In a disturbing case that has shocked the Milwaukee community, two parents have been charged with child neglect after police discovered six children, including a two-month-old baby, living in a filthy storage unit. Authorities were alerted in the early hours of September 16 when a passerby heard a child crying from within the unit. Upon investigation, officers found the children—ages nine, seven, five, three, two, and an infant—living in squalid conditions with no running water, electricity, or adequate sanitation.
Inside the storage unit, police described a putrid smell and noted the presence of a sectional couch, a mattress, and some blankets, but no sheets. The children reportedly used a bucket as a toilet. The parents, identified as 33-year-old Charles Driest and 26-year-old Azia Zalinski, were found sleeping in their car nearby, alongside their dog.
The couple faces six counts of child neglect, with Driest also charged with illegal possession of a firearm by a felon. A criminal complaint revealed harrowing statements from the children. The nine-year-old was tasked with caring for his younger siblings and expressed feelings of hunger and fear. The five-year-old indicated that the children were instructed to remain quiet while confined in the unit, and another child voiced her frustration that the family dog had a place to sleep in the car, while they were locked inside.
Driest admitted to police that the children had been living in the storage unit for about six weeks, stating they had occasionally slept there three times a week. Although he acknowledged the possibility of finding alternative accommodations with family or friends, the couple chose to keep their children in the unit. The parents have claimed they were homeless and were forced into this situation after being kicked out of a shelter in Milwaukee. However, the shelter disputed this, insisting they had arranged permanent housing for the family, which they never utilized.
Currently, the children are in the custody of child protective services. The case has drawn significant attention not only for the shocking neglect but also due to the couple’s reported $2,000 monthly income from Social Security benefits. This raises questions about how the family could end up in such dire circumstances despite receiving financial assistance.
During a recent court appearance, Zalinski appeared visibly emotional as she faced the gravity of the accusations against her. Prosecutors noted the severe neglect and the potential danger posed by a loaded gun found in the car where the parents were sleeping. The presence of the firearm, combined with the unsanitary living conditions, has intensified concerns regarding the children’s safety.
Legal experts suggest that the charges against the parents may carry enhanced penalties due to the ages of the children involved, particularly the infant. Prosecutors are likely to emphasize the intentional decision by the parents to subject their children to such hazardous living conditions, arguing that there were alternatives available.
As the investigation continues, questions linger about the broader implications of this case, including the responsibilities of the storage facility and the community in safeguarding vulnerable children. The future for these children remains uncertain as they navigate the complexities of the foster care system, and society grapples with the systemic issues of homelessness and child welfare. The outcome of this case will likely resonate beyond the courtroom, highlighting the urgent need for effective support for families in crisis.