Shocking Discovery: Child Found in Disturbing Conditions in South Carolina Home

A particularly harrowing incident recently unfolded in Honea Path, South Carolina, where law enforcement made a disturbing discovery involving a young couple and their eight-month-old child. The couple, Kayla Renard and Nicholas Foley, were arrested after authorities found their home in appalling conditions unfit for both human and animal residents.

The Disturbing Scene

On May 19, police responded to concerns raised by the Department of Social Services regarding the welfare of Renard and Foley’s infant. Chief Chris Miller of the Honea Path Police Department described the scene as one of the worst he has encountered in over three decades of service.

Upon entering the residence on South Shirley Avenue, officers were met with shocking visual evidence of neglect: piles of trash littered the floors, and animal feces were rampant throughout the house. They described various animals—raccoons, cats, dogs, and chickens—roaming freely in an environment that had also taken a grim turn with the presence of a decomposing goat in the bathtub.

Health Risks and Environmental Hazards

The unsanitary conditions led police to conclude that the living environment posed a severe risk to the infant. "There were severe unsafe and unsanitary conditions that put the infant at risk," Officer Miller stated. The haunting reality of the situation was compounded by the smell, which authorities noted was overwhelming, even causing physical discomfort.

The home was filled with over 40 animals, and Dr. Kim Sanders from Anderson County PAWS was called in for assistance with the staggering number of neglected creatures.

Animal Welfare Complications

After assessing the situation, officials found 41 live animals in addition to the decomposed goat. These included:

• 25 dogs
• 3 cats
• 5 raccoons
• 6 chickens
• 2 rabbits

Most of these animals were found in dire states, severely dehydrated and covered in feces. They displayed signs of malnourishment that raised immediate concerns for their well-being. Dr. Sanders commented on the emotional trauma these animals had experienced and mentioned that they were undergoing medical care but would likely face a challenging recovery.

The Arrest

Following the gruesome findings, both Kayla Renard and Nicholas Foley were arrested and charged with unlawful conduct toward a child, ill treatment of animals, and violations of town ordinances. They were booked into the Anderson County Detention Center, where they were given $10,000 surety bonds. As of now, both parents have reportedly bonded out.

Chief Miller expressed his dismay at the couple’s unemotional reaction to the chaos surrounding them, stating, “You would think that they’d be a little upset that someone was taking their eight-month-old baby.”

Child’s Condition and Immediate Response

Fortunately, the infant was found to be in relatively good condition, considering the horrific circumstances. The child was immediately placed in the care of a relative, ensuring safety away from the contaminated environment of the home.

Authorities noted that while the child appeared to be physically healthy, the psychological implications of growing up in such a traumatic setting could be significant.

The state and social services are now keeping a close watch on the case to ensure the child’s future safety and well-being.