3 charged with felony child neglect in Florida Panhandle

Author: Associated Press
Published:
MGN

LYNN HAVEN, Fla. (AP) – Three people face felony child neglect charges after officials found seven children, five adults and three dogs living in a filthy house in Florida’s Panhandle.

Lynn Haven police arrested 43-year-old Lakeecha Jackson Downing Wednesday. Her 46-year-old husband Robert Downing and 26-year-old roommate Aleethea Ruth were arrested on Friday.

The News Herald of Panama City (http://bit.ly/1QRn40O ) reports police officers sent to investigate the scene could only stay inside the apartment for 15 minutes at a time because the odor was so strong. Dirty dishes and garbage was piled up and attracted flies. Bleach and other dangerous chemicals were within the reach of children.

The Florida Department of Children and Families took custody of the children.

It’s not clear whether the couple and their roommate have hired attorneys.

Copyright ©2024 Fort Myers Broadcasting. All rights reserved.

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without prior written consent.