YORK, Pa. — Three members of a York County family have been arrested and charged in what prosecutors described as a “disturbing and extremely serious” child abuse case involving two young children.
Ashley Cardona, 31; her mother, Lori Cardona, 53; and her brother, Michael Cardona, 29 — all residents of Newberry Township — were taken into custody Wednesday morning following a nearly two-year investigation by Newberry Township Police and the York County District Attorney’s Office Special Case Unit.
The investigation began on March 19, 2024, after medical staff at WellSpan York Hospital and York County Children and Youth Services (CYS) reported suspected abuse involving a 5-year-old girl and 6-year-old boy who were in the care of Ashley Cardona and Lori Cardona.
According to the criminal complaint, CYS staff observed the children being restrained for extended periods during home visits. The girl was allegedly buckled into an infant car seat for prolonged daily durations, while the boy was reportedly confined in a homemade caged crib constructed with stacked cribs, ratchet straps, zip ties and locking mechanisms. Authorities said the boy was also restrained with a wrist device attached to a leash.
After the children were removed from the home and placed in foster care, investigators said they began to show rapid improvement, allowing authorities time to further examine their medical conditions.
Medical professionals reported severe developmental delays, physical impairments, nutritional deficiencies and signs of prolonged restraint and neglect. Authorities said the conditions met the medical definition of child torture, which involves a long-term pattern of physical abuse combined with psychological maltreatment.
When police executed a search warrant at the family’s Cassel Road home, they found a makeshift cage matching CYS descriptions. The structure reportedly measured 51 inches long, 31 inches wide and 60 inches tall. Officers also noted strong odors of urine and suspected fecal matter on materials inside the enclosure. Michael Cardona allegedly admitted to building the structure.
Investigators further reported a lack of basic hygiene items in the home and confirmed neither child had received medical or dental care since 2019. Both children required extensive therapy services following their removal.
Ashley Cardona faces five felony counts of aggravated assault, two felony counts of endangering the welfare of children, and 10 felony counts of criminal conspiracy.
Lori Cardona is charged with five felony counts of aggravated assault, two felony counts of endangering the welfare of children, two felony counts each of false imprisonment and unlawful restraint, and six felony counts of criminal conspiracy.
Michael Cardona faces five felony counts of criminal conspiracy.
Officials emphasized that the children continue to show significant improvement in foster care. Authorities said the case highlights the county’s commitment to protecting vulnerable children and holding offenders accountable.
