A couple is facing charges for allegedly subjecting their children to severe neglect, with a police official labeling it as “one of the most disturbing cases I have ever dealt with.”
Amberly Britton and Mark Myers are accused of locking up their three children, depriving them of food, and making them fend for themselves, among other troubling allegations. Authorities revealed that the children were so hungry that they resorted to breaking locks on cabinets to find food, and they endured physical punishment after vomiting due to extreme hunger, among other forms of abuse.
Following a lengthy investigation triggered by one child showing up at school with a serious laceration, Britton and Myers were charged. The couple failed to attend to the child’s injury promptly. Upon visiting the family’s home in Missouri, officials discovered hazardous and unsanitary conditions, including clutter, strong urine odors, lack of bedding, and dirty dishes strewn about.
Reports claim that the kitchen cabinets and refrigerator were secured with locks to restrict the children’s access to food. Britton and Myers defended the locks as a means to control the children’s diet.
During multiple visits to the residence, investigators noted the adults’ evasive behavior, suspected drug use, and failure to address safety hazards. The children disclosed being confined in their bedroom, left to care for themselves, and enduring physical discipline like being hit with belts and dragged by the neck.
The living conditions in the home were deemed appalling, with no heating and a lack of children’s belongings. Shockingly, Britton allegedly blamed her children and showed no remorse, while Myers also shifted blame onto the children and accused them of lying to investigators.
Detective Sgt. Brian Adelsberger described the case as one of the most severe neglect instances he has encountered. Britton and Myers face charges of drug trafficking and endangering the welfare of a child. They are currently detained on $250,000 cash-only bonds.