Charges Against Parents of 16 Children Rescued from Unsanitary Conditions

The mother of 16 “nearly feral” children, recently rescued from a home filled with waste, had previously faced charges stemming from the absence of six of her kids from school, according to court records.

Elizabeth Siders and her husband, Gary Siders Jr., were charged with truancy back in October 2021. They were accused of preventing six children, aged 7 to 13, from attending Adabil Elementary School, which was just a short drive from their residence.

The court documents indicate that these children were considered chronically absent, having not attended school at all during the 2021-2022 academic year without any valid reasons.

By the time they were indicted in October 2021, the kids had racked up about 72 hours of missed classes.

In Ohio, a child is labeled chronically absent if they miss at least 42 hours of school each month.

Although this case was dismissed in January 2022, it was noted by Judge Thomas Moulton Jr. that the Siders family was “unservable” due to their whereabouts being unknown to the court.

Gary Siders Jr. did not offer comments to the Columbus Dispatch regarding the charges.

It remains uncertain if the Sider children were enrolled in other schools during this time.

Authorities found the family in a home in Hamden, Ohio, during a separate investigation, where conditions were reportedly appalling, filled with refuse.

Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson mentioned that investigators donned masks upon entering the severely cluttered space, describing the children as appearing “almost feral.”

He remarked, “It really looked like the Third World. It’s something we’re not used to seeing in America.”

The oldest child discovered in this home was 18 years old, born shortly after Elizabeth and Gary Jr. tied the knot.

Officials revealed that none of the children were attending school and noted developmental challenges, stating they couldn’t even write their names.

Vinton County Sheriff Ryan Cain commented on the limitations in communication among the children, some of whom couldn’t communicate at all.

Elizabeth and Gary Siders Jr., alongside Gary Siders Sr., 73, and Christina Siders, 67, were taken into custody on child endangerment charges. All four pleaded not guilty during their arraignment.

A recent ruling requires Gary Siders Sr. to undergo a competency evaluation to assess his capability to stand trial.

Vinton County Attorney William Archer noted that Siders Sr. was released on bail due to a “serious medical condition requiring specialized treatment” outside the county, although he didn’t elaborate on the exact condition.

He added, “The county would be at a loss for his care… and his medical expenses could potentially bankrupt Vinton County,” since taxpayers cover the costs while he remains in custody.