Pennsylvania Mother and Boyfriend Face Upgraded Felony Charges After 5-Year-Old Boy Escapes Alleged Confinement

Pennsylvania Child Abuse Investigation Brings New Felony Charges

A child abuse investigation in Pennsylvania has taken another significant turn after prosecutors upgraded the charges against three adults accused of severely neglecting and unlawfully restraining a 5-year-old boy.

Authorities allege that the child, who is nonverbal, escaped from a locked room inside a residence in Swatara Township, Lebanon County. His escape ultimately led first responders to conditions investigators described as among the worst they had encountered.

The defendants—21-year-old Jade Shuey, 20-year-old Tucker Heagy, and 42-year-old Stephanie Schaffner—have each been charged with multiple felony offenses. All three are charged but have not been convicted, and they remain presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Child Found Walking Alone Along Roadway

According to investigators, motorists spotted the young child walking naked near Quarry Road and South Lancaster Street on July 10.

Police said the boy was carrying a blanket soaked with urine and was unable to communicate his name, home address, or how to return home.

Concerned drivers reportedly stopped traffic, protected the child from oncoming vehicles, and contacted emergency responders.

State Police eventually traced the child to a nearby residence where he lived with his mother, her boyfriend, and his grandmother.

Police Describe Disturbing Conditions Inside Home

Investigators say the residence contained large amounts of garbage, spoiled food, numerous cats, and hundreds of flies.

According to court documents, officers reported an overwhelming odor inside the home that allegedly caused irritation to their eyes, noses, and throats.

As investigators continued searching the property, they focused on the room where the child allegedly spent much of his time.

Investigators Allege Child Was Confined Inside Bedroom

Police allege the child’s bedroom had been modified to prevent him from leaving on his own.

According to investigators:

• A baby gate allegedly blocked the doorway.
• The gate was reportedly reinforced using duct tape, string, and multiple zip ties.
• Wooden boards had allegedly been installed above the entrance.
• Windows were reportedly covered, limiting visibility.

Authorities further allege that adults routinely cut the restraints whenever they allowed the child out before securing the room again with new materials.

Investigators claim the defendants purchased zip ties in bulk because they were used frequently.

Alleged Living Conditions Detailed by Investigators

Court records allege the room contained extensive filth, including:

• Human feces on portions of the walls.
• Urine contamination throughout the room.
• Food containers and garbage scattered across the floor.
• Damaged furniture and missing carpeting.

Investigators also allege the child sometimes remained inside the room for extended periods while receiving only limited food and drinks through the barrier.

The allegations remain part of the pending criminal case and have not yet been proven in court.

Charges Expanded Following Investigation

Following additional investigation, prosecutors upgraded the criminal charges filed against the three defendants.

The charges now reportedly include:

• Aggravated assault involving a child
• Unlawful restraint
• Criminal conspiracy
• Upgraded felony child endangerment

Court records indicate the cases against Jade Shuey and Tucker Heagy have been held for trial, while Stephanie Schaffner’s preliminary hearing is scheduled separately.

Bail was reportedly set at:

• Jade Shuey: $500,000
• Stephanie Schaffner: $500,000
• Tucker Heagy: $250,000

Prosecutors Describe Allegations as Extremely Serious

During court proceedings, Lebanon County District Attorney Pier Hess Graf described the alleged circumstances using strong language, saying the child “lived in hell.”

Officials have not publicly released information regarding the child’s current medical condition or where he has since been placed. His identity remains protected because he is a minor.