Four individuals have been apprehended after 16 children were discovered living in deplorable conditions and requiring medical attention in a rural Ohio home, officials stated on Wednesday.
The children were found during a search of the home in Hamden, 60 miles southeast of Columbus, Ohio, by state officials. Conditions in the home were described as unimaginable, and several children were in serious condition when found, with two being flown to Level 1 trauma centers due to their injuries.
State officials described the scene as "pure evil" and the worst they had encountered in their careers. Several children were in critical condition, and officials warned that waiting 24 hours could have resulted in multiple deaths.
Horrid conditions were reported, with a high presence of feces and bacterial matter. The Vinton County Sheriff noted that the livestock on the property was kept in better condition than the children.
The suspects, Gary Siders Sr., Gary Siders Jr., Christina Siders, and Elizabeth Siders, were charged with 16 counts of second-degree child endangering. A judge entered not guilty pleas on their behalf and set a $300,000 bond for all four.
Officials clarified that the children ranged in age from 18 months to 18 years old and included both boys and girls. The suspects are not originally from Vinton County, and officials assured that there is no risk to other children in the area.
The case has sparked widespread concern, with Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine stating that he is being kept informed and praising the efforts of children's services workers, law enforcement, and medical personnel who are helping the children.
Justice officials have vowed to ensure that the suspects face the consequences of their actions, with Attorney General Wilson stating that "justice will be served for these children."
