Children Removed From West Virginia Home After Disturbing Abuse Allegations

Three children have been removed from a West Virginia home after investigators uncovered allegations of prolonged abuse and neglect involving their parents.

Erica Lynn Sayre, 45, and Clifford Gale Sayre, 46, of Evans, are each facing six felony charges following an investigation by the Jackson County Sheriff's Department.

The allegations involve a range of abuse, including claims that the children were struck, strangled and denied necessities such as food, water and bathroom access, according to Fox News.

Investigators said the children also described punishments involving animal waste and other degrading treatment. According to authorities, soiled cat litter was placed in their beds, dog feces was put on their belongings and the children were forced to run barefoot across a gravel driveway.

The allegations did not stop there. Authorities said the children reported being hit with household objects, forced to put a dirty sock in their mouth and having their hair forcibly cut.

One child reportedly told investigators that an electronic device was used to strike her in the head, leaving her with a bleeding injury. She allegedly was not given medical treatment and was threatened with being killed if she contacted Child Protective Services.

The children's accounts emerged during forensic interviews conducted as part of the investigation. One child became emotional and told investigators, "I can't go back to that home," while another said she "just wants a normal life."

Authorities also accused Clifford Sayre of failing to stop the alleged abuse despite witnessing it. One child reportedly said he held her hands while Erica Sayre cut her hair with a razor blade, causing an injury.

"Because mom hits us and Gale lets her," the children said during one forensic interview, according to the sheriff's department.

Investigators said they worked with Child Protective Services and a Child Advocacy Center while collecting statements, medical records and photographic evidence. Authorities said scars found during the investigation were consistent with parts of the children's accounts.

Officials also said the children's individual statements supported one another and were consistent with other evidence gathered during the case.

Erica Sayre faces three counts of child abuse resulting in bodily injury, along with three counts of child neglect creating a risk of injury. Clifford Sayre faces three counts of child neglect resulting in bodily injury and three counts of child neglect creating a risk of injury.

Jackson County Sheriff Ross Mellinger called the allegations deeply troubling and described the residence as a real-life "house of horrors."

All three children were removed from the home after the allegations were disclosed, authorities said.

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