A Blytheville woman is facing child endangerment charges after reportedly leaving three small children unattended and locked in a room with no food or water Tuesday at an East McHaney home in disrepair.
Brandi Carter, 22, was arrested on charges of carrying a prohibited weapon and three counts of endangering the welfare of a minor -- ages 4, 3 and 1.
According to the police report, around 3:20 p.m. Tuesday, police, responded to the vacated 1041 E. McHaney rental property, which still had some Carter's clothing and other items.
When an individual arrived to clean the property, he heard the children in a bedroom.
"The door was tied closed with an electrical cord, rope and a vacuum cleaner," the report said.
A police officer cut the rope, entered the room and found the children, who had no food or water.
"The children were taken outdoors and placed in my unit for cool air," the report said.
One child told police that she was thirsty and hungry; all three were given water on the scene.
"The house was in poor shape and unsuitable for proper living conditions," the report said. "The kitchen area was burnt and the ceiling was caved in. Trash was found throughout the home."
A neighbor contacted the grandmother, who arrived on scene. The grandmother called Carter who came to the home. When searched, police allegedly found a double-bladed knife, and she was arrested.
mbrasfield@blythevillecourier.com