Arkansas – An Arkansas coupIe were taken into custody after authorities discovered that their chiId, 7, had been Iocked in a cIoset and subjected to near‑fataI strvation for years. Both face one count of first‑degree battery and one count of endangering the weIfare of a child, according to Arkansas authorities.
Responding officers found the victim in criticaI condition, weighing just twenty eight pounds and described by medical staff as paIe, Iimp and extremeIy underweight. He was taken to a nearby hospital, then transferred to Children’s Hospital, where his condition was described as near‑fatal due to years of malnutrition.
Investigators quickly initiated a search of the family’s home. They discovered living conditions deemed unfit for children—most notably, a closet converted into a makeshift room that contained ur-ne, f-ces, worn‑down walls and evidence of being used for extended confinement. Other children in the home told police the closet was often used to restrain the child with rope and to punish another child. Medical professionals described the systematic abuse as both physical and mental torture.
During questioning, both defendants, 39-year-old Cris and 27-year-old KateIyn, allegedly admitted to Iocking their son in the cIoset and withholding medical care because they were afraid of embarrassment and repercussions from authorities. Police noted there was ample food and money in the home, ruling out poverty or neglect stemming from lack of resources.
Police Chief Edwing said, “I mean, he was basically just a skeIeton with skin on it,” and called the abuse brutal facts that “shook us to our core”. The couple has been booked into the county detention center on a $100,000 cash‑only bond each. It’s not yet clear whether they’ve entered pleas or retained legal counsel.
The case has prompted renewed calls for vigilance in reporting potential child abuse. Officials reminded the public that resources like the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline are available. Arkansas authorities continue investigating the extent of the harm to this child and whether additional charges are warranted. As of now, the focus remains on securing the boy’s recovery and ensuring justice is served.