Full Breakdown
Florida Couple Accused of Holding Four Children in Truck Cab for Over Six Years
9/7/2026, 10:24:44 PM
Core Event
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced that Keisha Monique Epps, 51, and Tamra Marshon Stewart, 37, have been charged with multiple counts of sexual battery, lewd molestation, and child neglect for allegedly confining two girls (ages 5 and 6) and two boys (ages 5 and 9) in the cab of a semi-truck for more than six years. The children reportedly shared a single bunk, were denied regular meals, hygiene, schooling, and medical care, and were subjected to repeated sexual abuse and physical violence. The couple were arrested in August and are being held in Duval County jail.
Background & Context
Epps, a commercial truck driver, operated routes between Atlanta and Miami, while Stewart acted as the primary caregiver when Epps slept or showered. From January 2020 through April 2026, investigators say the children lived in the sleeper cabin as the truck traveled across Florida. Florida law permits the death penalty for adults convicted of sexual battery against a child younger than 12, a provision the attorney general’s office says it will pursue.
Data & Statistics
- Four children: two girls (5 and 6) and two boys (5 and 9).
- Charges: Stewart faces two counts of sexual battery, two counts of lewd molestation, two counts of battery by expelling fluids, two counts of child neglect without great bodily harm, and two counts of child neglect causing permanent disfigurement.
- Epps faces the same neglect and sexual-battery charges plus four counts of failure to report child abuse.
- Two children suffered untreated burns that left permanent scarring; one child was diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection after leaving the couple’s custody.
- The children were reportedly forced to use cups and paper bags as toilets, received no regular medical or dental care, and missed schooling for approximately five years.
Official Statements & Responses
Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commissioner Mark Glass emphasized the state’s commitment to child safety, stating that violations of trust and safety will be met with full accountability. Osceola County Sheriff Chris Blackmon urged the public to report any suspected child endangerment, reinforcing that protecting children is a non-negotiable responsibility.
Verbatim Quotes
- “These children were trapped in a rolling prison and abused by the adults who were supposed to protect them,” — General James Uthmeier, florida attorney
- “This case is one of, if not the most, horrific that my team has ever had to work on,” — General James Uthmeier, florida attorney
- “Children are Florida’s future — our greatest hopes and our most sacred responsibility,” — Florida Department
- “The individuals in this case didn’t just break the law; they violated the trust and safety every child deserves,” — Mark Glass, law enforcement commissioner
What’s Next
The case proceeds through the Duval County criminal system, with the public defender representing Stewart and the Office of Criminal Conflict and Civil Regional Counsel representing Epps. Prosecutors have indicated that additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.