GLOUCESTER TOWNSHIP, NJ – Authorities in New Jersey have unveiled a harrowing case of alleged prolonged abuse, purportedly inflicted on an 18-year-old woman by her mother and stepfather. The young woman reportedly endured years of torment, including being confined to a padlocked bathroom and forced into a dog crate at times.
In a chilling revelation, investigators stated that the victim lived under restrictive conditions, with her bedroom only equipped with a bucket for sanitation, while an alarm system would alert her captors if she attempted to leave. The young woman’s ordeal came to light when she managed to flee on May 8, seeking sanctuary with a neighbor who promptly alerted law enforcement.
The Camden County Prosecutor’s Office has charged the alleged perpetrators, Brenda Spencer, 38, and Branndon Mosley, 41, with multiple offenses. These include charges of kidnapping, conspiracy to commit kidnapping, aggravated assault, and endangering the welfare of a child. Mosley faces additional charges of aggravated sexual assault and related offenses.
According to the victim’s accounts to authorities, the abuse allegedly began around 2018 when Spencer withdrew her from school while she was in the sixth grade. The girl was reportedly “confined” at their Gloucester Township residence, initially being kept in a dog crate for roughly a year, only being let out sporadically. Over time, she was allegedly moved to a bathroom where she remained chained, except during sporadic family visits.
The stark circumstances in which the victim lived included a bare room monitored by an alarm system rigged to notify Spencer and Mosley of any attempt by her to escape, according to prosecutors. Mosley is also accused of physically and sexually abusing the young woman.
A police search of the residence revealed concerning conditions, including the discovery of a 13-year-old girl living in an environment described as “squalid,” along with several animals. Spencer and Mosley were apprehended by authorities on the following Sunday.
Prosecutor Grace MacAulay characterized the victim’s ordeal as profoundly disturbing, commending her resilience in the face of such traumatic experiences.
Neighbors expressed shock and regret for not recognizing the severity of the situation sooner. One neighbor expressed a sense of disbelief and hindsight, wishing earlier intervention had been possible.
Mosley, employed by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority as a rail conductor, has been placed on leave amid the ongoing investigation.
A court hearing for Spencer and Mosley has been scheduled for Friday, where the judicial proceedings will further unfold the grim details of this case.