Mother of two year-old found locked in basement now charged

The mother of a Columbia two year-old child found locked in a basement and covered in feces is now facing felony charges.

According to the Boone County Prosecuting Attorney’s office, they have charged Denecia Hatton with three counts of first degree child endangerment, and one count of possession of a controlled substance.

The incident occurred when police were called to check on the welfare of children at a residence in the 2100 block of Ammonette Drive the evening of September 18th. When they arrived, they found the children unsupervised, and the two year-old locked in the basement covered in feces and urine, and with broken glass nearby. While officers were at the house, Hatton returned to the home intoxicated, and was found to be in possession of cocaine.

Hatton’s children remain in protective custody.