Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – A federal search warrant targeting alleged threats against the White House led FBI agents to a Philadelphia home Tuesday — but what they found inside had nothing to do with their original mission.
Behind the front door of the residence sat two young children living in conditions so severe that agents immediately called for a hazmat team.
A 5-year-old girl and an 8-month-old infant were found inside the home covered in bug bites and bruises, according to federal authorities. The house had no running water, was overrun with garbage and feces, and was infested with fleas. Approximately 40 living cats and a dog were removed by animal control before the property was boarded up.
The stench from inside the home was reportedly strong enough to be detected from across the street.
Agents had arrived at the home to execute a search warrant connected to alleged terroristic threats against the White House made by 43-year-old Thomas Bach and 44-year-old Megan Bach. Both were taken into custody at the scene.
During the search, FBI agents were also seen removing multiple firearms from the property, including a rifle.
Neighbors told local media they had no idea children were living in the home. One resident described the smell as unbearable every time they walked past.
The two children were transported to a hospital for evaluation and are now in the custody of Pennsylvania’s Department of Human Services.
Thomas Bach and Megan Bach both face charges of endangering the welfare of a child and recklessly endangering another person. Thomas Bach faces additional charges including conspiracy, possession of an instrument of crime with intent, and possession of an offensive weapon. He is scheduled to appear in court on July 20.
The federal investigation into the alleged White House threats remains ongoing.
