Cop convicted of failing to report child abuse allegations

RIVERSIDE - A Corona police officer who did not disclose allegations that a 13-year-old boy was possibly being abused by the pastor and other members of her church was convicted today of failing to report suspected child abuse or neglect.

A six-man, six-woman jury in Riverside took less than a day to reach a verdict on the misdemeanor charge against Cpl. Margaret Bell, a 23-year law enforcement veteran.

The 44-year-old defendant could face six months probation and fines when she's sentenced on April 12 by Riverside Superior Court Judge Bernard Schwartz.

Bell, who remains on paid administrative...