FORT PIERCE, Fla. — A Florida pastor has been charged with multiple counts of child neglect after authorities say five children in her care were subjected to severe neglect, unsanitary living conditions, and food deprivation while her biological daughter received preferential treatment.
Gwendolyn Rolle, 59, of Fort Pierce, was arrested and charged with five felony counts of child neglect without great bodily harm following an investigation by the Fort Pierce Police Department.
According to investigators, Rolle had been caring for five siblings ranging in age from 4 to 9 years old. Police allege that the children were routinely denied adequate food, forced to use a bucket as a toilet, and required to bathe outdoors with a garden hose because they were not allowed regular access to the home’s only functioning bathroom.
Authorities say the investigation began after an anonymous complaint raised concerns about the children’s welfare. Detectives interviewed the children, neighbors, and school personnel and documented what they described as a pattern of neglect and favoritism.
One child reportedly told investigators that Rolle’s biological daughter was allowed to use the bathroom freely, take showers, and eat fast food meals from restaurants such as KFC and Popeyes while the other children often went to bed hungry.
Police allege the children were sometimes fed only small portions of food, including packets of ramen noodles, and were occasionally denied dinner altogether.
Investigators also found evidence of poor hygiene and living conditions. School staff reportedly noticed strong odors coming from the children and provided them with perfume and body spray to prevent bullying by classmates. Witnesses told police that the children were often seen bathing outside while siblings held up a sheet to provide privacy.
The arrest affidavit further alleges that the children were subjected to verbal abuse and physical discipline. One child reportedly described being slapped in the face, while investigators documented injuries that they say were consistent with abuse allegations.
Police stated that Rolle is not a licensed foster parent, although she reportedly claimed she had taken the children into her home after their father left the area.
The Florida Department of Children and Families removed the children from the residence following the investigation. Officials say the children are now in a safe environment.
The case has drawn widespread attention throughout the community because Rolle serves as a pastor at New Hope International Church in Fort Pierce. Authorities noted that some community members were initially reluctant to report concerns because of her standing in the area.
Rolle was booked into the St. Lucie County Jail and later released on bond. Court records indicate she faces five felony child-neglect charges. The allegations remain accusations, and she is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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