Arizona woman arrested on nine counts of child abuse, neglect

PHOENIX — A Paulden, Ariz., woman was arrested Wednesday on nine counts of child abuse and neglect, the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office said in a release.

Sonia Rios, 30, first came to police attention in late 2012, when detectives learned her 2-year-old son had been hit with a garden hose and flyswatter. The boy was also malnourished and purposefully underfed. His siblings were able to sneak him food they took from school.

Also in 2012, Rios had a child taken from her by Child Protective Services after it was found to be dependent on a narcotic. Evidence showed that at least two more may have a narcotic dependency.

Rios’ 9- and 11-year-old both reported beatings that used spoons, a belt and a garden hose.

Rios made efforts to avoid arrests in past investigations. She was arrested after police learned she had an appointment at a medical clinic.

All six of Rios’ children are in the care of either CPS or have been adopted.

Anyone with more information on these crimes is asked to contact YCSO at (928) 771-3260 or anonymously at (800) 932-3232.