CARROLLTON, Ky. (WDRB) -- A shocking case of alleged child abuse has led to the arrest of five adults in Carrollton, Kentucky, after police say a 2-year-old was found locked in a caged area inside a home on 7th Street earlier this week.
The disturbing discovery was made after a tip from a delivery driver who noticed the child's confinement while making a stop at the residence Monday afternoon.
A neighbor, Jeremiah Reed, recalls the scene, saying he overheard police telling the residents, "You’re under arrest for child endangerment."
According to a Facebook post from the Carrollton Police Department on Monday, Brenda Chilton, 71, of Carrollton, William Mahoney, 72, of Carrollton, Codey Johnson, 29, of Carrollton, Tammy Simmons, 52, of Carrollton, and Shelby Turocy, 28, of Ghent, Kentucky, were all arrested.
Detective Dave Roberts with the Carrollton Police Department said officers were called to the home after a delivery driver reported seeing a young child locked in what appeared to be a cage. When officers arrived, they found the child unclothed and in unsanitary conditions.
"A child was behind there, completely unclothed," said Detective Roberts, describing the squalid scene. There was feces, and then you're in that contained area."
The arrests include the child's great-grandmother, grandmother, and father, all facing charges of criminal abuse and wanton endangerment, with some also facing drug-related charges. Another young child was found in the home, along with eight to ten dogs in poor health.
Reed added, "There were, like, five or six dogs in one cage over there."
The home has since been declared unlivable by the city.
Neighbors Vernon and Darlene Simmons were stunned by the discovery.
"It’s a shock! I never seen the kids’ mother," Darlene said. "I think they gave them away to the father."
The five suspects are currently being held at the Carroll County Detention Center. The 2-year-old and the other child in the home have been placed with another family member.
Authorities emphasize the importance of community vigilance.
"If you see something, say something," Roberts said. "This case serves as a reminder of the vital role that bystanders can play in ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable children."
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