A 42-year-old Ormond Beach man is facing serious charges after deputies say two children endured prolonged, cruel mistreatment at a Volusia County home. Investigators identified the primary victim as a 12-year-old boy who was allegedly forced to live in a detached laundry room that had no air conditioning, running water or bathroom access and where he was deprived of food and drink. A 14-year-old girl was also at times subjected to the same treatment, according to investigators. Authorities say William Conner, 42, and Samantha J. Lucas, 33, were taken into custody Thursday and later released after posting bond.
Allegations From the Sheriff’s Office
According to a sheriff’s office release described by WKMG ClickOrlando, deputies say Conner forced the boy to eat food tainted with animal feces and to drink water mixed with urine, then laughed when the child vomited. The release also alleges that Conner hit the boy with a studded belt, electronic cords and plastic spatulas, kept watch on the laundry room with a camera and used two-way audio to “torment” him if he fell asleep.
Who Is Charged and With What
In a release, the Volusia Sheriff's Office says Conner faces two counts of child abuse and two counts of child neglect. Lucas faces two counts of child neglect. Both were taken into custody Thursday and have since bonded out, according to the sheriff’s office.
How Florida Law Treats These Allegations
Florida law addresses child abuse and neglect under Chapter 827 of state statutes. Section 827.03 defines abuse, aggravated abuse and neglect, and outlines potential penalties for caregivers who willfully inflict harm or fail to provide essential care. Florida Statutes §827.03 is commonly cited in prosecutions that involve withholding food, confining children in harsh conditions and physically mistreating minors.
Children Removed and Probe Still Active
The sheriff’s release states that the children are now in a safe environment and that the investigation is ongoing. Deputies asked anyone with information to contact the Volusia Sheriff’s Office. As reported by WKMG ClickOrlando, authorities have not said whether the State Attorney has approved any additional filings, and the probe remains active.
