The 17-year - old Kansas City boy was mentally ill , authorities say . Friends reported alleged abuse at the boy 's family home . ( CNN ) -- Neighbors expressed shock as details emerged Wednesday in the case of a 17-year-old Missouri boy found handcuffed to a stainless steel support pole in his family 's basement . The boy was locked in the basement , freed for only two bathroom breaks a day . The boy was treated at a hospital and placed in county custody , authorities say .
The 17-year - old Kansas City boy was mentally ill , authorities say . Friends reported alleged abuse at the boy 's family home . The boy was locked in the basement , freed for only two bathroom breaks a day . The boy was treated at a hospital and placed in county custody , authorities say .