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Authorities in the US state of Ohio have rescued 16 children who were allegedly confined to a single room in a dilapidated home for nearly four years, describing the conditions as among the worst investigators have ever encountered.
The children, aged between 18 months and 18 years, were found in a house in Hamden, a rural community in Vinton County, during the execution of a search warrant linked to an unrelated investigation. Officials said the children were living in squalid conditions surrounded by human waste and filth.
Vinton County Sheriff Ryan Cain said the children had endured “deplorable conditions,” adding, “Most of our livestock was kept in better conditions than the children. Just a disgusting scene.”
Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson described the discovery as “pure evil,” saying it was the most horrific case he had witnessed in his career. “It’s the type of thing that we’re not used to seeing here in America,” he said, adding that nearly a day later he still “can’t get the smell off of me.”
Investigators said the children spent most of their time inside a room measuring about 12 by 12 feet. Several were unable to speak, while an 18-year-old with developmental disabilities could not spell her own name. Seven children were taken to hospitals in Columbus, with two airlifted to trauma centres. One child remained in critical condition.
The children’s parents, Gary Siders Jr and Christina Siders, along with grandparents Gary Siders Sr and Elizabeth Siders, have each been charged with 16 counts of second-degree felony child endangerment. Prosecutor William Archer said the case was “not a human trafficking case” but rather “an intra-family situation.” The four pleaded not guilty, and bail was set at $300,000 each.
Authorities believe the family deliberately kept the children hidden by avoiding medical care, school enrolment and government records. Investigators said neighbours were unaware children lived at the property, with several expressing shock after the arrests.
Officials have asked the court to grant temporary custody of the children to the state as investigations continue. “Justice will be served for these children,” Wilson said.
