Texas County deputies arrested a Missouri couple last week after discovering three children living in deplorable conditions on their Bucyrus property — including one starving child locked in a shed — while executing a search warrant in connection with a missing person investigation.
Background
Deputies were investigating the disappearance of Ceasar Asbury, 18, who was reported as a runaway by his parents in September 2025. When authorities executed a search warrant at the home shared by Chaun and Tamala Asbury, the couple attempted to flee but was detained at the scene.
Inside the residence, deputies found three children living without utilities or a functioning sewer system. One child — described as malnourished — was bound to a bed and locked inside a shed on the property. Investigators also uncovered skeletal remains buried in a shallow grave on the rural homestead.
The couple had reported the missing teen, Ceasar Asbury, as a runaway shortly after his disappearance. The skeletal remains recovered from the property have not been positively identified, though investigators believe they belong to the missing 18-year-old. A cause of death remains pending.
The Investigation
Texas County Sheriff Scott Lindsey told KOLR that investigators uncovered evidence suggesting the children had been physically restrained. The home lacked basic utilities, creating unsanitary living conditions for the minors.
Sheriff Lindsey indicated he expects additional charges against Chaun and Tamala Asbury, both 42 and 45 years old respectively, as the investigation continues. The couple is currently held on $100,000 bond each on charges of child abuse.
The three children have been placed in protective custody. Ozark Radio News reported that the Missouri Department of Children and Family Services is working with law enforcement to ensure the minors receive necessary care.
Key Takeaways
- Chaun and Tamala Asbury arrested in connection with discovery of three children living in substandard conditions
- Skeletal remains found on property believed to be Ceasar Asbury, 18, who vanished in September 2025
- One child was malnourished, bound to a bed, and locked inside a shed
- Home lacked utilities and proper sewer system
- Couple charged with child abuse, held on $100,000 bond each
- Sheriff expects additional charges as investigation continues
What's Next
Autopsy and forensic analysis are pending to positively identify the skeletal remains and determine cause of death. The Texas County Sheriff's Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Ceasar Asbury's disappearance and the conditions in which the three surviving children were found. Chaun and Tamala Asbury remain in custody pending their next court appearance.