A French woman has gone on trial accused of hiding the existence of her toddler and depriving her of food and care after a garage mechanic discovered the girl living in the boot of her motherโs car.
Rosa Maria Da Cruz went on trial in the central city of Tulle facing charges of repeated violence against a minor causing permanent disability, according to a court official.
The woman faces up to 20 years in prison.
Authorities said the child was about two years old, malnourished and with severe developmental problems when she was found, according to state broadcaster France-Info.
The report said the mother hid her pregnancy and birth from her husband and three other children, and kept the baby in a basement and in the boot of the car.
The child, now nearly seven years old, is in special care.
