A disturbing child case in York County has led to the arrest of three family members after two young children were found living in extremely harmful conditions. Police say the children suffered serious physical and mental harm over a long period of time. The case has shocked the local community and raised questions about child protection oversight.
Here is a clear and simple explanation of what authorities have shared so far.
Three Family Members Arrested in York County
According to the Newberry Township Police Department, Ashley Cardona, 31, and Lori Cardona, 51, were arrested on February 25. They are facing multiple charges, including:
- Aggravated assault
- Unlawful restraint
- False imprisonment
- Endangering the welfare of children
- Criminal conspiracy
Michael Cardona, 27, was also arrested. He is charged with:
- Criminal conspiracy to commit unlawful restraint
- Criminal conspiracy to commit false imprisonment
- Endangering the welfare of children
All three are currently being held on $250,000 bail.
Investigation Began After Hospital Call
The investigation started in March 2024 when hospital staff contacted police about two children who had been taken into emergency protection.
Reports from WHP-TV and Law & Crime say one child was allegedly forced to sit in a car seat for nearly 20 hours a day. The other child was reportedly malnourished and kept in a crate or cage almost all day.
Police later searched the family’s home. Officers found a crib modified into what they described as a “cage-like structure” with external locks.
According to charging documents, the structure was created by stacking a second crib upside down on top of another. Investigators noted a strong smell of urine and possible dried feces on the railing.
Michael Cardona allegedly told officers he helped build the structure.
Children’s Health Conditions
Police say both children had not left the house in nearly two years. Reports indicate they had not received regular medical or dental care since 2019.
The girl reportedly:
- Was not toilet-trained
- Had 16 cavities
- Showed limited mobility
- Had restricted neck movement
Doctors said her physical condition was likely due to being restrained in a car seat for long periods.
A physician from the Child Protective Team at Penn State Health stated that the overall situation met the definition of child torture.
Prior Visits by Child Services
Authorities said child services had visited the home multiple times before the hospital alert in March 2024. Agency staff had previously observed that the children were restrained for long periods.
However, it was only after hospital professionals raised concerns that the investigation deepened.
On July 9, 2025, both children were removed from the home. Reports say they improved quickly once placed in safer conditions.
District Attorney Explains Delay in Charges
According to WGAL, York County District Attorney Tim Barker explained why charges were filed months after the children were removed.
He said that since the children were safe, investigators took time to collect full evidence before moving forward with arrests.
Grandfather Speaks Out
The children’s grandfather, Richard Cardona, told WGAL that he was shocked by what he saw inside the home. He said he called child protective services after witnessing the living conditions.
He described seeing one child’s hand sticking out from the cage and said the moment deeply affected him.
The children are currently in foster care. Richard Cardona and his wife have reportedly expressed interest in seeking custody.
Current Legal Status
Ashley, Lori and Michael Cardona remain in jail as the case moves through the court system. Prosecutors say the children suffered serious physical and emotional harm.
As of now, the case is ongoing, and all three defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
