Parents Sentenced After Child Found With Maggots in Hair with 6 others Living in Unsanitary Conditions

A couple in Bucks County has been sentenced to eight to 16 years in prison following the discovery of their seven children living in extremely poor conditions last year.

The children involved varied in age, with the youngest being just four years old.

In April 2023, authorities launched an investigation after receiving a report about children accessing an abandoned trailer in the Green Top Trailer Park located in West Rockhill Township, Pennsylvania.

Upon arrival, officers discovered two children who were identified as belonging to Shane Robertson, 48, and Crystal Robertson, 38.

Investigators reported that one child was barefoot while the other was wearing dirty and ill-fitting clothing.

According to reports, the children informed authorities that they went into the trailer to retrieve a blanket for their rats, as their parents were facing financial difficulties.

Upon bringing the children to their parents, who resided in the neighboring trailer, authorities discovered extremely unsatisfactory living conditions and a refrigerator that was locked with a padlock.

Afterwards, the police arrived with an investigator from Bucks County Children and Youth and discovered additional children concealed in a back bedroom.

Authorities discovered feces in multiple areas within the residence, while also noting signs of neglect such as deteriorating walls and floors.

According to authorities, the living conditions were deemed to be extremely unhygienic and hazardous, leading to the removal of the children for their safety.

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A medical assessment conducted at a hospital revealed that a majority of the children were suffering from malnutrition, according to the police. Additionally, it was discovered that some of the children had impaired kidney function.

According to authorities, it was discovered during the investigation that the seven children had not been attending school and were lacking basic knowledge. Some individuals were unaware of their own birthday.

The Robertsons have admitted to seven felony counts of child endangerment and six summary counts of animal neglect in early 2024.

A judge has handed down a sentence of up to 16 years in a state correctional institution for the couple. During their time there, they will be required to undergo a mental health evaluation as well as receive drug and alcohol treatment.

The judge has ruled that any contact with their children will be prohibited until they reach the age of 18, and even then, it will only be allowed with the consent of a therapist appointed by the court.

Upon the initial removal of the children from their parents’ care, it was evident that their dental hygiene was in a dire state, with one child even experiencing the presence of maggots in their hair.

Authorities confirm that the children are still in the custody of Bucks County Children and Youth Social Services.

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