The mother of a 5-year-old girl who allegedly was beaten to death by her father has filed a lawsuit accusing the federal government of failing to report suspicions of abuse in the months leading up to her death in 2005.

Tarshia Williams filed the suit Friday on her own behalf and for her slain daughter, Talia Williams.

Authorities allege Talia was beaten to death by her father and stepmother in their home at Wheeler Army Airfield on July 16, 2005.

Talia's father, Naeem Williams, is a soldier facing murder charges and a possible death penalty in the case.

The suit was filed by Honolulu attorney Mark S. Davis.

In a news release, Davis said Talia's father was given custody of the girl on Dec. 1, 2004, and moved Talia to O'ahu. Talia lived with Naaem Williams and his wife, Delilah Williams, in military housing until her death seven months later, the news release said.

The complaint alleges that during that time, the little girl was severely abused, tortured and ultimately murdered.