Georgia – A couple from Georgia, 34-year-old S. Pumbert and 35-year-old J. Tarner, were arrested earlier this month and charged with second-degree cruelty to children.
According to an arrest warrant filed by the Sheriff’s Office, the couple allegedly forced their 3-year-old son, identified as Bjorrn, to live alone in a backyard shed behind their home for three weeks.
The warrant states that the shed was filthy and lacked running water or electricity. Investigators claim that the child was left unsupervised, unbathed, and without clothing, subjected to criminal negligence that could have caused physical or mental harm.
The situation was uncovered after a neighbor tipped off authorities following a fire that broke out in the shed during Memorial Day weekend, drawing attention to the structure and prompting further investigation.
Investigation and Discovery
The Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation after being alerted to the fire and the possibility that a child had been living in the shed.
Investigators conducted search warrants and interviews, and they discovered that the shed had been used as a makeshift living space for the child during early May. Deputies found that the shed was covered in debris and filth, and that the child had been left unsupervised, unbathed, and unclothed.
Upon questioning the parents, the couple reportedly confirmed that the child had been living in the outbuilding and acknowledged that it lacked basic utilities.
They explained that they had left the child there with minimal contact, describing it as part of their “private lifestyle choice”, but were unable to provide any legitimate reason for placing the child in such a dangerous and unsafe environment.
Officers documented their statements, noting that both parents seemed aware of the shed’s condition and still chose to leave their child there for an extended period.
Neighbors’ Reactions
Neighbors reported that the couple had lived at the property for over a decade. One neighbor, speaking to local news, expressed little surprise at the allegations, commenting, “With the lifestyle they live, I’m not surprised by any of that, really,” and adding that he hoped the child could receive the necessary assistance.
This neighbor also confirmed the fire during Memorial Day weekend and said that emergency responders had been called to the scene.
Current Situation and Next Steps
The child’s exact identification as the one living in the shed is still unclear, with authorities not publicly explaining how this information was determined beyond the neighbor’s tip and the fire incident.
It is uncertain whether the child will be placed in protective custody or if he will be allowed to return home pending legal proceedings.
Georgia authorities are continuing to gather evidence, including physical documentation from the shed and testimony from witnesses, to build their case for court. Investigators are also coordinating with child welfare agencies to assess the child’s well-being and to create a long-term safety plan for his future care.
The case remains under investigation, with officials working to ensure the child receives appropriate care and that the responsible parties face justice.