Disturbing images have revealed the squalid Alabama storm shelter where at least 10 children, some as young as three, were allegedly held captive and sexually abused as part of a sex-trafficking ring run by their own relatives.
Bibb County Sheriff Jody Wade described the case as the most horrific he had seen in 33 years of law enforcement. Seven suspects, including two mothers and other relatives, have been arrested on charges including rape, sodomy, kidnapping and human trafficking.
The concrete bunker contained little furniture, with children allegedly tied up and forced to perform sexual acts. Victims were also drugged with a white powder that made them drowsy, according to authorities. One mother is accused of using animal shock collars on the children's genitals.
Assistant District Attorney Bryan Jones said the investigation began in February when officers found two victims performing sexual acts they had been taught by a suspect. Authorities believe the ring may have operated since 2022, with up to 12 additional men suspected of paying to abuse children.
All victims are now in state custody. The suspects, who lived within a mile of each other in Brent, Alabama, are due in court in August. Authorities are also investigating possible links to the Mexican gang Seranos, known for child sex trafficking.
