They endangered these children. >> You don't understand. They were being warned like >> you have a warrant. That's why you're here. >> Oh, mother. >> Arrested. I just got off probation because I got a DUI like 4 years ago. >> The law has no emotions. Yet, it stands [music] to safeguard those most at risk. >> Um, you're going to hang. >> I don't know if it was my fault or his fault. I think it might have been his fault because he pulled out in front of me. >> Here's the thing. You have insurance. >> I will lose my house. I'll lose my job. I'll lose everything. Hold up again. >> What the I am. There he is. >> In the moments ahead, you'll witness the narrow space between overwhelm and accountability. At the heart of it are children fully reliant on the decisions of adults. No one wakes up in the morning believing they will undo their own future. >> Answers the question. >> I'm just saying like I've been exhausted. But yeah, no, no, I have not taken any medications. I have not. I promise you. But this mother's situation unfolded differently. On August 22nd, 2023, St. Augustine police received several calls about a white Mercedes moving unpredictably at high speed and narrowly avoiding multiple collisions. Once located, the vehicle made contact with a pickup truck and appeared to leave the area. The female driver stepped out appearing unsteady. Inside the vehicle was a one-year-old child seated in the back. >> How are you involved, man? >> No, I I was right right here. >> Me and her. Yeah. Okay. >> The lady was going that way. >> Okay. >> You got your ID on you? >> I have a picture. >> Where' the other car go? >> He was driving that way. >> Yeah, I'm pretty sure that what it would have been her like or something. >> Okay. So, what happened? What do you see? >> Um the white car just >> Okay. couch >> like sideswipe or >> Yeah, it looked like it and then she just drove away. >> It was like >> It was really weird cuz I wasn't paying attention. Then all of a sudden, >> where were you at right over there? Did you see it? >> No, I was right. >> It was like a car or two behind me. >> Okay. Did you see it? >> There's a white Mercedes. >> Maybe you got your ID. >> I was stand back here. >> Yes, sir. I was My baby's in the car, by the way. I was literally when that happened. All I was trying to do was turn around. That's it. >> Okay. Why are you going back and forth trying to get out of here? >> What's that? >> Why are you going back and forth trying to get out of here? >> No. No. I'm waiting to meet somebody. I'm I'm My friend has a meeting and I'm supposed to be meeting with him because I have stuff that they need to sell for my my daughter's first birthday. He owns the vault and he had meetings. So, he said, "Wait around for me. I need you to wait because I I have stuff that I'm selling to him." And so I turned and then when that when that happened, I immediately turned in there was like, "Holy." And I needed to turn around. The guy was like, "Hey, are you are you stopping?" I said, >> "Well, how come when you turned into the Carmelo's parking lot, why did you leave?" >> No, no, no, no, no, sir. This is what happened. I And I was going this way and I immediately was like, "All right, let me turn in here where the police station is right here. This police station or whatever it is." And I went right there and I turned around, right? And I and a gentleman was behind me and he's like, "What are you doing?" cuz I guess he saw the same thing. And I said I said, "Hey, sir." I said, "I'm just turning around really quick. I'm going back through and then there was traffic and I and I was trying to like be able to take a left, but it was a whole mess." So, what I did was I wound up turning into Carmelo's and then turning on to that way through Carmelo to take a right and that's when I saw you guys and I weighed you guys down >> and I saw you all passing so I turned around to meet you. >> What is your name? >> Okay. >> I am so sorry. I was not trying to run away. I was just trying to like get back to get back to the situation. >> Okay. >> And I didn't want to like reverse or get or get in another accident or god knows what. >> Okay. Stand right here for a second. >> Yes. Yes, sir. >> How old is your daughter? >> She is she just turned one year yesterday. >> Okay. >> Yeah, you can check. >> Yeah, that's fine. >> Okay. She She's fine. She's just a little >> Got two witnesses down there. I need one of them that said she ran. So, >> all right. Tell me tell me what happened with the crash. >> Okay. So, I was driving I was driving uh from this way, right? >> Okay. >> And then I was getting ready I was getting ready to get over and hold on. I need a real cuz I'm so like flustered. >> Getting an accident like give me anxiety. I just Hold on. Give me a second. >> Okay. Um >> Hey, who's >> honestly >> who's with me? 2300 A18. I was coming to take a left into Carmelo to get gas and then the guy came out of nowhere and me >> and so I didn't know where to go because >> what was the other vehicle? What kind of vehicle was it? >> I I I don't even know. It was that fast on 20. >> No, he's with us. We're just >> Okay, good. >> We're wondering if two cars or just one. Just one. >> Yeah. Hey, can you see if that driver of vehicle 2 can move up here with us, please? >> Yeah. No, I I definitely just >> 26. Will you go ahead and call that toe and then just let them know? I'll be down there in a second. >> Yeah. No, no. And my car is drivable, too. It's fine. >> Okay, perfect. >> I definitely don't want to claim it on insurance. >> Total it out. All right. Um, >> I just got one of these. >> Do me a favor. Can you hang tight here? I need to go talk to the other driver and get his story on what happened with the crash. >> But I promise I never had two drivers. >> All right. Yeah, that's perfect. It was just a little confusing when the call came out. >> Yeah. Yeah. No, no, no. No worries. >> So, hang tight here. Okay. I'll be right back. Um, you're going to hang with us. >> I don't know if it was my fault or his fault. I think it might have been his fault because he pulled out in front of me. >> Here's the thing. You have insurance? Yes. >> That's what insurance is for, right? So, you're good. So, just hang out. >> I do have full compensation. Thankfully, no one was hurt. Still, concern grew as the exact sequence of events remained unclear. >> Who's the driver of this one? >> Okay, perfect. >> How are you doing? >> I'm okay. >> Are you Are you okay? >> Okay. All right. Can you just tell me what happened? >> I was sitting here like this waiting to get in that lane and she came this way and she was kept coming towards me and towards towards me. So, she finally hit. >> Okay. So she she was going her full speed, like normal speed. >> Yeah. Like this. I mean, they're all going that way. They weren't stopped. They weren't backed up, you know, and >> so semi slow cuz of traffic, but then fast enough to mess everything up. >> I have no idea why she kept coming this way. >> Well, I'm going to be conducting a DUI investigation on her. Um >> I was hoping maybe it came to see this far away. >> We don't even need it. We've got two two witnesses. >> Yeah, that's like, "Do you need help?" And I was like, "Oh, y'all saw that thing." >> Okay. Did this other officer get your information? your uh >> he got um >> your license. >> Got my license and then he told me to hang on to this for a minute. You can see it in a few minutes. >> Okay, perfect. Can I just take a picture of that? >> That way I can just add it to the call later. >> Perfect. Okay. And did he get your ID? >> Uh and then another officer did, but then he left. >> Okay, perfect. I'll I'll make sure to get it for you. Um can you just tell me what you saw? Um, well, I was like right here and I just saw the lady like hit her and then she drove away. Okay. >> Were you able to see the person? >> I feel like I did. I like I thought it was the blonde lady, but then I wasn't sure if it was because she's blonde, too. >> If I took you over there, would be able to tell me if you thought that was her or not? >> Yeah. >> Do you mind riding over there with me? >> No. >> Okay. We're going to You got to go in the back of my car cuz the front's messy. Is that okay? >> 2963. I'm going to be transporting her over to where the suspect is to identify 1048. Okay. Are you able to see from there the lady standing there >> with the baby? >> Yep. Can you tell if that's the driver? >> I can't tell. >> You can't tell? >> I just remember. >> Would it Would it help if she turned towards this way? >> Okay. I'll go have her turn and then I'll get your ID. Um, and yeah, if you're able to, you're able to. >> I saw the car better. >> Gotcha. Okay. And if not, it's no big deal. We've got enough to go for. But let me go grab your ID. Okay. Cuz he never gave it back to you, right? >> Before we go ahead with it. >> Oh, so he didn't actually take your >> after she hit her. She even turned around and like looked >> Mhm. >> and then like >> Yep. She uh we've been getting calls on her all day. >> That same lady. Uh-huh. >> Complete insurance429 valid. >> All right, you are good to go. I appreciate you stop sticking around. Okay. >> When questioned, the mother stated she was fine, yet her explanations did not match what was observed. These inconsistencies raised questions of responsibility and highlighted how people sometimes misjudge their own limits. Um, sorry. >> Uh, yeah, his phone number is valid in the call. Okay, no problem. Okay. Um, so it's right. Yes, sir. >> Okay. So, at this point, I'm finished with the crash investigation. Okay. Um, I got both sides of the story, so I'm going to be writing that report and we're done with that. Okay. >> Oh, sheesh. Okay. >> That being said, I am going to be switching over to another investigation. Okay. Um, as I'm speaking with you, I've noticed several indicators of possible impairment. Okay. >> Oh, lord. >> Here's the thing. That being said, doesn't mean you're impaired. I am not impaired at all >> and that's what I want to make sure of. Okay. Um I it's not I wouldn't be doing my job if I didn't make sure. Okay. Um so that being said, I'm switching from the crash investigation to a DUI investigation. >> Okay. Okay. >> Okay. >> So before I'm allowed to do that, before I can do that, I have to read your rights. Okay. Because it was a crash. >> Okay. Um may I ask what what would like I just want to make sure that you guys are fair that you guys don't consider me like blinking or like licking my mouth cuz my mouth is dry or something like I I literally I kid you not, I have had not one drink, not one pill. I have had nothing. >> Okay, perfect. And that's that's my job to make sure that that that's true. Okay. And I'll I'll explain to you everything that I'm looking for and if I see any indicators, I'll tell you what those are. Okay. Um but like I said, I do have since you were involved in a crash and now I'm switching to a different investigation. I have to read you your rights. Okay? So, at this point, you you do have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court. You have the right to have an attorney with you prior to, during, or after any questioning. If you cannot afford an attorney and desire one, the court will appoint one for you. You may stop the questioning at any time. >> I am going to be nervous doing it right here. >> Okay. All right. >> Let me Let me Let me I apologize. >> You may stop the questioning at any time by refusing to answer further or by by requesting to consult with your attorney. >> Okay. Do you understand each of these rights as I explained them to you? >> Yes, sir. >> Having these rights in mind, are you willing to answer a couple questions about the crash? >> Yes. >> Okay. So, can you just tell me again um who was in your car when the crash happened? >> Uh me and my daughter. >> Okay. So, where was she sitting? Sitting. >> She was she was in her car seat, which is uh behind me. Okay. >> I'm on the driver's side. She's on the back driver's side. >> Okay. So, um and then silly question, I know, but I have to ask it. Who was driving? >> Me. >> Okay. Obviously, she can't drive yet. >> All right. So, you were driving. She's passenger in the back left seat. >> And she was buckled properly. >> Okay. Perfect. Um and no one else in the vehicle? >> Nope. Okay. And um can you explain to me what happened with the crash? >> Yes. So I was trying to get over I I I was like debating on taking a going straight or taking a right or left cuz I needed to go to a gas station. >> Okay. Cuz my gas I I need to get gas and you can see that in the car. And so as I decided to do that, that is when I hit the car and I messed up. And so the car kind of spun and I didn't know what to I didn't want to be in the middle of the traffic. So, yeah. So, I I didn't want to, you know, stop right here and try and, you know, look all crazy like, oh, where do I turn in and threepoint turns and all that. So, I simply just turned in there and then went around to do a Uturn to come back. >> Okay. >> That's all I did. >> Okay. When did you hit the other vehicle? >> Um, like right like right up here. >> Okay. >> Like right like right in this distance. So that this is why this isn't making any sense. Okay. Because the other vehicle you is way back there. Okay. And it's disabled. It hasn't moved. >> Okay. >> So you back there, not not up here. >> Yeah. Well, okay. So, wherever I It was in within somewhere in this vicinity, right? Well, you know how when something happens, you're in panic mode. Everything's happening so fast. >> I know I hit right here. >> And I knew this was a straight line and I couldn't turn in anywhere. That gate's closed. I didn't know where to turn. So, all I could do is after that happened, the first thing I could think of was to turn into, >> you know, I knew I was going to be turning eventually to get gas and something and then I the car. And so, I was like, "All right, I need to make a turn." Whether it be the left turn or the right turn, I needed to take a turn. And that was the easiest turn to make right there. And I was just just to do a Uturn and come right back, which is exactly what I did. And then when I saw a few cop cars, I weighed you guys down. I was not trying to run. I was not trying to >> Okay. So, let me ask you >> anything like that. >> Why didn't you stop right where you >> What's that? >> Why didn't you stop right where? Cuz when you're in a crash, you're supposed to stop right there. >> Yeah, but there was cars everywhere. >> There were there were cars everywhere and it was a mess. And I I you know, like the and and when I hit that car, that car was still going and I didn't know what to do. I I I'm not really used to this. So, I apologize. I may have not not have done it the right way, >> but I I definitely was not trying to run. Okay. >> Or do anything. >> That's fair. That's I I just needed >> And if and if next time if this were to happen and I need to stop right where I am, >> even if even if it's in a not the most safest road or anything, I will do that. >> Like where I'm at right now, if I should have done that, I will do that next time. >> Yeah. So, usually with crashes, what we tell people, if you're able to move your vehicle, move it off to the side of the road, right where I am. Okay. So, the nearest parking lot, something like that. >> So, as close as possible. >> Okay. And that was not as close as possible. >> Not as close as possible. I get it. >> Exactly. Okay. >> It was safest for me cuz I have anxiety. >> I understand. But >> I get that. Yeah. >> Okay. So, now let me ask you, um, you kind of already hinted towards it, but I have to ask questioning. Um, anything to drink today? >> Nope. >> No alcohol. >> Single? Nope. >> Okay. What about any kind of prescription meds? >> Nope. Nothing. Nothing even Advil Tylenol like 800. Uh, >> no, not I was going to take a headache medicine earlier, but not even. >> Okay. No, no anti-depressants, no uh no stimulants like Adderall, uh, anything like that. >> No, no, no. The only thing I take sometimes is like the thyroid medicine, which is just like all natural stuff. >> Gotcha. Okay. All right. Um, >> and sometimes Levothy, which is for uh thyroid, but I haven't taken that in months. >> Okay. All right. What about any kind of illicit drugs? Um, >> alcohol. >> Oh, no, no, no. So, no, no legal drugs or illegal drugs. >> No, no illegal drug. >> Yeah. Sorry. >> Okay. All right. Perfect. So, um, like I said, uh, I am conducting a DUI investigation. Are you willing to do some field sobriety exercises for me so I can make sure that you're not impaired? >> Absolutely. >> Okay, perfect. >> Is there a way we could just like kind of do it like a little? >> We can go over here. Very nervous. Embarrassing. We can go over here. So, the cars are kind of >> like I just got my life back with my family and my friends and I don't want people to see me. >> Do you have the Where's her car seat at? I know you >> Her car seat's in the back of the car. >> Well, you p you pulled it out originally and you sat it over there in the shade. Is it? >> Oh, yeah. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Let's put her in there and then Sergeant Garmin's going to hang with her and make sure she's okay. >> Unusual indicators led officers to conduct routine assessment procedures. This step was not punitive, but a safeguard intended to protect everyone involved. >> Do you mind if I grab like a toy and a bottle for her? Just >> let me Let me have the baby. I'll take care of them. Perfect. I'll take care of >> and I'll grab that real quick. >> No, I got it. I got it. >> Well, who has the keys to >> The keys are still with it. So, let's >> I know, but it might lock. >> Okay, we we'll take care of it. Okay. >> Okay. If it does lock, we can't unlock it. >> Yeah, we can. >> Okay. So, hold on. Hang tight here. >> Yeah. >> Come over here. Okay. So, um first I asked you those questions, right? A couple other questions for you. Do you have any medical issues I need to know about? >> Uh, no. I had heart surgery when I was 15. >> Okay. How old are you now? >> 29. >> Okay. So, >> had a catheter ablation and um my heartbeat used to just really fast and I would have really bad issues. >> I still have balance issues, but I had a um catheter ablation and that helped a lot of it. So, >> okay. Um, do you have any injuries I might need to know about? Besides the balance issues and um minor lower back pain, that's really it. >> Okay. What are the balance issues from? >> Uh the from my um uh super ventricular chocolate cardio. >> Okay. So, the heart the heart thing that you had. Okay. All right. Very good. Um Okay. So, >> they just call it SVT. >> Gotcha. Yep. I've heard of it. Um, do you have anything besides vision issues? Anything wrong with your eyes? >> Uh, I don't know really. >> Okay. And then do you know >> randomly, but >> yeah. Do you have any uh like gum or dip in your mouth right now? >> Nope. >> Nothing at all. Okay. Perfect. >> My mouth is dry. >> I understand. All right. So, first >> first thing I'm going to do is I'm going to check your eye. Okay. So, do me a favor. Just put your feet together. Arms down. You stand over here. >> Can I stand block my my face? >> Okay. >> Okay. >> Go ahead and put your feet together. Arms down by your side. >> So embarrassed. >> So, I'm going to hold my pen up. And I'm going to move it back and forth at different speed. Okay? >> And just keep my eye on the pen. >> You're going to follow the pin with your eyes and your eyes. >> I love pops. I love pops. >> Perfect. So try try not to move your head at all. >> Okay. Yes, sir. At different points, I'm going to pause and hold the pin perfectly still. Just keep your eyes right on the pin. Okay. So, do me a favor. Just arms by your side. Okay. You see the top of the pin? >> Yes, sir. It's It is very >> Yeah. Let's turn around so you're not looking in the sun. How about this? >> Oh, so much better. >> Much better. Right. >> Thank you. Thank you. All right. Give my >> Oh, thank you. Okay. >> All right. Good. >> Yes. >> Okay. Go ahead and try to hold your head straight. >> 2942. >> This good? >> Perfect. >> Follow your eyes and your eyes open. >> 217 West King Street. Signal 32 to a residence 1048. Careful. Hold the wind in my eyes. >> There we go. Okay. >> Water 24 for 2404 20110 and Mike one not too far away from that alarm. >> 10 far. Thank you. >> I'm going go nice and slow this time. Okay. Ready? Yeah. >> All right. I'm going to go up this time. Okay. >> Okay. The findings showed that the woman did not meet the standards to continue driving at that time. [music] Throughout the process, the child remained quiet in the back seat. A subtle reminder that young children are often the most affected by adult decisions. >> Okay. All right. So, this next exercise is called the walk and turn. Okay. So, for this exercise, I'm going to give you the option to do your shoes on or off. >> Okay. >> Okay. What are you most comfortable with? Um, these are pretty Well, it depends on what I'm doing. Balance I I really am bad at. >> All right. Here's the thing. I'll explain it and then you decide. Okay. So, hold that for me. >> Yeah. >> Don't let go. >> Got it. >> And go ahead and place it on the ground for me. >> That good. >> Perfect. >> Okay. So, for this exercise, while I give you the instructions, >> Yes. I'm going to have you go ahead and place your left foot on that yellow line and place your right foot in front of it touching heel to toe. And you're going to stand just like that while I give you the instructions. Okay. >> When I tell you to begin, you're going to take nine heel to toe steps in the forward direction. You're going to count each step out loud touching heel to toe and looking at your feet the entire time. Okay. So, I'll demonstrate what it'll look like. Okay? So, if your first steps with your left foot, it'll look like this. 1 2 3 and so on to nine. Once you get to the ninth step, keep your front foot planted. Take a small series of steps to turn around. Take nine heel totoe steps back. One, two, three, and so on to nine. Okay? For demonstration purposes, I only did three, but you're going to do nine. >> And then you got it. >> So remember, nine there. Do the turn just like I showed you. >> Left first, >> nine back. Okay? And then also remember this is a continuous exercise. So once you start, don't stop for any reason. Keep your arms down by your side. Look at your feet and count each step out loud. >> Okay. >> Nine around nine. And do I keep going or just nine there? Do this turn just like I showed you. Nine back. >> Okay. >> Do you understand the instructions? >> All right. Go ahead and begin. >> Okay. 24.9. the indicator on the front door. >> All right, this final exercise. Let's scoot over so we can let him by real quick. >> Yeah. >> No, we're going to let him go by him. >> Okay, go ahead and come back and stand right at the edge of the line. Okay, so for this next exercise is called the one leg stand. So when I tell you to begin put >> not at all. Go ahead. >> Oh, I don't have hair. It's okay. It's okay. Okay. >> All right. So, go ahead and put your feet together, arms down by your side. >> Yes. >> When I tell you to, you're going to choose either your left or your right foot. Okay. You're going to hold it approximately 6 in off the ground, which is about the height of a soda can, which is what I'm doing right now. Okay? Don't start yet. Don't do it yet. Don't do it yet. Don't do it yet. >> All right. So, you're going to hold it approximately 6 in off the ground. Okay? You're going to look at your foot and count out loud 1,00 1,002 1,003 and so on until I tell you to stop. >> Okay? If for any reason you step down like that, just go right back up and counting where you left off. >> Where I left off. >> Okay. Make sure that during the exercise you keep your arms down by your side. Look at your foot and count out loud the entire time. >> Okay. >> Okay. Do you understand the instructions? >> Yes, sir. >> All right. Don't start yet. Do you want to lift your left or your right foot? >> I will lift my right foot. >> Okay. Whenever you're ready, go ahead and begin. >> Okay. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 >> Okay, you can relax. Okay. >> So, I'm so bad with balancing. >> Okay. This this next exercise has nothing to do with balance. So, that's Okay. So, do me a favor. Put your feet together, arms down by your side. >> Yes, sir. >> Okay. When I tell you to, but not yet, you're going to tilt your head back and close your eyes. Okay. I'm going to say begin. >> Okay. >> After I say begin, you're going to estimate the passage of 30 seconds inside your head. >> Okay. >> What that means is once you believe 30 seconds has passed, >> you're going to open your eyes and say stop. >> Okay? It's important that you say stop. That way, the clock stops. Do you go by like one one Mississippi? >> Whatever you think 30 seconds is. However you think you can get there. Okay. It's just got to be all inside your head. >> Okay. >> Okay. So, go ahead and feet together, arms down by your side. All right. >> Feet together, arms down by my side. And I'm going to tilt my head back when you tell me. >> Don't start estimating yet, but go ahead and tilt your head back and close your eyes. >> Okay. And then I'm not going to say anything. And I'll just say stop once I think it's 30 seconds. >> After I say begin, you're going to stop. Okay. All right. Ready? Begin. Mhm. stop. >> Okay. How long was that? >> 20 uh I would say 29 30 seconds. >> Okay. And how did you get to that? >> Um I did one two. >> Okay. >> As the situation became clearer. The mother repeatedly apologized expressing regret and saying she felt overwhelmed. >> Okay. So, a couple more questions for you. Um I I saw something what's called HGN. Okay. Horizontal gaze. The only thing that causes that is either alcohol or um depressants. So anti-depressants, stuff like that. Okay. So I'm going to ask you again. Anything to drink today? >> No. >> No. Okay. No medicine, no pills, no prescriptions. >> I I if you want me to be honest, I just recently went to Scotland. My husband's on deployment. >> I have power of attorney and my husband I'm not even supposed to be saying this and I can even show you the power of attorney and my military card. So, he's been on deployment for a long time >> and they were allow us to do a court call, which means you're allowed to go visit >> um you're allowed to go visit >> and so I went there to visit him and it was literally 24-hour flight there and then going to see him for a day and a half, 24-hour flight back and then I got back and then I had to pick up stuff for her one-year-old birthday and then plan her birthday and then the whole world, their family, their mothers, I swear like everybody. >> Okay. But none of that answers the question. >> I'm just saying like I've been exhausted. But yeah. No, no, I have not taken any medications. I have not. I promise you. >> I have a daughter. >> Um 7 8 years ago, I was um not the best person. Okay. >> But since then, I have turned my life around. There is not a thing in the world that would make me >> to lose my daughter or get arrested. I just got off probation because I got a DUI like four years ago and I just got off probation. The last thing I'm going to do is >> Okay. >> Although she did not acknowledge being unfit to drive, she was taken in according to standard procedure while asking that a family member come care for her child. A small detail that reflected her ongoing concern as a parent. >> I promise you that. >> Okay. Do me a favor. Go ahead and put your hands behind your back real quick. >> So, at this point, you are going to be placed under arrest. Okay. I do believe that you're impaired by some kind of chemical or controlled substances. >> Okay. No. So, since I'm placing you under arrest for DUI, I'm going to request that you submit to a lawful test your breath for the purpose of determining alcohol content. You willing to take that breath test? >> Yeah. But if I do, will I get will it get dropped if I pass it? >> So, I can't say whether or not anything will get dropped or charge or anything. However, what I can tell you is that if we do the breath test and it's and you blow triple zeros or you blow low, then I'm going to request a sample as well. Okay. That'll show the presence of any kind of chemical or controlled substance. >> Okay. All right. So, let's walk actually. >> Can I call my dad? I need to call my dad right now. >> Can your dad come pick her up? >> Yeah, I need to call my dad right now. >> Hold on. We're going to we're going to do that. What is Is he in your phone? Okay. So, we'll take care of that. >> But I need to call him right now. >> We're going to do that. Okay. We just have to go take you back here to the car first for a second. >> This is crazy. >> So, let's walk back here. Okay. >> This is not fair. I You know, I literally taken nothing. Is there a way that you can prove that I can take nothing and then like >> Yeah. So, that's why arrest me. >> That's why we're going to do all that stuff once we get up there. Okay. But we have to we'll go I'll let you know what the next steps are and where we're going to go. >> I know. But so, what you're saying is Can I ask a question? >> Just hold tight. Let me get started on getting a hold of your dad. Okay. >> Is he in your phone as dad? >> No, my phone's locked. You have to give me my phone. You have to unlock it. >> I'll bring it back here. >> And my baby. I need my baby. >> Okay, move your foot. >> The mother was charged with DUI. DUI causing property damage. DUI with a child [music] in the vehicle and run. Child, and refusal to submit to DUI testing. If convicted, she could face up to 10 years in prison. It is hoped that the child in the back seat that day will [music] grow up in a more stable environment. And for the mother, if there is another chance, it would be a path that begins with awareness, accountability, and a deeper understanding of care. On that Florida beach, strangers stepped in when time mattered most, guiding a child away from the shoreline. >> How long do you How long did you know that the children were left unattended? >> For well over 20 minutes. On October 7th, 2023, police were called to a beach in Florida following reports that two young children, ages 2 and six, had been left without adult supervision for an extended period. Most concerning, [music] the 2-year-old was seen moving toward the water and was redirected in time by nearby adults. Officers arrived promptly and spoke with the mother, who appeared emotionally overwhelmed. >> I don't have >> Sir, please sir, I literally last time she flipped me like she does not matter. >> This is crazy. No, there's so many people here. Like they're invasion. >> No, listen. >> Sir, you can't do that. >> You endangered these children. >> But you don't understand. They would be more like sir. They We're here every week. They could swim amazingly. Go chase her. Please go chase her. >> No. This is crazy. I can't. Sir, I cannot. Please. I'll do anything. I'll do anything. I'll do anything. Please. You cannot arrest me. Please. >> I will lose my I will lose my job. You're right. You're going to ruin my life. I just lost about I'm so sorry, sir. I just thought about last time her her flipping it and I was right there and it was just going to be five minutes. No, everybody here, please. My sister was right there. She was coming right then. >> No, your sister wasn't. [laughter] Is your sister here now? >> Yes. >> Okay. So, you can walk to my car. >> Please, please don't. >> Or I could take this. Please don't do this. Please do not listen to me. Do not force me. What is going on? Do not force me. Come to my car. Okay? Come to my car and don't make a scene for yourself here. Okay? Come to your car. No. No. Come to my car. I'm so sorry. Like, I want Sir, please don't do this. I will lose my house. I'll lose my job. I'll lose everything. I will lose my kids. Please, >> give me the wallet. Give me the wallet. Okay, I am going to put handcuffs on you. >> OH MY GOD. ARE YOU SERIOUS? >> Oh my god. Oh my god. Are you serious right now? Oh my god. Sir, please don't do this. This is nuts. Oh my god. I I'm going to I'll lose my job. I'm going to lose everything. >> Well, that's something you should have thought about before you left the kids unattended. Okay. >> I was going to be I was right back. I was right there. >> No, you've been gone a lot longer than 15 minutes. >> I was going to be gone like 3 minutes over there. They >> You were gone. It doesn't matter. >> Sir, please don't do this. Please don't. You have kids. You have kids. Seriously. >> And I wouldn't leave my kids out of town. >> I'm telling you all the time. >> Grab a seat. Grab a seat. Sir, please grab a seat. Please don't do this. >> Grab a seat. >> Please don't do this. Please. >> Does your sister have shoes for you? Just grab a seat. Relax. >> Please don't do this. Please. I freaking a year and a half ago. Like, please. Please don't do this. Please don't do this. I just left my office. Please, please don't do this. Please don't do this. >> Is your sister Are you able to leave your the kids with your sister? Okay. >> What's your sister's name? >> Okay. >> Family is meant to be a source of safety for children. But during moments of disconnection, responsibility can falter, placing children at risk. Adverse effects are rarely deliberate. Yet, [music] even brief lapses in attention can lead to serious outcomes. >> She's being arrested. You don't pay. >> Can I get a witness statement from you and several other people? >> Okay. Cuz that's unacceptable. >> So, you don't >> Can I speak to you? >> Okay. So, I'm going to leave the care with you with the kids. Your sister's being arrested. >> I do appcate. >> Okay. You want to talk? >> Can you walk away? I don't Yeah, you can talk to me over here. That's fine. All right. Come on over here for a minute. My 13-year-old can watch the children. >> I'm not going. >> Okay. So, >> I don't live here. I live in Cincinnati. I don't know what's going on. We just showed up. We were late coming and we >> So, you guys are all together. >> We're all together. >> Okay. >> We were supposed to have a nice beach. >> Okay. Let's Let's use some common sense here, right? We're all adults. >> Yes. >> Where in anybody's right mind would you leave a 2-year-old and a six-year-old unattended? Don't speak until I'm done, >> cuz this is really Would you leave your kids unattended? Would you drop them off here knowing that there's tourists that come through here, we don't know who comes through here. It's a public place. Anybody could snatch those kids and walk off because nobody knows who they are or who they belong to. >> Mhm. >> And just leave them here to go park a car for more than 15 minutes. Who would in their right mind would do that? Would you do that for your kids? >> I would not. >> Okay. >> I'll let you continue. >> All right. So, under Florida statute laws, that's a felony. Okay. Okay, it's endangering the welfare of a child and leaving them unattended and unsupervised. Then they walk off to the water where thankfully these good people grab the 2-year-old and stop them. And the excuse that I get from the mom is, well, they can swim better than me. So that's basically telling me, you don't care if your 2-year-old goes into the ocean. I can swim real good, too. But I would just I mean, let's use some common sense here for that. >> Okay. So So that is >> Let me say this. Okay. My sister and her husband are currently separated. They are going through a divorce. They are used to coming here together with the kid. He was coming here today. >> Where were you when when she dropped kids off? Were you with her? >> We were running late. >> So, you weren't with here. >> We were in our own vehicle. >> Okay. >> Don't you think it'd be appropriate if your sister would have said, "Hey, let's wait for you to get here. When you get here, can you keep an eye on the kids? I'm going to try to find a parking spot and vice versa." >> Sure. No. And I'm not I'm not disagreeing with that. Okay, I've now heard five different times of how long these children were left and I understand that 2 minutes is too long. I I understand that. So, I've heard 15 minutes. I've heard >> I don't want to know what you heard from them. I want you to talk to me in reference to >> How long do you How long did you know that the children were left unattended? [snorts] >> For well over 20 minutes and I'll take witness statements and make your sister has the right in court. >> Sure. >> She's an attorney, right? So, um >> so I've heard I've heard like five different times. >> I know. But that's I understand that. I understand. I understand. >> Leave it unattended for 5 minutes. >> I I completely I completely agree with you. I completely agree with you. >> I mean, look at that little girl. That little girl has been running off all over the place since I got here. >> And no other stranger should be trying to restrain that little girl. Could be a family or a parent. >> I understand. >> You know, stupidity and lack of common sense when you don't that little girl could have walked off into the road. Somebody could have drove and ran her over. All kinds of things. He's my niece. So I I'm fully aware and I fully agree with you. >> And as parents and family members, our number one priority is to keep the safety of our children. >> Understood. >> Okay. When you have something like that, >> we are down here visiting because >> I can't turn a blind eye to it. >> Yeah, I understand. We were right. So let me ask you this. So we're right behind them, right? Trying to get here as fast as we can, but then the speed limits and things like that, right? >> They were left here for fun. Is there anything we could do to ask for >> the the only thing you could do is we can get her rollerblades off and get some kind of better footwear for her. Okay, she's already in cups. >> And she's already in the backseat of my car. That's it. >> Why is she in the back? Why she arrest her? >> You do see that we're right, sir. I'm I really am asking and that story that she told is a real story that [laughter] she her now exor soon to be ex-husband was trying. It doesn't matter. You don't leave kids unattended. That's point blank. Let's let's let's stick with the facts. The facts is she dropped them off unattended and left them alone. Thank God these people somebody woke up and said, "Wait, these these little girls unattended going into the ocean." >> Thank God I'm not going through a drowning right now. Right. >> Yeah. >> Okay. So that that's where we're at with this. You're going to take care of the kids? Yes. >> Okay. She's going to go to Canelis County Jail. >> My sister. >> Yeah. She's Can you Do you have proper footwear for her >> that we can get the sandals? Anything so we She's not rolling into the jail. >> I mean, we'll do that at least. So, I'll have you. >> The contrast becomes clear as a mother struggles under pressures that are not always visible. Legal safeguards are not designed to measure feelings, but to ensure what matters most, the well-being of children. >> Okay. >> Listen. Listen to me. Your sister's going to help you with the roller blades. Take them off. >> Don't do this. I'm just kidding. My like my life is just going okay now. Like what is take them off? >> Sir, please. Please, please, sir. Please. I'll like sir, I'll do anything. Please, please, please, sir. Like, I'll be right there. >> And you know what? And the other thing is, help me understand something. Okay, I'm going to take these sunglasses off your head. Okay, help me understand something. You were parking a car in Rollerblades. You were trying to find a parking spot in Rollerblades. >> No, I parked the car and then I rollerblade here. So that's what I do. And then and then so last week, how far did you park the car? >> I parked the car over there by 71st and like >> Wait, where's the car? >> It's a few blocks away. And [laughter] and but last week when I did there and I put her all I put her all in there that they both kids were in there, Tori took a thing and she like jammed it in the the wheel and I flipped it. So that's what I was thinking. I was thinking like, okay, last week it was so horrible and she was so bad. They'll just stand here for 2 seconds. I'm going to play. I'll be right back. These are not mine, but they're >> they're mine. Please, like, sir, we know everybody here. I was like, go right to volleyball. Go right to the things. THEY KNOW EVERYBODY THERE. I'M ON the league. >> Then you should have had somebody monitor. >> You're right. I absolutely should HAVE, BUT I THOUGHT THEY were going to be here quicker. I thought my husband was going to be here quicker. I thought everything was going to BE LIKE THAT. SIR, IT was just a minute. Please, sir, please don't do that to me. I'm going to lose my house. I'm going to lose my job. I'm going to lose everything. >> You want to take? >> Please, sir. I just left my husband. I don't even know. I don't have prescription glasses. I mean, what? >> Are they prescription? >> I don't even care. Yeah, I guess I don't need to see. >> Are they prescription? Cuz they're okay. If you if you need them, then you can have them. >> She can have like something like I need a sweatshirt. Freezing. So, sir, please don't do this. Please. >> Keep your foot in. Keep your foot in. Keep your foot in. Please, please, please don't do this. Please. >> She'll call you. Are your keys? >> Where are your car keys? My keys are stuck to that bag. They're stuck to that bag. He plays at 1, so he should be here. He was supposed to be here way earlier, but he's not answering the phone. Sir, please. This is Please, I will do anything. I will do like please. THIS IS CANNOT BE ON MY RECORD. LIKE I'M I'M I'M SON SO THIN ICE. LIKE I JUST LEFT MY HUSBAND FOR YEARS. I quit drinking two years like, you know, a year and a half ago. Like [laughter] everything has been like so much better AND I JUST LET THE KIDS LIKE MY SHE JUST PEED EVERYWHERE. THEY WERE FIGHTING SO BAD AND I JUST I'M SO SORRY. LISTEN, I I I I listen to me. I I have a heart and I feel for you, but [laughter] I can't go get Listen. Listen to me. Calm down. Okay. I I have a heart and I feel for you, but I can't overlook that you left two children, 2-year-old and a six-year-old. Listen to me. Unsupervised at an ocean in a public place. Listen to me. Stop. Stop. You have you. It does. >> I know. I know. I know. I should never have This was the stupidest thing ever. Listen to me. If you knew people here, you should have said, "Hey, listen. Can you keep an eye on them while I go and park the car?" You didn't. >> I did. I TOLD HER, "GO run over THERE TO VOLLEYBALL RIGHT THERE." >> Is there anything you want to say? >> My sister like me. >> Is there anything else? Is there anything else you want to Okay. She'll call you from the Penelis County Jail. >> Oh my god. Can I call? >> She doesn't even know my phone number. >> Write it down and then we'll give it to her. Go get a pen and paper. Write it down. >> Um, we don't have >> You're her sister. You don't have her number? >> No. >> Okay. Let me get it. Let me get it. Hold on. Okay. You're right. In the end, the mother was taken in according to standard procedure [music] and both children were placed safely with a family member. >> All right. So, I'll give her the number when she gets there and stuff and we'll go from there. Okay. So, I'm going to process her. All right. We're going to transport jail. There'll be a transport van that'll take her once he's able to make a phone call, call you and you guys, whatever they decide they want to do. They're going to release her on her own or post some type of uh bond. >> Okay. The dad's on his way here. >> If you want to turn the kids over to dad, you can. What's that? >> He said he's 20 minutes down the beach. He really wanted to talk. >> I I have too many witnesses. It's over 30 minutes. It's unacceptable. There's nothing I can do. My hands are tied. I have to do my job. >> I understand. >> At the end of the day, my heart goes out to her, >> but I can't turn around and arrest her. I really, >> but I'm saying like, I mean, her friends are coming up to us and going, "Oh my god, I'm so sorry. Like the other kids were right here. >> It doesn't matter." But those other kids are watched by their parents or their we can't what if you know, we got to think about the safety of our kids. It's bad enough as everything else, you know. I feel like this is all our problem. >> I mean, I understand. She says that she's been an alcoholic for 25 years. She got sober for 2 years. I hope she continues that cuz that's important. You know, just closed on a house and stuff. That's some sort of >> We don't know. It It may hopefully maybe it's not. Maybe it's some treatment program. Maybe it's a child uh treatment program and stuff like that. >> Yeah. Were you watching? Were you were you the ones watching? >> I was not. Oh, sorry. >> Yeah. But can you speak on Pat? >> Can you speak on behalf of Patty that that they come they come every week here every week? >> They come every week. There are other children out here that usually watch. You all tend to try to keep an eye on >> These are our friends. These are our friends from Williams. >> But I did not see >> Daddy didn't say, "Hey, I need you to keep an eye on the kids." 2-year-old and then a six-year-old. It's It's not going to work. So, all right. If there's anything from me you need, just let me know. I'll be in my car over there. Okay. >> Those people left. >> Yeah. Just you guys just you know >> if they I'm just I will stay away from you cuz you're big but they give me a >> I got it and they're not going to. All right. >> Okay. >> Those ladies, by the way, as soon as I walked up, they said to me, "Do you know this program?" I said, "Yes, they're upset." >> No, that woman said, "She's a crazy kid. Come on." She looked me in the face. He goes, "Well, you must be a terrible mother, too." And I was like, >> that's why I was uncalled. >> That's why we're saying like >> take what they said and cut it. is probably not accurate, >> right? No. >> The gentleman here, the gentleman here who was more concerned about or not right here, but like a different gentleman goes like, you know, you can't leave your kids in totally agree. He's like, how >> right. He wasn't saying 45 minutes and then 50 minutes and then an hour and then all these other things. So that's all she was asking again. >> Okay. >> Like there, take that down with a grain of salt is my personal opinion and I understand that you're going. >> So all right, spin around. I know it's difficult. Just come around. I know these aren't made to be comfortable. Give me that wrist. You have nothing on you, right? Okay. >> Please don't do this. >> What the heck? I'm not doing anything. Please. This is so crazy. >> Patty's just policy. Okay. That's how it is. All right. It's not anything doing [laughter] directly to you. Okay. >> The mother was charged with possession of contraband in a county detention facility and two counts of child. Under Florida law, she could face penalties of up to 15 years in prison and fines totaling $15,000. When you feel exhausted, trapped, or believe there are no options left, remember this. A child does not need perfection, only presents, even for a few more minutes. >> Okay. Are you his biological father? Yes or no? >> Oh, yes. Something you have to ask for. >> Okay. Where do you >> Because we >> From the man's responses alone, officers quickly identified concerns regarding the child's well-being. On July 10th, 2023, what began as a routine public inquiry developed into a serious child welfare situation. On a public bench during extreme heat, a three-year-old boy appeared fatigued, without shoes, and showing signs of prolonged outdoor exposure, accompanied by adults who could not confirm their relationship to him or provide a stable place of residence. From that point forward, the child's safety became the primary focus. right here. >> Hello. >> Hey, is that your kid? >> No, no, no. My man. >> Oh, hey, man. >> No, I don't. I sit with him. >> Hey, is he okay? >> Can you put him down? Sleep. >> Okay. Put him down. Put him down. >> Damn. In here. >> We're going for the bar. >> No. mosquito. Where do you Where does he live? >> No. No. >> Hey, put him down so I can see him. >> No, that's a mosquito. Can I put him in there? >> No. No. He is a mosquito. >> I would have never done this if I would have never been concerned. There's no way. Look at the heat out here. >> He's dehydrated. >> Where are you? Where are you doing right now? I gave him some. >> Come on. >> Juice, water, all that. >> Where are you living right now? >> Where are you living right now? Put him down so fire rescue continue. I'm not going to repeat myself. Put him down. >> Hey, sir. >> Fire rescue. Take a look at him. >> Yeah. They already wake up. They already wake up. >> This is my my no my my [ __ ] back. >> Does he suffer from anything? >> No. No. I gave him Well, you I mean, did you I feed him all? That's my all s. >> What's your relationship to him? >> Like like friends. >> You guys are friends. >> Okay. Sir, can I speak to you over here while they're looking at him? >> Is this your kid? No. >> Well, not. >> Yes or no? Is it your kid? >> That's >> He's born. >> But I take care of him. >> Are you his father? Yes or no? >> Father is the one in grave. >> Okay. Are you his biological father? Yes or no? >> Oh, there something you have to ask her. >> Okay. Where do you live? >> Because we was doing something. >> He was she was talking a little bit to Ro. He said, "What this guy be like that this man? I got more money." So I, you know, get something. >> And you're not homeless. >> No. >> Well, you can't give me an address and you sit here on a bench, >> too. The one you can find me and then I give you the third one, but I can't. >> All right. All right. Give me a minute. When asked basic questions, the woman with the child was unable to provide full identification, a verifiable address, or documentation establishing caregiving responsibility. >> Yeah, I don't I mean, we can check as far as vital dehydrated or anything like that. >> Doesn't seem like it. I mean, now >> he's acting normal. He doesn't really It's not like he's super lethargic and not just doing what anyone wants. And it's a little more concerning for us. fact that he's like turning away from us, kind of acting more like a three-year-old act. It was like totally I' I've picked him up from her before. He took her we took him to the hospital kind of a disaster. He was freaking out in the truck, tired of like going crazy. >> Did you guys take him for medical then? >> Did at the time, but I don't know what the situation was. He called us to the police station. >> All right. Have a seat. Ma'am, do you have an ID on you? >> No. >> Okay. I'm going to listen to >> I have one. >> Okay. Listen. Listen to everything that I'm saying. >> Okay. >> Okay. It's going to be a lot easier if you don't lie because I'm going to verify everything that you tell me. Are you homeless? >> No. No. No. No. I said >> Okay. Again, like I told you, I'm going to verify every last thing today. Okay. You're not going anywhere until I verify every last thing. So, it's easier if you don't lie to me. Okay. >> Were you drinking today? >> Yeah. Yeah. I was drinking so much. >> Okay. I want to know where you're staying. Okay. Because like I told you, I'm going to check. >> I know. And I I And I don't know. You know, >> don't lie cuz I'm going to check. >> I don't count it. >> More than five. >> Less. >> Less than five. more than two. >> Between two and five. Okay. >> I'm trying to get his address. He's not giving me a straight answer. So, if you could try to get that for me. Yeah, >> he has some wildlife just apparently it seems as though your home and it seems as though he doesn't have a stable place to live. That's where we're going back and forth with. We're concerned for the welfare of the child. It's hot out here. It's always 90° outside and him drinking hot juice with his feet dirty and no shoes on, that's not okay. So, we're going to try to figure out what's going on today. >> Okay. Like I told you, nobody's going anywhere until we figure it out. So >> the address that's on your license, is that where you stay? >> You want to look it up? >> You say you live in NA? >> Like I told you, I'm building. >> Okay. Na. >> Yeah. >> Close to where? >> Where in Nar. >> Do you even live there? >> I stayed. I I don't know the address. That's a problem. >> Okay, ma'am. I I don't know how much more clear I can make this. I'm telling you. You live here in NA or do you live with him? >> With him. I told you that. >> Okay. You can't give me a comment. >> Why do you keep talking? >> I just talked to you and I told I'm trying to listen to her. I can't hear her cuz you keep talking in my ear. Do you think you can stay quiet for a few minutes? >> Okay. So, what is >> Man, is it that hard to stop talking? >> It's not hard. >> Why are you giving me >> What What's her name? You got her. >> I didn't even get that. >> Oh, what's your first name? >> Patricia. >> Patricia. No, no, no. [ __ ] [ __ ] Felicia. Felicia. >> Here. Write it down for me. >> What's your social? >> Oh, see, see that's a problem. I don't got no social. >> Write your name. >> See, that's a problem. Ain't got no social. Okay. I had all that. What about >> Felicia? Okay. >> Felicia. Alicia. >> Where did he get all those bites from? >> No. No. No. You No. >> I'm sorry. >> No. No, they didn't know. It's a mosquito bite. Mosquito. Where's he at? All those mosquito bites from there. It's a mosquito bite. >> What's your birthday? >> Oh. Oh. Oh. >> Right here. >> Additional checks indicated prior involvement in child related legal matters. These findings required officers to step in promptly to reduce potential risk. >> Not too far. >> She was she was arrested in January for the same thing. >> He was >> she was >> for what? >> Intoxicated. Take care of the kid. The kid was so over. Same thing. The exact same thing with >> he was because she was in he was arrested. >> No, she was >> for being in talk. >> Yeah, but both of them were together. The same thing. They were homeless. Same same thing. >> Okay. >> So, I'll call the supervisor and let them know to see if they want to call D out or however they want to go from there. >> We're going to have to get out. >> Yeah. Brand new. >> Who? >> What is that? >> Oh, for your family. >> Her family me >> for your not being in between right now. You might have a warrant. Okay. >> Wait, wait, wait. >> No, no, no. >> He might have a warrant. >> No, no, no, no. I need go. Can I get the money? >> Come on. >> We're not leaving yet. >> Hey, you're just you're just getting detained. >> No, no. Get the money. Can I? >> No. No. Relax. Relax. We're not leaving yet. We're not leaving with you then. Yes. You can give her whatever you want to give. >> We're not. Ma'am, >> what? >> He's good. >> He's good to go. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> So, I'm going to let >> I'm going to take him off and let him go. >> Yeah, he's good. >> Okay. >> Okay. You go. Okay. >> See, I told you. >> Okay. When I take these cuffs off, you know what I want you to do? I want you to leave. Are we clear? >> Okay. >> We're going to take care of her. Don't worry. >> Okay. >> Okay. Lala, you go. >> Let's go. Let's go with mama. Come on. Come on. Let's go. Let's go. It's >> okay. >> [crying] >> It's >> okay. [crying] >> Get him. Go get him. Another police officer is coming. [crying] >> It's okay. It's okay, [crying] >> man. Let's sit over here. Come on. Come [crying] on. [crying] Walk over there, man. Okay. >> Walk this way. >> Walk this way. >> In the room in one of our rooms. He's sitting down. Relax. Okay. Come on. Okay. Here, let's go ahead and go over here. >> Yeah, right here. >> What? But where he at? >> He's with He was He's with another officer. Leave your shoes right here. Look. Put your sandals right here. >> Oh, no. >> We're trying to get him some water and food. He's okay. All right. Don't worry. Don't worry. >> Let me know what's going on. >> I will. I will. We will. Don't worry. >> Let me go find out really quick what what he's doing and I'll be back. Okay. Let me I'll be back. The arrival of the grandmother shifted the situation. She expressed her intention to formally care for her grandchild, not to challenge anyone, but to offer a safer and more stable environment. >> Hello. >> Good. How are you? >> Upset. >> What's going on? >> You're the grandmother. >> Yes. >> Okay. So, what happened? She my daughter I I've not I have not seen my daughter. My daughter had not seen her baby DCF the workers let me down >> also >> because they came out two weeks to see she going to check on the baby and they stopped. >> Uhhuh. >> I didn't hear from nobody else. She they supposed to been sitting work at least supposed to stay with my daughter but they said after 14 days that she could still come back home. She still didn't come cuz she was scared. >> They never came. They never talked to PP on the phone. Never would have seen her with my daughter house where my daughter was living. You understand? >> Where does she live? >> She live with me. >> So I got involved because a bystander >> observed the child and your daughter on a bench with another gentleman. >> He's Mexican. >> Yeah. Fernando or whatever. >> That's supposed to be a man. Okay. Well, she was with Fernando or whatever his name is. >> Okay. >> Okay. On a bench and the kid looked lethargic today. If you were out there today, very similar to what happened last time. >> Jesus. >> Very, very similar to what happened last time. Okay. >> So, right now, we have custody of the kid. DCF is on their way and they're probably going to take custody of the child. So, DCF is going to decide what they're going to do, whether they're going to take Willie or give Willie back to you, whoever, wherever the case may be. Okay. As far as as far as the um your daughter goes, she's being arrested >> for what? >> So, she has a warrant for the child neglect case that she had back in January. She didn't go to trial on that. So, she has a warrant for that. Also, when they did the the case, they issued a protection order. So, she's not allowed to be around really until that case is closed. So, she >> I understand what you're saying. >> Hear me out. Hear me out. >> Okay. >> That's what So, she's getting arrested on that, too. That's from the courts. That has nothing to do with me. And then she's getting a child neglect case from today also because she was intoxicated when she was with him. >> What What did What resources did you want from DCF? >> I want to put him in school. I want to adopt him. >> Okay. >> I got to get in legal custody. >> Mhm. >> Okay. >> You good? >> What's your name? Bailey. You speak English? No. >> A little bit? Yeah. Yeah. >> Okay. You cold? >> Yeah. >> You're cold. Come on. You'll be hot. >> What? >> Right here. >> Did you do pee pee on the floor? >> Oh, no. >> Oh, okay. No, I see the floor wet. So, >> okay. Since I got to ask. >> Oh, no. >> Cuz that way I got to clean it. >> Oh, no. >> Okay, baby. I know. Just some people do some people do strange things. You have a warrant. That's why you're here. >> Oh my god. >> Yeah. >> I guess you didn't go to >> Watch yourself. >> Go all the way to the front. Okay. >> The woman was charged with felony child. Under Florida law, she could face up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine. The true importance of this story lies not in the legal outcome, but in its humanitarian message, where community members, authorities, and family place a child's well-being above personal circumstances. A single series of unchecked choices behind the wheel turned Illinois streets into a dangerous situation with the back seat becoming the most vulnerable place of all. >> Because because you're under arrest for aggravated fleeing and looting. Okay. On the night of May 6th, 2024, police in Wheaten, Illinois, observed a Ford SUV traveling at a very high speed in a residential zone. When officers attempted a traffic stop, the female driver did not comply, and increased her speed. The vehicle moved across multiple lanes, ignored traffic signals, and at times traveled against the normal flow of traffic. What began as a speeding concern quickly escalated into a several mile pursuit with a child inside the vehicle. After several minutes, officers used a controlled safety measure to bring the SUV to a stop along the roadside. The driver remained inside with the doors locked. >> Back passenger, take both hands towards the front of the car so we can see. >> Driver, are you going to comply? Open the door. Step out with both hands up. >> Okay. >> So, we need you to step out. >> I'm not coming out. I'm not done. I'm not done. >> Well, we're not going to approach the vehicle. >> I'm not coming out. For nearly 40 minutes, officers pleaded with the driver to step out. >> Shouldn't he live in Chicago? >> No, he don't. >> Hey, honey. Listen. They for to work for Chicago. Put your hands out. >> Hands up. >> For your dad working in the city of Chicago, he needs to live in the city of Chicago. >> Yeah. He has to live in Chicago. He can't live in the Cal but work for Chicago. >> Well, he lives in Chicago then. >> Yeah. >> He lives in the White House. >> So then he doesn't work for Chicago. >> Yeah. While he works for Chicago, >> you can't. You can't. You can't. I was working for Chicago. So you can't >> slowly open the door. Both hands out the window. Reach as high as you can for me. Reach both hands out. As high as you can. Both hands out. Both hands out. Both hands out. >> The mother did not exit the vehicle until specialized officers arrived to assist. >> Lay on your stomach. Lay on your stomach. On your stomach. On your stomach. On your stomach. On your stomach. >> Put your hands behind your back right now. >> Stop. Hands behind your back. >> Wait. Wait. Wait. Ow. Did I break my arm? Take your other hand right now. What are y'all doing? >> Ow. What the are y'all serious? >> I'm only one. What yall doing? >> What the? >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> You have anything on your sh? >> No, ma'am. >> No, ma'am. No. No. Nothing. Nothing. Nothing. Nothing. I don't have nothing. >> I don't have nothing. I can see. I can't see. I'll see. Make sure you get dinner, right? All right. >> What's it? >> I don't have them with me right now, but we'll take care of that when we get back. Okay. During a safety check, officers located items that raised concerns about the driver's ability to make sound decisions. [music] More troubling was the presence of a 12-year-old child seated in the back. Inside the vehicle, the mother maintained [music] that she had done nothing wrong. However, the excessive speed, refusal to stop, unstable behavior, and the presence of a child made her explanation difficult to support. Sir, >> you okay? I'm Officer Hoots. >> I'm sorry. You're right. I was just talking. It threw me off. Um, what was your name again? >> Britney. >> Britney. >> Hoots. I'm officer Hoots with the Weeden Police Department. You can call me Derek. Okay. >> Okay. Derek, >> uh, are you injured at all? >> Yes. >> I see that a little bit. >> So, here's the thing. I'm sure you have a lot of questions. I do. >> I have some questions for you. We'll get to all that. You are going to have to come back to Weaten Police Department with us. Okay? We're going to make this >> because because you're under arrest for aggravated fleeing and looting. Okay. >> When >> when you were going through Weaten. >> Sir, I was driving. I I know you were Well, that's Well, and that's some stuff we'll talk about. Okay. Uh you're going to have to come back with us coming. She's going to take back home. Okay. I know your fiance, right? >> Yeah. She's coming. She's going to say fancy here. >> Not yet. She's 3 minutes out. Okay. >> So, we're going to get all we're going to get I'll explain all that to you. Okay. Like I said, I know you have questions. I have questions, too. We can talk about it. >> It's so crazy. I live. >> But [snorts] you're in decal, right? Yes, ma'am. >> Okay. >> Yes, sir. >> Yeah, no problem. Um, so just sit tight for a few minutes. Try and take some deep breaths. Do you want the window down? I, like I said, I'll explain all that. I'll explain all that to you. We have to go back to our police department. We'll talk there. We're not going to do it in the back of the car here. Okay. >> Okay. Um, once we get back there, we'll get your nose cleaned up. >> Yeah. Do you have any tissues, Ivan? If you can check in the trunk if we got I'll pop it. Let me see if I can find some. Okay. Yeah. No, I got you. All right, Britney. Best I can do is a god pad, but it's better than nothing, right? Wipe you off there. [snorts] >> What did I do? >> Like I said, we're going to talk about all that station. Okay. >> My daughter's >> Can you mind just tilting your head back for me so I can see? Make sure it's not spooky. I don't think >> Why? Why me? Why? Why? I'm not a man. I'm not >> No, I understand. >> Why? >> Give me Give me one second. Okay. I got to go get some stuff done. I'm going to come back. I'm going to talk to you again. and we're going to get out of here. Okay. >> Okay, sir. >> Thank you. >> Do you need this window cracked? Are you okay? >> A little bit. >> Okay. I haven't cracked the window just a little bit for her. Okay. >> Okay. >> Do you know where >> Damn, Mr. What? >> So, they had to spike her tires because she was running from us for a very long time. >> Oh. >> Do you know where she was coming from? >> Chicago. >> Um, was she at a party? I'm assuming cuz she smells like she's been drinking a lot. >> Uh, to my understanding, she was with her family. Okay. >> At a barbecue. >> Okay. some understanding. >> She'll probably drink a little bit. I've been to the barbecue. I know how the barbecue is going and it's >> so I mean I know she's been drinking just because I I can smell it on her, right? >> Okay. >> Um so essentially she comes through Weaten. I'm with the Weaten Police Department, which is >> good 30 minutes away from here. 5 minutes. >> Yeah, I know that. >> She comes down Roosevelt Road going 76 miles per hour. It's a 35 m per hour zone. We tried to stop her. She doesn't stop. Um Okay. She ran multiple lights, uh speeding, all sorts of stuff. Um, so I have to go through the vehicle. The vehicle does have to come with us. >> That's cool. What will you guys be actually towing this vehicle? >> So it's it's going to be coming back to our police department. So yeah. Uh, so because of the a fleeing and looting, it has to come back to our police department. Has to go through an article 36 seizure process. >> I know about you're familiar with it. >> I'm familiar with it. Yeah, you guys got to go through county. We'll do all that stuff as far as when you get the vehicle back and all that. So it could be a few weeks. Obviously, some damage is not going to be driven anytime soon. Uh, but they have they have to do all that. Do you have an ID on you by any chance? >> I do. >> Sir, >> Britney Getter was taken into custody and transported to the Wheaten Police Department. >> I just got to wrap up a couple things. >> Where's my kid? Where's my daughter? >> Where's my car? >> The car's still right. >> So, what's wrong? What's going on? I didn't understand what was I fleeing. Sir, I'm not going to never lie to you. I swear to God. win. Like I start any trouble. I'm a like I don't do this. I don't I don't do this at all. You You You run my background, right? I don't have one. Look how old I am. I don't have a background, sir. I don't do this. >> Nothing. I don't I get I don't get in trouble, sir. I don't get in trouble with the law. You hear me? All I would do is try to go home. I I will never be a scene for what? I'm licensed in insurance. I I don't have no background or nothing. >> At the station, she was informed of standard procedures and multiple related allegations connected to the incident. The mother faced 18 charges including DUI, aggravated fleeing, and child and was taken into custody at the Dw Page County Jail. This situation serves as a reminder that road safety is not only a matter. The story shifts to Texas where another family faced serious conflicts that affected [music] children's safety. >> Exactly. Because you're going to choose a drunk head over me. >> On January 13th, [music] 2023, police responded to an emergency report concerning a family dispute [music] involving a young mother and her 13-year-old stepchild. Authorities promptly arrived on the scene to ensure the safety of everyone involved and to investigate the situation. Is someone upstairs? >> Who's up there? >> I don't know what to do. I'm just >> What's going on? >> I got my hair pulled out by my stepmom. You can look through my hair. You can see it. You can feel >> Where is it? Where is it at? >> Right here. Do you see it? And over here, she was bringing me up the stairs, pull my hair, put me through the chair. She got intoxicated. So now my sister is on her side. So I talked to my sister and I said, "Sorry, can you please talk to your mom? Can you help her? Can you just calm her down a little bit? She's so upset because this girl at Cornell, do you know Cornell Gillis? He had a party." Okay. Birthday party. 18th birthday party. Yeah. >> Well, this girl came off on Jenny wrong. And I was like, Jenny, just just please calm down. just please, please just calm down. And she wouldn't let me take her out the door. Ellie was helping me. I was like, "Please, just please go out the door with her. Just please, I beg you, please." She couldn't do it. She was still running to the door. Okay. >> Where are we talking? Are we talking here right now? Are we talking at this party >> at the fairgrounds? >> Okay. I want to know what happened once you got back here. >> We want to know what violence happened. I get there's a whole backstory to all this, but >> I got home. I went to the restroom. I came in with me in the restroom and I talked to my grandmother downstairs and she said, "It's okay. Everything's okay." And then I went upstairs. Jen was coming downstairs. She grabbed me by my hair and I said, "Jen, Jen, please can you please just talk to me? Can you please just talk to me? It's okay. Everything's okay." She couldn't understand. But then she finally understood. She was like, "Okay, yeah, I love you. Everything's okay." And she went downstairs and I said, "Can you please come up here and talk to me when I when you're done?" When you're done downstairs, can you please talk to me? And she said, she shook her head, said, "Please, Jenny, can you please talk to me?" And walked out, walked out of the room downstairs. And then I was like, "Okay." And I came back upstairs to talk to my sister cuz she was on Jen's room. I said, "Sopie, can you please just please just calm down? Everything's okay." She said, "Okay, everything's okay." She's like, "It's okay." And she said, she was shaking her head. And I said, "Well, what is wrong?" And she said, "Um," she said, "Everything's fine." And then she started freaking out. >> Do you have anything? >> My mom's drunk. My mom's drunk. I was like, I know she is. I know Sophie. I know. >> It's okay. Just just stay down here. >> The mother provided her account of events. >> In the face her saying she get her hair pulled, but I don't I don't know. >> Mommy down the [crying] stairs. Sophie had to stop me. I didn't anyone said, "Let me go. Let me go now. Go. If you don't let me go, I'm calling the police. What didn't she do? Let me go. She's screaming at me, telling me, "I'm gonna pour this I'm going to pour this fireball on you. I'm going to" And then she grabbed me by my hair again. All my son was still doing [crying] right there. She said, "MOM, STOP. MOM, STOP. MOM, STOP. DON'T TOUCH MY SISTER. DON'T TOUCH MY SISTER. DON'T TOUCH MY SISTER." What is she doing? Still grabbing my hair. Sophie finally got her off of me. >> Meanwhile, a commotion outside drew the attention of police. Police rushed out and encountered the stepsister who shared her perspective on the events involving her 13-year-old sibling. >> Finally got got me off her. >> She's Can you feel breath? Is that a possibility? Please help. Please look at me. Look at me. >> Does she have these regularly? Yeah, that's why we took her out of school. >> So, this happens. Okay. Well, we got a squad coming to check her out. >> Why? You better just breathe. Okay. Look. [snorts] >> Where did Where did this all happen at? Or who got >> She got >> She got upstairs in the hallway. >> Okay. >> That's what I got pictures of right after she got shot up. >> Okay. Why did she get >> Because cuz we were Kelsey. Every time she comes home drunk. >> Is she drunk right now? Is it okay? Every time she comes home drunk or anything, she gets like off the wall. >> Okay. >> And Sophie's got braces in her mouth. She twice that like >> I had to get in between Kelsey and Sophie. So yes, I probably pulled Kelsey's hair. I pulled Kelsey's hair and pulled her off of Sophie to get her off of her. >> I DON'T KNOW. I WALKED upstairs and I think all of these they are all >> They're trying to get Kelsey off of Sophie. >> That's what it was. >> Why was she hitting Sophie? She just went like Kelsey just like it's the um bird feeder one time. >> Yeah, you're fine. >> But like Kelsey, it don't matter. Like she just like gets off the wall. Like she's just like Brian. You know Brian? You've ever Brian? >> That's him in a version. I hate to say it because I love her with everything I've got, but like her down on the ground twice and her down on the ground and I wasn't going to let that happen. was my baby. >> You feeling better? You able to breathe a little bit better? Are you getting [snorts] there? Okay. Well, the squad's coming. Still check you out. Make sure everything's okay. Hope you get calmed down. >> She went from straight A's, uh, president presidential academics awards to D's and Fs. So, that's why I pulled her out of school and put her in homeschooling. And now she's like, Kelsey, I don't know if she's going through postpartum or like you want me to stand outside for the second. She literally spent all day crying up in a room like I work two jobs. All that stuff helped take care of all of them. >> She also expressed frustration over the unfair [music] treatment she and her child had experienced. >> Domestic. This 13-year-old girl got in the face a couple times. She's got problems with pancakes apparently. So she's her steps sister who's upstairs. I'm assuming. >> Yeah. Her mom's right with her here. They all saw her and 13year-old 13-year-old's got I think it's enough. Who all lives here? You and then all the girls >> live here. Sophie lives here. My daughter Giana lives here but she's staying with her dad or I guess not her dad. >> Is the older lady your mom? >> That's my mom Janet. Yes. >> Has she been drinking at all? >> She has. >> Okay. Has everybody in here been drinking? >> Even the younger ones? >> No. >> Kelsey's >> baby. Her baby. Are the younger girls able to care for him at all? Do they know how to take care of him and stuff like that? Are you sure? >> How much have you had to drink tonight? >> Um, like three. >> You're allowed to drink. I'm not saying that's wrong, but I'm just saying if Kelsey gets arrested, somebody has to care for the kid. >> I will care for the kid. >> How much have you honestly had to drink? >> I have literally and I think I promised you those three twisted teeth. >> Okay. So, you've had big ones though. >> Yeah. I usually like >> cuz I cuz I can tell your speech is slur a little bit. So, >> I am a little bit tipsy, but I can still care for a child. I've had three kids by myself. >> I know. I'm I know. But sometimes, you know, how old are the other girls out there? >> Um, Sophie is 13 and Charlie, my niece, is 14. Ellie is um 14 and she's actually pregnant. So, she has actually have nothing. Can promise you right now, I can take care of a child just like, you [snorts] know what I mean? I really don't Kelsey here tonight. >> Well, she lives here. >> She does, but >> I can't I can't her out unless she's arrested or something like that. She lives here. I can't kick somebody out of their house. >> I know. I know. We're We're deal We're dealing with that. We're handling it. say it was something else. I can't force her to leave. But if she does end up getting arrested, it don't even like make me upset. It just get my own kid. That's not my own kid. And I saved her from David Hawkins or whatever the his name. Donnie. Donnie. >> Who's her mom? >> Angie. Oh, >> okay. >> I saved her from all that. Then she found out she was pregnant in this house and I've been nothing. >> No, I don't get it. >> But to her, I've cared for her child. No, I I understand completely. >> I got him a play. Oh, I got him all kind of How are you going to be so mean to my child back room for you? >> The disagreement grew more intense and legal action had to be considered. We're going to get it figured out. And >> I went over there and tried to talk to her and then she wanted me and then Sophie. I'm not >> And this all came from cuz she came home drunk and was just acting >> like we went to my cousin Cornell's well might not be a Cornell's party. Some stuff popped up there. The lady came in and was like talking to me and then we had left. Anyway, so we came home and then she started talking about how I was rude. I didn't care about her and Kay >> Kase's her son. >> Kay's her son. My grandson bent over backwards to care for him to make sure he has his owning room upstairs his own crib, his own everything. And she wants to call me rude all the time and tell me I'm this that the other when I'm a mom. Hey, do this. Hey, do the laundry. Hey, to do the litter box. Hey, do the dishes right up there on the board. I'm rude because I want to be a mom and not a best friend. I'm rude. >> No, I get it. Do you want charges for what happened? >> I do. Actually, I do. Despite facing multiple allegations, when police returned to follow up, the mother did not cooperate fully while keeping her child nearby. >> Let her drunk my baby. Have my baby. >> Kelsey, put him down. >> You'll let them have my baby. >> Kelsey, put down. >> Not his mother. >> Put him down. >> Let me sit with my >> Put him down. No. >> Are you kidding me right now? >> Kelsey, put Just listen to us. Okay. >> No. I'm not GOING TO LET YOU HAVE MY KID. I'M GOING TO JAIL BECAUSE I WANTED TO SAVE ME AND MY SON because I'm in a household of somebody that tried TO BEAT THE OUT of me. >> No one's taking your kid. >> Nobody's taking your >> You're going to You're going to keep bumping up your charges. >> Let me sit with him. >> Put him down. >> Put the baby down. >> Put the baby down. >> Nope. >> Yes. >> No. This is my >> You're going to catch charges for resisting arrest. This is a form of resisting arrest >> because I called you to help me. It doesn't matter. >> That's not why you're just bumping it up. >> Cuz I want to sit with my baby. >> You could make this so much easier. You could go through with this whole process, get it over with, and then >> Nobody's taking your You're not at that point right now. >> That's not how this works. >> I need a lawyer. >> That's not how it works. Okay. >> Nope. >> I'm trying to >> because somebody was trying to me while I have a kid in her house. >> How how you're acting now [crying] could make you potentially lose your kid cuz you're not you're not you're resisting arrest while holding your son. >> I got to hold him. Kelsey, >> you're resisting arrest while holding your son. This is this is going to get to the point where you might lose him cuz we're getting to the point now where we're getting fearful for him. You're intoxicated. You're refusing to talk to the police. >> Yes, you are. >> No, I'm not. >> The only thing we want you to do is just put your son back in his crib alone. >> No, we can't cuz right now you're under arrest. We've advised you that you're under arrest. >> You're obstructing us by not by refusing to put down your son. I get it. You're upset. This is a shitty situation >> because I JUST GOT BEAT ON MY FACE. >> I that's that sucks. But we got to do our job too because you punched your >> as a toddler and >> you your sister in the face. >> How the I did that. >> Well, that's what's being advised. There's witnesses of it. You know, you don't have to agree with us. You don't have to like it. But right now, you do have to put your son down. You have to put your son down so we can do this. Okay? You're just making it so much worse on yourself. Stand for your son. This is not what he needs. >> You're not taking him. To ensure the child's safety, police had to intervene while handling the mother according to the law. >> I want you to stand up. You're >> not touching them. >> We want you to touch him and set him in the crib. >> Can you please just leave him alone for one second? >> We want you to place him >> because I got in my face. >> Leave him alone for one second. >> Nope. >> Kelsey, come on. >> We'll take you outside and we'll get let him down. It'll be fine. >> He's not going nowhere. JUST SO YOU KNOW. >> COME ON. >> NO. Be better than Back up. Let me grab my kid. >> NO. NO. YOU'RE SQUEEZING HIM. >> NO, you're squeezing him. >> Get off of MY >> ASS. Grab yourself. >> You're >> Grab him. >> You're choosing him over. >> NO. [screaming] >> HEY. HEY. HEY. YOU TAKE MY BABY. >> I GOT YOU. ALL RIGHT, BUDDY. >> MOTHER. >> COME ON, KELSEY. >> GET ON YOUR STOMACH. >> MY BABY. GET ON YOUR STOMACH. I GOT IT. YOU GOT You got your arm. >> Get on your stomach. >> Roll on your stomach now. >> You're taking IT FROM ME. ARE YOU WHAT ARE YOU DOING? WHY ARE YOU BEING so mean? Cuz I'm my mom AND MY DAD. >> MY BABY. [screaming] >> They're already double locked. Please, please. >> I want to make sure you talk for me. >> We're past that point. Kelsey, I just want to make sure these >> I don't want my tight so she doesn't slip them. >> What am I GOING TO DO? WHAT ARE YOU GUYS DOING? CAN YOU EXPLAIN? >> I'm taking I already told you you're under arrest. >> My Miranda rights. >> Kelsey, you obviously don't know how the justice system works. You >> didn't explain my Miranda rest to me. You did not express them. So now what? >> Okay, you're right. We did. We didn't. >> Yeah, you didn't. Exactly. Because you're going to choose a drunk head over me, mying son, because I called you guys to help me and now you're you're doing this. YOU'RE TAKING MY KID FROM ME. Any answers. >> Hello. ANSWER ME NOW. >> OKAY. >> OH, that comes >> that's against law. Do you know that? >> Whatever you say, Kelsey. >> It is. You have to express your Miranda. Miranda me. And what have you not done? Express your Miranda right. >> All right, Kelsey. >> YOU'RE GOING TO RUIN MY LIFE. YOU'RE GOING TO RUIN MY LIFE. YOU'RE GOING TO RUIN MY LIFE. >> ALL RIGHT. Express your morale rights. >> Did anything you did? >> Express them. >> Did you express them? >> WE DID NOT. >> NO, SIR. GUESS WHAT? YOU CANNOT arrest me. >> You cannot take my child from me. EXPRESS MY MARINE RIGHT. >> We're going to go downstairs. >> You're going to have to grab her next if you don't. >> You did not express MIRANDA RIGHTS. IS ILLEGAL TO ARREST ME. IT IS ILLEGAL to arrest me with no Miranda rats. Do you know that? At one point, [music] the situation escalated when one adult strongly resisted cooperation, making it more difficult for police to handle. >> Okay, >> TAKE CARE OF MY BABY. DO NOT HURT HIM. DO NOT LET YOUR MOM GET DRUNK WITH HIM. LET ME GO NOW. MY WRISTS ARE >> WELL, then walk like a normal person. Grow up and BE AN ADULT. >> EXPRESS YOUR RIGHT, BRO. YOU DIDN'T >> GO. >> YEAH. SO, HARLEY, >> LET ME GO, BRO. MY LET ME GO. SHUT UP. >> WELL, now what's going to happen? LET ME GO NOW AND PUT HER ON CAMERA. >> PUT IT ON CAMERA, BRO. I DON'T GIVE A DUDE. JUST LETTING my wrist. Are you serious? >> Hold on. Let's search her. >> LET ME GO. Charge me, dude. I'm not like her. Oh, you're taking me to jail. Oh my god, you guys are so good. So good at your job. Now, what's going to happen, dude? >> I'll get it. >> Are you going to take me for a resistant arrest when you did not expect Miranda right? That's hilarious. Mars are uh most definitely uh right that to the judge you're searching dude I'm >> not a buddy >> never said you were >> okay but you're still searching >> well that's what you do when you get arrested in the car >> in the car to take these cops >> no you're going to hurt me >> hey you're going to catch another charge if you don't sit in the car >> due to the severity and direct impact act on the children. CPS had to act quickly. Meanwhile, the stepsister expressed her distress over the situation. >> We got child protection services coming. Is are all of them leaving? I don't know who's leaving me staying to be honest with you. That's fine. Sorry. That's all you're doing. >> It's okay. Let me go find your bottle and be up here. >> Hey, Sophie. So, she's not going to be here tonight. So, I guess the question is, do you still want to go to Jeremy's or do you want to stay here? >> Just stay here. Stay here. >> All right. >> All right. Thank you, >> Sophie. I think we're going to head out unless something's You want to do what we talked about? >> They'll explain a little bit more when we get here. Okay. >> I'll in the face. >> Hey, let's let's relax. Not going to be just JUST RELAX. >> STOP. >> NO, because K is not going to be taken because of countering Kelsey's goddamn actions when he's safe out. Tell me if I'm missing anything. >> Sophie, you're all right. We head out. >> Yeah, >> that's not fair. I can't even know that. >> Changes your grand arrested this week. Get out on Monday, you'll be notified. >> Yeah, I want to be >> readable timely notice of all public. Keep an eye on her. All right. >> Okay. So, listen to me. >> NO, BECAUSE YOU DON'T. >> ARE YOU GOING TO Are you going to listen to what I'm GOING TO SAY? >> [screaming] >> I'M NOT SAYING he's going to GET TAKEN. >> HE BETTER NOT GET TAKEN BECAUSE THAT >> Listen to Listen, let me talk. This is our job. >> I know YOU'RE DOING YOUR JOB, BUT THAT LITTLE BOY DOES NOT DESERVE THAT BECAUSE HIS MOM MUST BE a idiot. >> Let us talk. They have to come in here and evaluate the situation. >> Okay. And if you're acting like this saying you're going to punch him in the face, then 1,000 1,000% they're going to take him. >> But I don't want that little boy to be taken into foster care. >> Well, if you don't want him to, then don't act like this when they come. You got to chill. Okay. We have to have them come here for an evaluation. That is our job. That's what we have to do. Yeah, that's fine. You want to go in there and check on them? >> Yeah. >> Police had to calm and reassure her. Once composed, she shared more about the challenges the family might face. >> I'm just like, >> I get it. You're upset. It's a situation. It's an awful situation, but making it worse, what you said is not going to make it better. >> Sophie better out there now. She calmed down more. She probably just feel better if everybody's not surrounding her. She's probably a little overwhelmed and you know you got a bunch of police officers, a bunch of EMS people and then mom, everybody around, you know, a little overwhelming. >> No, I No, I I get that smile on her face cuz he said he said we could do whatever we want after midnight. >> Why? Cuz you're off at midnight. >> I think you hit me with that. I don't know. >> It can get better. It can change, you know. I mean, >> but she's probably going to hate me. >> No, maybe she >> But it wasn't She caught it on herself. >> If she hates you, she hates you. you know, you can't control how she feels. And I know that's not what you want to hear, but she's going to have to realize that she can't keep acting like this and doing this stuff and cuz there's consequences to it and she's got a baby to take care of. And so I told her, "Should you get her head out of her house? Like it's time to get your together." >> The father involved at all? No. >> He just she told me like she just went got four years or something like spit on a guard or something. Got some more years or something. Nobody's coming. So >> yeah. Well, >> police continued [music] discussing legal procedures and the next steps in the prosecution process with family members. >> I am Natasha Miller and I'm with Mercur County Child Protective Services. Okay, >> she'll go to court on Monday. >> I was going to say don't sugarcoat [ __ ] >> Maybe she'll >> Well, she needs to sober up. She's still going to BE PISSED OFF AT ME. >> YOU KNOW WHAT? Both of you guys need to figure this out and stop is what's wrong with >> So, she'll go to court on Monday, talk to the judge, and it'll all get figured out. She might get the baby back by then, but she needs to figure out where she's going to live. >> She's going to take him around a bunch of And then we'll probably >> Yeah, I don't know. >> That's my >> cuz you know she's been >> That's my fear. >> But she's going to go to court at 9:30 on Monday. >> Are they testing her tonight? >> Sure. He He >> Are they testing her 9? >> They'll ask her for it. >> I'd be there at 9:30. Um it'll be the municipal court or the fire. >> I mean, like like we said, it's it's legal now. So, but this is a whole new >> main concern. Like that's the only thing I do is smoke. But what about my background? >> I've been for four years and we haven't HAD >> YOU GUYS HAVEN'T DEALT WITH me at all. So like >> I'm sure he'll stick in. So that will >> I'm playing completely. So >> got it. So that will be Kelsey probably Tuesday or Wednesday. I would say there's going to be Kelsey will have probably hearing and juvenile court >> for K. Yeah. >> Which Kelsey misses or Kelsey's? Kelsey's she'll have there'll be a hearing sentence soon. >> While [snorts] the situation remained complex, the authorities top priority was ensuring the safety and stability of the children in the family. >> So he'll be more comfortable with his stuff. >> I know that's why I don't know if like she wants I can take like me and stuff like that. >> You can take that stuff later tomorrow. >> You can take that stuff tomorrow. >> There's nothing saying that you can't go. Um just for the night, we want to make sure the child's safe in a good home environment. He's safe here. >> I understand that. It's just with the drinking and then the saying that I'm fairly capable of taking. >> Will Kelsey have how soon will she have her hearing? >> So for this >> for this do you guys wait and are you guys like will it happen on Monday? >> That's Martin Luther King >> on Monday. >> They're open. >> Yeah, court's open on Wednesday. >> Yeah, we aren't. >> So Tuesday, Wednesday, >> but if it's on Monday, I'll have to come. So they'll let me know. >> Okay. So they'll just figure it all. HOW DO I KNOW? >> You go to court because you go to court. You go to court up there with them. >> Cuz like I said, Jen, if you guys don't say anything about Kelsey, then the judge isn't going to know. >> When I asked her what all baby stuff she would need, she just mentioned diapers, bottles. >> Yeah. Stella's just like a old girl. And then like this car seat has like the cover on the bottom. You have to lift it [snorts] a little bit for it to get. >> In the end, charges were filed against the mother for her actions with possible legal [music] consequences under Texas law. Even small conflicts in the household, managing stress and seeking support can prevent disputes from escalating and protect children. In a quiet parking lot, a concerning situation involving a young child drew attention. This incident highlighted the challenges some families face in ensuring child safety. So basically we on our 15-minute break. I saw him right there in the inside. They said he just got up and started walking down. >> Police in Boon Beach received a report about a toddler who had been left unsupervised for a period of time. Thankfully, the child was [music] found safe, but the case raised serious concerns about child's safety. Police immediately arrived on the scene to investigate. >> What's up, buddy? >> What's going on? >> So, basically, we're on our 15-minute break. I sat him right there in the inside and they said he just got up and started walking around. >> Yeah, cuz I was going to go and I for so they said it's contagious. You know his mouth for days. >> Part of it? >> Yeah. From a daycare. >> Okay. How long you been at work today? >> Like since what? 11:30. >> This morning? >> No. Tonight. >> You've only been here like a half hour? >> Yeah. >> You've been here a half hour and you already went on a 15-minute break? Yeah, cuz I came late. I didn't make it to the meeting cuz of his hands, not her feet. >> Nitra is over there talking with the complainer. So that's the mom. That's her son. I guess she's been here since 11:30 p.m. cuz she's only been here about a half hour. You remember worker? >> I would assume so. The kids got hands, mouth, and feet disorder or disease or whatever from a daycare. So she couldn't home. So she was brought to work. But what's not making sense is she just got here at 11:30. She's like, "I was on my 15-minute break sooner was here." She's like, "I in like this area." And I guess she was close by, but I'm like, "Wait, it's 11:30. You've been here a half hour? You already went on a 15-minute break?" I don't understand. You had to work at 11:30 p.m. >> Mhm. >> It's like little after midnight right now. >> Like 12:00. >> Okay. You went on a 15-minute break? >> No, I just started my 15-minute break, but I took him so I could go put my cart to the side. And I came back and they said he was walking and they was like, they didn't even know it was my kid. I'm like, "What?" >> Yeah. They said they didn't They said they didn't know your kid. Did they not know you have your kid here? >> No, they didn't know. But Uncle Well, DJ should have knew this was my child. >> Who's DJ? >> He said um the uncle. >> Where's he at? >> He's like I thought he was like >> So when you left to put your you put your cart to the side. Where were you in proximity to him? >> I got you. >> That's why I Okay. How long is your shift? >> To 7:00. But I can't stay till 7. Like I told my manager, my manager been on this big one for like 3 days. It's contagious and he does not sleep. Itches somebody bad. >> You don't have anybody at home that can supervise? >> I mean, not like grandma. >> I mean, they No, my grandmother was a grandmother. >> Yeah, I >> mean, I do have somebody watching him, but it's like he wakes up constantly. Is >> his dad not your picture? >> No, his dad is. My phone died. I actually was going to call him, but I can't leave off of your ship or want to just go charge the phone. During the investigation, officers gathered [music] witness statements and checked on the child's wellbeing. >> Associate F on see if she's still here. >> Yeah. Gra. >> You hold your ID back. >> Hold on. >> Trying to get in the front door. >> Yeah. To get inside. So I just open his head and wait to >> How long do you think that you from the time that you saw the baby when you >> I saw like >> I saw the baby inside and I just wait 154. >> She was inside. >> She was inside >> for leaving work and then when you got in your car and then >> I was on break sitting in my car. >> Okay. You on break in your car. Okay. >> I think the baby went. So, you didn't know if it was an employees child, right? >> No. So, did a mom come over and ask her for her child or how h how did it happen? How did she >> know that the child was missing? >> I was with the child right here. >> Oh, you're standing right here in the front. >> And one of the card pusher said, "Oh, I think that's the lady's child that work over here in uh I work over H." >> So, she had no idea. It wasn't like she came running screaming, "Where's my kid?" Nothing like that. >> No. >> So, somebody had to tell her to come. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Okay. So, I don't think she I don't think she realized. Okay. >> The mother explained that she faced significant challenges [music] balancing work and caring for her young child, especially given his unstable health condition. >> What's your name? >> Shakira. >> Shakira. >> Mhm. >> Something real fast. All right. Before I ask you any questions, okay? I'm required to warn you before you make any statement that you have the following constitutional rights. You have the right to remain silent and not answer any questions. Any statement you make must be freely and voluntarily given. Mhm. >> You have the right to the presence and representations of a lawyer of your choice before you make any statement and during any question. >> If you cannot afford a lawyer, you are entitled to the the presence representation of a court appointed lawyer before you make any statement during any question. >> If at any time during the interview you do not wish to answer any questions. You are privileged to remain silent. >> I can make no or promises to induce you to make a statement. This must be on your own free will. Any statement can be and will be used against you in court of law. You understand? >> Oh wow. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Can you kind of run me through? Do you usually bring your child to work? >> No, I usually don't bring him to work, but I went to Bethesda Memorial because he had hands, mouth, and footnot like 3 days ago, and he's have hands, mouth, and foot, and I don't want him around my other child because it's very contagious. So, with him, I tried to have my sister watch him, but she said he's constantly waking up out of his sleep. >> Okay. So, how long was he here today? >> So, he was here with me. Well, his dad just brung him. So, he was here with me about a good 10 minutes. What time did dad drop him off? >> Like 11 something cuz I came at 11:30. >> So dad dropped him off. You did dad hand you him or did you just drop him off outside? >> No, he handed me he >> handed you. Okay. So you brought him inside >> right now. >> Right in the front. Okay. And then what happened after that? >> Just got him and started walking cuz I was going my 15 minutes. >> Oh, you going on break? >> Yeah. >> Okay. Then he what? He walked away from your sight or what? What happened? >> Just walked away from me. That's all. >> Okay. How long do you think that it was between when you had custody of him to when custody >> when you had custody of your child to when you didn't have custody. How long do you say >> when you saw the child in your in your possession from that time to when you didn't see the child? Do you know how long the gap time frame? >> Not sure it wasn't that long though. >> Okay. So 10 minutes ago they dropped out dropped them off. >> However, inconsistencies between her account and other statements prompted further review. >> You have your ID on you? >> No, sir. >> What's your first name? >> SH. Uh-uh. Uhuh. Right here. >> Did you notice a child was missing? >> Actually, I didn't notice he walked out. >> So, were you just working and then you just realized like >> No, I was actually pushing my cart to the back to go on my 15 to come back up in. Then I seen him saying, "Oh, this your child." And then he was like, "No, this is her child. I know this is her child. Danny, he knows this is my child." >> Okay. Manager you talking about or >> No, him right there. >> The car dude. Okay. >> So, he didn't realize their child was missing. He didn't >> I did not realize. No, >> you didn't leave with nobody or anything like that. Hey, watch him real fast. No, cuz I was right there literally in the store. >> Okay. >> Not too far in the back at all. So that's why I'm saying all this is unnecessary. >> Well, you got to understand there child too. >> No, I understand. That's why I told him I'm glad you care for kids, but it's just like it's so dramatic. >> How long you been working here? >> Like just starting >> going on? No, like a month. >> Month down. Okay. Okay. Did you take pictures? >> Yeah, I took pictures. >> Can we have the kids? Cuz we have to stand Have him stand. >> You want to take a picture? Oh, yeah. Full body over here. These discrepancies led police to temporarily detain the mother for further investigation. At that time, she denied the allegations, claiming that the responsibility lay with the caregiver. >> I got you. >> Look, why am I under >> It's not my fault. It's not my fault. >> He literally But he got out of the car. >> It's all right. We'll figure it out. >> Hey, look over there. My car is over there. So he was in the car by himself. >> No, there's somebody in there. Oh my god. >> Who was in the car with you? >> My girlfriend. >> Okay. I thought you say he was inside with you. >> Yeah, he was. That's what I'm saying. Because as soon as DJ told me, I came up literally. I swear on. >> So when when was he in the car then? >> He was in the car literally like 10 minutes ago. >> So he walked from the car up here. >> He had to. That's what I'm saying. >> You said he was inside with you at first and he was No, I literally You can ask DJ. I literally went up there. >> All right, we'll figure it out, man. Where's Where's your girlfriend at so we can talk to them. >> But why am I being detained? I want to know cuz it's not even my fault. >> Well, it's going to be child. It's going to be child at this point. >> Babies, too. >> But it's not even my fault, bro. >> DJ, can you tell them it's not even my fault? Real [ __ ] It's not even my fault. It's crazy. Can you call my child's dad? >> Yeah, we'll talk. Well, you What? What's the phone number? >> I don't know about her. Can I at least put my phone in charger or something, please? >> We'll get up there. Yeah, we'll talk to you. You don't have anything going you do you pockets you back? No answer. >> Oh, can I call my grandma? Can y'all call somebody to come get my child? No, there's no way y'all should be taking me to jail. This is wrong. >> Nevertheless, all statements and evidence reviewed. Authorities emphasize the importance of consistent adult supervision and proper [music] planning to prevent similar risks. >> What can I ask? Why am I going to jail? >> Tell my child neglect. man was a 2-year-old out. >> They got out the car with somebody. >> Can I ask you a question though? What's up? >> If I had somebody watching him and they fell asleep, would I get in trouble? >> Is that what happened? >> Yes. >> Okay. But what when I read you your rights, right? And I asked you where >> I didn't want to be not accompetent for not speaking. I literally work and I'm in college. I cannot afford to go to jail. >> Yeah. But what do you mean by you being a cop? >> Because when I'm under pressure, I get very very nervous. >> All you do is tell the truth. >> But here's the thing though. It's not my fault. I was at work and I had somebody literally watching him. They fell asleep and he got out the car >> because you're the mother and you were supposed to be you dare the kid when I had somebody watching him. >> You're the caregiver for the child. So you're going to be responsible. >> I'm in college. I have to go to school tomorrow. >> That's how it plays out. Cops got called for this situation and we have to do what we have to do. >> But when I they called me out of their house when I had no knowledge. >> You're the mother. At the end of the day, you're going to be held responsible. That's that's part of being a mother no matter what happens. Even if it's not even my fault. >> You're the mother of the child. >> So can y'all call my grandma? Somebody get my child. >> When we get up there, you can make your phone calls. Okay. >> So, who's who's in the hotel? >> Call DCF. He's going to be with us over at the station. Everything. Y'ALL DOING ME WRONG. I NEVER been in DCF. I always been in my child's life. I'm in college. I WORK FOR MY KIDS. >> Understand that. But we have to do what we have to do, man. All right. >> That's crazy. >> Sit tight for us. Okay. >> In the end, the mother was placed on probation and required [music] to attend parenting classes. Parents, especially those on night shifts, or without family support, should plan child carefully. Using daycare, community [music] help or time management can reduce risks. No one wants to see their family break apart, and no one hopes to see their name in an official record. Yet, when responsibility slips, the community has a duty to step in and protect those most at risk. These stories are not simply updates. They are reminders that parenting doesn't demand perfection, but awareness and timely presence. Without those, the cost can be a child's future. If you found this content meaningful, please like, subscribe, and turn on notifications to stay connected. See you next time. [music] >> [music]