6 kids rescued from filthy home in Wake County after investigators uncovered shocking conditions so severe they had to wear protective gear inside the residence.
WAKE COUNTY, N.C. – A Wake County couple is at the center of a disturbing child abuse case that prosecutors say is among the worst they’ve ever seen.
Authorities say 34-year-old Lacy Douglas Hocutt Jr. and 33-year-old Rachelleigh Marie Galasso were arrested Wednesday, April 1, after six children were rescued from what investigators described as extreme and dangerous living conditions in southern Wake County.
According to the Wake County Sheriff’s Office, the situation inside the home was so unsanitary that investigators had to wear protective gear just to enter.
The six children — ranging in age from just 1 to 15 years old — were removed from the home back in mid-February after a report launched an investigation.
Court documents claim every child was suffering from serious health issues, and shockingly, none of them could read or write.
Prosecutors allege a 13-year-old boy was being kept locked inside a dog kennel, severely underweight to the point it was considered life-threatening. Reports say the child was found covered in feces and later treated for an E. coli infection.
Investigators outlined a list of disturbing allegations tied to the home, including severe neglect, unsafe living conditions, improper feeding that led to extreme malnutrition, untreated medical issues like scoliosis, and serious dental problems that caused pain while eating.
Some court documents also reference allegations of sexual abuse, including statutory rape — though full details have not yet been publicly released.
During their first court appearance Thursday, prosecutors reportedly told the judge this case stands out as one of the most horrific they’ve encountered — and that’s saying a lot.
All six children are now in protective custody and receiving medical care and support services.
As for Hocutt and Galasso, they’re facing multiple charges tied to child abuse, neglect, and other serious offenses. Investigators say the case stems from reports involving both child abuse and possible sexual abuse inside the home.
Neighbors, meanwhile, are stunned — with some saying they had no idea what was allegedly happening behind closed doors.
The Wake County Sheriff’s Office says the investigation is still ongoing.
