Pregnant woman kidnapped, cut on abdomen

UPPER MARLBORO, Md., Dec. 8 (UPI) -- A Maryland woman kidnapped a pregnant homeless woman and used box cutters and a razor blade to try to cut out her baby, police say.

Prince George's County police spokeswoman Capt. Misty Mints said Veronica Deramous, 40, of Suitland, Md., has been charged with attempted first-degree murder, false imprisonment and related counts in connection with the case, The Washington Post reported Tuesday.

The newspaper said police allege the unnamed 29-year-old victim was held hostage for five days by Deramous, who bound and gagged her and cut into her abdomen, exposing her placenta, stomach and intestines.

Police say the kidnapped woman managed to escape and was hospitalized with critical injuries. But she is expected to make a full recovery. Her newborn daughter, after being delivered by Caesarean section, is also in good condition.

Mints said Deramous was arrested Sunday inArlington County, Va. She told the Post that Deramous met the victim at a Washington homeless shelter, where she allegedly told her she would help her get some baby clothes. After taking the victim to her Suitland apartment, she allegedly attacked her.

Deramous had reportedly told her relatives and boyfriend that she herself was pregnant.