Hamden, Ohio- Authorities in Vinton County, Ohio, have arrested four adults after discovering 16 children living inside a cramped, deteriorating home described by the state’s top law enforcement official as one of the worst scenes he has ever witnessed.
The Vinton County Sheriff’s Office, working alongside the Ohio Bureau of Investigation, executed a search warrant at a residence on the 100 block of Ohmer Street in Hamden — a small village in southern Ohio. Inside, deputies found 16 children ranging in age from 18 months to 18 years old, all allegedly living under dangerous conditions in a one-story, five-room home with a single bathroom, built in 1900.
Gary Siders Jr., Christina Siders, Elizabeth Siders, and Gary Siders Sr. were each charged with 16 counts of second-degree felony child endangerment. Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson, who announced the charges at a press conference, did not hold back.
“This is pure evil. This probably was the worst scene that I’ve been in, as far as the deplorable conditions.”
Authorities confirmed that the alleged endangerment involved “serious physical harm,” though specific details were withheld due to the ongoing nature of the investigation. All 16 children were being treated medically as authorities worked to place them in safe environments.
Perhaps most disturbing to locals — none of them had ever seen a child at the property. Neighbor Larry Brown, who says he passes through the area frequently, was stunned.
“I come up down through here all the time and I’ve never seen a kid out here.”
Residents also reported that multiple animals were allegedly kept inside the home. Law enforcement was clear that this is not a human trafficking case. All four suspects are reported to be from outside Vinton County.
The investigation remains active. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Vinton County Sheriff’s Office.
