A 70-year-old Missouri woman has pleaded guilty to endangering the welfare of a foster child after attempting to trade the girl for a monkey. Brenda Deutsch entered the plea on Monday under an agreement that dropped two other charges.
Deutsch was originally charged last year with multiple counts of child abuse and neglect. The case involved allegations spanning from 2022 to early 2025, including physical abuse and the failed attempt to exchange the child for an exotic animal.
The investigation began after an anonymous tip in November 2024. Authorities later learned the child had been sent to Texas, where she was left alone for extended periods before being turned over to child protective services.
Under the plea deal, Deutsch faces up to seven years in prison. A case review is scheduled for July 21 in Lincoln County court.