Authorities Arrest Five Amid Allegations Of Child Neglect And Cruelty To Animals In Infested Eaton Home

EATON, Ind. — A disturbing discovery in a home on North Elm Street has led to the arrest of five individuals on allegations of child neglect and animal cruelty, raising alarm among community members and authorities alike. Reports detail unsanitary living conditions marked by a significant infestation of insects and an overwhelming presence of animal waste.

The situation unfolded on Sunday afternoon when a police officer was requested to perform a welfare check on a 3-year-old child at the residence. Upon entry, the officer allegedly encountered an appalling scene: a 12-year-old child was purportedly seated on a couch, surrounded by “several hundred bugs” both above and on him. The affidavit described how the floors and furniture were reportedly smeared with animal feces, raising immediate concerns for the children’s safety and health.

Inside the home, authorities allegedly found two additional children, including the 3-year-old, as well as numerous animals—five dogs, eight cats, and two rabbits. Many of these animals were reportedly discovered in cramped, filthy conditions, described as “emaciated and covered in feces” within their cages.

The shocking conditions led to the arrests of four residents, including 76-year-old Tommy Ray Capps, 50-year-old Amy Marie Sneed, and 63-year-old Michael Wayne Sneed, who are facing multiple preliminary charges, including three counts of neglect of a dependent and 15 counts of animal cruelty. Each individual remained in custody at the Delaware County Jail.

Additionally, 31-year-old Tina Marie Crum was reportedly arrested and charged with two counts of neglect and 13 counts of animal cruelty. Meanwhile, 32-year-old Ashley Dawn Sneed—who had reportedly voiced concerns for her child’s safety—allegedly discovered that her 3-year-old and 5-year-old children had been living in such dire conditions. She has since been charged with two counts of neglect of a dependent.

The situation prompted involvement from the Indiana Department of Child Services, reflecting the seriousness with which authorities are treating the matter. An unspecified number of animals were removed from the home, though officials noted that some dogs remained, as local kennels were apparently at capacity.

As the investigation unfolds, Delaware County Prosecutor Eric Hoffman’s office will further review whether formal charges will be pressed against the individuals involved. The unsettling conditions have stirred a wave of concern across the community, as residents grapple with the implications of such events so close to home.

While authorities continue to address the immediate health risks allegedly posed to the children and animals, broader questions about the systemic issues surrounding child welfare and animal rights remain unresolved. The situation is being closely monitored, with additional updates expected as the investigation progresses.