A Michigan couple has pleaded no contest to first-degree child abuse charges in a disturbing case involving severe neglect and the mistreatment of multiple children under their care, authorities confirmed.

Jason Klimp and Jessica Klimp entered their pleas in connection with allegations that two of their adopted children were subjected to extreme deprivation and unsafe living conditions.

According to the Michigan Attorney General’s Office, Jessica Klimp, 45, formally pleaded no contest to two counts of first-degree child abuse on May 11, while Jason Klimp, 47, entered a similar plea earlier in March.

The case came to light after one of the couple’s adopted children was hospitalized in Tennessee with symptoms consistent with severe malnutrition and dehydration. Authorities later launched an investigation into the family’s living conditions, which spanned residences in both Michigan and Tennessee.

Investigators reported that two adopted children were found to be significantly underweight and had allegedly been placed on highly restrictive diets. A search of the family’s residence reportedly uncovered various concerning items and conditions that prompted further scrutiny from child welfare authorities.

Law enforcement officials also stated that the children described long-term neglect, including restrictions on normal eating habits and harsh living arrangements that left them in distressing conditions.

The Michigan Attorney General’s Office confirmed that the couple has a total of eight children, including both biological and adopted minors, and that the investigation focused specifically on the treatment of the adopted children.

Attorney General Dana Nessel condemned the abuse, stating that children deserve safe and nurturing homes and emphasizing that the case reflects a severe breach of parental responsibility.

Following prior legal proceedings in Tennessee, both defendants had already faced sentencing related to aggravated child abuse charges, receiving prison terms that will run concurrently with their Michigan sentencing.

Under the terms of a no-contest plea, the defendants did not admit guilt but accepted conviction as part of the legal resolution of the case.

Court officials confirmed that Jason Klimp is scheduled to be sentenced on June 16, while sentencing for Jessica Klimp will be determined at a later date.

Authorities say the investigation highlights ongoing concerns about child welfare enforcement and the importance of early intervention in suspected abuse cases.

The case remains one of several recent high-profile child abuse prosecutions drawing national attention due to the severity of the allegations and the vulnerability of the victims involved.