Oklahoma City police say a welfare check turned into a child-neglect case after officers found two toddlers standing in the street in cold weather on Feb. 20, one dressed only in pajamas and the other in a T-shirt and diaper. According to KOKH, officers responding to the welfare call discovered the children in the roadway with a dog beside them. The dog was later identified as belonging to Phillip Welch and Christina Dickenson, and police arrested the pair on child-neglect complaints, the outlet reports.
What the Charges Mean Under Oklahoma Law
Child-neglect accusations are not minor paperwork in Oklahoma. Under 21 O.S. § 843.5, "child neglect," which includes failing to provide adequate nourishment, clothing, shelter or supervision, can be prosecuted as a felony and carries penalties that can range up to life imprisonment or county jail time and fines, per 21 O.S. § 843.5.
What Happens Next for the Children
The report did not specify whether the toddlers were placed in state custody or where they are now. In cases like this, reports of suspected abuse or neglect are routed to the Oklahoma Department of Human Services, which then evaluates the children's safety and decides if protective services are needed. OKDHS operates a 24-hour child-abuse hotline at 1-800-522-3511, according to OKDHS.
