Police in Ohio discovered 16 children, some unable to speak, living in squalid conditions described as 'worse than livestock' in a tiny home in Hamden. The children, aged 18 months to 18 years, were found on Tuesday during an unrelated investigation.
Children Found in Deplorable Conditions
The children were confined to a small room in a dilapidated house, according to investigators. Some were mute, and an 18-year-old girl could not write her own name. Seven children were taken to hospitals, one in critical condition. Their current conditions are unknown, and child welfare officials have temporary custody.
Neighbours expressed shock and guilt. Joseph Stewart, 60, who lived three houses away for six years, said he 'never saw any kids at all' at the property. The owner of VC Farm & Floral in nearby McArthur said: 'Right under our noses and nobody was able to help them sooner. It's just crazy that all the wonderful things going on in our little Hallmark town and this is what puts us on the radar. It's really sad.'
Adults Arrested and Charged
Four adults were arrested: Gary Siders Jr., Gary Siders Sr., Christina Siders, and Elizabeth Siders. They pleaded not guilty to child endangerment. Attorney Dorian Baum, representing the elder Siders, said: 'We ask that the community at large, as well as anyone who might have an interest in this case, to take a deep breath, step back, and let the case play out and the facts play out.'
Court records show a warrant was issued for Siders Jr. on misdemeanor indecent exposure charges related to incidents in May; he has pleaded not guilty. The nature of the investigation that led police to the home has not been disclosed.
Community and Investigation
Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson said: 'These folks were pretty good at hiding these kids.' The family moved around southern Ohio over two decades, avoiding medical or governmental records. Investigators are reviewing whether the family was previously reported to children's services.
The home, with boarded windows and doors, is visible from the road but tucked alongside a railroad embankment, separated from neighbours by trees and brush. The closest neighbours did not see the children, who were not enrolled in school.
