Child Endangerment Case: Three Children Found Alone in Dangerous Conditions in North Nashville Apartment

Child Endangerment in North Nashville Apartment

Nashville, Tenn. – A shocking situation unfolded in a North Nashville apartment where three young children, aged nine, six, and three, were left alone for several hours, prompting urgent action from local authorities. The distressing incident came to light on a recent Monday night when the children’s aunt reached out for help, unable to contact her sister, the children’s mother.

A Call for Help

According to the Metro Nashville Police Department, the aunt, concerned about the wellbeing of her niece and nephews, called for a welfare check. When an officer arrived at the apartment located in the Buena Vista Heights area, the aunt shared troubling information. The children had reportedly not seen their mother for quite some time and were unsure of her whereabouts.

Discovery of the Mother

While speaking with the aunt, the officer spotted the children’s mother walking nearby with a man. Although she was just a short distance from home, she did not seem to be under the influence of any substances. When questioned about her absence, the mother could not provide any explanation. Following this, she permitted the officer to enter the apartment to assess the living conditions.

Conditions of the Apartment

What the officer discovered inside was nothing short of alarming. The apartment was found to be in devastating condition, revealing signs of extreme neglect. According to the arrest report, there were visible maggots crawling in and out of the walls, which startled the officer and highlighted the severity of the situation.

The flooring presented a further concern; it was covered in what appeared to be exposed rotten food, creating a hazardous environment for the children. Adding to the disturbing scene, human and dog feces were scattered across the floor, and pools of urine were present in multiple areas. The report indicated that unsecured toxic chemicals were also found within the apartment, including open bottles of toilet bowl cleaner that had leaked. This surely posed a significant risk of poisoning or chemical burns for the innocent children.

Unsafe Environment for the Kids

Moreover, the bedding in the apartment showed signs of a deplorable state, with blankets and pillows apparently covered in mold. To compound the risks, the officer noted that two small dogs in the apartment displayed aggressive behavior, further increasing the danger posed to the children.

Charges Against the Mother

The mother, identified as Porshia Crowell, was arrested and faced three misdemeanor counts of child endangerment due to the appalling conditions in which her children were found. This case shines a light on the critical importance of ensuring children are safe and cared for in their homes.

Community Response

This heart-wrenching event serves as a startling reminder for the community about the importance of vigilance when it comes to the welfare of children. It’s vital for friends, family, and neighbors to stay aware and report any signs of neglect or unsafe environments, as children rely heavily on the adults in their lives to provide those fundamental necessities for a healthy upbringing.

As this story develops, many in the Nashville community hope that appropriate measures will be taken to ensure the safety and well-being of these young children as they navigate this difficult situation.