Alleged abuse of girl, 7, prompts charges

PATERSON, N.J., Nov. 7 (UPI) -- Three adults are facing child cruelty charges in New Jersey for allegedly cutting a 7-year-old girl, prosecutors say.

The Passaic County Prosecutor's Office said Yenitza Colichon, the mother of the unidentified girl, was indicted on fourth-degree cruelty and neglect of a child charges along with Julio Cano and Zahira Cano, The Bergen County (N.J.) Record reported Friday.

Authorities allege in addition to cutting the young girl, the three suspects forced her to watch them perform animal sacrifices as part of a religious ritual in May.

Various bones, dolls and other artifacts were allegedly found inside the Canos' home in Paterson, N.J., in July when authorities served a search warrant.

Colichon, 31, is facing up to 11 1/2 years in prison if convicted on the child cruelty and neglect charges as well as a second-degree endangerment charge.

Authorities told the Record Colichon was also charged in July with cruelty and neglect of a child.

Julio and Zahiro Cano are each facing up to 6 1/2 years in prison if convicted on the child cruelty and neglect charges and third-degree endangerment charges.