At least a few times each month the Marathon County Special Investigations Unit comes across children in the middle of their drug raids.

It's a problem that's partially being addressed by the local chapter of the Wisconsin Drug Endangered Children Program.

During the latest drug raid Monday in Schofield, three children were found in an alleged drug trafficking home.

"Often it's very difficult for law enforcement to get into the house. We have to have a reason to go in there, have a reason to get involved," said Lt. Chad Billeb, of the Marathon County Sheriff's Dept.

Two adults were arrested for delivery of cocaine, maintaining a drug trafficking place, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a firearm among charges.

The Drug Endangered Children program, or DEC, was called in.

"We don't wanna pull that child away from the family, if we can place them with other family members we will. That's social services role in that, but from a law enforcement angle it's our job to identify those dangerous situations," said Lt. Billeb.

Often children are taken away from their caregivers who are using, distributing or manufacturing drugs, and are left with nothing.

DEC's backpack program fills a small void.

Each child receives a backpack filled with a blanket, stuffed animal, toiletries, school supplies and a gift card.

"We try to make every effort to remove that child from that situation in a way that's good for the child," he said.

Drug endangered kids may experience severe neglect, physical or sexual abuse, may be malnourished and have developmental delays.

They're also more likely to end up doing drugs themselves.

If you suspect a child is in a drug endangered situation, contact your local law enforcement.