Nine children have been removed from an Ohio home after authorities uncovered allegations of prolonged abuse, including claims that the youngsters were locked in cages, denied food and forced to endure hours of harsh punishment.
Jonathan Parr, 37, and Jacquelyn Coleman, 32, were arrested Tuesday, October 13, following an investigation into conditions at their Etna Township residence, approximately 20 miles east of Columbus.
Both are facing felony child endangerment charges after deputies discovered what the Licking County Sheriff’s Office described as appalling and unsafe living conditions.
The investigation began when Licking County Child Protective Services contacted the sheriff’s office about suspected abuse and neglect involving children living at a property along National Road Southwest.
Detectives obtained a search warrant and discovered 12 people living on the property, including nine children ranging in age from 1 to 13.
According to court documents, the children reported being subjected to disturbing forms of punishment dating back to at least April 2023.
Investigators allege that some children were confined behind cages or barriers, deprived of adequate food and water, and forced to stand in uncomfortable positions for extended periods.
One particularly troubling allegation involved children being made to stand for hours with nails placed between their toes.
Licking County Sheriff’s Capt. Jay Cook told WBNS-TV that the punishments were sometimes imposed for minor infractions and, according to the children’s accounts, occasionally for no apparent reason.
“Sometimes it was punishment; sometimes it was for no good reason at all,” Cook explained.
He said children described being forced to hold a wall-squat position for long periods, sometimes reportedly lasting much of the day.
Investigators also discovered a bug infestation, inadequate bedding and unsafe sleeping arrangements.
Authorities said some children were living in a shed while others stayed in a mobile home on the property, raising additional concerns about overcrowding and their general welfare.
Coleman is the mother of several of the children, while Parr is the father of seven, according to local reporting. Court accounts have differed on the exact parental relationships among all nine children.
The criminal complaint alleges that the adults used physical restraint and excessive disciplinary measures that created a substantial risk of serious harm.
Following the search, deputies removed all nine children and placed them in the custody of Licking County Child Protective Services.
Officials have not publicly detailed the children’s medical conditions or disclosed where they are staying, citing the ongoing investigation and the need to protect their privacy.
Parr and Coleman were taken to the Licking County Justice Center, where bond was set at $150,000 each.
Their next court appearance is scheduled for October 23.
The sheriff’s office said the investigation remains active, with detectives continuing to interview witnesses and examine evidence collected from the property.
Additional charges could be filed as the case is reviewed by the Licking County Prosecutor’s Office.
The case has raised serious questions about how long the alleged mistreatment continued before authorities intervened, although investigators have not publicly explained when the first concerns were reported to child welfare officials.
For now, the immediate priority is ensuring the nine children receive appropriate care and protection while the allegations are investigated.
Parr and Coleman have not been convicted of the charges and are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Anyone who suspects a child is experiencing abuse or neglect can contact the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-422-4453. The confidential service operates 24 hours a day.
