In a shocking case of abuse, a Pennsylvania couple, Daryl Sensenig, 41, and Grace Sensenig, 42, from Reinholds, is facing felony charges after allegedly forcing a juvenile family member to live in a wooden shed for nearly four months.
The couple is accused of mistreating the child as punishment for “inappropriate behaviors,” according to police reports.
Alleged Punishment and Abuse
The Ephrata Police Department (EPD) started investigating the case after receiving a call about a domestic dispute at the couple’s home on Laurel Ridge Road, located around 70 miles west of Philadelphia. The investigation revealed disturbing details of how the child was allegedly mistreated.
After returning from a long-term boys’ camp, the child was reportedly forced to live in the shed without basic necessities such as proper food, water, and shelter.
Reports indicate that the victim had limited access to water and was only allowed to use an outdoor hose to get water. The child was only permitted to shower inside the main house once a week and had to relieve themselves outdoors, far from any indoor bathroom facilities.
Financial and Physical Abuse
Adding to the abuse, the child was allegedly made to use money earned from a part-time job to purchase food. The criminal complaint also describes an incident on Wednesday when Daryl Sensenig allegedly assaulted the child by tackling them to the ground and applying pressure to their neck.
Both Daryl and Grace Sensenig are said to have mistreated the victim, leading to the child’s placement with extended family for protection.
Legal Actions and Bail
Daryl and Grace Sensenig were both arrested and charged with felony counts of endangering the welfare of a child. They were released on a $30,000 bail each after posting it on Thursday. The couple was arraigned in Lancaster County and is scheduled to appear for preliminary hearings on August 13. The Lancaster County Children and Youth Agency is continuing its investigation into the case.
This case highlights the severe consequences of child abuse, particularly when it involves basic human needs such as food, water, and shelter being withheld as punishment.
The victim is now under the care of extended family while authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the abuse. The actions of Daryl and Grace Sensenig have sparked outrage and concern for child welfare in their community and beyond.
