West Virginia authorities have arrested Dwayne Hickman and Dorothy Hickman on child neglect charges after their son was sent to school with cockroaches in his backpack and bug bites covering his body. The Doddridge County Sheriff's Office reported finding "deplorable living conditions" at their home, leading to the removal of both their son and daughter.

The investigation began when a preschool employee at the Doddridge County Early Learning Academy reported concerns about the siblings. Court documents revealed the boy had cockroaches inside his backpack and visible bug bites on his "face, hands and bottom." His sister told teachers her clothes were "very dirty" and asked them to wash her clothing, according to authorities.

Both parents face two counts of gross neglect of a child creating substantial risk of death or serious bodily injury. They pleaded not guilty on February 13, with initial bonds set at $20,000 for Dwayne and $10,000 for Dorothy. Under West Virginia law, convictions could result in 1 to 5 years in prison and fines up to $3,000. The case highlights ongoing concerns about child welfare and the critical role educators play in identifying potential abuse or neglect situations.