Jones County deputies arrest women after welfare check finds children in ‘unfit’ home

Deputies say four children, including toddlers, were living in filthy conditions inside a Jones County home.

JONES COUNTY, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Two women face charges after deputies say they found four children living in unsafe conditions during a welfare check in Jones County.

According to a news release from the Jones County Sheriff’s Office, deputies assisted the Department of Family and Children Services on Monday. When they entered the home, they found it “in extremely unsanitary and unsafe conditions,” the release said. Investigators reported trash, urine and feces covering the floors.

Four children lived in the home, including three ages 4, 3 and 1. The release said the children were filthy, appeared not to have been bathed in a long time and carried a strong odor. Deputies said two of the children had visible sores and were suffering from ringworm. A 12-year-old child was also at the home.

Deputies determined that Autumn Lane and Crystal Lane were responsible for the care of the children. Both were arrested and charged with cruelty to children in the second degree, according to the release.

“The Jones County Sheriff’s Office does not condone child abuse or neglect in any form,” the release said. “We remain committed to working alongside DFCS and our community partners to ensure children are safe and protected.”