Authorities have arrested a Florida family who is accused of abusing, physically and sexually, their foster and adopted children.
In Fort White on Thursday, nine children, with ages ranging from about 7 to 16 years old, were placed into custody as part of an investigation concerning the allegations of abuse, as reported by WCBJ.
Arrested and charged with aggravated child abuse were Brian Griffeth, 47, and Jill Griffeth, 41, together with their adult children, Dillan, 21, and Liberty, 19, following their detention in Columbia County Jail.
The Department of Children and Families (DCF) was notified, sparking investigations into the family after a foster child arrived at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints camp carrying a Taser, as reported by News 4 Jax.
When police contacted the church, they were told the Griffeths had recently relocated to the Florida area from Arizona. During the conversation, a lady from the church raised other concerns she had about the children’s well-being.
Detectives then witnessed DCF speaking with the children. One of the 14-year-old children DCF spoke with did not know his date of birth and severely lacked literacy skills. The child told DCF he was frequently caged beneath his bunk bed by the Griffeths, and not allowed to use the bathroom.
The mother reportedly disciplined him by pressing a plywood sheet across his chest and back, leaving scars from splinters. He would also be sprayed in the face with vinegar as a form of punishment.
Another 14-year-old child in the home stated that she had not attended school in years and had no idea of her grade level. Some of the children reported sexual abuse.
All four family members are being held at the Columbia County Jail, with a bond set at $500,000, according to WCJB.
This is an ongoing investigation. Check back for updates.
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