The Torture of Sylvia Liken

Gertrude had a rough childhood. She grew up and ran from home fast, into the arms of a man who would beat her "just because". Her shell hardened, then after multiple failed marriages and miscarriages her mind seemed to snap. Taking in two girls at their parents bequest suddenly gave Gertrude and outlet. Sylvia took the brunt of Gertrudes' rage and torture for imagined slights. When Sylvia's body gave out, that was when it finally came down on old Gertie. 

 

Sources:

Green, Ryan. 2018. Torture Mom: A chilling true story of confinement, mutilation and murder

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/22543954/gertrude_nadine-baniszewski

https://vocal.media/criminal/the-torture-mother-gertrude-baniszewski-and-the-torture-killing-of-sylvia-likens

https://www.geni.com/people/Gertrude-Baniszewski/6000000010051214828

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2012/10/24/teacher-aide-secret-past-unearthed/1654301/