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Pontiac Couple and Adult Son Held Without Bond on Child Abuse and Torture Charges

A hospital alert revealed severely malnourished 9- and 11-year-olds, prompting officials to press for school unenrollment safeguards.

Overview

  • Arturo Bazan-Perez, Dulce Crystal Bazan-Castillo, and Carlos Bazan-Hernandez face multiple counts of first-degree child abuse and torture carrying potential life sentences.
  • The case began Nov. 17 when a 9-year-old in cardiac arrest weighed about 33 pounds and was airlifted for care, and an 11-year-old at 43 pounds was later found severely malnourished.
  • Investigators say the boys were withdrawn from Pontiac schools in September, confined to a bedroom with windows screwed shut and painted, and fed only sporadic meals of rice.
  • Two younger children, a 1-year-old boy and a 4-year-old girl, appeared healthy and were removed by Child Protective Services.
  • The parents were denied bond with a probable cause conference set for Dec. 4 and a preliminary examination on Dec. 11 before 50th District Court Judge Ronda Gross, as authorities urge verification of school unenrollment.