HAMDEN, Ohio — Ohio authorities rescued 16 children from horrific living conditions in a Vinton County home Tuesday, describing the scene as among the worst they have ever encountered.

The children, ranging in age from 18 months to 18 years, were found in a small, feces-contaminated room where they had reportedly been confined for much of the past four years. Officials said the home showed little outward sign that children lived there.

Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson quoted Vinton County authorities during a press conference, stating: “I think if they would’ve waited another 24 hours, there’s a high probability we’d be dealing with a death or multiple deaths.”

Vinton County Sheriff Ryan Cain added, “Most of our livestock was kept in better conditions than the children,” describing the scene as “disgusting” and comparing it to “third world” conditions. Some children were nonverbal, and at least one 18-year-old was severely developmentally disabled. Several children required immediate medical attention, with two flown by helicopter to hospitals in serious or critical condition.

Four Adults Charged

Authorities arrested and charged four adults, all members of the same family, with 16 counts each of second-degree felony child endangerment:

• Gary Siders Sr., 73
• Christina Siders, 67
• Gary Siders Jr., 36
• Elizabeth Siders, 33

They were identified as grandparents and parents of the children. The suspects appeared in court Wednesday, where not guilty pleas were entered on their behalf. Each was ordered held on $300,000 bond with no-contact orders.

Mugshots (clockwise from top left): Gary Siders Sr., Gary Siders Jr., Christina Siders, and Elizabeth Siders (as released by authorities).

The case is not believed to involve human trafficking but is described as an intra-family situation. The family had ties to the area for about four years and had connections to Gallia County and Wisconsin. Neighbors reported being unaware that children lived at the residence.

The children are receiving medical care and have been placed into temporary custody of child protective services. The investigation is ongoing, with additional search warrants executed at the property.

This story is developing. The Fostoria Free Press will provide updates as more information becomes available from Vinton County authorities and the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.

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Sources: WOUB Public Media,  local law enforcement press conference.