One of the 13 California siblings allegedly tortured and starved by their parents had to be taught how to brush their teeth, according to someone close to the high-profile case.
According to People, the Corona Chamber of Commerce has received $70,000 in donations since the disturbing story hit national headlines. Meanwhile, the Chamber’s CEO and President, Bobby Spiegel, revealed that one of the children rescued from the deplorable Perris home didn’t know what a toothbrush was.
“My understanding is the nurses had to teach the kids how to brush their teeth,” Spiegel told the magazine.
“I can’t understand how the people that provided birth for them, how can they do that to another human being. It is just horrific.”
As CrimeOnline previously reported, Riverside County police arrested David and Louise Turpin on January 15 after their 17-year-old daughter reportedly escaped the home through a window and called police using a deactivated cell phone.
Authorities have accused the parents of withholding food, limiting the children’s use of the bathroom, and allowing them to shower only once a year. Authorities reportedly said the Turpin children, who range in age from 2 to 29, have suffered physical and cognitive impairments due to the years of neglect.
“All of the victims are severely malnourished. The 29-year-old female [victim] weighs 82 pounds. They were fed very little on a schedule,” District Attorney Mike Hestrin alleged, noting that the abuse “intensified” over time.
“They lack a basic knowledge of life. Many of the children didn’t know what a police officer was.”
David, 56, and Louise, 49, pleaded not guilty to various charges, including torture, abuse of a dependent adult, child abuse, and false imprisonment. David is also accused of committing a lewd act on a child under 14 by force or fear.
The couple is facing 94 years to life in prison if convicted as charged. They are being held on $12 million bail each.
[Featured Image: Turpin family/Facebook]
