A 35-year-old man, Donnie Ray Birchfield Jr, faces serious charges in Lancaster after police discovered four adults, including a married couple, held captive in his basement. Birchfield was arrested on August 1 and is still being held without bond at the Lancaster County Detention Center, according to jail records. His charges have increased to include murder and first-degree criminal sexual conduct, after 49-year-old Shirley Arnsdorff died.
Officers first opened an investigation into Birchfield’s actions on July 25. At 11:36 that Saturday morning, they answered a call about an apparent death at a home in Lancaster. Once on the scene, officers discovered Shirley Arnsdorff lying unresponsive on the floor of the establishment. They found out later that she had been held in the same ordeal as her husband, and with two other women as well.
Birchfield has multiple felony charges pending against him. Crimes such as false imprisonment, exploitation and neglect of vulnerable adults, domestic violence, financial transaction card theft, and financial identity fraud. Prosecutors claim that in addition to escaping justice on the D.C. charges, he swiped bank cards from his captives to make off with money.
Police Chief Don Roper called the case “heartbreaking,” saying it has “deeply affected our community.” The revelations have left many city residents in disbelief. They are trying to make sense of the awful crime that has happened in their community.
This investigation is continuing and law enforcement remains committed to bringing justice for all of Birchfield’s victims. They are equally dedicated to seeing justice served for the slain victims at stake. We all depend on the security and well-being of the most vulnerable members of our society in the safety of their homes.
“We look forward to litigating this case in the court system where facts, evidence, and the rule of law matter.” – Birchfield’s lawyer
As the investigation continues, authorities remain focused on uncovering the full extent of Birchfield’s actions and ensuring justice for the victims involved. The case raises significant concerns regarding the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals in society.