MIDDLETOWN, OH (WDTN) – Middletown Police are showing their support in a case that left them in tears.

The police department will cover funeral costs for five-year-old Alex Stephens; he died after being beaten for hours allegedly by his own mother.

He and his six-year-old brother Damyan were found at Parkway Inn Wednesday. Police said the two boys were tied up with blankets and beaten because they took food. Officers reported conditions were filthy with garbage and cats in the room. The abuse was reportedly so bad counselors had to be brought in for the first responders who took the call.

While Alex died from his injuries, Damyan is recovering at the hospital.

Their mother, Theresa Hawkins-Stephens and her friend Rachael Bostian are charged with murder. Bostian’s mother, Ramona Bostian is charged with child endangering and felonious assault.

The boys’ aunt said officers volunteered to cover the funeral costs. Funeral arrangements have not yet been released.What others are clicking on: