A woman from Cape Girardeau was taken into custody following the discovery of a “malnourished” child in her residence during an investigation prompted by a child abuse hotline on Saturday, Nov. 2.
Jacqueline Straughn, 51, has been taken into custody following claims that her home contained a significant quantity of dog waste and urine, along with a naked minor found on a bed without any coverings. A release from the Cape Girardeau Police Department indicated that officers discovered the juvenile in a “lethargic” state, with feces beneath him.
According to the announcement, law enforcement personnel aided the Division of Family Services in an investigation related to a child abuse hotline. Officials reported that they received a hotline call regarding a “17-year-old individual”.
“The young individual showed signs of malnutrition and had multiple insect bites on his skin.” The report indicates that the room where the young person was found was filled with garbage and seemed to lack any clothing for them.
Documents reveal that Straughn informed officers she is both the caregiver and mother of the juvenile. She remains in custody with a bond set at $25,000.