OGDEN, Utah (AP) — Police have arrested an Ogden couple whose 3-year-old son allegedly was kept in a small utility closet for weeks at a time without food or water.

The child also allegedly was repeatedly beaten with a belt and extension cord.

Melvin John Jackson, 47, and Johnetta Jackson, 39, were booked into Weber County Jail on Thursday for investigation of child abuse.

Detective Colt Johansen said they were arrested during their first visitation with their six children, who have been in the custody of the state Department of Child and Family Services since Oct. 8.

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The couple is to be arraigned in 2nd District Court today.

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