-- Numerous local businesses and charities have come forward claiming they gave money to a Belmont County couple who said they were victims of Hurricane Katrina.

Bellaire police arrested Audra Catlin and William Catlin, both 36, Thursday on four counts of child endangerment after police found their children living in deplorable conditions.

Authorities soon discovered that the couple had solicited donations from local businesses and charities claiming that they were victims of Hurricane Katrina, said Bellaire Police Chief Mike Kovalyk.

Police said they have since been contacted by businesses, churches and other nonprofit agencies claiming they have given money to the Catlins. The calls have come from Bridgeport, Martins Ferry, Moundsville, Woodsfield and Steubenville, among other places.

Volunteers at the Ohio Valley Relief Center said they gave the Catlins between $800 and $1,000. The center also provided them with clothes and cleaning supplies. Police said the shelves in the filthy home were filled with donated food.

The housing authority called police to the couple's apartment on Atcheson Road after neighbors complained of a foul smell. When police got inside, they found conditions they describe as deplorable. Police found feces and food on the floor. The sinks were full of dirty dishes and trash, and the toilets were full of garbage.

The couple's four children are in protective custody.

Police say more charges could be filed.

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