Authorities in Redstone Township, Pennsylvania, have arrested James Russell, 65, and Carly Kahl, 41, for allegedly keeping their five children—aged 5 to 14—confined in a locked, dungeon-style room inside their home.
According to police, the children were held in a bedroom secured from the outside with three deadbolts and no door handle, while surveillance cameras linked to the father’s room were used to monitor their movements and prevent escape.
The investigation began in early August after reports of suspected abuse. Trooper Ally Wilson described the conditions as “sickening,” citing boarded-up windows, feces-covered walls, infestations of fleas, minimal food or clothing, and a lack of beds.
Fayette County District Attorney Mike Aubele confirmed that the children were “basically held in captivity” and said investigators found evidence of surveillance and the use of a stun gun on the children. “There’s no reason to be using a stun gun—a less-lethal, not non-lethal, weapon—on a child,” he added.
A search of the residence also uncovered a stun gun, a replica firearm, illegal drugs, and drug paraphernalia. According to a criminal complaint, Russell allegedly forced Kahl to use the Taser on one of the children.
Both suspects are facing multiple charges related to child endangerment, abuse, and unlawful restraint.
