A Georgia couple, Jason and Kira Askea, have been accused of abandoning their three young children – aged 2, 4, and 5 – at a campsite for several days without providing them with food. The couple was charged with child cruelty and has been in pretrial custody since their arrest on September 16. According to reports, the children were found hungry, covered in dirt, and feces, at a local campsite in Little Tallapoosa Park in Carroll County, Georgia.
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The distressing incident came to light when a concerned camper reported to the authorities that the children had not been fed for two days and seemed to be left unattended at the campsite. Jason, 46, and Kira, 41, have been held in Carroll County Jail without bail since their arrest. Both are facing charges of first-degree cruelty to children for their alleged actions, as per official records reviewed by PEOPLE.
The campers reported that the Askea’s 2-year-old son, who has Down syndrome and is non-verbal and unable to walk, was found in extremely poor condition when discovered at the campsite. It was also alleged that the parents removed the child’s breathing and feeding tube before leaving the children unattended, resulting in brain damage for the toddler. Furthermore, the toddler was found with signs of dental neglect, as reported by Fox 5.
Officers arrested the couple at the campsite when they returned while an ambulance was taking their children to a local hospital for medical care. The 2-year-old boy was also found to have untreated seizures, which had impacted his brain function, as per reports from WSB-TV. Following the incident, the children were placed in the care of the Georgia Department of Family and Children Services.
The harrowing case of child neglect and cruelty has shocked the local community and raised concerns about the welfare of vulnerable children. The Askea’s actions have sparked outrage and disbelief, as the authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the abandonment of the children at the campsite. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding the welfare and protection of all children, especially those who are most vulnerable and in need of care and support.
The Askea’s case highlights the critical need for vigilance and reporting of suspected child abuse or neglect, ensuring that vulnerable children are safeguarded from harm and provided with the care and protection they deserve. The community has expressed support for the children affected by this tragic incident, calling for justice and accountability for those responsible for their mistreatment and abandonment. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are working to ensure the safety and well-being of the children involved and to hold the perpetrators accountable for their actions.