MESA, Ariz. -- A Phoenix-area father accused of regularly beating his 5-year-old daughter over the past few months told police he disciplined her because she does not want to do her homework.

Ezra Hazell, 29, was booked on Tuesday on five counts of child abuse. Kristie Hazell, 25, the girl's stepmother, was booked on two counts of child abuse.

Police said they observed 100 wounds on the girl's back, buttocks, legs, arms and chest.

Hazell told police he would normally discipline his daughter by ordering her to get into a push-up position while he stood by her side and beat her with a nylon military belt.

Police said Hazell told them that on one occasion, while his daughter was in a push-up position, he placed an open book on the floor in front of her face. He would ask her the meaning of certain words and if she got it wrong or wasn't paying attention, he would hit her with the belt.

In the same incident, Kristie Hazell hit the victim with a computer cord on various parts of her body.

During the initial stages of the investigation, the girl was transported to a local hospital were she was evaluated and treated. Results showed numerous bruises and swollen areas externally but no internal damage.

The victim is currently in the custody of Child Protective Services.

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