The Associated Press
MADISON, Wis. - A Madison man and his girlfriend are accused of abusing two daughters over a 10-year span, including whippings with a belt or extension cord.
A WISC-TV report says 32-year-old Kevin Knight and 31-year-old Jacqueline L Palmer were charged this week with multiple counts of child abuse.
The two teenage sisters told authorities Knight and Palmer beat them almost weekly in a locked basement. Prosecutors say one girl missed some school because her injuries were so severe.
One girl told investigators Knight was angry after a friend gave her jewelry. She says Knight reacted by whipping her about 25 times with a belt or cord.
Knight says the allegations are untrue and that he didn't abuse anyone. Palmer told authorities she disciplines her children but doesn't abuse them.
(Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)