Kentucky couple arrested for torturing 5-year-old child for coloring outside the lines

MIDDLESBORO, KY — A Middlesboro couple has been arrested following a joint investigation into the severe abuse of a 5-year-old child, according to a statement released by the Middlesboro Police Department.

On March 30, 2025, Sgt. Jeremiah Johnson, along with Officer Caleb Ayers, arrested Ricky North and Nichole North on multiple felony charges, including Criminal Abuse 1st Degree, Tampering with Physical Evidence, Strangulation 1st Degree, and Failure to Report Child Dependent Neglect/Abuse 1st Offense.

According to police, the investigation revealed the child — Ricky North’s biological son — was subjected to repeated and extreme physical abuse. The report details that the couple duct-taped the child’s arms and legs, forced him into cold showers, and struck him in the head and face.

The child was also reportedly choked, body slammed, whipped for coloring outside the lines on schoolwork, and held by the ankles before having his head slammed onto the floor multiple times.

Authorities stated the abuse occurred repeatedly while the child was in the care of Mr. and Mrs. North, amounting to what police described as “torture, cruel confinement, and cruel punishment.”

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The investigation was led by Sgt. Johnson and has resulted in the filing of serious criminal charges against both individuals.

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