Four children and two dogs were allegedly transported inside the enclosed cargo area of a U-Haul box truck before Illinois sheriff's deputies pulled over the vehicle along Interstate 55, leading to the arrest of a couple on child endangerment charges.
Background
Livingston County Sheriff's Office deputies conducted a routine traffic stop at approximately 6:07 p.m. on the northbound on-ramp of Interstate 55 in Pontiac, Illinois — roughly 100 miles southwest of Chicago. The driver was identified as Roy Hamel II, who told authorities he and his passengers were moving from Louisiana to Michigan.
During the search of the U-Haul box truck, deputies discovered four children traveling inside the enclosed bed of the vehicle alongside two dogs. A body camera image released by the sheriff's office shows the cramped interior packed with large gray plastic storage bins, laundry baskets, filled garbage bags, and clothing scattered throughout. Several children can be seen lying atop various objects in the confined space.
The children were taken to a hospital for evaluation of possible heat-related injuries, according to the press release. Neither the children's ages nor their current conditions were disclosed by authorities.
The Charges
Hamel and his passenger, Sabrina McKinney, were each charged with six counts of endangering the life or health of a child. Hamel also faced an additional charge of driving with a suspended license. Both suspects were transported to and released into custody at the Livingston County Jail following their arrests.
The charges remain allegations at this stage. No trial date has been set, and neither defendant has entered pleas in court as of Monday.
Key Takeaways
- Roy Hamel II and Sabrina McKinney charged with six counts each of endangering the life or health of a child
- Four children and two dogs discovered inside the enclosed bed of a U-Haul box truck during a traffic stop on I-55 in Pontiac, Illinois
- Children evaluated at a hospital for possible heat-related injuries; their conditions were not disclosed
- Defendants claimed they were moving from Louisiana to Michigan when stopped
- Hamel also charged with driving with a suspended license
What's Next
Hamel and McKinney are expected to make an initial court appearance in Livingston County Circuit Court. Prosecutors have indicated they will pursue the full range of charges, while defense attorneys for both defendants have not yet publicly commented on the allegations against their clients. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to review the circumstances surrounding the children's transportation.