ESCAMBIA COUNTY, Fla. – Two residents of Cantonment were arrested last week and charged with multiple felony counts of child neglect after deputies discovered unsafe and unsanitary conditions inside their home.
Arrest and Charges
The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office reported that 24-year-old Hannah Marie Nichols and 25-year-old Matthew Daniel Glover are each facing six felony counts of child neglect. Deputies initially visited the home to arrest Glover on an outstanding warrant from Santa Rosa County for a prior child neglect charge.
Upon arrival, authorities located Glover hiding in the attic. What they discovered inside the residence prompted immediate concern for the safety and well-being of the children living there.
Conditions Inside the Home
Deputies described the home as being in “complete disarray and filthy”, with used diapers containing visible urine and feces scattered across the floors. The bathroom was said to be covered in waste, and old, rotting food littered the floors throughout the residence.
In the bathroom, the bathtub was filled with empty drink containers, and large flies were swarming the space. Other signs of neglect included:
- Children in full diapers who appeared unbathed
- A bunk bed with no support slats on the top bunk, creating a fall hazard
- A home infested with flies, gnats, and cockroaches
The number and ages of the children were not disclosed in the arrest report, per WEAR TV.
Custody and Bond Information
Nichols is currently being held at the Escambia County Jail on a $30,000 bond, while Glover’s bond is set at $18,000, with an additional hold due to the outstanding warrant from Santa Rosa County.
Dangers of Chronic Child Neglect
This case reflects the serious dangers that arise from chronic child neglect, which can have long-term physical and psychological consequences for the children involved. When basic hygiene, nutrition, and safety standards are neglected, children are left vulnerable to illness, injury, and emotional trauma.
In such environments, children are often unable to advocate for themselves, making it vital for neighbors, educators, and community members to report warning signs to authorities.
Efforts to Protect Children in Florida
Florida law enforcement and child welfare agencies continue to work closely to investigate reports of child neglect and abuse. The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office encourages citizens to remain alert and report any concerns regarding child welfare immediately.
What’s your reaction to this troubling case? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Awareness and community action can make all the difference in protecting vulnerable children.
