Nine Children Removed from Ohio Home After Allegations of Being Locked in Cages and Denied Food
Nine children under the age of 13 have been removed from a home in Etna Township, Ohio, following disturbing allegations of prolonged physical punishment, food deprivation and confinement in cages.
The Licking County Sheriff’s Office identified the suspects as Jonathan Parr, 37, and Jacquelyn Coleman, 32, who were taken into custody in October 2026 on child endangerment charges.
According to court documents obtained by PEOPLE, the children were allegedly forced to stand against walls for hours with nails placed between their toes. Investigators also reported that some children were confined behind cages or barriers and denied adequate food and water.
Authorities said the investigation began after Licking County Child Protective Services referred allegations of abuse and unsafe living conditions to law enforcement.
During a search of the residence, deputies discovered insect infestations, inadequate bedding and insufficient sleeping arrangements.
Court documents indicated that the alleged abuse dated back to April 2023.
Licking County Sheriff’s Captain Jay Cook told WBNS that some children described being subjected to prolonged punishment, sometimes without any apparent reason.
Investigators confirmed that Coleman is the mother of all nine children, while Parr is the father of seven. Twelve people, aged between one and 64, reportedly lived in the property.
Both suspects were reported to be held on $150,000 bond.
The case raises serious concerns about children’s safety within homes and the importance of early reporting, effective safeguarding systems and timely intervention to protect children from prolonged abuse.
