Local couple arrested after police find 5 children in back of moving truck on cross-country move

NEW CASTLE, Indiana — Police said they arrested a Clarion County couple as they were attempting to move across the country to California.

Investigators said they received a tip that prompted police to pull the couple over in New Castle, Indiana. Police said when they searched the moving truck they found five children huddled together in the back with more than a dozen animals.

David and Rebecca Detjen were charged with felony neglect charges after police made the discovery on Wednesday.

Neighbors said the family had been loading up the box truck for a few days and were planning to move to California for a potential job opportunity.

Police said it was 32 degrees outside when the children were found in the storage area. In addition to the freezing weather, police said the children were in danger because of exhaust fumes.

Officers said two of the children were sleeping on top of stacks of boxes. Investigators said the kids ranged in age from 9 to 18.

The children were placed in the custody of child protective services.

Officials said 18 cats were also found in animal carriers in the back of the truck. They were taken by animal control officers.

The Detjens remain in jail on $5,000 bond.

WPXI