Vancouver couple on trial for locking kids in room take stand - KPTV - FOX 12
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The trial of a Vancouver couple accused of locking up two of their autistic boys wrapped up in a Clark County courthouse.
Alyana Higden and John Eckhart are accused of keeping the boys in a caged room.
On Friday, both parents took to the stand in their defense saying they kept the kids locked in the room for their own safety.
The prosecutors are saying it was out of convenience.
In court, Higden's attorney showed the jury the gate used to keep the two autistic boys locked in their room.
Higden explained that the gate was used to keep the boys safe and out of trouble.
She said the gate was better than shutting the door to the room because the gate allowed the boys to look out and see the rest of the family.
"Yes, I love them. I still love them. We were trying to keep them safe so they wouldn't get hurt," said Higden, fighting back tears.
Eckhart, the boys' father, told the courtroom he used several methods to child proof his home and explained why the gate was used.
"I put it up there because you can't always watch a child. Their health and safety is a big concern," said Eckhart.
It was in April of last year that Vancouver police were called to the home after a Child Protective Services complaint.
Inside, police found what they called shocking conditions and found a cage bolted to the wall and the 6- and 7-year-old boys locked inside.
The prosecutor said that the boys were kept in that room the majority of the time and only let out during special occasions and for a bath.
The two boys have since been placed in foster care while their biological mother is seeking custody.
Closing arguments in the case begin Tuesday morning. It'll then go to the jury.
Copyright 2012 KPTV (Meredith Corporation). All rights reserved.
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