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Douglas teen allegedly abused while having seizure; parents arrested

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Published  May 1, 2026 1:10pm EDT
Douglas County
FOX 5 Atlanta
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Rebecca Anderson (Credit: Douglas County Sheriff's Office)

The Brief

    • A mother and stepfather in Douglas County are behind bars following allegations of horrific abuse involving a teenager.
    • Investigators say the victim was physically assaulted with a walking stick and other objects while suffering through a medical emergency.
    • According to court warrants, the abuse allegedly escalated after the child reached out for medical help.

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ga. - A mother and stepfather face dozens of charges for allegedly abusing a Douglas County teen while the child was having a seizure.

What we know:

Rebecca Anderson and Omar Salem are charged with several counts each of aggravated assault, first-degree cruelty to children, and reckless conduct, according to police.

Officials tell FOX 5's Kevyn Stewart that the teen was kicked, slapped, hit with a walking stick, and cursed at while experiencing a "lock up" seizure. According to a warrant, Anderson slapped her child after the teen asked for medicine, leaving a visible bruise.

What we don't know:

Officials haven't said how they learned of the alleged abuse or where the child is currently staying. 

What's next:

Both suspects are currently being held in the Douglas County Jail.

The Source: This article was written based off reporting by FOX 5's Kevyn Stewart.

Douglas CountyNewsCrime and Public Safety