The Chester County District Attorney’s Office recently announced that Rendell Hoagland, 54, of West Caln Township, pled guilty to murder in the first degree, conspiracy, kidnapping, and other charges related to the 2024 murder of his 12-year-old daughter, Malinda. 

As part of a negotiated plea agreement accepted by the Honorable Ann Marie Wheatcraft, Hoagland was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole plus 30 to 60 years.

During the two-hour proceeding, Hoagland admitted to repeatedly and systematically abusing his daughter for years. This plea agreement was reached in consultation with the victim’s family, who spoke in court about how they have been impacted by Malinda’s death. First responders also spoke about their experience responding to the 911 call and how Malinda’s death has affected them.

District Attorney Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe said, “We still have more work to do, but today we took a big step toward getting justice for Malinda.”

The trial for co-defendant Cindy Warren, Malinda Hoagland’s stepmother, is currently scheduled to begin on June 8. 

The Chester County District Attorney’s Office offered a reminder that, if you have concerns about the safety of a child, you should say something. Call 911. Call Childline at 1-800-932-0313. Childline reports can be anonymous.