33-Year-Old Pennsylvania Mom Locked 11-Year-Old Son to Basement Fuel Tank for Hours
Chazziity Candelario/Facebook
A Pennsylvania mother, Chazzity Candelario, 33, is facing multiple charges after allegedly restraining her 11-year-old son to an oil tank in their basement using handcuffs. Authorities say the abuse occurred while she was at work and unable to control her son.
Candelario, from North Lebanon Township, has been charged with felony counts of unlawful restraint and false imprisonment of a minor, along with a misdemeanor charge of endangering the welfare of children. Her troubling history includes a 2017 arrest for endangering the welfare of children, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia, according to the Law & Crime.
The latest incident came to light on January 11, 2025, when police were dispatched to her residence on East Kercher Avenue. The Lebanon County Regional Police Department reported: “An investigation revealed the juvenile’s mother, Chazzity Candelario, had restrained the juvenile to an oil tank in the basement using handcuffs.” The case has sparked outrage in the local community.
Candelario’s 2017 charges were filed alongside her partner, John Zayas, who appears in photos with her and her children on Facebook. He also faced charges of endangering the welfare of children and drug-related offenses.
Despite her criminal history, Candelario’s social media presence paints a contrasting picture. She frequently posts photos and statuses about her children, showcasing moments from their lives. A Halloween photo from 2021 shows her children dressed as characters from The Addams Family, with one son wearing fake handcuffs—a chilling detail in light of the current allegations.
Candelario is currently being held at the Lebanon County Correctional Facility in lieu of $100,000 bail as she awaits a preliminary hearing scheduled for January 23. The court will determine whether the charges will proceed to trial.
The case has drawn attention to the long-term welfare of the children involved. Child advocacy groups have reiterated the importance of reporting suspected abuse and ensuring that children have access to safe environments. As the investigation continues, community members remain concerned for the well-being of the young boy and his siblings.
This tragic case serves as a reminder of the critical need for vigilance in identifying and addressing child abuse, ensuring that children are protected from harm, and holding those responsible accountable for their actions.
