VINTON COUNTY, Ohio — Four people have been arrested after authorities removed 16 children from a home in Vinton County during an ongoing child endangerment investigation.
The arrests were announced Tuesday by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, the Vinton County Sheriff’s Office, the Vinton County Prosecutor’s Office and the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation.
Authorities identified the suspects as Gary Siders Sr., Gary Siders Jr., Christina Siders and Elizabeth Siders. Each has been charged with 17 counts of child endangering, a second-degree felony.
Investigators said the search warrant was executed Tuesday morning at a residence on Ohmer Street in Hamden following an investigation that had been underway for some time.
Officials said the 16 children, who range in age from approximately 18 months to 18 years, were found living in extremely poor conditions. Several were reported to be suffering from serious medical issues, and two children were flown to trauma centers for treatment.
Authorities said the children are currently receiving medical care at hospitals across Ohio while arrangements are made for their ongoing care and placement.
Investigators emphasized that the case is not believed to involve human trafficking. Officials also said the four suspects are not residents of Vinton County and had been traveling.
The investigation remains active, and prosecutors said additional charges are possible as more information becomes available.
Officials noted they have not yet been able to fully interview the children due to their medical conditions.
The four suspects were scheduled to appear in Vinton County Common Pleas Court on Wednesday for arraignment.
The Ohio Attorney General’s Office, Vinton County Sheriff’s Office and Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation continue to investigate the case.
