In another unconscionable example of child abuse, a 12-year-old boy was rescued from a dog kennel in Cascade on Thursday morning after his father and cousin locked him in there - with the dog - on Wednesday night.

Neighbors, who heard the child crying out “He biting me! He biting me!” throughout the night, called the police after realizing the next morning that the child was actually inside of a dog kennel. These same neighbors have reported instances of child abuse before, but, unable to find proof of the abuse, the police always let the family off with a warning. 

(This makes the statement of Deputy Police Commissioner Mervyn Richardson, in which he “encouraged the public to report any suspicious activities, especially of child abuse”, ironic and irritating.)

The boy, who appeared to be malnourished and underdeveloped for his age, was taken to the hospital where he’s being treated for dog and mosquito bites, malnutrition and exposure.

So, why did his family do this to him? (I ask, as if there could possibly be a reason)

His father (who, along with another relative, has been charged with child cruelty) said it was punishment for “not listening” and being stubborn. His grandmother (who has since been released) said they were simply trying to keep him out of trouble because he’s a “troublemaker” at school. 

I shudder to think of how she punished her son.

(image source)