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North Philadelphia Couple Accused Of Dousing Victim In Flammable Liquid, Setting Her On Fire

By Cherri Gregg

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Prosecutors say a North Philadelphia couple is facing numerous charges for assaults on two victims. One of the victims -- a 20-year-old woman -- was doused with flammable liquid and set on fire.

"Both victims say that they were lured to their house via an online dating situation."

Spokesman Tasha Jamerson says the 20-year-old was lured from Pittsburgh to North Philadelphia, where she was held against her will, beaten and then set her on fire. Jamerson says perpetrators then put the fire out and put the women on a bus back to Pittsburgh:

"24-year-old Tamara Rhoades, her husband 34-year-old Michael Rhoades, 22-year-old Steven Mills and a 14-year-old juvenile who is a relative of the couple. They are facing numerous charges."

Including attempted murder and arson.

Jamerson says Tamara and Michael Rhoades are also charged beating a 21-year-old woman. Police found the second victim while executing a search warrant at the couple's home.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 9th.

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