Muskogee County, OK – An Oklahoma man, Dustin Walker, 34, has been charged with child sexual abuse following the birth of a child fathered by his 11-year-old stepdaughter. The disturbing case has drawn widespread attention due to the serious nature of the allegations and the conditions in which the children were found.
The child’s mother and Dustin’s wife, Cherie Walker, 33, also faces criminal charges, including enabling child sexual abuse and felony child neglect. The couple faces the possibility of life imprisonment as authorities continue their investigation.
A Harrowing Case of Abuse and Neglect
The abuse reportedly occurred between January 1 and August 16, during which time the young girl became pregnant. Despite the child not having visited a doctor for more than a year, a DNA test confirmed with 99.95% certainty that Dustin Walker is the biological father of the child.
“This is one of the most if not the most serious child sexual abuse and neglect cases I have ever prosecuted,” said Muskogee County Assistant District Attorney Janet Hutson in a statement to NBC News.
Both Dustin and Cherie Walker have been charged with felony child neglect. Additionally, they face five further counts of child neglect related to their other five children, aged 2, 4, 6, 7, and 9, who were reported to be living in deplorable conditions within the family home. Court documents describe the children’s living environment as unhygienic and appalling, stating they were found living in dog feces and without any clothing.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Sentencing
The couple’s bond was set at $100,000, and a sounding docket court hearing is scheduled for September 3. If convicted, each charge carries a potential sentence of up to life in prison.
Authorities have already taken action by removing the children from the couple’s residence to ensure their safety and well-being.
Community Impact and Expert Perspective
This case has sent shockwaves through the community and highlights the urgent need for vigilant child protection and intervention. Experts affirm that such serious neglect and abuse demand a strong legal and social response to protect vulnerable children and prevent future tragedies.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Dustin Walker, 34, charged with child sexual abuse.
- Cherie Walker, 33, charged with enabling abuse and felony child neglect.
- 11-year-old stepdaughter gave birth to Dustin’s child.
- DNA test confirms paternity with 99.95% certainty.
- Other five children found living in extremely poor conditions.
- Couple’s bond set at $100,000, with court hearing on September 3.
- Charges carry penalties up to life imprisonment.
