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Sarasota father sentenced for severe neglect of 5-year-old daughter
Torrance Boles received 18 months in prison and 2 years of probation for neglect of a child without bodily harm.
Apr. 8, 2026 at 11:37am
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A 50-year-old Sarasota father, Torrance Boles, was sentenced to 18 months in prison and 2 years of probation for the severe neglect of his 5-year-old daughter. Boles and the child's mother, Crystal Kates, were arrested in September 2025 after authorities discovered the young girl living in deplorable conditions, with matted hair, no bedding, and appearing to be starved for affection. Both parents tested positive for drugs and alcohol at the time.
Why it matters
This case highlights ongoing issues with child neglect and the challenges of ensuring the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable children, even in a relatively affluent community like Sarasota. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of the child welfare system and whether more can be done to proactively identify and intervene in cases of suspected abuse or neglect.
The details
When authorities arrived at the home in September 2025, they found the 5-year-old girl living in a room with a filthy, soiled mattress on the floor and no blankets or pillows. The child was non-verbal, walked as if she was in pain, and her diaper was so soiled it was nearly ripping. Boles and Kates were found sitting outside in a tent, drinking beer, and both tested positive for THC, cocaine, and alcohol.
- On September 5, 2025, authorities discovered the neglected 5-year-old girl.
- On September 11, 2025, Boles and Kates were arrested.
- In January 2026, Kates pleaded no contest and was sentenced to 4 months in jail.
- In April 2026, Boles was sentenced to 18 months in prison and 2 years of probation.
The players
Torrance Boles
The 50-year-old father of the 5-year-old girl who was found severely neglected. Boles pleaded no contest to a charge of neglect of a child without bodily harm and was sentenced to 18 months in prison and 2 years of probation.
Crystal Kates
The 38-year-old mother of the 5-year-old girl who was found severely neglected. Kates pleaded no contest to a charge of neglect of a child without bodily harm and was sentenced to 4 months in jail and 2 years of probation.
What’s next
The court has ordered Boles to complete treatment at the Phoenix House, a nonprofit organization that offers outpatient and residential treatment, and he is prohibited from consuming illegal substances and is subject to random urinalysis. The court also found no objection to Boles working off court costs with community service if the clerk's office permits it.
The takeaway
This case highlights the ongoing challenges of protecting vulnerable children from neglect and abuse, even in relatively affluent communities. It raises questions about the effectiveness of the child welfare system and the need for more proactive intervention and support for families struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues.
