In Pontiac, Michigan, a third arrest has been made in a child abuse case involving the older brother of two children who were reportedly starved and tortured. Carlos Bazan-Hernandez, 24, has been charged with first-degree child abuse and torture, the same charges faced by his father, Arturo Bazan-Perez, 43, and stepmother, Dulce Crystal Bazan Castillo, 42, as per CBS News.
Bazan-Hernandez, reportedly acting as a disciplinarian for his siblings, was arrested yesterday afternoon. One of the victims, a 9-year-old boy, was hospitalized with liver failure, weighed approximately 33 pounds, and required resuscitation after cardiac arrest caused by malnutrition. His 11-year-old brother was also found severely malnourished. Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard provided these details and confirmed the arrest, stating that Bazan-Hernandez will face judicial proceedings, according to WXYZ.
The investigation found that the children had reportedly been kept from school since September and confined to their rooms, receiving only occasional meals of rice. Windows in their rooms were reportedly screwed shut and covered. During arraignments, details were presented including reports of food hoarding and the children being found with sewn-shut pockets. Two other children in the household, who appeared to be healthy, were removed by Child Protective Services, which has initiated termination proceedings.
The older brother’s arrest is part of ongoing legal proceedings in the case. All three suspects are scheduled for a probable cause conference on Dec. 4 and a preliminary examination on Dec. 11. News coverage has provided public awareness of the case and highlights the role of child protection services and community oversight.
