Hershey, Pennsylvania — A disturbing child neglect investigation out of Florida has led to the arrest of a couple accused of failing to provide adequate food and care to five children, despite investigators finding a kitchen reportedly stocked with nutritious groceries. Authorities say the case came to light after one child was taken to a hospital, where doctors discovered alarming signs of severe malnutrition that prompted an immediate child welfare investigation.
Florida Couple Arrested Following Hospital Investigation
According to authorities, Anthony Jones, 37, and Erica A. Bryant, 33, were arrested on Saturday and each charged with five counts of child neglect without great bodily harm. Court records indicate the charges stem from medical evaluations performed at Wolfson Children’s Hospital, where doctors determined all five children were significantly underweight for their ages.
The investigation reportedly began on July 18 after one child was taken to the hospital following a recommendation from a primary care physician. Hospital staff contacted the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) after becoming concerned about the child’s condition, leading law enforcement officers to respond to the family’s Jacksonville apartment.
Officers Found Four More Children Showing Signs of Malnutrition
When deputies entered the residence, they found four additional children who also appeared extremely thin and in need of immediate medical attention.
According to the arrest affidavit, officers described the children as “extremely thin in stature” and said they appeared hesitant to speak with adults. One child reportedly looked “extremely malnourished” with visible bony features…