A Madisonville couple is accused of abusing and keeping their 11-year-old child confined.
The Department of Child Based Services contacted Madisonville Police Department on Tuesday to assist with a home visit in reference to a report of neglect/abuse.
The original complainant advised that an 11-year-old child lived at the residence and had been “grounded” since the age of 5, according to a Madisonville Police report. It was also disclosed that the child was not able to leave the room and had to face the corner of the wall for hours on end. If the child moved at any time, she was denied meals.
Upon arrival at the residence, authorities encountered Krystal Day, 35, of Madisonville, and three children, ages 12, 11, and seven-months-old. The Department of Child Based Services and the police were allowed entry into the home.
The 11-year-old child was found on the floor of her bedroom, facing the corner of the wall, which was covered with wooden slats. The window of the room was completely covered by plywood boards and a set of shades.
There were also two mounted video cameras facing the corner in which the child sat, according to police. There was a bed in the middle of the room, but no other furniture, decorations, or toys.
Police said the girl confirmed the information provided to the Department of Child Based Services but was very reluctant to provide any further information due to the fear of extended punishment.
Upon speaking with the 12-year-old child, authorities discovered that the 11-year-old was only allowed to leave the room to go to the restroom, school, and sometimes to eat. The girl had not partaken in a family meal since around 2019.
It was also revealed that the 11-year-old child was not allowed to have contact with other siblings or family members. If the child attempted to, there was further punishment. In the family vehicle, a large piece of cardboard had been placed in the back seat to block the 11-year-old from having contact with any other family member.
The 11-year-old child was visibly malnourished and obviously subjected to cruel confinement and punishment, according to police. Authorities said she weighed 54 pounds.
Her stepmother, Krystal Day, and her father, Aaron Day, 38, of Madisonville, were both arrested. The couple was each charged with one count of first-degree criminal abuse (child 12 or under).
They are lodged in the Hopkins County Detention Center on $100,000 bonds.