The Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office has arrested Patricia and Dustin Gwaltney following an investigation into allegations of severe child abuse and neglect.

Following the issuance of arrest warrants, the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Noble Police Department, apprehended both suspects in Noble October 28.

Patricia A. Gwaltney faces seven counts of child abuse and two counts of child neglect. She is currently being held in the Cleveland County Detention Facility on a $250,000 bond. Dustin B. Gwaltney has been charged with one count of child abuse. He remains in CCDC custody with a bond set at $50,000.

“This case is truly disturbing,” sheriff Darrell Weaver said. “The safety and well-being of children is something we take very seriously. Our priority is to protect these children, remove them from situations where they may be at risk  and hold those responsible for abuse and neglect accountable.”

The investigation by CCSO’s Criminal Investigation Division revealed concerns regarding the children’s significantly low weight relative to their age and height, physical abuse, the restriction of food and the use of physical exercise and exertion as a form of punishment.

Anyone who suspects a child is being abused or neglected is encouraged to contact the Oklahoma Department of Human Services Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-800-522-3511 to report concerns.