WASHINGTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) — Authorities in Johnson City took action on Tuesday, apprehending a couple after discovering an infant residing in what were described as “appalling” conditions.

The Washington County, Tennessee Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) detailed in a press release that deputies collaborated with the Department of Children’s Services (DCS) to remove a baby from a property located on the 1100 block of Huffine Road shortly after midday.

Police identified the residents as 39-year-old Joseph Donald Brooks and 27-year-old Clair Elise McCain. Both individuals now face charges of child abuse and neglect, as stated by the WCSO.

According to the sheriff’s office, “McCain was present at the scene and initially resisted handing the infant over to DCS.” However, deputies successfully and safely retrieved the child from her and transferred custody to DCS.

The conditions inside the home were reportedly dire, with floors in disrepair, exposed electrical cords, and a pervasive odor of ammonia caused by the presence of four cats. Animal control authorities later took charge of the cats.

McCain was arrested at the home, and Brooks turned himself in at the Washington County Detention Center on Tuesday evening.

Both are being held on $10,000 each and will appear in court on Wednesday.