Wichita ? Two girls found emaciated in a home where their two stepsiblings were well-fed have been released from the hospital, and their father has been arrested, police said Tuesday.

A social worker found the starving and dehydrated 6- and 7-year-old girls Friday in the basement of a Wichita home that was well-stocked with food. Police said one of the girls had marks on her neck consistent with being choked.

The girls’ 27-year-old father, who travels frequently for business, married their stepmother about a year ago. The girls told police they ate when their father was at home.

The father was arrested late Monday on suspicion of aggravated child endangerment. The stepmother had been arrested previously on suspicion of child abuse and endangerment and aggravated battery.

Police Capt. Randy Landen said Tuesday that the girls are “doing much better” and remain in protective custody.