The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office arrested 51-year-old Keisha Monique Epps and 37-year-old Tamra Marshon Stewart during the first week of August 2026. Both face four counts of child neglect after authorities said they held four children captive in the cab of a tractor-trailer truck since December 2019.
Children Denied School, Medical Care, and Basic Hygiene
According to court documents, the children were not allowed to attend school for approximately five years. They also had not seen a doctor or dentist for urgent or preventive care during that time. A detective stated, "All of the victims disclosed that they have not been allowed to attend school for approximately five years and had not seen a doctor or dentist for urgent or preventive care."
One child, who was allegedly sexually assaulted by Stewart, had an untreated sexually transmitted infection (STI) that "caused a fish smell," according to the document. The child was diagnosed with the STI during a medical exam in May by the Child Protection Team.
Abuse Reported but Ignored
Documents show the children told Epps about the alleged abuse, but "she did nothing to stop it" and "blamed them for Stewart's behavior." When the children confronted Stewart, he allegedly reacted "by punching them in their heads," according to the documents.
The report said capital sexual battery charges would be filed by a prosecutor. Investigators said the children spent most of their days inside the cab, shared a bed, and could not lie flat in the bunk because it was too small. They were rarely allowed out of the cab, including to use the bathroom.
Living Conditions and Arrest Details
The report also alleged the children were fed poorly and were not allowed to shower or exercise. Authorities said Stewart watched the children while Epps drove the truck. It was not immediately known if the children were related to the suspects.
Epps' bond was set at $100,000 on each count, or $400,000 total, documents show. She was ordered to wear a GPS monitor and have no contact with minors, victims, witnesses, or co-defendants. Documents show Epps is set to appear in court on September 3. Stewart is being held without bond.
