Police body camera footage has revealed shocking conditions inside a residence where 13 children were discovered living in extreme squalor. The children were found covered in bug bites and surrounded by filth, human waste, and insect infestations.
The distressing situation came to light on August 10 at approximately 6:30 p.m. when law enforcement responded to what initially seemed like a routine animal complaint. However, the scene they encountered inside the home shocked even seasoned officers.
Reports from the Toledo Blade indicate that the officers found 13 children under 14 years old living in deplorable conditions that endangered their health and safety.
According to local ABC News affiliate WTVG, the house was infested with insects, had human feces on the floor, lacked a functional toilet or shower, and showed signs of minimal food availability in the kitchen.
The children displayed clear signs of neglect, such as multiple bug bites and layers of dirt, indicating that they had not been properly cared for in days.
The residence in Toledo, Ohio, was also filled with animal waste, as evidenced in the police body camera footage obtained by local CBS affiliate WTOL. One officer’s reaction to the smell in the house was audible on the recording: “What is that stench?”
In the footage, the children nonchalantly introduced themselves to the officers, seemingly unaware of the severity of their living conditions.
At one point, an officer asked a colleague to inspect the residence and share their thoughts on the situation, highlighting the concerning environment.
During questioning, Angel Oliveri III, a suspect in the case, admitted that he did not believe the conditions were suitable for children. This led one officer to assert firmly that while adults may choose to live in such conditions, children should not be subjected to them.
Charges have been filed against Angel Lambert, 32, for eight counts of child endangerment, while Cassandra A. Lambert, 27, and Angel Oliveri III, 25, face five counts each. All three individuals pleaded not guilty and have been released on their own recognizance.
The adults resided in the house, with Oliveri being the father of five children shared with Cassandra Lambert, and the remaining eight children being Cassandra’s sister Angel Lambert’s.
All 13 children have been removed from the residence and placed with another family member, where they are receiving proper care and attention.
Despite attempts to seek further information, the Toledo Police Department, Lucas County Children Services, and the Toledo Municipal Court have not responded to additional inquiries.
