Parents in Nassau County say they are struggling to comprehend allegations that a young child was abused and denied food by the people meant to protect her.

“I can’t believe it,” said Timyiaka Noel, of Freeport. “If we saw a child that was malnourished or looked like they were neglected or abused we would absolutely call someone, say something.”

Prosecutors say 27-year-old Hanchelove Decius and 28-year-old Evenson Francois are accused of severely abusing their 3-year-old daughter over an extended period of time. The Nassau County District Attorney’s Office charged the couple with assault.

According to the district attorney, the child was scalded with burning hot liquid last year, suffering third-degree burns on her chest and lower body. Hospital staff later observed scarring, bruising and other injuries that investigators say indicated months of abuse.

Prosecutors also said the child appeared emaciated, suggesting she had been denied basic nourishment needed to survive.

“It’s horrific to hear,” said Miriam Laffer, of Merrick. “I can’t wrap my head around how people do things like that.”

The District Attorney’s Office said the girl was removed from her parents’ care in June of last year and is currently in foster care.

Neighbors expressed shock after learning of the allegations.

“I think that as a neighborhood, and you can see what it looks like, we’re always looking out for each other,” Noel said. “Definitely not something we would’ve expected to be happening there.”

On Monday, Decius and Francois pleaded not guilty to the assault charges. A judge ordered the couple held without bail.

If convicted, the defendants could face up to 25 years in prison.