Authorities in Wake County, North Carolina, have arrested a couple after the discovery of a 13-year-old boy being held inside a dog kennel. Lacy Douglas Hocutt Jr., 34, and Rachelleigh Marie Galasso, 33, face multiple felony charges related to child abuse and neglect.
Law enforcement officials confirmed on Monday that the teenager was one of six children rescued from the residence. Responding officers reportedly encountered overwhelming filth and deplorable living conditions upon entering the home.
Prosecutors stated that the 13-year-old was severely underweight and showing signs of extreme psychological trauma. The boy reportedly rocked back and forth while yelling for his freedom during the police intervention.
Medical evaluations revealed that the other children in the home also suffered from significant medical neglect. One child reportedly suffered from rotted teeth and chronic pain that made eating difficult.
Another child in the home had scoliosis so severe and untreated that it caused permanent physical damage. Investigators noted that none of the children were able to read or write, indicating a total lack of education.
The suspects were denied bond during a hearing on Monday morning and remain in the Wake County Jail. The presiding judge described the allegations as deeply disturbing to the local community.
The case has drawn attention from federal authorities as President Donald Trump continues his administration's emphasis on domestic law and order. The Department of Justice is expected to provide support for the local prosecution of these crimes.
Witnesses in the courtroom described the emotional testimony of investigators who had to wear protective gear to enter the house. The interior was reportedly filled with waste and lacked basic sanitation for the residents.
Child Protective Services has taken all six minors into state custody for immediate medical treatment. Officials are working to identify potential long-term placements for the siblings while they recover from the ordeal.
Defense attorneys for the couple have not yet issued a public statement regarding the specific charges. The next court appearance for the defendants is scheduled for later this month.