7 Children Removed from Kentucky Home After Child Abuse Investigation

Abuse happens to the most vulnerable members of our society. In some instances, a minor is groomed for abuse by an adult they put their trust in. That adult can be a teacher, coach, or priest. It’s awful to think of those scenarios, but it is especially atrocious when the abusers are the same people a minor is forced to live with under the guise of “family.”

That’s the horrifying backdrop of a Kentucky child abuse investigation in which eight people were arrested, and seven children were removed from a home that authorities described as a true “house of horrors.”

What Authorities Found During the Kentucky Child Abuse Investigation

As reported by WCHSTV, a joint investigation involving Richmond police, Child Protective Services, and the Kentucky Department for Community Based Services reportedly uncovered numerous abuse allegations, including human trafficking, rape, and incest. Seven children, ranging in age from 1 to 17, were removed from the home and placed with Social Services.

As for the adults, their specific charges include the following:

• Christine Carter, 41, and Johnna Carter, 21, are both charged with criminal abuse/neglect of a child under 13 and criminal abuse.
• Richard Carter, 45, is charged with criminal abuse/neglect of a child under criminal abuse, rape, and human trafficking.
• Sarah Carter, 28, is charged with criminal abuse/neglect of a child under 13, criminal abuse, distribution of obscene matter, and incest.
• Matthew Brumbaugh, 30, is charged with incest.
• Mark Brumbaugh, 30, is charged with incest, criminal abuse/neglect of a child under 13, criminal abuse and sexual abuse.
• Green Schindler, 63, is charged with criminal abuse/neglect of a child under 13, criminal abuse, incest, human trafficking, rape and sodomy.
• Ishmeal Thornsberry, 21, is charged with first-degree criminal abuse.

When authorities served a warrant on the home, they found living conditions described as “very filthy and deplorable.” Those conditions included feces, urine, and insects throughout the home. Police said they could file additional charges as the investigation continues.

Additionally, the Richmond Police Department is asking anyone with information related to the case to contact investigators.

Getting the Right Legal Counsel Help

In terrible situations like these, the minors involved will undoubtedly suffer some level of trauma. The hope is that through counseling and support, they can be placed in supportive environments where they can heal and flourish. It won’t be easy.

In this particular situation, the children can benefit from legal representation to protect their interests. It might also mean issuing protective orders to keep their alleged abusers away from them.

Unfortunately, abuse can happen inside and outside of the home. When an institution lacks proper supervision or thorough hiring practices, it can create conditions that allow a vulnerable minor to be targeted. When those instances come to light, and charges are made, the institution needs to be held accountable along with the assailant.

Hendrickson & Long, PLLC has helped many families and survivors pursue justice for instances of abuse. We are dedicated sexual abuse attorneys who will hold any school, church, or other organization accountable for any neglect that led to these heinous acts. If you or someone you know is going through this type of situation, you don’t have to deal with it alone. Reach out to our office to set up a free consultation. You don’t have to go through it alone.