Officers responding to a domestic violence report in Chesapeake made a horrifying discovery—a home in absolute squalor with children living in filth.
Deputies arrived to find a distraught woman answering the door, visibly shaken and struggling to catch her breath. Inside, two young boys sat on the couch as a man emerged from the back bedroom. But what truly stunned officers was the state of the home.
Trash and cigarette butts were embedded in the filthy carpet, stains and splattered food covered the walls, and the kitchen counters overflowed with dirty dishes and rotting food. The living room contained only a battered couch and a broken recliner, while the bedrooms were in total disrepair. One door lay broken off its hinges with a shattered TV on top of it, while another room had drywall smashed in on all four walls.
The man told deputies that the argument started when the two boys attempted to take an Uber to fight someone in Proctorville. When he tried to discipline them, one boy became aggressive, shoving him. He pushed back, which led to the boy striking him in the face. Things escalated when the second boy jumped in—smashing a TV over the man’s back!
Deputies observed visible injuries on his face and back, while one boy had a busted lip and abrasions on his back consistent with carpet burns. As a result, officers arrested the man and both juveniles.
The adult was transported to Lawrence County Jail to await his arraignment, while the two boys were taken to the juvenile center, where they will remain until their court appearance. Meanwhile, CPS has been notified about the deplorable living conditions, marking yet another troubling report about this family’s home.
What to Do If You See People Living in Squalor
If you suspect someone—especially children—is living in dangerous or unsanitary conditions, take action:
- Call Authorities – Contact Child Protective Services (CPS) or local law enforcement to report unsafe living situations.
- Document Evidence – If possible, discreetly take photos or videos to provide proof of the conditions.
- Offer Support – If it’s safe, reach out to the individuals involved and connect them with local resources like shelters or social services.
- Alert Landlords or Property Owners – If the home is a rental, the property owner may be able to intervene.
- Follow Up – If nothing seems to change, check back with authorities to ensure the situation is being addressed.
No one—especially children—should have to live in such horrific conditions. Stay vigilant, and don’t be afraid to report potential cases of neglect or abuse.
