Pontiac, Michigan — A Michigan woman accused of abandoning her children in a home described by authorities as unlivable has been sentenced in a welfare fraud case, but far more serious criminal allegations remain pending as prosecutors prepare for an upcoming child abuse trial.
Kelli Bryant, 35, received two years of probation and was ordered to pay nearly $30,000 in restitution after pleading guilty to welfare fraud.
The public assistance funds were allegedly intended to support her children, who investigators claim were living in horrific conditions while largely left to care for themselves.
Although the sentencing resolves one part of the case, Bryant still faces three counts of first-degree child abuse, charges that carry significantly greater consequences if she is convicted.
Welfare Check Uncovers Disturbing Conditions
The investigation began on Feb. 14, 2025, when the landlord of a home on Lydia Lane in Pontiac contacted authorities after reportedly not hearing from Bryant or receiving rent payments for several months.
When deputies arrived to conduct a welfare check, they discovered three children living inside conditions that investigators later described as shocking.
According to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, garbage was piled several feet high throughout the residence. Authorities also reported widespread mold, overflowing sewage, and human waste inside the home.
Sheriff Mike Bouchard called the case an example of:
“Abandonment, neglect and abuse of the highest order.”
Investigators said the children included a 15-year-old boy and two girls, ages 12 and 13.
Children Allegedly Lived Alone for Years
According to investigators, the teenage boy told deputies that he and his sisters had been living alone since approximately 2020 or 2021.
Authorities alleged the children had not attended school during that period and spent much of their time watching television and playing video games.
The boy reportedly slept on a mattress, while the two girls allegedly slept on pizza boxes.
Investigators said food was typically left on the porch by Bryant or another individual, but prosecutors claim the mother rarely visited the home.
Authorities also stated that while Bryant maintained some contact with her son, she allegedly had not physically seen her daughters for years.
Neighbors reportedly told investigators they were unaware children were living in the house.
Children Found in Poor Physical Condition
After being removed from the residence, the children were transported to a hospital for evaluation.
Authorities reported that the children were wearing dirty clothing, had severely matted hair, and had toenails that had grown so long they reportedly affected their ability to walk.
Investigators also said the children lacked basic hygiene skills.
The scene was reportedly so hazardous that an evidence technician processed the home while wearing protective equipment.
Child Protective Services later placed the children with a relative.
Prosecutors Highlight Statements Made During Interview
During court proceedings, investigators described Bryant’s interview with law enforcement after the children were discovered.
According to testimony, detectives were surprised by her appearance, noting she arrived well-groomed and dressed neatly.
A detective testified that Bryant acknowledged the impact of her actions.
“I hurt my children,” Brish said Bryant told investigators.
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“I sacrificed my children, probably.”
Prosecutors also pointed to information allegedly recovered from Bryant’s cellphone, claiming her children were saved in her contacts as “My oldest,” “Kid 1,” and “Kid 2.”
Meanwhile, authorities said the children had affectionate descriptions for their mother stored in their own phones.
Child Abuse Trial Scheduled for August
While the welfare fraud case has now concluded, the allegations involving the children remain at the center of ongoing criminal proceedings.
A judge ruled this week that Bryant is competent to stand trial and proceed through the judicial process.
Her child abuse trial is currently scheduled to begin on Aug. 10.
As the case moves forward, prosecutors are expected to present evidence regarding the children’s living conditions and the years of alleged neglect outlined in investigative reports.
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