VSO Deputies Charge Pierson Woman With Neglecting 2 Boys in Filthy Home

Date Added: June 02, 2022 3:28 pm

Laura Williams, Office of
Public Affairs & Media Relations

VSO DEPUTIES CHARGE PIERSON WOMAN WITH ABUSE, NEGLECT OF 2 BOYS IN FILTHY HOME

A Pierson woman was arrested Wednesday and charged with neglecting two boys under the age of 16 after responding deputies found their home was cluttered and filthy, littered with animal and human waste and infested with bugs.   

Volusia sheriff’s deputies were called to assist the Department of Children and Families in investigating an anonymous tip that the boys were being neglected.

Upon their arrival, deputies and a DCF investigator met with Bettina Miller, 66, (DOB 07/21/1955) who invited them into the home. Deputies observed deplorable conditions, including learning that the home’s plumbing had been broken for several weeks, rendering the toilets unusable. The residents use buckets to use the bathroom inside, and a water hose outside to shower.

Deputies observed spoiled food and insects in the kitchen, and trash and clothes covering the floor in each bedroom. In addition, the visitors were met with several barking dogs and puppies, some kept in cages and some loose.

Deputies observed a chain and padlock on Miller’s bedroom, although she said she only uses the lock to keep the boys out of her room – not to lock them inside.

Deputies learned the boys have not attended school in months or seen a doctor in years.

Based on their investigation and observation of unhealthy living conditions and neglect of health care for both boys, deputies arrested Miller and charged her with child neglect and abuse. She was transported to the Volusia County Branch Jail where she was held with no bail allowed pending a first court appearance today.  

DCF took the boys into custody until arrangements can be made to place them with other family members. Volusia County Animal Control was alerted about the dogs and puppies at the home.