Lehigh County Couple Jailed on Child Endangerment Charges After Twins Found Starved and Abused
Lower Macungie Township, PA – A Lehigh County couple has been arrested and jailed on serious child endangerment charges after authorities discovered their twin teenage sons were severely malnourished and subjected to extreme abuse. Joshua Dechant, 36, and Tracy Dechant, 42, were arraigned on Sunday and are facing two felony counts each.
The investigation began on January 22nd when police responded to a report of a 15-year-old boy running naked in the neighborhood. The boy, who was found outside in single-digit temperatures, told police his father, Joshua Dechant, had forced him outside as punishment.
Further investigation revealed a horrifying pattern of abuse. The twins reported being denied food and water, forced to walk around the house naked, subjected to prolonged periods outside in freezing temperatures while naked, and made to sleep on the floor with only a single blanket.
The boys were found to be severely underweight. Medical experts determined they should weigh approximately 143 pounds but weighed only 53 and 55 pounds respectively.
District Attorney Gavin P. Holihan stated, “This is not a one-off or a once-and-done situation… The allegations include that it’s a course of conduct that went on for a period of time.”
The investigation also revealed that the boys were likely not enrolled in any formal schooling.
Other children residing in the home have been placed in the care of family members.
The Dechants are scheduled for a preliminary hearing on February 3rd to determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial.
This story highlights the serious nature of child abuse and neglect. If you suspect a child is being abused, please contact your local child protective services agency immediately.