The parents of a missing 12-year-old boy have been arrested on child abuse charges, the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office announced Friday, though the boy had still not been found.

“While investigating the disappearance of Kelly ‘KJ’ Conklin, detectives interviewed his parents and other children in the home,” a PCSO statement said.

“Kelly Conklin, 46, and Melissa Conklin, 39, were taken into custody on other child abuse charges. The charges are not directly related to the disappearance of the 12-year-old.”

Sheriff’s office officials said there were eight children in the house, from ages 1 to 17. 

There were five adopted children - including KJ, two foster children and one biological child, according to PCSO. The Department of Child Safety has taken custody of the children.

Detectives have learned of a more recent sighting of KJ Conklin who went missing about 4 p.m. Dec. 20 near Combs and Gantzel road in Queen Creek.

He was seen at the Walmart in Queen Creek at about 8 p.m. Dec. 20. Those with information on the boy’s whereabouts are asked to call 520-866-5111.

Kelly and Melissa Conklin face endangerment, abuse and neglect of a minor charges, authorities said.