Georgia Couple Arrested for Allegedly Leaving 3-Year-Old Child Alone in Shed ‘Without Running Water or Electricity’

A Douglasville couple has been arrested and charged with second‑degree child cruelty after allegedly confining a three‑year‑old child in a backyard shed for nearly three weeks.

On June 2, authorities took 34‑year‑old Sarah Pombert and 35‑year‑old Joseph Turner into custody. According to an arrest warrant filed May 29 by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, the couple left a three‑year‑old child, identified as Bjorn Turner, alone in the shed from May 1 to May 22
The warrant states the shed had no electricity or running water, and that the child was left unsupervised, unbathed, and unclothed, reflecting “criminal negligence”.

Described as “a dirty living space,” the shed reportedly offered no basic amenities, leaving the child in unsanitary and unsafe conditions.
Neighbor Matthew Govoni—speaking to WSB, cited by ABC News—revealed the shed had even burned down over Memorial Day weekend, adding that he wasn’t surprised by the alleged neglect given the family’s “lifestyle”.

Pombert and Turner face felony charges for causing “cruel or excessive mental or physical pain” to a child .
Both remain in custody at the Douglas County Jail. As of June 6, no attorneys had been publicly listed to represent them.

Officials have not yet disclosed the precise relationship between the couple and the child, nor how law enforcement learned of the child’s situation. The case remains open and under investigation by local authorities.

Child Cruelty is a serious felony that carries significant prison time and fines. This case has drawn attention not only for the shocking neglect alleged but also for larger questions it raises around community awareness and safeguarding of vulnerable children.

If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, please contact local child-protective services or law enforcement immediately.