Shocking Allegations: Florida Deputy Accused of Abusing His Own Children

A disturbing case has emerged in Florida, where a sheriff's deputy and his wife stand accused of physically and mentally abusing their young children. The allegations include beating the children, keeping them out of school, and even denying them basic necessities like toothbrushes. This shocking revelation has sent shockwaves through the community and raised serious questions about the well-being of the children involved.

Uncovering a Troubling Pattern of Abuse

Allegations of Physical and Emotional Abuse

The investigation into the Turney family began when the couple's son went to a local church and confided in a preacher about the alleged abuse he had been enduring. According to the police affidavit, the son claimed that his father, Christopher Turney, had been "historically physically abusive" and had even "punched him in the face" on previous occasions. The son also reported that as recently as July 27, 2024, his father "choked him out" and he was unable to breathe. The child reportedly took photographs of the resulting bruises and skin irritation as evidence of the abuse.

Neglect and Lack of Education

The investigation also uncovered disturbing allegations of neglect and a lack of education for the Turney children. The son told authorities that he had not been educated since he was adopted in 2017, and the daughter revealed that she had not attended school in several years. The daughter further explained that she spent only about one to two hours per day on schoolwork under the care of her mother, Leandra Turney, who was often away on business and unable to properly supervise her studies. Authorities confirmed that the parents had not complied with state laws regarding homeschooling.

Denial of Basic Necessities

The investigation also revealed that the Turney children were being denied basic necessities. The daughter reportedly had visible "black decay" on her teeth and told authorities that she did not have a toothbrush, as her father had told her he was "saving up money" to purchase one for her. A dental hygienist related to Christopher Turney informed authorities that she had not provided any dental services for the family since 2018, but had previously provided them with toothbrushes and toothpaste.

Charges and Arrests

As a result of the investigation, both Christopher Turney and Leandra Childers Turney were taken into custody and charged with two counts of felony child neglect without great bodily harm and two counts of misdemeanor contributing to the delinquency of a minor by failing to require school attendance. Christopher Turney also faces an additional charge of felony cruelty toward children.

Ongoing Legal Proceedings

The Turneys were both booked into the Escambia County Jail following their arrests. Christopher Turney was released after posting a bond of ,000, while Leandra Turney was released after posting a bond of ,000. They are both currently scheduled to appear in court on August 23, where they will face the charges against them.This case has sent shockwaves through the community and raised serious concerns about the well-being of the Turney children. The allegations of physical, emotional, and neglectful abuse are deeply troubling, and the failure to provide the children with a proper education and basic necessities is equally alarming. As the legal proceedings continue, the public will be watching closely to ensure that justice is served and the children's safety is prioritized.