Children Taken, Home Condemned After Child Found Naked In Street

The incident started when Hazleton City Police responded to 22 North Poplar Street after a man driving by saw a small child in the middle of the road without clothes on.


Officers immediately took custody of the child and went to 22 N. Poplar St. were a second small child was seen standing in the doorway.


Officers saw a third child who told police that his brother was supposed to be watching them but was up the street.


Officers entered the residence and found the interior to be in deplorable condition.


Offi ers saw human feces on the floor and walls, as well as a large number of insect infestation throughout the residence.


Officers took protective custody of the following children: 13 year old male, 8 year old male, 7 year old male, 4 year old male, and a 3 year old female.


Officers were unable to make contact with the children’s mother.


Children and Youth was contacted and a caseworker responded to City Hall and took custody of the children.


Hazleton Code enforcement was also contacted and responded to the residence and condemned the 2nd floor apartment.


Det. Green was notified and responded and photographed the apartment.


A Child line referral completed.


Charges are
Pending.


Statement of Chief Speziale:
“We will continue to protect the welfare of our children”