A mother in Kentucky has been arrested following a welfare check at her residence, which uncovered a disturbing environment.

Virginia Lynn Fernow, aged 26, faces charges of child abuse and endangering a minor’s welfare. Authorities from the Louisa Police Department allege that Fernow’s two children, aged 2 and 4, were living in unacceptable conditions. According to a report by Mountain Top Media, officers were dispatched to her home in Louisa, Kentucky, for a welfare check last Friday.

Upon arrival, officers were immediately hit by a strong, unpleasant odor emanating from within the house.

Fernow met the officers at her doorstep and conversed with them on the porch. When questioned about her children, she revealed that her 2-year-old daughter had sustained a burn on her back from a heater. Fernow admitted to attempting to treat the burn with diaper rash cream, but she had not sought medical attention for her daughter.

Officers informed Fernow that they needed to enter the home to ensure the children’s well-being. She permitted entry but cautioned them about the presence of dog feces on the floor. Inside, officers reportedly found dog feces and trash scattered in various parts of the house, blocking access to some areas.

When police finally found the children, they said both of them were in the bedroom without any clothes on and surrounded by flies and insects. Fernow allegedly said she had not cleaned the home for four to six months.

Fernow was arrested on Friday and charged with criminal abuse of a child and endangering a minor. She is being held at the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center on $5,000 cash bond. Her next court date is scheduled for Nov. 19.

Police did not release information about where the children were taken following Fernow’s arrest.