ST. CHARLES COUNTY, Mo. — A Missouri mother and father face charges after allegedly locking their children in bedrooms, starving them, and punishing them for “vomiting from extreme hunger,” according to police reports.
Authorities say the children were so hungry that they were “forced to break locks on cabinets to eat” and were physically disciplined for eating or vomiting. Amberly Britton, the mother, reportedly “blamed” her three children and showed “no remorse” when questioned by police. Her husband, Mark Myers, also allegedly “blamed the children” and claimed they lied about their treatment.
The investigation began after one child arrived at school with a significant laceration that required medical attention. The Children’s Division requested law enforcement assistance due to concerns about the children’s welfare and the unsafe conditions in the home.
When authorities visited the residence, they observed hazardous and unsanitary conditions, including extreme clutter, strong odors of urine, bare mattresses, and a large amount of dirty dishes and debris. Cabinets and the refrigerator were reportedly locked to prevent the children from accessing food, which the parents claimed was necessary to “control” their eating.
Police noted that the adults appeared evasive, impaired, or unresponsive during multiple visits and repeatedly failed drug testing despite information suggesting methamphetamine use inside the home. No meaningful improvements were made despite being given the opportunity to correct safety hazards.
Two of the children, ages 13 and younger, told investigators that they were regularly locked in their bedrooms, sometimes overnight. One child reported being punished after vomiting from severe hunger. The children also described being responsible for their own care, including preparing food and getting ready for school, while the parents slept for extended periods.
Physical abuse reportedly included being struck with belts, paddles, and other objects, and being grabbed or dragged by the neck. The children said they were instructed to hide their bruises and injuries and feared additional punishment if they spoke about the abuse or attempted to leave their bedrooms. Windows were reportedly screwed shut to prevent escape.
Investigators confirmed locks on all cabinets, refrigerators, and bedroom doors, which required fingerprints to open. The home was deemed unsanitary and uninhabitable, lacking heat, toys, or clothing for the children, despite Britton recently receiving an inheritance. Authorities found no evidence that any funds were used for the children.
Britton and Myers have been charged with second-degree drug trafficking and three counts of first-degree endangering the welfare of a child. Each is being held on $250,000 cash-only bonds.
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