Three adults are in jail, and a young boy is now safe with Child Protective Services after a shocking discovery made by deputies in Michigan earlier this month.
Genesee County Sheriff Christopher Swanson spoke at a news conference, stating, “This case involves starvation of animals, neglect, and child endangerment.”
The incident began when AT&T employees found that $30,000 worth of wireless cables were missing at their worksite in Flint. In the course of their investigation, deputies went to a nearby home, where they made disturbing findings. The first thing they noticed was a dead dog in a cage at the front of the house, along with another malnourished dog wandering in the yard.
Upon entering the home, deputies encountered a second undernourished dog that appeared to have not eaten in weeks and had no access to water. They also found a small puppy that was dead inside a pizza box.
The conditions of the home were described as “deplorable” by Sheriff Swanson. The refrigerator had no power and contained rotting food, and the living conditions were unfit for anyone, yet a 9-year-old child was living there.
“This home had two dead dogs, two starving dogs, and a 9-year-old boy,” Swanson reported. Responding quickly, deputies rescued the two dogs and placed the child in a safe environment.
While the press conference did not specify the relationship between the adults and the child, records show that they are facing multiple charges.
Kelly Walker, 29, faces charges of child abuse, animal cruelty, and the killing and torture of an animal. Charles Ashbaker, 38, is charged with animal cruelty, child abuse, and felony firearm possession. Dougal Nelson, 47, faces charges of theft, drug possession, and resisting arrest.
Sheriff Swanson emphasized the importance of accountability, stating, “These are individuals who could have called for help but chose not to.” All three remain in custody as the investigation continues.
