Oklahoma Grandmother Faces Child Abuse Charges After Drugging and Restraining Grandchildren
Warr Acres, Oklahoma — A troubling case of child abuse has emerged involving a 53-year-old grandmother, Davena Marx, who is accused of drugging and confining her two grandchildren in a dog cage for extended periods. This serious allegation comes after a year-long investigation into claims of abuse involving the 8-year-old granddaughter and 6-year-old grandson, under Marx’s care.
Disturbing Allegations of Abuse
According to investigative reports, the children, who were in Marx’s custody following their father’s death in a road rage incident, suffered various forms of mistreatment. It is alleged that Marx administered anti-psychotic medications, including Seroquel, to the youngsters. The drug is typically prescribed for individuals over the age of 13 and is designed to treat schizophrenia.
Witness Accounts: One of the children described their living conditions, stating to investigators, “Memaw sells drugs and uses them. She makes us stay in the dog cage when she wants to go outside by herself.”
Additionally, reports suggest that Marx whipped the children with a belt, forced them into strenuous exercise until they collapsed, and inflicted emotional abuse. A neighbor also reported witnessing the siblings scavenging in dumpsters for food, raising further concerns about their welfare.
Investigation and Arrest
The investigation commenced after a welfare check was prompted by a tip-off to the Department of Human Services. During a welfare check, the children disclosed the abusive environment to a social worker, with the granddaughter stating via text, “She is mean to us, she is very abusive.”
Following these revelations, authorities promptly removed the children from the residence. Medical examinations revealed bruising on the granddaughter’s back consistent with belt marks, corroborating the children’s accounts of abuse.
Evidence of Drug Use
As the investigation progressed, police officials obtained a search warrant for Marx’s apartment. They discovered not only a large dog cage but also drug paraphernalia, marijuana, and prescriptions for Alprazolam and Seroquel, which were linked to Marx.
Arrest: Warr Acres Assistant Police Chief Jason Allen revealed that sufficient evidence led to Marx’s arrest in May 2023. “The day we went out with them, there was enough to immediately remove the children, which is often not the case,” Allen stated.
Community Impact
This disturbing case has shocked the local community, raising questions about child safety and parental custody practices. Marx faces multiple charges of child abuse and neglect as the investigation continues. The children are now safe and removed from the perilous environment they once endured, a relief for many concerned residents.
As the case develops, it highlights the need for vigilance and immediate action in situations of suspected child abuse.
Focuses on crime, public safety, and regional events.
Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.