In a harrowing chapter of American history, Jordan Turpin made a life-changing escape in January 2018 from her family’s home in Perris, California. The 17-year-old’s brave act led to the shocking revelation of her parents, David and Louise Turpin, who subjected Jordan and her 12 siblings to unthinkable abuse in what has since been dubbed the “House of Horrors.”
Following Jordan’s escape, police uncovered the grim reality of their lives. Authorities found children chained to their beds, while many older siblings appeared severely malnourished, looking far younger than their actual ages. The disturbing conditions included extreme neglect of basic hygiene, with showers permitted only once a year, revealing a truth far removed from the family’s seemingly picturesque public facade.
Years later, the Turpin siblings’ story is re-examined in the ABC special “The Turpins: A New House of Horror,” set to air on February 3 at 10 p.m. ET. The program features journalist Diane Sawyer in conversation with three of the Turpin children—James, Jolinda, and Julissa—who detail that even after their rescue, several faced further abuse in foster care settings.
David and Louise Turpin, originally hailing from Princeton, West Virginia, had married in 1985. The couple had a total of 13 children as they moved across the United States. While they presented a façade of a happy family, this was starkly contradicted by the cruel reality of their home. Both parents were arrested and subsequently pleaded guilty to 14 counts of felony charges in 2019, resulting in a life sentence with eligibility for parole after 25 years.
Currently, Louise, 57, is serving her sentence at the California Institution for Women, while David, 64, has been transferred to an undisclosed prison for his safety.
In addition to their traumatic upbringing, the siblings have faced more challenges through the foster care system. A lawsuit filed in 2022 by six of the Turpin children details allegations of severe abuse endured after their escape, with claims of physical and emotional mistreatment by caregivers.
Despite the darkness of their past, the Turpin siblings are finding their way forward. Jordan Turpin, now 25, has become a social media influencer and is rising in popularity on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. She is an example of resilience, turning to her siblings for support and expressing a desire to remain strong for them.
Eldest sibling Jennifer Turpin married in late 2024, symbolizing a hopeful personal milestone as she moves forward in her life. Generous support from figures like Tyler Perry has brought additional positive developments, with reported assistance that includes financial and emotional aid for the Turpin children, underscoring the community’s willingness to help them rebuild.
The upcoming special aims to illuminate the current realities of the Turpin siblings, showcasing their strength and resilience as they continue to overcome the ghosts of their past. Audiences can watch “The Turpins: A New House of Horror” on ABC or stream it the following day on Hulu and Disney+.