Seven children, ages 2 to 13, were found alone in a filthy Wisconsin apartment after reportedly being left unsupervised for an entire week. The situation came to light on February 28 when neighbors at a Madison apartment complex on Mifflin Street grew concerned and contacted Child Protective Services (CPS).
According to Madison Police Department spokesperson Stephanie Fryer, the tip from CPS was prompted by worried neighbors who noticed something wasn’t right. “People living in the building said, ‘Hey, it seems like these kids have been left alone for a while,’” Fryer explained.
When police arrived, they found the apartment in shocking condition. Garbage was overflowing, the toilets were broken, and there was human waste piling up. Clothes were scattered everywhere, creating an unsafe and unsanitary environment. Despite all this, a kind-hearted neighbor had been leaving food outside the door to help the kids get by.
CPS quickly stepped in and placed the children with a family friend for their safety and care. Meanwhile, their mother was located in Illinois and has since returned to Wisconsin. She is now in contact with the police, though her reasons for leaving the children alone remain unknown.
As of now, no arrests or charges have been filed, and the case remains under investigation. Both the Madison Police Department and Dane County Child Protective Services have yet to release further comments.
