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Shocking Abuse: West Virginia Couple ‘Forced’ 5 Adopted Children into Labor and Isolation

A trial began in West Virginia on Tuesday for a couple accused of forcing their five adopted children into brutal labor. The children were allegedly made to carry heavy objects on difficult terrain and were locked in a barn without basic facilities. The couple, Jeanne Kay Whitefeather and Donald Ray Lantz, face serious charges, including forced labor, human trafficking, and child neglect.

Two of the children were found locked in a barn with no running water or bathroom. Whitefeather and Lantz had adopted all five children in 2018 while living in Minnesota before moving to a farm in Washington state. They later relocated to West Virginia in 2023. The children, ranging in age from 5 to 16, were all siblings.

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Assistant prosecutor Madison Tuck explained that evidence would show the couple mistreated the children physically, emotionally, and mentally to force them to work. Text messages between the couple showed they locked the two older children in the barn and made them stand for long periods.

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Whitefeather’s lawyer, Mark Plants, argued that the couple struggled to care for their children due to their past trauma and mental health issues. He claimed the children had been abused by their biological mother before being adopted, but he also stated that the family celebrated holidays and went on vacations together.

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A neighbor, Joyce Bailey, testified that she saw the children being forced to work when the family first arrived in Sissonville, West Virginia. Bailey also saw one of the children carrying a propane tank and struggling to walk due to sore feet. She said the children never played or spoke to each other. When the family moved out, Bailey witnessed the two teenagers being locked in the barn.

Police were called, and deputies eventually rescued the children. They were found in dirty clothes, and one boy had sores on his feet. A 9-year-old girl was found alone in the loft of the home, crying. All five children were placed into protective care.

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Whitefeather and Lantz were arrested and charged with multiple offenses. The couple has pleaded not guilty to the charges, and the trial is ongoing.

Camilia Perez
Camilia Perezhttps://phsoutlook.com
Camilia Perez is a dynamic news anchor and journalist celebrated for her insightful reporting and dedication to delivering impactful stories. With a passion for uncovering the truth and a talent for connecting with audiences, she brings clarity and depth to her work. Camilia’s approachable yet authoritative style has made her a trusted and influential voice in journalism.

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