A couple in Miami Beach is facing legal action after authorities discovered their five children living in shocking conditions in an apartment lacking electricity, food, and a functional bathroom. The distressing situation came to public attention when a 6-year-old child was spotted navigating a busy street alone in the 700 block of 15th Street, according to NBC Miami.
A passerby notified the police, who then found the young child and escorted him back to his residence. There, they encountered four more children, the eldest being 12 years old. Law enforcement officers observed that the home had been without power for around six weeks, had no food, and contained a toilet filled with stagnant water and waste, rendering it inoperative.
Furthermore, the children were forced to share a single bed and wore clothes that were dirty and smelled of urine and sweat. The siblings revealed their reliance on school meals for sustenance and that during school breaks, they often went to bed hungry. The eldest child recounted that their parents would say, "you eat at school, so you don't eat at home." Occasionally, their mother would leave them with $20 to buy food, but this was insufficient for their needs.
The children were taken to the police station, where they were given food and care while authorities contacted child protective services to ensure their safety and well-being. The parents, identified as Sanel Canovic, 40, and Azra Nikocevic, 33, were taken into custody. They each face five counts of child neglect without causing serious physical harm, as reported by the local police.
Child Neglect and Safety Concerns in Miami Beach
What led to the discovery of the children's living conditions?
The situation was uncovered when a 6-year-old child was seen crossing a busy street alone, prompting a passerby to alert the police.
What were the living conditions like for the children?
The children lived in an apartment without electricity, food, or a functional bathroom. They shared a single bed and wore dirty clothes with a strong odor.
How did the children manage to get food?
The children relied on meals provided at school and often went hungry during vacation periods.
What actions have been taken against the parents?
The parents, Sanel Canovic and Azra Nikocevic, were arrested and charged with five counts of child neglect each.