, corruption of minors and disorderly conduct.

Newman remains in Cambria County Jail. Jedrzejek was there for a short period but is now out.