Vinton County, Ohio’s smallest county, is seeking more resources to care for 16 siblings rescued from a squalid home. The discovery of the siblings, who authorities say were held at a rural Ohio home for years in squalid conditions, is straining the county’s resources as it works to prosecute their parents and two grandparents and provide care to so many children at once.
Challenges in Providing Care
The local prosecutor, William Archer Jr., said the cost of medical care required for one of the defendants alone would have bankrupted Vinton County, which led the court to change the grandfather’s bond and release him from jail on his own recognizance for care at a hospital so the county didn’t have to pay for it.
The county is expecting $1 million from the state to assist with care for the children, including some who have medical needs or are unable to speak. The Siders children ranged in age from 18 months to 18 years, and some were described as ‘feral’ and unable to speak.
Support from Other Prosecutors
Other prosecutors are helping with the criminal case, including Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson, Assistant Attorney General Kara Keating, and Highland County Prosecutor Anneka Collins, an expert in child abuse cases.
Vinton County Sheriff Ryan Cain also has requested assistance from the state Bureau of Criminal Investigation. The county is counting on approval next week of $1 million from the state to assist with care for the children.
Original reporting: WLWT Cincinnati — read the source article.
