A mother of three children has been sentenced to prison for subjecting her kids to live outside due to the uninhabitable conditions of their home. Betty Snider, 35, exposed her children to harsh living conditions by making them stay in the garden for an extended period, as reported by the authorities.
The situation came to light when a 16-year-old child appeared physically unwell at school, and the younger siblings started missing school altogether. The younger children were found to be dirty, hungry, and with visible injuries, prompting concerns about their well-being.
Following these alarming signs, police intervened on August 29, 2024, after the children, aged 10, 11, and 16, were taken to the hospital for suspected malnourishment, dehydration, and neglect. Reports from Jefferson County Public Schools staff raised red flags about the teenager’s health, indicating potential danger.
The children disclosed to authorities that they were forced to live outside in the garden due to the deplorable conditions inside their trailer home, which was infested with bugs and littered with rubbish. Snider admitted to frequently leaving the children outside for extended periods and not being present at the location for long durations.
During court proceedings, Snider attempted to justify the situation by claiming she was in the process of relocating to another property she owned. However, the children’s great-grandmother, Mary Burkhammer, likened the treatment of the children to that of animals, expressing concerns about their living conditions.
Despite efforts by Mary and authorities to address the issue, little action was taken to improve the situation. The Cabinet for Health and Family Services acknowledged their prior contact with the mother but refrained from commenting on specific details, emphasizing the importance of providing children with a nurturing environment for their well-being.
In response to the case, a spokesperson highlighted the ongoing societal challenge of child abuse and neglect, stressing the need for early intervention and collaboration with law enforcement. The mother was ultimately sentenced to three years in prison for her actions.