Crime & Safety
Licking County, OH Child Neglect Investigation: 9 Children Removed
Etna Township, OH – Nine children have been removed from a Licking County residence after sheriff's detectives allegedly discovered unsafe and concerning living conditions during a child endangerment
By Sophie Caldwell · 2026-10-14T14:42:16.700Z
Etna Township, OH – Nine children have been removed from a Licking County residence after sheriff's detectives allegedly discovered unsafe and concerning living conditions during a child endangerment investigation that resulted in two arrests Tuesday.
According to the Licking County Sheriff 's Office, detectives executed a search warrant Tuesday, Oct. 13, at a residence in the 13000 block of National Road SW in Etna Township, east of the Columbus metropolitan area.
The investigation began following a referral from Licking County Child Protective Services CPS involving allegations of child abuse and neglect.
Investigators determined that 12 people, ranging in age from 1 to 64, were living at the property. Nine were juveniles.
During the search, detectives reported encountering what the sheriff's office described as appalling and unsafe living conditions that raised serious concerns about the children's health, safety and overall well being.
Authorities have not released specific details about the conditions discovered inside the residence or whether any children required medical treatment.
Following the search, all nine juveniles were removed from the home and placed in the custody of Child Protective Services.
Jonathan Parr, 37, and Jacqueline Coleman, 32, were arrested and charged with child endangerment.
Both individuals were transported to the Licking County Justice Center following their arrests.
The sheriff's office has not specified the relationship between the two defendants and the children involved.
Investigators said the case remains active, and additional criminal charges could be filed as detectives continue reviewing evidence.
The Licking County Prosecutor's Office is expected to review the investigation to determine whether further charges are warranted.
Authorities have not announced additional arrests or provided information about the children's long term placement.
The charges are allegations. Parr and Coleman are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.