Ross family plead not guilty in horrific Joplin child abuse case

Four members of a Joplin family have pleaded not guilty to charges filed after a missing-child investigation led police to what the department’s chief called a “house of horrors.”

Crystal Ross, 46; Shane Ross, 50; Hannah Ross, 25; and Megan Ross, 19, entered the pleas during their arraignments, according to court records. Each indicated an intention to apply for representation through the Missouri State Public Defender System.

Their next court appearances are scheduled for 8:30 a.m. Aug. 26.

The four face felony child abuse or neglect charges and misdemeanor animal neglect or abandonment charges. They remain jailed without bond.

The case began Aug. 9 when a 12-year-old girl with autism was reported missing from a home on East Pool Street. More than 50 people helped search before authorities found her near Main and B streets.

Court documents allege the girl had been locked inside a dog kennel nearly every night for as long as two years. Investigators said the kennel was secured with padlocks and reinforced with zip ties.

Police also alleged that the girl weighed about 50 pounds and had not attended school in at least five years.

Officers reported finding trash, animal waste and dozens of animals inside and around the home. The surviving animals were surrendered and taken to the Joplin Humane Society.

The girl was placed in protective custody and is receiving medical care and support.