Cincinnati, Ohio — An Ohio mother is facing multiple felony charges after prosecutors alleged she abused, tortured, and attempted to kill her three children by holding them underwater in a bathtub while threatening their lives inside a Cincinnati home.
According to court records and statements made during her arraignment, Anjelicia Stewart, 37, is accused of repeatedly attempting to drown her children — now ages 14, 8, and 2 — while screaming that she was going to kill them. The alleged abuse occurred over several years at a residence in Cincinnati’s Westwood neighborhood.
Prosecutors describe years of alleged abuse
During Stewart’s arraignment Tuesday in Hamilton County court, a prosecutor described what authorities called a prolonged and violent pattern of abuse stretching from 2021 through April 2025.
“She repeatedly filled a bathtub full of water, held them underwater, screaming she was going to kill them,” the prosecutor said in court. Officials allege Stewart used a range of objects and methods to harm the children, including poles, metal clasps, dog chains, and belts, and that she also choked and strangled them with her hands.
Investigators allege the children were subjected not only to physical violence but also to sustained terror inside their own home.
Child allegedly stopped breathing after violent assault
One of the most disturbing allegations described in court involved an incident in which Stewart allegedly slammed one child onto the floor so violently that the child stopped breathing.
According to prosecutors, another sibling had to perform CPR to revive the child.
Court officials did not disclose which child was involved in that incident, nor did they release additional details about how authorities became aware of the alleged abuse. Prosecutors said the abuse came to light during an investigation that ultimately led to Stewart’s arrest warrant earlier this month.
Children described as “terrified” of their mother
Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich described the situation as deeply alarming, emphasizing the fear allegedly experienced by the children and extended family.
“What a horrific situation for those children,” Pillich said. “I hope that they’re in safekeeping right now.”
Prosecutors told the court that the children are currently staying with family members and friends, away from Stewart, while the case moves forward.
“The children are terrified of her,” a prosecutor stated during the hearing. “The family as well. The danger not only to them, the rest of the family.”
Charges and bond conditions
Stewart has been charged with multiple serious offenses, including:
- Attempted murder
- Felonious assault
- Endangering children
- Sexual imposition
She is currently being held on a $500,000 bond and has been ordered not to have any contact with her children. Court records show Stewart has entered a not guilty plea to all charges.
Case remains under investigation
Authorities have not released further details about the timeline of events or whether additional charges could be filed. Officials also declined to comment on whether child protective services had previous contact with the family.
The case remains under investigation as prosecutors prepare for upcoming court proceedings.
Conclusion
The allegations against Anjelicia Stewart outline what prosecutors say was a years-long cycle of violence and terror inflicted on three young children behind closed doors. As the criminal case unfolds, court officials say the priority remains ensuring the children’s safety and holding those responsible accountable under the law.
If you or someone you know suspects child abuse, authorities urge reporting concerns to local law enforcement or child protective services immediately. Share your thoughts or reactions in the comments below.
