WOODVILLE, TX – A Texas mother is facing felony charges after authorities say she admitted to slamming her young daughter’s head into a wall as punishment, then appeared surprised to learn the conduct is illegal and allegedly instructed her children to mislead investigators.

Katherine Crosby, 39, was arrested earlier this month and charged with felony injury to a child. The incident came to light when a state Child Protective Services investigator, during a June 6 visit, noticed visible injuries on the girl, who is under 14. According to investigators, the child had a swollen, bruised black eye and described a home environment marked by frequent violence.

The girl reportedly told officials that when anger flared at home, it was not uncommon for someone to suffer physical harm. She said her mother was responsible for her black eye, explaining that she was placed in a corner as punishment, then Crosby allegedly grabbed her by the ponytail and slammed her head into a wall.

Authorities say this was not the first time the child endured physical abuse. She stated that previous episodes had occurred and noted that Crosby did not provide her with medical assistance or even ice for her injuries.

An interview with Crosby led to an alleged admission of guilt. Investigators say she acknowledged causing the injuries and even demonstrated her actions. Afterward, Crosby reportedly expressed confusion, questioning whether such discipline was prohibited.

Further investigation revealed that Crosby may have attempted to prevent the truth from coming out. Prior to formal interviews with her children at a forensic center, the girls told investigators their mother had instructed them to deny any wrongdoing and instead claim the black eye resulted from a fall onto a brick.

During the interviews, one of the children paused and appeared to clarify that her mother wanted them all to stick to the fabricated account. Detectives believe Crosby coached her daughters to mislead authorities during the investigation.

The day after her confession, Crosby attempted to retract her statements, requesting that investigators re-question her children in her presence, and expressing confidence the girls would assert her innocence.

Crosby was booked into Tyler County Jail on July 9 with bond set at $125,000. She was released the following day after posting bond. Details regarding her next court appearance were not immediately available.

The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities continuing to monitor the well-being of the children involved as the legal process unfolds.