TWO GILMER WOMEN CHARGED WITH USING ELECTRIC SHOCK TO DISCIPLINE CHILDREN

(02/07/2011)

Yarica Jackson (left) and Mary Ann Starcher

Gilmer County authorities have arrested two Cox's Mill women on child abuse charges, saying the women used electrical shocks to punish four children.

Mary Ann Starcher, 35, is charged with four counts of child abuse and Yarica Jackson, 31, is charged with four counts of child neglect.

Starcher reportedly told police she used a homemade device to shock four kids ranging from 4 to 12 years old, the charges indicated Jackson admitted to allowing the punishment.

Starcher and Jackson are being held on $60,000 bond each.

Both women are incarcerated in Central Regional Jail.

Reports indicate the children have been placed in state protective custody.