Forced to live in a garage, couple in Jupiter arrested for aggravated child abuse
JUPITER, Fla. (CBS12) — Jupiter police say a 13-year-old teen had been physically abused and forced to live in a garage for five years.
Police arrested the teenagers' adopted parents, Tracy Ferriter, 46, and Timothy Ferriter, 46, on charges of aggravated child abuse.
The investigation began when detectives responded to a residence in the Egret Landing community regarding a follow-up to a 13-year-old missing runaway investigation on Jan. 30.
Once inside the home, the detective noticed an 8-by-8 structure within the garage that was described by the mother as a small office, according to the report.
See also: 'I feel like no one loves me;' Jupiter teen forced to live in locked shack told police
The report says the structure had a doorknob and deadbolt, both locking from the outside as well as a light switch only on the exterior.
Officials say inside was a camera, mattress, and a bucket.
On Jan. 31, detectives located the missing runaway at school and were able to conduct several interviews with the juvenile.
Investigators determined the 13-year-old had been forced to live in the garage.
According to the police report, the teen was able to attend school; however, was confined to the garage during the remainder of the day. Meals were brought to the child and the bucket was provided for bathroom use.
Tracy and Timothy Ferriter have been transported to the Palm Beach County Jail.
The other three children living in the home have been removed by Child Protective Services.
