A judge this morning awarded legal custody of four of Shawn and Joanna Blackston’s children, ages 2, 4, 10 and 14, to their maternal grandparents.

The children, whom The Journal are not naming, lived with the Blackstons until they were removed from their Philadelphia Avenue home on July 3 following allegations of abuse and neglect.

The Blackstons were found guilty Nov. 16 of child endangering and could face up to six months in jail when they are sentenced later this month. The judge said they treated their 12-year-old daughter and stepdaughter differently, including belittling her, ostracizing her, and not providing her enough food.

This morning, visiting Judge Tom Lipps awarded custody of the children to Kemal and Mildred Green, of Hamilton. He told the Greens that Shawn and Joanna Blackston were allowed to visit the children, but were not permitted to have overnight visits.

Since the children are in foster care, in an unknown location but not within driving distance of Hamilton, Lipps said the children will stay in their schools until the next semester break, to make the transition easier.

Judge Lipps said the case will be revisited in six months. He said the children will continue to receive counseling after they move in with their grandparents.

After the hearing, the Blackstons refused comment.

The Blackstons have a total of eight children in a blended family. Three of the Blackston’s other children, who are older than those who were in court today, are currently in foster care and are scheduled for a custody hearing at 2:45 p.m. on Jan. 30.