Court records say prosecutors are seeking strict limits while the cases remain pending.
HOUSTON, Texas — Harris County prosecutors filed child endangerment and animal cruelty charges against two defendants after authorities said a child was found in unsafe living conditions that required hospital decontamination before treatment.
The defendants, 20-year-old Tannis Harrington and 17-year-old Drake Fernandez, are each charged with felony child endangerment and misdemeanor cruelty to non-livestock animals. Prosecutors said the case involves both the child’s living conditions and the care of a dog found in the defendants’ custody.
Court records say the child was exposed to feces, urine, rotten food, insects and gasoline inside a Harris County residence. Prosecutors said the child also was forced to inhale strong odors and did not receive adequate hygiene. The filings say hospital staff gave the child two decontamination baths before treatment could begin.
Authorities have not released the child’s name, exact age or medical status after treatment. The records cited in the report also did not state whether Harrington or Fernandez is the child’s parent. Prosecutors said marijuana and alcohol were consumed while the child was being cared for, an allegation now included in the felony case.
The animal cruelty charge centers on a dog that court documents say lacked adequate food, clean water and hygiene. Prosecutors said the animal was confined in a cruel manner. They also asked the court to bar the defendants from possessing animals while the charges are pending.
At a Sunday probable cause hearing, Harrington was ordered held on a $2,000 surety or cash bond on the child endangerment charge. Authorities said she was disruptive and did not personally appear before the court, though her charges were read to her. Her release conditions include compliance with the CPS investigation.
Prosecutors sought higher bail, including $20,000 for the felony child endangerment charge and $3,000 for the animal cruelty charge. They also requested random drug testing, no alcohol, no illegal controlled substances, no firearms and no contact with the child.
Fernandez was scheduled for a preliminary appearance at 9 a.m. Monday on the felony child endangerment charge. Harrington also was scheduled for a Monday preliminary appearance. Both defendants are due back in court June 26 on the animal cruelty charge.
The cases remain pending in Harris County court, with CPS continuing its investigation and bond conditions expected to shape the next stage.
Author note: Last updated June 22, 2026.