Authorities in Tennessee have arrested a couple on child abuse charges after a disturbing incident involving the confinement of a 7-year-old autistic child in a storage trunk came to light. Mikki Dee Moody, 36, and Sean David Moody, 39, are facing charges of aggravated child abuse and neglect, as well as child endangerment.
The arrests came after investigators executed a search warrant at the Moody's residence on an unrelated matter. The Carter County Sheriff's Office, in collaboration with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, conducted the search at the home located on Blevins Hollow Road in Elizabethton, Tenn.
Upon arrival, investigators encountered the suspects along with the autistic child, who is non-verbal. The child's condition raised concerns, leading to the arrest of Sean David Moody on a warrant related to the abuse of a vulnerable adult. During the search of the residence, authorities discovered deplorable living conditions, including exposed wiring in multiple electrical outlets and feces from animals and humans on the floor.
Further investigation revealed the presence of a brown storage trunk in the living room, which contained urine-soaked blankets, a pillow, half-eaten pizza, and clothing stained with what appeared to be blood. It was determined that the child had been confined in the trunk with food. The Department of Children's Services was promptly notified of the situation.
Both Mikki Dee Moody and Sean David Moody were taken into custody and booked at the Carter County Detention Center. Mikki Dee Moody was later released after posting a $75,000 bond.
This distressing case underscores the importance of vigilance in safeguarding the well-being of vulnerable individuals, particularly children with special needs. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the matter to ensure justice is served and appropriate measures are taken to protect the child and prevent similar incidents in the future.
