The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
Authorities said a 13-year-old Iowa girl was found in severely poor physical condition after allegedly escaping from a bedroom where her guardians had reportedly confined her and left her without basic necessities.
The girl was taken to a hospital for treatment after authorities located her near the home. Medical personnel determined that she weighed 78 pounds. The investigation began when authorities responded to a report that the girl was missing.
According to court records, the girl had left the residence through a bedroom window while looking for something to eat. She eventually went back home, grabbed food from the kitchen, and hid in a vehicle. Investigators later discovered a supply of food inside the vehicle, and the girl said she had eaten some of the items.
Authorities searched the residence and allegedly discovered conditions that raised additional concerns about the girl’s treatment. Her bedroom had reportedly been modified in several ways that investigators said prevented her from leaving. The entry door allegedly could only be secured from outside the room, and its handle had reportedly been altered. The window had also reportedly been obstructed with screws. Investigators reported that the girl had no normal bathroom available in the bedroom, and a container holding urine was found inside the room.
The girl’s two 45-year-old guardians initially told authorities they had last seen her in the bedroom the previous night. They said they went to bed and did not check on her afterward.
The couple allegedly acknowledged that the girl was routinely confined to the bedroom overnight. They reportedly told investigators she was not given food or water while inside and was expected to use the container when she needed to relieve herself. They also allegedly told investigators that the girl had autism.
The couple was charged with felony child endangerment causing injury and was being held without bond.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a domestic violence offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.