A Gloucester Township man and woman have been arrested and charged for confining and abusing a child who lived in their home for several years, according to the Camden County Prosecutor's Office.

Authorities were notified of an 18-year-old female who reported she had been held captive in her home for several years, and was the victim of sexual abuse.

"I will say this is the one of the most despicable cases that I've ever run across," says Gloucester Township Police Chief David Harkins.

During the investigation, the victim told detectives that Brenda Spencer, 38, and Branndon Mosley, 41, had been abusing her since approximately 2018.

Around that time, authorities say she was removed from school in the sixth grade at Spencer's discretion and confined to her home. She stated that shortly after this, she was forced to live in a dog crate for approximately one year and was let out periodically.

The victim said she was later forced to live in a padlocked bathroom while being chained up, authorities say. She stated that she would be let out of the bathroom when family visited the residence.

At other times, she said she was forced to live in a bare room with just a bucket to use instead of a toilet.

The 18-year-old escaped the residence on Thursday, May 8, and was assisted by a neighbor. She later disclosed the abuse, which was reported to law enforcement.

Detectives searched the residence and found that the victim was subjected to living in squalid conditions alongside numerous dogs, chinchillas and other animals.

Detectives learned that a 13-year-old who also lived in the home was removed from school years earlier.

Spencer and Mosley were charged with kidnapping, aggravated assault, endangerment, and weapons offenses. Mosley faces additional charges of aggravated sexual assault and endangering.

Both suspects are being held in the Camden County Jail. A detention hearing is set for Friday at 9 a.m.