A couple is facing charges following accusations of severe neglect towards their children, with a police official labeling it as “one of the most disturbing cases I have handled.” The couple, identified as Amberly Britton and Mark Myers, allegedly confined their three children, deprived them of food, and forced them to fend for themselves, among other harrowing forms of abuse.
Allegations suggest that the children were left so hungry that they resorted to breaking locks on cabinets to find food, and they endured physical punishment after vomiting due to extreme hunger. The investigation into the couple’s actions began when one of the children showed up at school with a serious laceration that had gone untreated. Upon visiting the family’s Missouri residence, authorities discovered hazardous and filthy living conditions, including excessive clutter, strong urine odors, no bedding on mattresses, and a significant amount of dirty dishes and debris.
Reports indicate that the kitchen cabinets and refrigerator were secured with locks to restrict the children’s access to food, with Britton and Myers justifying this measure as a way to monitor their diet. The couple displayed evasive behavior during multiple visits, failed drug testing, and made no efforts to rectify safety hazards in the home despite being given the opportunity.
According to statements, the children disclosed being frequently locked inside their bedroom, forced to care for themselves, prepare meals, and get ready for school as the adults slept for long periods without supervision. They recounted experiencing physical discipline involving belts, paddles, and other objects, as well as being confined with locked windows and doors. Authorities confirmed the children’s statements and noted fingerprint-operated locks on various household items.
The residence was deemed unsanitary and uninhabitable due to the alleged neglect, with no signs of children’s belongings found. Shockingly, Britton reportedly shifted blame onto her children and displayed no remorse for their suffering, while Myers also denied the allegations and accused the children of lying to investigators.
Detective Sergeant Brian Adelsberger described the case as one of the most severe instances he has encountered, emphasizing the neglect and psychological trauma inflicted on the children. The St. Charles County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office has charged Britton and Myers with drug trafficking and endangering the welfare of a child, leading to their detention on $250,000 cash-only bonds.