Temple, Texas — What began as a routine response to a neighbor’s complaint about a foul odor turned into a disturbing child welfare investigation after Texas police discovered two children allegedly living in horrifying conditions inside a home filled with garbage, insects and decay.
Authorities say the children, ages 8 and 10, were found living in an environment so severe that one responding officer reportedly said the residence “smelled like death.”
Neighbor’s Complaint Leads to Disturbing Discovery
According to the Temple Police Department, officers were called to a residence shortly before 8 a.m. on May 20 after a nearby resident reported a strong odor coming from the home.
When officers arrived, they immediately noticed the smell.
According to an arrest affidavit obtained by PEOPLE, officers “could immediately smell an odor coming from the home” and one officer described it as something that “smelled like death.”
Police also observed flies gathering around the windows, raising concerns that someone inside may have died.
After receiving no response to repeated knocks on the doors and windows, officers entered the home believing they could be dealing with a fatality.
Children Found Living in Unsanitary Conditions
Instead of finding a deceased person, officers encountered two adult men identified as Michael Robbins, 34, and John Robbins, 68.
Inside the residence, investigators found what they described as a home “completely filled with rotting garbage on the floor and surfaces.”
The most alarming discovery came when officers located two children sitting inside a bathtub partially filled with dirty water.
According to the affidavit, one child had severely matted hair that “appeared to be infested with bugs.”
Police asked the children to get dressed, and investigators reported that both returned wearing dirty clothing covered with food stains.
Authorities also noted that the children “smelled of urine, feces, body odor and stagnant water.”
Children Allegedly Never Attended School
During interviews with officers, the children reportedly revealed they had never attended school.
Investigators say the children told police they did not know how to read or write.
Neighbors also shared troubling information with authorities.
According to the affidavit, nearby residents reported they had not seen either child outside the home for several years.
The allegations have raised serious concerns about the children’s welfare, education and overall living conditions.
Home Filled With Rotting Food and Pest Infestations
After removing the children from the residence, officers conducted a more thorough search of the property.
Investigators reported finding rat and mouse feces throughout the home, along with rotting food left exposed on kitchen counters.
Police also discovered food covered with flies and other insects, while maggots were reportedly found in standing water inside the kitchen sink.
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Authorities further alleged that “Michael Robbins and John Robbins did not provide food regularly for either child” and that the children had not eaten the night before officers arrived.
The children were immediately transported to a local children’s hospital for medical evaluation and care.
Arrests Made as Investigation Continues
Following the investigation, both Michael Robbins and John Robbins were arrested.
Authorities charged them with abandoning or endangering a child with intent.
Court records have not indicated whether either man has entered a plea. It also remains unclear whether Michael Robbins has retained legal representation.
The case continues to be investigated as child welfare authorities work to determine the full extent of the children’s circumstances and future care arrangements.
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