A couple from West Virginia, Jeanne Kay Whitefeather and Donald Lantz, has been found guilty of abusing and enslaving their adopted Black children. They now face a possible prison sentence of up to 290 years after being convicted on multiple charges, including human trafficking, forced labor, child neglect, and abuse.
The Crimes
Whitefeather was convicted of 19 charges, while Lantz was found guilty on most counts but acquitted of four civil rights violations. After hearing the shocking details, Judge Maryclaire Akers made a strong statement during sentencing, saying:
How the Abuse Started
The couple adopted five children from a homeless shelter before forcing them into labor. In 2018, they moved to Washington State before settling in Sissonville, West Virginia, in 2023. The victims were between five and 16 years old at the time.
How the Children Were Rescued
In October 2023, neighbors noticed something suspicious and reported the couple to the police. Officers arrived at the home and found two children locked in a barn while the couple was away. The authorities had to use a crowbar to break the lock and rescue them. Inside the house, they also discovered a nine-year-old girl crying alone.
In June 2024, the couple was officially charged with human trafficking, child labor exploitation, and severe neglect.
The Horrific Abuse
During the trial, the eldest daughter, now 18 years old, gave an emotional testimony, describing years of horrific abuse. She revealed that:
- The children were forced to stand for hours in their rooms to stop them from sleeping.
- They were pepper-sprayed for not following strict rules.
- Lantz beat one of the boys with a pipe for failing to obey orders.
- They were constantly called racial slurs and treated unfairly.
- They wore dirty clothes and were given only peanut butter sandwiches to eat.
Justice Served
After hearing the heartbreaking stories, the jury convicted Whitefeather and Lantz. Their sentencing will determine how many years they will spend in prison, but they could face up to 290 years behind bars.
This case highlights the importance of community awareness and the need to protect vulnerable children from abuse.
