Authorities find nine abused children in Florida home, leading to four arrests, investigation ongoing.

Four adults in Florida were arrested after allegations surfaced that they abused nine children in their home. The children, aged between 7 and 16, were reportedly confined in inappropriate conditions, including being caged with plywood under a bunk bed. Authorities stated that the abuse extended to physical punishment, such as being sprayed in the face with vinegar. The individuals arrested include husband and wife Brian and Jill Griffeth, along with their adult children, Dallin and Liberty Griffeth.

All four now face charges of aggravated child abuse as confirmed by the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation revealed that the abuse involved both biological and adopted children, with the suspects allegedly beating them with a cane, locking them in their rooms, and administering non-prescribed medication. Further reports indicated that the children were instructed to conceal the abuse from others and were deprived of a proper education, affecting their ability to read and write. Following these revelations, court orders have mandated the removal of all nine children from the Griffeth home.

Concerns initially came to light through a mandatory reporter at the local Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This individual reported the suspected abuse after witnessing troubling behavior from one of the children at church camp, where a child was found in possession of a functioning electronic stun gun. Investigators discovered a disturbing disparity in treatment between the adopted and biological children. Accounts from Department of Children and Families investigators noted that while the biological children were allowed leisure time, the adopted children were given chores.

Each adult’s bond has been set at $500,000, but it remains unclear whether they have secured legal representation.