St Mary’s Couple Accused Of Abusing Children

A Saint Marys couple remains in custody at  the Elk County Prison after a local police investigation uncovered the severe physical abuse of a 10-year-old boy and a 6-year-old girl.  According to the St. Marys Police Department, 31-year-old Justin Crawford, and 28-year-old Monica McKinney, are accused of repeatedly assaulting the children at their shared home. Following a referral from Elk County Children and Youth Services, investigators documented extensive bruising on the 10-year-old boy’s face and body, with similar injuries later found on the 6-year-old girl.  Authorities allege the children were subjected to several forms of violence, including, striking, choking, and throwing the children. Crawford is also accused of hitting the girl with a hairbrush, and pulling out clumps of her hair.  Both have been placed in the Elk County prison where bail has been set at $100,000 each.