The history of slavery in the United States is a dark and painful chapter that continues to have lasting impacts on our society. While the Emancipation Proclamation and the 13th Amendment officially abolished slavery over 150 years ago, the scars of this inhumane practice remain. Tragically, even in modern times, there are still instances of individuals and groups attempting to perpetuate the abhorrent institution of slavery. One such disturbing case unfolded in West Virginia, where a white couple was accused of kidnapping and enslaving five Black children.
The Shocking Allegations
In a case that has rocked the nation, authorities in West Virginia have accused a white couple of kidnapping and enslaving five Black children. The alleged perpetrators, Donald Ray Lantz and Jeanne Kay Whitefeather, have been charged with human trafficking of a minor child, use of a minor child in forced labor, child neglect creating substantial risk of serious bodily injury or death and false swearing. According to the investigation, they targeted and exploited these vulnerable children, subjecting them to unimaginable cruelty and depriving them of their basic rights and freedoms. The couple was originally released on $200,000 bail each, but those amounts were raised to $500,000 each after they were reported back to court.
The Victims’ Harrowing Ordeal
The five children were adopted in Washington State, where the couple is from. They were then taken from Washington to Sissonville, West Virginia, where human trafficking and forced labor took place. It is unknown what specific laborious acts they engaged in or how money was produced from said labor.
Authorities have described the living conditions of the children as deplorable, with reports of unsanitary and overcrowded living spaces, limited access to basic necessities, and a complete disregard for the children’s well-being. They only had access to a small RV, “port-a-potty,” and no running water. The trauma and suffering endured by these young victims is unimaginable, and the long-term impact on their physical and mental health is a grave concern.
SOURCES:
WV couple accused of child trafficking plead not guilty, bond raised – YouTube
Sissonville couple accused of child trafficking plead not guilty, bond raised
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