Police Say Home ‘Smelled Like Death.’ Inside Were 2 Children Who’d Never Gone to School, Couldn’t Read or Write

In a disturbing incident in Texas, two men have been arrested on charges of abandoning or endangering children after authorities discovered two minors living in appalling conditions. The arrests were made following a call from a concerned neighbour who reported a foul odour emanating from a residential property.

Michael Robbins, 34, and John Robbins, 68, were taken into custody after officers from the Temple Police Department arrived at the home shortly before 8 a.m. on Wednesday, May 20. According to police reports, officers were met with an unbearable smell which one described as akin to “death.” This prompted them to investigate further, especially as the neighbour’s concerns suggested someone could be in danger inside.

Upon approaching the home, the officers were greeted by an overpowering stench, and notices of flies buzzing around the windows raised alarm. When knocks on the door went unanswered, the police made the decision to enter the premises. What they found inside was deeply concerning. The living conditions were horrendous, with rubbish strewn across the floors and surfaces.

Most alarmingly, the officers found two children, aged 8 and 10, sitting in a half-filled bathtub containing dirty water. An officer’s report indicated that one of the children had hair that appeared to be matted and infested with insects. When asked to dress, both came back wearing clothing that was dirty and stained with food, indicating a lack of proper care.

The smell from the children was severe, as they exhibited signs of neglect; they had an overwhelming odour of urine, faeces, body odour, and stagnant water. Shocking details included the revelation that the children had never attended school and lacked basic literacy skills. Neighbours informed officers that they hadn’t seen the children outside for many years, raising further concerns about their isolation and welfare.

The conditions within the home were appalling, with evidence of rat and mouse droppings scattered throughout. Officers reported finding food that was not only rotten but covered in flies, as well as maggots present in stagnant water in the kitchen sink. This raised serious questions about the men’s capability to provide a safe environment for the children.

As a result of these findings, the children were immediately removed from the home and transported to a children’s hospital for assessment and care. Both Michael and John Robbins were charged with abandoning or endangering a child with intent, as they had reportedly failed to provide adequate food and care for the minors.

The legal representations for the Robbins family remain unclear, as statements from John Robbins’ attorney have yet to be obtained, and there is no information available regarding whether Michael Robbins has secured legal counsel. It remains uncertain how they will plead in response to the charges.

This incident highlights significant issues surrounding child welfare and the legal implications of neglect. Authorities advise that any suspicions of child abuse should be reported to the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline, which offers free and confidential support 24/7 in multiple languages.

The psychological and emotional impact on the two children involved will require careful consideration and support moving forward. This harrowing case serves as a reminder of the critical role that community vigilance and reporting can play in protecting vulnerable children from harm.