A sheriff called it the worst child abuse case he’d seen in his 33-year career. Victims as young as 3 are now in state care and getting medical, emotional and psychological support.

The allegations against the suspects – one of whom is the mother of some of the victims – include them using an animal shock collar on the children’s genitals, according to court documents.

The sentencing came after a lengthy investigation by Autauga County Sheriff's Office investigators and agents with the State Bureau of Investigation.