Four adults have been arrested after 16 children were discovered living in what Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson described as 'pure evil' conditions in the village of Hamden, Ohio. The children, ranging from 1.5 to 18 years old, were all hospitalised on Tuesday, June 30, with several in serious condition.
Arrests and Charges
Law enforcement arrested Gary Siders Jr., Gary Siders Sr., Christina Siders and Elizabeth Siders on second-degree felony child endangerment charges. Vinton County prosecuting attorney William Archer said the charges involve 'serious physical harm.' The adults have not yet been arraigned and were assigned public defenders.
Shocking Discovery
The Ohio Bureau of Investigation and Vinton County Sheriff's Department executed a search warrant at a home in Hamden, a village of fewer than 1,000 people about 60 miles southeast of Columbus. Officials described the living conditions as 'deplorable' and 'you cannot even imagine.' Wilson said it was the worst scene he had encountered in his entire career.
Medical Emergencies
All 16 children required medical treatment. Two were flown to level one trauma centres due to the severity of their injuries. Officials did not confirm if the children were related but stated it was not a human trafficking situation. The adults were not locals and appeared to have been travelling.
Investigation Ongoing
A secondary search warrant was executed at the home Tuesday, and the investigation continues. The four adults are scheduled to appear in court Wednesday morning. 'Justice will be served for these children,' Wilson said.
