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Couple Locked Kids Out of Food, Abused Them
11 Dec
Summary
- Couple locked food cabinets and refrigerators with locks.
- Children were subjected to hazardous living conditions.
- Parents accused of physical abuse and neglect.
A St. Charles County couple, Amberly Britton and Mark A. Myers, has been charged with multiple counts of child endangerment and drug trafficking. The investigation, initiated after one of the children appeared at school with a serious injury, revealed appalling living conditions. Authorities found the home in a state of extreme clutter, with foul odors and no proper bedding for the children.
Investigators discovered that kitchen cabinets and the refrigerator were secured with locks, which the parents claimed were necessary to control the children's food access. Forensic interviews revealed the children had also been confined to their bedrooms, sometimes overnight. They reported experiencing severe hunger, physical abuse including being struck with objects, and being told to conceal bruises.
Adding to the neglect, large quantities of methamphetamine and smoking paraphernalia were found unsecured in the residence. Despite opportunities to rectify the situation, the children's living conditions reportedly did not improve. Both Britton and Myers, who have prior criminal histories, are being held on $250,000 cash-only bonds.
