Police body camera footage has revealed disturbing conditions inside a residence where 13 children were discovered living amid squalor, covered in bug bites and surrounded by filth, human waste, and insect infestations.
The unsettling find occurred on August 10 at approximately 6:30 p.m. following a routine animal complaint that led officers to the distressing scene, shocking even seasoned law enforcement personnel.
Reports from the Toledo Blade describe the dire circumstances in which the 13 children, all under 14 years old, were found living, conditions labeled as endangering their health and safety.
Local news outlet WTVG detailed the house’s multiple insect infestations, presence of human waste on the floors, absence of a functioning toilet or shower, and apparent lack of food in the kitchen.
The neglected children exhibited visible signs of mistreatment, such as numerous bug bites and layers of grime, indicating a lack of hygiene for some time.
The household in Toledo, Ohio, was also littered with animal waste, prompting one officer in the body camera footage obtained by WTOL to express disgust at the pervasive odor.
The footage captures the children nonchalantly introducing themselves to the officers as if oblivious to the severity of their situation.
In a poignant moment, an officer solicits a colleague’s opinion on the distressing scene inside the residence, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
During questioning, suspect Angel Oliveri III acknowledged the unsuitable conditions for children when prompted on camera, with an officer sharply emphasizing that children should not be subjected to such environments.
Angel Lambert, 32, faces eight charges of child endangerment, while Cassandra A. Lambert, 27, and Angel Oliveri III, 25, each face five counts of the same offense.
All three defendants pleaded not guilty and have been released on their own recognizance, as reported by the Toledo Blade. Oliveri shares five children with Cassandra Lambert, while the remaining eight are the children of Angel Lambert, Cassandra’s sibling.
Subsequently, all 13 children have been removed from the residence and placed in the care of another family member, where they are reportedly receiving proper care and support.
Authorities from the Toledo Police Department, Lucas County Children Services, and the Toledo Municipal Court have yet to provide additional information in response to inquiries.
