Three adults have been arrested and a young boy is now in the custody of Child Protective Services after a disturbing discovery in Flint, Michigan, earlier this month.
Authorities uncovered a tragic scene involving neglected animals and a child in unsafe living conditions.
The investigation began after AT&T employees arrived at a worksite and discovered $30,000 worth of wireless cables had been stolen.
Deputies, responding to the situation, arrived at a home where they found a deceased dog inside a cage in the front yard. They also discovered another emaciated dog wandering around and a third dog inside the home, equally starved and dehydrated.
In one of the most heartbreaking findings, police came across a dead puppy curled up in a pizza box, seemingly having died from neglect.
The deputies also noted the unsanitary and unsafe living conditions inside the home, which included a refrigerator without power and rotting food.
The residence housed three adults and a 9-year-old boy, who was immediately placed into the care of Child Protective Services after the deputies intervened.
The adults, who are facing multiple charges, have been identified as Kelly Walker (29), Charles Ashbaker (38), and Dougal Nelson (47).
Charges:
- Kelly Walker faces charges of child abuse, animal cruelty, and the killing and torture of an animal.
- Charles Ashbaker is charged with animal cruelty, the killing and torture of an animal, child abuse, and felony firearm possession.
- Dougal Nelson faces charges of theft, drug possession, and resisting arrest.
Authorities emphasized that the adults could have sought help but failed to act, leading to the severe neglect of both the animals and the child.
