The City of Perris, California, and the Mt. San Jacinto College Foundation have unveiled a scholarship program aimed at providing the 13 siblings allegedly subjected to unthinkable torture with a college education.
In a statement, the foundation announced the creation of the “Perris Bright Futures Fund,” an account intended to help the Perris siblings rebuild their lives and pay for college. A second scholarship established by the city and college foundation will provide aid to students majoring in child care, social work, and health care.
“We want the Turpin siblings to know that the entire community is behind them,” Perris City Manager Richard Belmudez said. “Through the scholarships, we hope to not only show our support but encourage future professionals dedicated to assisting individuals of similar circumstances. We invite the entire Perris Valley community to participate.”
As of Monday, the Perris Bright Futures Fund is active and is accepting donations.
“This is a time when we need to pull together to help others. We are proud that Perris partnered with us in this endeavor,” Dr. Schultz said.
“We will uphold the college’s mission and our vision of transforming lives by providing this support for the Turpin siblings. We want to do what we can to make sure they have bright futures.”
While the oldest Turpin son made the president’s honor roll in fall 2015 and spring 2016, Mt. San Jacinto College spokeswoman Karin Marriott told the Associated Press that he didn’t receive a degree. The college said they are “horrified” and “saddened” after learning of the siblings’ unthinkable upbringing.
As CrimeOnline previously reported, Riverside County police arrested David and Louise Turpin on January 15 after their 17-year-old daughter reportedly escaped from their Perris, California, home through a window and called police with 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 13 Turpin children, who range in age from 2 to 29, have suffered physical and cognitive impairments due to the years of neglect.
David, 56, and Louise, 49, have pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including 12 counts of torture, seven counts of abuse of a dependent adult, six counts of child abuse, and 12 counts of false imprisonment.
They are currently jailed on $12 million bail each.
[Featured Image: Turpin family/Facebook]
