Missouri Couple Faces Multiple Charges Over Alleged Years-Long Teen Abuse
Two teenagers, aged 13 and 14, allegedly endured a prolonged and horrific cycle of abuse at the hands of their mother and her boyfriend in Missouri, according to police reports. The Washington County Sheriff's Office detailed a disturbing pattern of neglect and violence that culminated in the children reportedly being offered in exchange for a mobile phone.
Allegations of Confinement and Forced Violence
Chantel Hayford, the boys' mother, and her boyfriend Jerry Menees have been detained following an investigation that began in December. Authorities allege the couple subjected the teens to what they described as two years of severe abuse. Among the most shocking claims is that the pair were allegedly locked inside a chicken pen and shot at with BB guns.
Police documents further state that the couple allegedly organised "fight nights" where the teenagers were forced to physically hurt each other and brawl. This formed part of what investigators have labelled a "pattern of ongoing abuse" that created an environment of sustained terror for the children.
Neglect, Malnutrition and a Disturbing Trade
The case came to light when a guardian approached the Division of Family Services, reporting that the boys had visited during the summer "begging for food". Medical examination later revealed both teenagers were severely underweight for their age. One child allegedly resorted to eating bugs and leaves, while the other was reportedly forced to consume caulking, a building sealant.
Perhaps the most extraordinary allegation involves the children's mother offering to trade her sons. According to police reports, Hayford allegedly proposed exchanging custody of both teenagers for a mobile phone and phone plan valued at $231, equating to approximately $77 per child. The guardian accepted this arrangement, taking the boys into her care.
Educational Deprivation and Further Abuse Claims
Investigators discovered that the teenagers had never been enrolled in school and, as a result, were unable to read or write at age-appropriate levels. The alleged abuse extended beyond physical mistreatment, with police claiming the property where they lived was "very dirty" and had faeces smeared on floors and beds.
Additional allegations include the couple providing the teenagers with drugs and alcohol and threatening them with real firearms, warning they would be shot if they disclosed the abuse. Some of the alleged incidents reportedly occurred during a child's birthday party, adding to the disturbing nature of the accusations.
Serious Criminal Charges Filed
Following a search of the couple's Missouri home, both Hayford and Menees were arrested and now face multiple serious charges. Menees has been charged with two counts of first-degree kidnapping, two counts of first-degree endangering the welfare of a child, two counts of armed criminal action, and two counts of abuse or neglect of a child.
Hayford faces an even more extensive list of charges including two counts of first-degree kidnapping, first-degree domestic assault, one count of first-degree sexual abuse, three counts of first-degree endangering the welfare of a child, and four counts of abuse or neglect of a child. Both individuals remain in custody without bond as legal proceedings continue.
The case has highlighted severe child protection failures, with the teenagers reportedly suffering both physically and psychologically. One child was described as having been driven into a "great depression" by the alleged treatment. The investigation continues as authorities work to fully understand the extent of the abuse these young victims endured.
