Four members of a Florida family have been arrested and charged with aggravated child abuse after investigators uncovered a harrowing pattern of mistreatment involving nine children—including four who had been adopted.
Brian and Jill Griffeth, along with Dallin and Liberty Griffeth, were taken into custody following a disturbing investigation into their Fort White home.
Authorities allege the children were subjected to brutal discipline and inhumane living conditions, including confinement in makeshift plywood cages built beneath bunk beds.
According to the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, the adopted children aged between 7 and 16 were disproportionately targeted.
They reportedly did not know their full names or birthdates and were treated markedly worse than their biological siblings.
Among the most shocking claims: the children were sprayed in the face with vinegar as punishment, beaten with canes, and given non-prescribed medication. Prosecutors also say they were coached to lie about the abuse.
When deputies visited the home, they found the adopted children performing chores while the biological children played freely or watched television.
The abuse came to light after a mandatory reporter at the family’s local church raised the alarm. Just days before the arrests, one of the children was found in possession of a functioning stun gun at a church camp, further heightening concern.
All nine children have since been removed from the residence and placed under state care.
The case has sent shockwaves through the Fort White community, prompting renewed calls for greater oversight of adoptive homes and tougher penalties for child abuse. Investigations are ongoing.
