Four adults were arrested on felony charges related to child endangerment after authorities discovered 16 children needing urgent medical care in a rural home in southern Ohio on Tuesday.
The Ohio Bureau of Investigation, alongside local sheriffs, executed a search warrant at a residence in the village of Hamden, where they found the children living in what officials described as “horrible” conditions.
Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson commented during a press conference, expressing disbelief at the circumstances, particularly regarding the welfare of the children involved.
The arrested individuals include Gary Siders Jr., Gary Siders Sr., Christina Siders, and Elizabeth Siders. They have not yet faced arraignment, and no public defenders have been assigned to them at this time.
According to Vinton County Prosecuting Attorney William Archer, the charges against them include second-degree felony child endangerment due to “substantial bodily harm.”
It’s unclear whether the children are related, but authorities do not suspect any links to human trafficking. The adults reportedly were not from the local area.
Describing the scene, Attorney General Wilson called it “pure evil,” noting it was the most disturbing situation he had seen throughout his career.
Hamden, with fewer than 1,000 residents, lies approximately 90 miles southeast of Columbus, Ohio.
The children found ranged in age from 18 months to 18 years, comprising both boys and girls. Several were in critical condition, and two were transported to a level 1 trauma center for their injuries.
Law enforcement carried out a follow-up search at the home that same day, and the investigation remains active. The adults are scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday morning.
Wilson assured the public, “These kids will get justice.”
