Louisa, KY – Police in eastern Kentucky discovered what they described as extreme neglect inside a home where two young children were allegedly living among trash, insects, and dog feces. Officers said the scene unfolded during a welfare check that quickly turned into a criminal investigation.
When officers from the Louisa Police Department arrived at the home, they reported that a strong odour was detectable even from outside. According to details first reported by Mountain Top Media, police were asked to check on the wellbeing of a 2-year-old and 4-year-old living in the residence.
Initial Welfare Check Leads to Disturbing Discovery
Officers said they spoke with 26-year-old Virginia Lynn Fernow on her front porch. When asked about her children, she stated that her toddler had burned her back on a heater and that she attempted to treat the injury herself using diaper rash cream instead of seeking medical help.
Police informed her they needed to see the children to ensure their safety. Fernow agreed, but warned officers that the house contained dog feces.
Conditions Inside the Home
Inside, officers reported seeing extensive filth throughout the residence. According to the police account referenced by Mountain Top Media, the floors were covered in dog feces and garbage to the point that some areas were blocked off and unreachable.
The children were eventually found in a bedroom without clothes, surrounded by flies and insects. Officers said the smell, clutter, and unsanitary conditions suggested the home had not been cleaned in several months. Fernow allegedly confirmed she had not cleaned the house for four to six months.
Burn Injury and Lack of Medical Care
Police documentation states that Fernow admitted she did not take her 2-year-old to a doctor after the burn. Instead, she attempted to treat the wound with diaper rash cream. Officers noted concerns about whether the child had received proper medical attention following the injury.
Charges and Arrest Details
Fernow was arrested on Friday and charged with criminal abuse of a child and endangering the welfare of a minor. She is being held at the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center on a $5,000 cash bond. Her next scheduled court date is November 19.
Authorities did not disclose where the children were taken following the arrest, but standard protocol typically involves Child Protective Services assuming emergency custody.
Context on Child Neglect Cases
Child neglect investigations often begin with welfare checks from neighbours, family, or social service agencies. In many cases, unsanitary or hazardous living conditions are considered grounds for immediate intervention due to risks of illness, injury, or developmental harm. Officers conducting such checks are trained to evaluate environmental conditions, visible injuries, and the immediate safety of children.
Why Welfare Checks Are Taken Seriously
Welfare checks play a crucial role in identifying hidden neglect. Police often respond when there are concerns about:
- Extended periods without contact from the family
- Reports of unusual smells or visible hazards
- Signs of untreated injuries or lack of medical care
In such situations, authorities can intervene quickly to prevent further harm to vulnerable children.
What Happens After an Arrest for Child Endangerment
When parents are charged with criminal abuse or endangerment, courts typically schedule an emergency hearing to determine temporary custody. Social service workers conduct assessments of the children’s health and environment before deciding longer-term placement.
If the allegations are substantiated, parents may face mandatory counselling, supervised visitation, or loss of custody depending on the severity of the case.
Ongoing Investigation
The Louisa Police Department has not released further information, and no details have been made public about the children’s current condition. As the court date approaches, additional evidence may clarify the timeline and extent of the alleged neglect.
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