Probation granted in child endangerment case

A Cape Girardeau father in a child endangerment case involving a roach-infested home was granted probation on Monday in order to financially support his children.

At his sentencing on Monday, Denver M. Brooks 24, who now lives on South Sprigg Street, said that he and his wife, Melanie R. Brooks, have separated and that she has taken custody of their children and moved to Chaffee, Mo.

Circuit Judge Benjamin Lewis sentenced Denver Brooks to two years probation on a suspended imposition sentence for misdemeanor child endangerment, reduced from felony child endangerment. Additional probation conditions include an attempt to obtain a GED in one year, maintain full-time employment and abide by any service agreements ordered by the Missouri Children's Division.

The children's division initially removed the Brookses' two children from their home following a June 22 visit to their home at 1827 Big Bend Road.

Both of the Brooks were charged with a single count of felony child endangerment after authorities found a major infestation of roaches and rotting food on the counter in the home.

Melanie Brooks pleaded guilty to a reduced misdemeanor charge and was sentenced to two years probation by Circuit Judge William Syler.