Detroit, MI– Concerns from neighbors and police intervention arose after two brothers were reportedly spotted sleeping on a porch outside their family’s home in Detroit for several months.
Neighbors claim that the siblings have reportedly been engaging in this activity at a home on the city’s west side since September, as reported by CBS affiliate WWJ.
“I mean, the kids have been sleeping on the porch for months, so that’s what everybody has been seeing,” Neighbor Elizabeth Jones told the outlet. “I get off work late, so I get home around 12, and I see them outside. ”
“They pull a blanket out of their bookbag, and they lay outside and go to sleep,” Jones continued. “We call the police, we call CPS [Child Protective Services], and nobody does anything, so I just hope somebody help them kids ’cause it’s cold now.”
Independent journalist Marc D’Andre posted footage on Facebook from Nov. 30, showcasing his encounter with a teen who seemed to be resting on the porch.
“He popped out from under the cover,” D’Andre later told NBC affiliate WDIV, “and you know I tried to ask him if he needed help in any kind of way; if he needed money or wanted to go somewhere, even into my van if to warm up for a minute. He refused everything.”
D’Andre informed WWJ that the wind chill during the incident was 14 degrees Fahrenheit.
On Thursday, Dec. 12, PEOPLE contacted the Detroit Police Department for a statement. In a statement received by WDIV on December 3, the department acknowledged the allegations and confirmed that it is currently investigating the situation.
“At this time, our priority is meeting with the parents and routing as much resource as possible to the location to ensure these children are safe,” police said. “The Department is deeply concerned over this situation, and any evidence of negligence on the part of the parents will be thoroughly investigated and, if appropriate, referred to the Wayne County Prosecutors Office.”
On December 4, it was reported by a local Fox affiliate that the two boys, aged 12 and 15, are now residing with family friends and have moved away from the porch following a visit from authorities to their home. The report indicates that the Detroit Police and Child Protective Services are collaborating with the family to find a sustainable resolution.
Rebecca McKay, head of the Major Crimes Unit at the Detroit Police Department, informed WJBK that the two boys intended to camp outside and had access to the house, restroom, and food supplies.
The parents, now free from any potential charges, made efforts to enroll the boys in therapy, McKay noted.
A 15-year-old male is currently facing charges related to an assault and battery incident, according to reports from WJBK.
“It’s not a punishment at all from the parents,” McKay told the outlet. “They don’t want them on the porch, but they’re not going to fight and chance getting into a physical altercation with a 6’5”, 220-lb. 15-year-old.”
McKay expressed to the station that officials are exploring every possible avenue to guide the boys positively. She emphasized, “We’re not giving up.”