‘House of Horrors’ Parents Louise and David Turpin Sentenced to 25 Years to Life

Nearly two months after they pleaded guilty to torturing their children, “House of Horrors” parents Louise and David Turpin were sentenced to 25 years to life behind bars. According to CNN, both parents got the same sentence on Friday, April 19, after facing 14 counts of torture, dependent adult abuse, child endangerment, and false imprisonment. They entered into a plea deal in February 2018, but both parents made statements in court at their sentencing. Their children also spoke out, sharing victim impact statements with the judge.

“My parents took my whole life from me, but I’m taking it back,” said one of the adult daughters. “I’m going to college. Life may have been bad but it made me strong. I saw my dad change my mom. They almost changed me. I’m a fighter, I’m strong.”

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David, who’s previously expressed regret for his actions, said, “I never intended for any harm to come to my children. I’m sorry if I’ve done anything to cause them harm. … I love my children and believe my children love me. … I hope the very best for my children in the future.” Louis echoed his sentiments, adding, “I’m sorry for everything I’ve done to hurt my children. I love my children so much. … I look forward to the day I can see them, hug them, and tell them I’m sorry.”

It was an emotional day for all family members, with the Turpin parents and children alike shedding tears. Though Louise and David will spend decades in prison, it seems some of their children have already started doing the work to move forward. “I cannot describe in words what we went through growing up,” said one of their sons. “I still have nightmares of what happened, including my siblings being chained up. But that is the past, and this is now. I love my parents, and have forgiven them for a lot of the things they did to us.”

The couple had 13 children together, ranging in age from 2 to 29. Riverside DA Mike Hestrin called the abuse “among the worst, most aggravated” cases he’d ever seen. The Turpin parents, who were discovered and arrested in January 2018 after one of their older children escaped and sought help, rarely fed their children and kept some bound or shackled to their beds. But it seems they’re on their way to recovery. In March 2018, their lawyer told ABC News the children were living together in a California home. “The adult siblings want to be known as survivors, not victims,” he said. “They’re really full of joy about their life and the things they get to experience right now.”