Four adults in Fort White, Florida, have been arrested for allegedly abusing and imprisoning nine children in their home, according to the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office.
Accused Family Members and Charges
Brian and Jill Griffeth, along with their adult children Dallin, 21, and Liberty, 19, face charges of aggravated child abuse. All four were taken into custody on July 22 and are being held on $500,000 bond each.
Alleged Abuse Inside the Home
Authorities say the children were locked in cages, forced to take non-prescribed medication, and denied proper schooling. The adults allegedly told the children to lie about what was happening inside the house.
One disturbing report claimed Jill Griffeth made a child lie on the floor, placed a sheet of plywood on them, and pressed down—causing splinters and pain. Punishments also included spraying vinegar into the children’s faces.
Church Report Led to Investigation
The investigation began after a mandatory reporter from the family’s church—The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—expressed concern. Around the same time, one child was found with a working stun gun at church camp.
Adopted Children Treated Worse
Of the nine children, five are biological and four are adopted. Deputies say the adopted children were treated more harshly. They didn’t know their birthdays or full names and were made to do chores while the biological children played and watched TV.
Additional Foster Child Found Safe
The couple had a 10th foster child who was not in the home. That child was located with a biological parent in Arizona and was found to be safe and healthy.
Further Allegations of Abuse
As the investigation continued, the adopted children said they were beaten with a cane and locked in their bedrooms by the adults.
All nine children in the home, ages 7 to 16, have now been removed by court order. The case remains under investigation. For more details, stay tuned at Que Onda Magazine.