Kelli Bryant, 35, received two years of probation and must pay nearly $30,000 in restitution after pleading guilty to welfare fraud. She still faces three counts of first-degree child abuse in Oakland County.
A judge ruled Bryant competent for sentencing on Wednesday and to stand trial on the remaining charges. Her trial is scheduled for Aug. 10.
The case stems from the discovery of her three children living alone in a squalid Pontiac home. Deputies found garbage piled up to four feet, feces throughout the residence, and the children without schooling or proper care since around 2020.
Sheriff Mike Bouchard described the situation as abandonment and neglect of the highest order. Bryant admitted during an interview that she had sacrificed her children, according to detective testimony.
Child Protective Services placed the children with a relative after the February 2025 welfare check.