Elk City, OK – A Carter couple, 39-year-old Tara Dyer and 43-year-old Matthew Dyer, are out on bond after being arrested on December 27, 2024, on allegations of enabling child neglect involving their 16-year-old son. Authorities report severe malnourishment and psychological abuse as the primary concerns.
The Department of Human Services (DHS) began an investigation in October after receiving a referral about the boy’s condition. Hospital records indicate the child weighed only 90 pounds when admitted to OU Children’s Hospital in November. Doctors diagnosed him with multiple physical and mental health issues, including bulimia and severe food restrictions at home.
Reports detail troubling claims about the child’s home life, including confinement to his room, limited access to food, and minimal social interaction with siblings. The boy allegedly had to urinate in his room due to restricted bathroom use and was only allowed to shower once a week. Family dynamics revealed that the parents monitored his movements closely, even installing a camera in his room.
While hospitalized, the boy gained weight and began eating unrestricted meals. Physicians attributed his recovery to consistent nutrition and the lifting of restrictive behaviors. Despite progress, the investigation uncovered additional evidence of neglect, including barren living conditions in the child’s room compared to those of his siblings.
Authorities set the couple’s bond at $10,000 a peice, with their first court date scheduled for January 2, 2025.
