Criminal Parenting Could Land Pair Up To 32 Years In Prison

Sentencing could wrap up by Monday for two Colorado Springs parents accused of severe abuse of their six kids.

Authorities were alerted to the situation in 2009 when an electrician found one teenager nearly lifeless on the floor of the Ricks home. Autavius, now 16, was bedridden and denied medical help for uncontrollable seizures according to experts testifying in that sentencing case. A lack of food was also evident.

“The malnutrition conditions I think were apparent to anybody who observed those children,” said Reginald Short with the District Attorney’s office. “I think ultimately what we can say is the children are in a better place at this point.”

Experts add that Autavius may never be able to live on his own because of the innumerable seizures suffered over the years.

Tonya and Bryan Ricks pleaded guilty to attempted second degree murder and child abuse resulting in serious bodily injury. They face between 10 to 32 years in prison.