After 16 children were discovered living in what authorities described as inhumane conditions, an attorney representing one of the accused has an important message for the public.The children, ranging in age from 18 months to 18 years, were found by the Vinton County Sheriff’s Office on June 30 while deputies were investigating an unrelated crime. Four adults – believed to be the children’s parents and grandparents – have since been charged with 17 counts of child endangerment.
At a news conference, Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson said the conditions inside the home were ones “you cannot even imagine people being in, let alone children being in.” Investigators said the children were living in conditions worse than livestock, adding that parts of the home were so deteriorated the children were “literally about to fall through the floor.”
According to authorities, the children had been living in an area measuring no more than 12 by 12 feet that was contaminated with human excrement. Reports also state that some of the children were completely mute, while the oldest was unable to spell her own name.
The children were taken to hospital
Two of the children were airlifted to specialist trauma centers because of their injuries, while seven others were taken to hospitals. One child was admitted to the ICU and placed on a ventilator.
Authorities believe the children had been confined to the property for around four years, but suspect the alleged abuse and isolation had been ongoing for most of their lives.
The four adults – Gary Siders Sr., 73, Gary Siders Jr., Christina Siders, and Elizabeth Siders – have all been charged with child endangerment and have entered not guilty pleas. Each faces between two and 12 years in prison for each of the 17 charges.
As the case moves forward, an attorney representing Gary Siders Sr. is urging the public to step back and allow investigators to do their jobs.
Dorian Baum told the Associated Press: “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,” according to VT.