Muskogee, OK — An Oklahoma couple is facing serious criminal charges after an 11-year-old girl gave birth at their home, authorities confirmed. The case has shocked the community and raised questions about child welfare oversight.
Stepfather Charged with Sexual Abuse
Dustin Walker, 34, and his wife Cherie Walker, 33, were arrested last week following the home birth of a full-term baby on August 16. Initially, both were charged with felony child neglect, as the child had not received medical care in over a year and the parents claimed they were unaware of the pregnancy. However, after DNA testing revealed Dustin Walker as a 99.9% match for the baby’s father, charges were upgraded.
“This is one of the most if not the most serious child sexual abuse and neglect cases I have ever prosecuted,”
— Janet Hutson, Muskogee County Assistant District Attorney
Court documents indicate Dustin Walker is accused of sexually abusing his stepdaughter between January 1 and August 16, resulting in the birth of his child. Cherie Walker faces charges of enabling child sexual abuse.
Multiple Felony Neglect Charges Filed
In addition to the sexual abuse charges, the Walkers were each charged with six counts of felony child neglect, including failing to provide the 11-year-old with proper medical care and supervision during childbirth at home. The remaining five counts relate to neglect of the couple’s other children, aged 2, 4, 6, 7, and 9, who were reportedly living in deplorable conditions.
Court documents describe the home environment: “The victims were found to be living in dog feces and had no clothing on.” Following the investigation, all the children were removed from the home on Tuesday.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Sentencing
Bond was set at $100,000 each, and a sounding docket hearing is scheduled for September 3. According to the District Attorney’s office, “Each of the charges against both defendants are punishable by up to life.”
It is currently unclear whether the Walkers have legal representation. Authorities continue to investigate to ensure the safety of the other children and to determine the full extent of the abuse.
This case is being closely monitored by child welfare officials and law enforcement due to its severity and the age of the victim. Officials are emphasizing the importance of vigilance in protecting children from abuse and neglect.
Source: NBC News
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