“The ceiling of the home was partially collapsed, exposed wiring was visible, used needles were on the table and narcotics were found on the floor where they were easily accessible to the two minor children.”
Martin County Chief Deputy Chris Kidd
BY RACHEL DOVE
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
INEZ — A call placed to Martin County dispatch requesting a well-being check on the welfare and living conditions of two minor children resulted in both parents being arrested on charges of endangering the welfare of a minor after the responding deputy found the condition of the dwelling to be in deplorable condition, as well as dirty needles and narcotics on the floor.
On Friday, Chief Deputy Chris Kidd was dispatched to a residence on Rockcastle Road in Inez, occupied by Delbert Sweeney, 43, and his wife Crystal Sweeney, 39, and their two children, ages seven and eight. Upon arrival, Kidd was informed before entering the dwelling that the ceiling was partially collapsed. There was no visible means of heating and cooling, and no covering on the sub-flooring.
After receiving consent by the Sweeney’s to view the remainder of the house, used needles were discovered on the kitchen table, exposed electrical wiring was hanging from the living room wall, and narcotic medication was found on the floor where it was easily accessible to the juvenile children, creating a serious risk to their safety.
In a back bedroom, Kidd observed what he identified as a “hot” breaker box with no cover. Numerous knives were found lying in various places throughout the home, some being on the floors where they could easily be stepped on.
After seeing the deplorable condition the children were living in and the substantial risk and potential danger to their health, safety and welfare, Child Protective Services (CPS) was contacted. A case worker responded to the scene and removed the children, arranging for alternative placement.
The couple were taken into custody and were remanded to the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center. They have since been released on bond.