Anson, Texas – A 60-year-old Texas woman is facing multiple felony charges after allegedly locking her 22-year-old special-needs daughter inside a backyard dog kennel. The disturbing incident came to light when a neighbor filmed the encounter and contacted police, leading to the mother’s arrest and a deeper investigation by authorities.
Incident Overview
According to police, Kandy Thompson, 60, is accused of placing her disabled adult daughter inside a chain-link dog kennel in the backyard of their home. The victim, who experiences significant developmental challenges, was reportedly heard hyperventilating, crying, and pleading, “I’m scared, mother,” during the ordeal captured on video.
The footage, which surfaced online, prompted immediate public outrage and a swift response from the Anson Police Department.
Timeline of Events
The incident unfolded on Saturday, when a concerned neighbor called police after witnessing Thompson’s behavior. The neighbor had already begun filming from his side of the fence, documenting what he described as an alarming pattern of mistreatment.
In the video, Thompson can be seen appearing to lock her daughter inside a tarp-covered kennel. Moments later, the neighbor confronted her.
“You lock your kid in a dog kennel,” the neighbor said.
Thompson allegedly responded that her daughter was “tearing up everything and p–ing on everything.” The neighbor immediately questioned whether confining a special-needs adult in such conditions was appropriate or humane.
Throughout the video, the victim repeatedly cries that she is scared, while a dog growls and barks nearby.
Details From Police & Officials
Police arrived shortly after the confrontation and spoke with the visibly distressed victim. She reportedly told officers that she is placed in the cage “a lot” and that the treatment makes her feel like she is “not worth anything.”
Based on this information and the evidence collected, officers arrested Thompson on multiple charges.
Thompson was initially detained and later released on Monday. However, after conducting additional interviews and reviewing all available evidence, police rearrested her on Tuesday with added charges.
Officials stated that in the days following the first arrest, investigators:
- Completed new witness interviews
- Reviewed the neighbor’s footage
- Evaluated physical evidence from the scene
This comprehensive review led to an expanded list of charges.
Charges Filed
Police say Thompson now faces several serious offenses, including:
- Aggravated kidnapping
- Injury to a disabled individual with intentional serious bodily harm
- Unlawful restraint
- Child endangerment
- Assault causing bodily injury
Authorities confirmed that Thompson was being held without bond as of Wednesday morning. It was unclear when her next court appearance would take place.
Witness Accounts
The neighbor who recorded the video played a key role in alerting authorities. He can be heard in the footage urging Thompson to reconsider her actions and pointing out that the victim is clearly terrified.
After police intervened, the neighbor tried to comfort the young woman, who reiterated the emotional toll of being locked inside the kennel.
“It makes me feel like I’m not worth anything,” the victim told him.
Additional Context
Local outlets reported that over the last 10 years, Thompson and her late husband had fostered more than 50 special-needs children. However, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) clarified that the couple did not foster children through their agency.
DFPS suggested the children may have been cared for through a private organization, though additional details have not been released.
This revelation has raised questions about oversight, monitoring, and the safety of vulnerable individuals placed in foster or caregiving environments.
Public Safety & Awareness
Cases like this highlight the importance of community vigilance and the crucial role neighbors play in identifying abuse—especially when it involves individuals with disabilities who may not be able to advocate for themselves.
Experts emphasize that signs of neglect or abuse—including isolation, fear responses, or visible distress—should never be ignored.
In Texas, anyone who suspects abuse of a disabled or vulnerable person is legally obligated to report it to law enforcement or protective services.
Conclusion
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to ensure the safety and well-being of the victim while preparing the case against Thompson. The disturbing video has prompted widespread concern and renewed conversations about disability protections and caregiver oversight.
Have you ever witnessed or reported a similar situation? Share your experiences in the comments below.
