Authorities in Ohio rescued 16 children, ranging in age from 1 to 18 years old, after executing a search warrant at a home where officials say they were living in extremely unsafe and neglectful conditions.

Many of the children required immediate medical treatment. Several were hospitalized, while others were airlifted to Level 1 trauma centers because of the severity of their conditions.

Following the rescue, four family members—identified as Gary Siders Sr., Gary Siders Jr., Christina Siders, and Elizabeth Siders—were arrested and each charged with 17 counts of child endangerment. Prosecutors said the charges include one count for each child found in the home, along with an additional count related to serious physical harm. All four have pleaded not guilty.

During a news conference, officials described the situation as one of the worst they had ever encountered. They said investigators found the children living in conditions that were “beyond comprehension,” with reports indicating they spent much of their time confined to a single room inside the small home.

Authorities also said the children were not enrolled in school, and the oldest, an 18-year-old with developmental delays, was included in the charges because officials considered them functionally a minor.

Investigators stated that there is no evidence of human trafficking in the case, but they warned that the home was in such poor condition that parts of it were considered unsafe for investigators to enter during the ongoing search.

All 16 children have been placed in temporary protective custody while the investigation continues. Authorities say additional charges may be filed as more evidence is reviewed.

Source: True Crime News