And he literally admitted and said that he doesn't really care that I'm only 15. >> You kidding me? You got two four-year-olds sleeping in the back seat. >> You're driving 82 m an hour. >> The kids said they haven't had anything to eat up today. >> Adults often say, "I'm fine when questioned, but [music] rarely stop to ask, what about the children?" >> The lion one of the lying 15year-old people in the world. >> Whole bottle of tequila under the seat. Almost gone. >> Wake up. Wake up. >> When grown-ups struggle to cope, authorities may be the help children have left. >> [music] >> Sometimes the heartbreak isn't support stepping in. It's arriving too late. >> You didn't let me talk to my son. That's not legal. >> This mother walked into Goodwill with her children, but left in tears as authorities [music] stepped in. On October 12th, 2024, officers received a call about a woman who had collapsed inside a [music] Goodwill store accompanied by two young children. Responders arrived quickly and their concern was not only the mother's condition but also the well-being of the two children standing beside her. >> They're right back up there. >> She is gone. Pinpoint dozen off on us. Um has two kids. >> I think she was the entire kids over here. Can't get anyone to watch the kids. The other got a hold of someone. Whoever was said I don't have gas in my car. This isn't my problem. >> Are the kids okay? They're okay right now. I mean, they haven't haven't eaten. I'm sure they're hungry, but they're not. She is looking at her. >> She's our pinpoint. She started her speech. She denies any medications, any alcohol. She denies any type of situation, but she is she can barely stay away. >> She said the kids had had lunch. The kids said they haven't had anything to eat up today. >> If you can't keep your eyes open, I need you to sit on the ground. >> Are your kids allergic to anything? No kind of peanut allergy, nothing like that. No food allergies. >> Okay. >> Do you have an ID on you? I have demographic shift. Like >> you just used it. How did you get here? You drove like this. That's stupid. >> What have you taken today? >> That's a lie. >> Every single one of us can tell by looking at you that you're high. So what have you taken today? >> What? >> You're ready to lay down. >> Yeah, cuz you can't keep your eyes open cuz you're so high. >> I can tell tell you for the first time. You started right before the hurricane. Yeah. >> You're not going to talk louder. I can't hear you. >> How about I have cut my song? >> Can you talk louder? >> Yeah. >> Okay. I'm going to read this to you. Okay. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court. Do you understand each of these rights I have explained to you? >> Exactly. >> What don't you understand about them? >> What's going on? >> You're having a conversation with me right now. >> I know. Come here. >> He's going with him. Yeah, but why does he have my keys to my truck? >> He does not have permission to go. >> We're with him. He's fine. >> No, you don't have the right to take my son out of this. I'm trying to talk to you right now. Brother, you're separating his brother. >> You understand your right? >> I don't understand my right. Don't you understand my right? So, if you take my son away from his brother, now you're taking all three of us apart. >> That's son's responsibility to take care of his brother. >> No, but the three of us are together. >> He has severe ASD. >> He's fine. I feel like you're taking him as an adult out the store. >> We're not doing anything with us as an adult. >> I have the right to stay with my son >> right now. My son. Yes, I do. >> Oh, you're with me. You're being detained. >> Why can't I be with my son? >> Jennifer, you're being detained right now. >> No, I want to know why I can't. My son is one. He's severely autistic. You've got him over here crying. >> You put your children in this situation. >> You've just taken my son who's under 18 out the store. >> Are you kidding? >> They've already checked everything. >> I might be pregnant. I don't know. But you just taken my son out of the store. You're making me feel afraid of why you're taking my son out of the store. >> He's with law enforcement. What's going to happen? >> Why are you taking my son out of >> We're trying to figure out what's going on. You can't even stay awake or answer my question. >> I've been telling you the answers. >> So many different people and then you didn't let me talk to my son. That's not legal. >> It's perfectly legal. >> That's not legal. >> You watch too much TV. You're helping big brother. >> I'm sorry. The signs that some basic needs had not been fully met were noticeable in the children. However, when faced with that reality, the mother [music] still believed she was a good parent and seemed unsure about accepting help from those around her. >> Can I ask her a question real quick? >> Yes. >> Your son's in a dirty diaper. Is there a clean diapers in the car? >> Yeah. >> Do I have your permission to grab one out for him? >> I'll go get it for him. >> I need you to wait here. I'm not looking for anything else. >> I'll go get it for him. >> Do you need to sit here and talk to her? >> I'll go get it for him. >> You don't have permission. Okay. He's going to sit there in a dirty diaper in a dirty diaper diaper. I'll buy him a new diaper. >> Jennifer, I'm not a cop. Can I go into your car and get a diaper? >> I'll go with you. >> That's not an option. >> You're not going. >> No, because I don't trust you guys. >> I literally just want to get your son. >> You're separating all three of us. You're bombarding me. Nobody's listening to anything I have to say. You're taking my son out of the store. >> You obviously don't understand that you're not in a position to care for children at the moment. And it's unacceptable. And it's not. And you can talk to the officers. I haven't talk to Jonathan. >> You're under arrest for whatever. >> You got to get your vitals really quick. I will see you right here. >> We weren't going to let us check in till 2:30. The budget ends Wednesday. Check yours. >> And I showed him the movie theater cuz you've never seen the movie theater. >> When she's asking you questions, you're not responding to questions she's asking. We're just trying to find out what's going on. >> What's going on? You guys are interrupting me. You're not letting me tell you the story. The story is is that they grew up in the same house. We all grew up in the same house. >> Before we give you all of this, I need you to acknowledge the fact that I read you your Miranda warning. >> Do you need me to read them again? >> The thing is is that I don't understand. >> You can hire a lawyer or the court can appoint one to you. Does that make sense? >> Yes. >> Okay. >> You don't have to. >> All right. So, now that you understand each of these rights, do you want to answer our questions and tell us what's going on and why you're in this state? Yeah. >> Okay, let's do that. >> You can tell us what's going on. No one's going to eat your room. Don't start from like your child's place. Just tell us what what's going on today. >> We need to know what's today. >> Really backs up to the storm. I got a flat tire. We have been staying in a hotel. The reason we were staying at a hotel is we hadn't found a place to stay yet. This sister has possession of my dad's will. >> What happened when you woke up this morning? What did you do? >> Wenthead and got my fix into my tire. >> Okay. I drove over to because it wasn't enough. I drove over to the tire. So I needed a new tire. They said it was going to be 60 bucks. They gave me email. >> Mhm. >> They were on the I trying to think. >> You taking medication? >> On medication right now. >> Not on medication. >> So you went So you put fix that in your tire and then you went to the tire shop and then what happened? So it was going to be 60 bucks and then what happened? >> It was bigger. It might have been bigger. So then we went to um the face plat was before. All right. Tell me fix my tire. But she didn't fix my tire on my own. So their dad had a stroke. >> So their dad had a stroke. Okay. >> And oh my god, you know, oh my god, you know, did you pay? Cuz that's their stuff and they're this and the that other people bought and that I bought his dad bought. Yeah. What do you want me to do about it? And blah blah blah. He's very sto after I lost my days and I had like >> wake up. Wake up. >> My car. I'm just so tired. I haven't slept because you've been sleeping and I haven't slept. I haven't the first time I ate my son about me eating and sleeping about me eating. >> All right. Thank you for calling me. They're going to do that to your kid. >> Because of me. Jennifer, what's wrong with you? Go to your >> Because I want them to know what's going on. >> Your child is a child. Let it be a child to know that you guys arrest me from home. >> Yes, cuz he needs some protect. Jennifer, you and I both know that you are not just tired. You've taken something. I'm not stupid. I wasn't born yesterday. Get in the damn car. Stop doing that to your kids. >> But he's doing he has no take care of >> and you're not able to take care of him. That's why you're under arrest. >> The budget in right now to go home and go to sleep. >> You're not being a good parent. That's why you're under arrest. Through further conversation, officers learned the family did not have consistent housing and often move between temporary places to stay, raising serious concerns [music] about stability and overall well-being for the children. >> Just before anybody leaves, I can just get a case. >> Sorry to all day. I know you guys have more important things to do. >> This is more important than anything we were doing. >> The kids are more important. >> The kids are more important than anything. People can fight it out over gas. Babies can't protect themselves. >> She's driving in that state with the kids. Right. She goes, >> she's lucky she didn't on the way here. We don't know. She can't formulate Central. >> She's been here before. I've seen her before, but she never met kids. I've kicked her out before. We've kicked her out. >> We're going to try to find Mexican for the kids. Try to take care. >> Like patrol car. Have you set in a police car before? >> Pretty cool, huh? Actually, I have >> Yeah, I ride in it. >> You got a ride in it. >> Ride in it. >> Super cool. >> You have a flat tire? >> Yeah. Then we had Jacob. Chelsea trans mom and dad. Then we got kicked out. Then the storm coming last night when we were running out. Not kicked out. >> You want these now, baby? >> No. >> Are you sure? >> You want to keep them for later? >> For later. Thank you. >> Open so they're >> I saw a little decal hanging up in your car that said Palm View. Is that your school? >> Yes. >> Yeah. What grade are you in >> so far? It sounds like they've been living in a different hotels. They stayed in. He doesn't remember the name of it, but they stayed in a hotel last night. He said the last time they were in a regular home. It's been about a year. Mom does feed them. They just ate earlier today. I really haven't got to get into like the and everything. >> Real quick start cleaning his hands and stuff. Do you guys want to take pictures or it's poop on his nails? So, I need to >> Yeah, we'll take a picture. >> The moment that [music] left many people quiet wasn't when the mother was escorted away for further assistance, but when a young boy calmly answered [music] the officer's questions. The family's situation appeared fragile. A child, not yet grown, had [music] already been pushed to be independent, something no child should have to carry. >> You see those hands holding that cell phone? >> Can you show me your pretty hands? You're doing awesome, buddy. Thank you so much. >> I got both of them. >> You said uh we're staying at your mom's friend's house, right? What's that lady that you said your name? >> Heather. >> Heather. Yeah. Who's that >> person that has a daughter? Mom, sister. >> Your mom's sister? >> Yeah. >> Do you have anybody Heathering the contact? >> Yeah. >> Let me ask you a question. Do you know the difference between a truth and a lie? >> If I was to tell you that the sky is green, is that a truth or a lie? >> It's a lie. >> Okay. If I was to say you go to Palm View Elementary, is that true or a lie? >> True. >> Okay. >> Does your mommy act like that normally? >> Kind of. Kind of. Usually when she doesn't get that much sleep. >> She been up for a long time. >> Yeah. >> Does your mommy smoke at all? >> It helps her like calm down. >> What does she smoke? Do you see what it looks like? >> Purple. Not big. Purple cigarette boxes. >> Purple cigarette boxes. >> Yeah. She usually smokes like three different ones. None at a row, but she usually bottles them from strangers. >> Do you ever see mommy do anything else other than smoke? >> Not really. >> Not really. Who takes care of you and your brother? Me and my mom. >> You and your mom? >> Yeah. >> So, you help your mom out a lot? >> Yeah. >> Are you big brother or little brother? >> Middle brother. >> You're middle brother? >> Yeah. >> Who's your older brother? >> 15year-old brother. Parents won't let the brother ever see my mom. Just me and my my brother. >> Oh, does he have a different dad? >> Yeah. >> What about you and your little brother? Same dad. >> Yeah. Okay. >> Does your brother go to school? >> No. He stays home with mom. Yeah, cuz he can't talk and there's no school friends. >> I'm sorry. >> Can I ask you a question? >> Yeah. >> Has anybody in these uniforms or CPS ever asked you these questions before like we're asking you now at school or anything? >> No. >> Nothing like that? >> Nothing like that. >> We're just asking to make sure you're safe. Okay. >> And we're just trying to make sure your mommy gets some help because she doesn't seem to be feeling good right now. >> When mommy acts like this, how often would you say mommy kind of feels like that and acts like that? >> Two days. >> Usually a couple days. >> Yeah. Okay. Does it happen a lot or a little bit or not really? A little bit. >> Does your mom ever sleep for a really long time and leave you in charge of your brother? >> I don't know. >> Do you ever take care of your brother? >> Yeah. >> For how long would you say is the longest? >> Mostly like a few minutes. Usually gets on my nerves sometimes. >> Okay. >> I just give him just >> the hotel where you guys are staying at, do you remember what it looks like or what it's next to? >> Onestory building with close to subway. supposed to be a cop like on a light. >> Is there a McDonald's close to it? >> No. >> Do you know who Jay is? >> No. >> When's the last time you went to school? >> Week ago. >> A week ago before the storm. >> Yeah. >> Where did you guys stay during the storm? >> Palmetto probably. >> What's in Palmetto? >> I think we stayed there for >> got kicked out. >> Yeah. So, is it normally just you, your brother, and your mama? >> Yeah, usually my dad. >> Usually your dad, too. But he's sick right now. >> No, he's not sick at all. He's just in surgery. >> Oh, he's in surgery. >> He just stays at Blake Hospital. >> Do you know your dad's name? >> Donnie. >> Do you know how old your daddy is? >> 55. Yeah. >> His birthday. >> No. >> That's okay. I don't know. >> Do you know what hospital he's at? >> Blake Hospital. >> Blake, >> we're going to try to get a hold of your daddy. Okay. >> They already did talk to him. >> They did. >> EMS did. >> We'll send somebody over to talk to your daddy. Okay. >> Okay. >> All right. You okay? >> Yeah. >> You have any questions for me or anything? >> Yeah. >> Yeah. What's your question? >> Why did mom get arrested? I don't think your mom is probably doing her best right now. Okay. I think that you guys need to be taken care of a little bit better. Sorry that that that happened to you. >> Where are we going to be staying at? >> Well, we're going to go try to talk to your dad and see if we can get you to stay with either him or some other family. Okay. >> He's kind of at Blake Hospital and he keeps saying like stuff. I'm going home like today. He's like the first day I seen him. of that stroke. He was like, he thought he was talking normal. Then we heard him and he couldn't really talk as much. >> I promise you, we're going to find you somewhere safe for you and your brother to stay, okay? I promise you. >> Mom makes jokes like he likes ice cream so much that he stole his roommate's ice cream. >> Oh, really? >> Not really. >> Your mom sounds funny. Can I ask you something? >> Yeah. >> When was the last time you and your brother had a bath or a shower? Do you remember? >> I don't really know. >> You don't know? >> Like we have been going to hotel the hotel the hotel. >> Is that normal or is that just cuz of the storm? >> Not the storm. Just we were staying somewhere in our truck. Then it got too scary for my mom. So we went inside. >> Going to be on the way, but it's going to be a few minutes. I don't have a booster seat. So we can't transport the child over to at least the front desk and hang out there. That's where we're at. There's no sense of keeping her here. I'm going to call one of my guys. come over here and maybe they can go into the store and buy the own. And like I said, his diaper was sold. He's nonverbal. >> Thank you. >> The mother was charged with possession of a controlled substance [music] without a prescription and two counts of child. Under Florida law, she could face penalties of up to 15 years in prison [music] and fines of up to $15,000. It is hoped that the mother receives the support she needs to rebuild her life. And it is hoped [music] that after everything, the two children will have a childhood filled with care, love, and the [music] chance to simply be children. >> Here now, >> I need an officer out there, please. >> Okay. What's going on? >> Mess with my niece. Get him here now. >> Okay. Can you uh give me a little bit of info about what's going on? >> My sister's husband exposed himself to my 15year-old niece. >> Okay. When did this happen? 30 minutes ago, maybe. >> This brief call revealed an emotional story unfolding behind the closed doors of a family. On August 24th, 2024, officers received a call from a mother reporting concerning behavior [music] by a stepfather toward her 15-year-old daughter along with messages that prompted authorities to step in to ensure the teen's safety. The situation began on what seemed like a normal evening. The adults had drinks to unwind and tension followed. No one expected heightened emotions to lead to actions that crossed important family boundaries. To avoid further conflict, the mother went into her daughter's room and locked the door. From there, the sense of safety within the home began to shift. >> All right, so my sister and Jimmy had been drinking and supposedly I'll let you tell them. >> I got a little nervous. Just let y'all know. Oh, but anyways, my mom has said that was arguing. I don't know what it was about, but my mom had came to my room to avoid it cuz he does like to egg it on. So, my mom had came to my room to just take a break from him, this and that. Uh, he had came, see, I get a little notice. He had came down the hallway and I had my door locked so he couldn't come in cuz he would have kept starting stuff. And he kept wiggling my door knob. It was making me mad. My mom was like, "Don't open the door. Don't open the door." And I was like, "No, it's honestly pissing me off. So, I'm going to open the door." He I opened that door. He was like, just standing there staring at me. Didn't say a word. And he looked at me for like 20 seconds and then walked away. Didn't say nothing. I found it weird. I don't really know what else to say because that's really all I have to say. >> You got a tag from him. >> Ice cream. I I don't know who >> he can try to burn the alcohol he wants, but come to find out he >> he literally admitted that he did it. And he literally admitted and said that he doesn't really care that I'm only 15. >> No good address for him where he lives. >> This is where he lives. >> Oh, this is where he lives. Okay. >> He had gotten his brother over here to get him away from the whole situation and he went to his brother's house. I don't. And he lives by the elementary school. >> Okay. >> He lives on 24th Street. >> He lives by like the uh softball field. Yeah. >> But I don't know the address. >> Okay. Was there anybody else that saw this or >> Okay. Well, his is here. Um he was laying on the couch and I guess he had saw his dad walk by like in the hallway and I guess Jimmy which is is that he Jimmy had turned towards his kid and just looked at him and Bar just said, "Hi, dad." And waved. So he knew like his eye was going to my room. >> Okay. >> Oh my god. >> He's a little boo. >> So he's in there. >> No, his brother took him. >> Yeah, >> can come out here. >> Not only the teenage girl, but another child in the home also witnessed the stepfather acting inappropriately in a shared family space. >> Roger's not used to this. >> You're okay. So you did say you were laying on the couch and you did see your dad walk past all naked, right? >> Mhm. >> So >> Okay. >> There he is right there. >> What's So your dad been drinking tonight? Is he drunk or do you know? >> No. >> No. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Did he seem intoxicated to you? >> Um, not really. But he did buy himself a 12-pack and he didn't drink all of it. So I really don't know if he was like buzzed or like sober when he had done it. But his eyes did kind of look a little heavy. So I It's It's really hard to say. >> So the only thing that happened was is you just saw him get he didn't he didn't touch you or didn't you anything? >> I just found it weird cuz he just stood there and didn't apologize and do nothing. And I knocked on his door and I was like, "Really, Jimmy?" I was like, "You literally stood in front of a 15-year-old door just but he's like, "You need to get the f out this and that." And I was like, "No, I'm not getting out." I was like, "You effed up on your part." I was like, "I didn't do anything wrong. Nobody did nothing wrong but you." before they been placed in the left because he just came on to her son's girlfriend and things like that, >> right? >> There's a pattern here and she's not want her sister's not willing to see it, >> which I I get. I mean, >> yeah. >> However, in the face of this serious situation, the mother seemed to struggle with addressing it directly. Many parents choose silence to keep the peace, but that silence can sometimes take away the protection children need most. They can't. >> Well, it's frustrating every time to mom. You can't just be like, "Oh, they're going to take him." Like, >> they always do. >> I'm sorry. I >> Well, I mean, we we can't keep him from being here since he lives here. But I I don't know what kind of plan you want to have in place to >> keep them separated. If he tries to come back, he told me if he wants to get close to leave for a while, they can let him in to get close. Bottom line, you got to keep him away from her. >> God, I've been through this so many times. >> So, enough's enough, Kendra. I'm not going to take your kids because you're doing what you're supposed to do. >> I have nowhere to go. >> Don't worry about it. You're fine here. Please not coming back. >> It's not my home. This home. >> You're missing the point. >> I'm missing the point. get a restraining order put on it. He can't come back here until a judge says he can. >> That buys time. That's all you need to worry about. They like to move out tomorrow. You can't let him back here. [music] >> Okay. I can't let him back here, but if he needs his personal belongings, >> you can call the police and they can escort him in. >> Well, Sean's going to get a hold of me. >> Fine. It's fine. >> It's fine. Despite challenges while speaking with the family, officers gathered the necessary information and move forward with appropriate steps under the law. Me here >> he's in there sleeping. You want need to talk to him? >> I do. Cooper. >> Yeah. >> All right. Go ahead and turn around for me. >> You're under arrest for indecent exposure. >> Jimmy, >> is that misdemeanor or a felony? You know, >> that's a felony. >> Really? >> Yeah. >> My wallet. Yeah. Did you talk to the kids? >> Mhm. >> I don't know. Alpha, nothing like that. I don't know the kids. Nope. >> They didn't understand him on the way over here. He was pretty damn drunk when I went and picked him up. Like I don't know if they would. He He's more than five or six beers drunk. You know what I'm saying? There's some whiskey or liquor or something. But they're trying to tell me it was just five or six beers. That's what they're saying. And I'm like, he's more than five or six. I've never seen him this wrong. You know what I mean? I couldn't even have a >> civil conversation. >> No, I just brought him over here to get him out of the situation cuz they had done like supposedly all the brother, you know, I'm like, we ain't doing this. I'll just go pick him up. >> Well, the way the way the daughter described it, I thought, uh, he's probably been drink. >> No, it's >> she she talked like he was kind of zombie out and just stood there for a little bit and walked off. But at the same time, >> well, he was knocking on the door cuz the wife went there to hide. >> Yeah. And then the wife, instead of coming to the door like she should have, she's telling the daughter, "Don't open the door." Well, the daughter being which I don't know if you can tell, she's a little sassy for a 15-year-old, said, "Now, I've had enough of this." And goes and swings the door open. Now, yes, he probably shouldn't have had his Johnson out. But had the wife just went and answered the door, had they been adults, I've never once locked myself in a room in this house or my wife, you know what I'm saying? >> Yeah. >> We don't do that as adults. It's not an adult. You know what I mean? >> They're in a child state of mind, both of Right now I was thinking, man, I sure hope he's empty cuz I don't want to be cleaning pee up tomorrow. >> Yeah. >> I appreciate you guys. >> What stands out is that despite statements from the children and other family members, the man continued to believe he had done nothing wrong. I'm >> going to read you something. Okay. I'm going to read you your Miranda rightites here. >> Oh, yeah. You're supposed to read that when I you arrested me. >> I don't have to read it right away when I arrest you. >> Oh, that's okay. >> I just have to read it to you before I talk to you. You have the right to remain silent. these rights in mind. Do you wish to talk to me now? >> Yeah. Okay. So, we were me and my wife were drinking and me and my wife have been we've been getting into it about her daughter. She's 15. She's been drinking. >> The daughter has >> Yes. All we I was doing was I went to bed, right? And I I'm going to bed. Well, my wife decided I I took a shower and we were we That was the I took a shower. I went to bed. Well, my wife said something. I opened the door to my room and I yelled for her and she I don't remember what she said but I shut the door. Well then all of a sudden when she got out of the shower she was tripping saying that why would you open the door? Why? >> So you're saying she saw you in your room when you opened the door? >> My wife. >> Well is it possible that you didn't do it on purpose but that you were just so drunk that you know >> I'm not that drunk. >> Your brother said he hadn't seen you that drunk before. My brother said that. >> I don't That's >> like So what gives you guys enough proof? Like how where's your proof that I it was right? It was enough to to take me to jail. >> Her daughter, we got called over there and her daughter told us that you went to the doorway of her bedroom and stood there in the doorway completely naked for a little bit. You didn't say she didn't say you said anything or anything like that, but you stood there naked and then turned around and walked off. And then I talked to your son and he said that >> you talked to my son. >> Mhm. >> My 8-year-old son. >> This is crazy. So you just got her the lion one of the most lying 15year-old people in the world. >> The stepfather faced a charge of indecent exposure in many US states. [music] This offense can carry penalties ranging from 1 to 5 years in prison along with fines between $5,000 and $10,000. Not everyone who causes lasting impact recognizes their actions. But a lack of awareness does not remove responsibility, especially when a child's safety and healthy development are affected. When the vehicle was pulled over, no one expected the greatest concern wasn't the speed, but the small lives in the back seat. >> You kidding me? You got two four-year-olds sleeping in the back seat. You're driving 82 mph. >> On April 21st, 2025, officers stopped a vehicle for speeding and continuing to accelerate, raising safety concerns. The situation quickly became more serious when they discovered two young children asleep inside the car without seat belts along with items linked to possible legal issues. Hi, I'm officer Pearson with the Mayo Police Department. Uh, reason I pulled yours cuz you're doing 82 and a 45. >> I want to try. >> Okay. Do you have a license? Proof of insurance? >> Proof of insurance? >> Why are we going so fast? >> Huh? >> Why are we going so fast? >> You drove past me doing I don't even know what speed >> and then you just kept speeding up. Okay. All right. Go ahead and turn the car off for me. And then Could I get the key? >> And you got a kid in the back. >> Yeah. >> Is she sleeping? >> I got >> What's that? >> I got two. >> They're both in there. Yeah. >> They're not even buckled. >> Huh? >> They're not even buckled. >> I know. They just took it off cuz I seen >> Are you kidding me? Uh, so this is a situation. Um, I thought she was fleeing, so she flew past me, put her brakes on. I'm like, "Okay, so she's she's slowing down." I didn't get a speed on her originally, but she slowed down, so it's fine. And I just keep following her cuz I'm like, "Man, she keeps gaining speed." So I'm like saying I'm like 62, 66, 69, 75, 82. I was like, "Turn my lights on." I was thinking she was going to flee. Well, she's got two kids in the back seat, not in seat belts, sleeping. Smells like like she's been smoking. >> So, she can't show me proof of insurance cuz her phone's dead. So, I guess I'm just going to side her. I mean, I don't know what she got twins in the back seat that aren't buckled. But, I'm going to give her a citation for each one of them. I mean, right. I'll give her a citation for one kid on a seat belt, one kid not a seat belt. >> How old are they? >> And then I don't even know. I was going to look cuz I need to know if they're under eight or not, right? >> But I got the key now. So, but >> so why was >> I'm thinking about searching the car as well. >> She's speeding up. >> What's that? I was just just just trying to get home. >> So, what was the final speed you got her at? >> 82 and 45. Coming down over over here. As I'm coming down, she's coming up. I was like, "Oh, 82 to 45. That's it." I was figuring she's going to flee, >> right? >> On the interstate. And uh I'm like, she pulls over. I'm like, "No kidding." But she has a there's a call about her reckless driving call about her in Collinsville. Like, oh, that makes sense. But she has she's known for traffic. She's got all kind She's got warrant arrest for traffic. But I'm going to get her out. I'm going to search around her anyways because >> while officers work to arrange temporary care for the children, signs that the mother was not fully alert became increasingly clear. >> Hey, go ahead and hop out of the car for me. >> Anything in the car? >> No. >> No. Okay. Come back here with me. You got anything on you? >> No. >> Okay. I'm going to search your car. Okay. Uh how how uh young are your kids? >> Four. >> Four? You kidding me? You got two foury olds sleeping in the back seat. >> You're driving 82 m an hour and then you got car. >> Where's the phone? >> Yeah. I'm not Go back there. That's good parenting, I'd say. Right. Hey, who lives with you? >> Where's the dad in? >> What about grandparents? Anyone close? >> Just I'm going to get mom. I don't Yeah. Yeah. Seems like it. I would do that with my kids, too. You know, it's pretty cool. Anything on you? >> Okay. Now, you're going to go to jail. Okay. Okay. >> Who can you call that's close? Someone as close as possible. >> How How close is she? >> Okay, we need to call her. I have >> What's that? I'll put the handcuffs in the front. You got to call someone to come get these kids. >> All right, guys. I don't want to go. >> What's that? >> That's all I want to do. >> Why you're going to jail? 82 and 45. >> I don't have no warrant for anything. >> What? >> Yeah. >> No, you don't have any warrants. >> So, I'm going to jail for >> what? Why are you going to jail? >> Yeah. >> 82 and a 45. 26 over is misdemeanor. >> And you like the speed? >> No, I don't. No, just history. >> I mean, as you can tell from my record, >> I've been doing good lately. So, >> she said she had alcohol earlier. >> Earlier? How much earlier? >> No, just I want >> Your phone's dead, so we can't call. >> I told you. >> I got the number, though. >> You got the number? >> Yeah. intoxicated. >> I don't know. >> That's what I was kind of thinking. That's why I got turned around right away and I'm like, the blunt's warm. >> She's smoking while she's driving. I'll have one of custody. >> Copy number to pick up a kid from the car. >> So, now the story changed from I didn't smoke at all today to Yeah, I smoked. >> Yeah, it was it was I could feel it still warm in the thing. So, All right, I'll run through uh fields with her. >> To better understand her condition, they conducted standard roadside assessments. Although the mother stated she was completely fine, the results suggested she was not in a suitable state to drive. It serves as an important reminder that self assessment is sometimes not enough to ensure the safety of others. >> All right. >> When was the last time you drank? >> Earlier. >> How much earlier? cuz I can smell it and then the way you were walking in my car and you were >> I'm not drunk. >> You're not drunk. So would you go through a field of test? >> Would you go through tests? >> Fields for body test. I can smell it on your breath now. >> I understand I'm not drunk. >> Okay. When were you smoking? >> Earlier. >> How much earlier? Why is the blunt more? >> I don't like I told I don't know. >> Okay. All right. I'm going to take these off of you. Okay. >> Okay. You got like a blanket or something. Cover a little bit. I took my bra off cuz it's a little tight and I was hanging. If my kids like that, can you not scare them with this? Like that. >> You scared them. Driving that fast. I'm just trying to get I know. Honestly, I understand. I'mma sing along. I know how this go. >> My kids everything. >> All right. All right. So, I'm going to run you through a few a series of tests. Okay. >> Do you wear contacts? >> No. >> Have you hit your head, bumped your head, anything in the last >> 24 hours? Uh, do you have any balance issues at all? Anything with your legs, your knees, your hips, anything like that? >> No, I don't. >> Okay. So, I'm going to run you through this uh field of test. Okay. All right. I'm going to have you look at my the tip of my finger. Okay. >> Okay. >> Keep your head still. You can take a break. Okay. All right. And then we're going to go into the test. Okay. All right. So, the first one will be horizontal stagnus. Okay. I'm going to read this to you word for word. Okay. And then I'm going to do the test. Okay. >> All right. >> I want to check your eyes. You don't wear glasses. You don't wear contacts. Correct. >> Correct. >> Okay. Are you focused on the tip of the stimulus? Keep your head still and follow the tip of the stimulus with your eyes only. Do not move your head. Do you understand these instructions? >> I do. >> Okay. What's that? >> I do that. >> Okay. No, the first one I have to check for other things. Okay. >> Well, let me know. Let you know I'm shivering, so I'm a little shaky right now. It's kind of chilly out here. >> Do you want to grab a jacket? >> I mean, I have one. I was in the car with heat on, so I'm just letting you Okay. Do you want to continue your test? >> Mhm. >> Okay. Keep your hands out at your side. Take them out of your pockets for me. >> Oh, it's so far out here. >> Sorry. I'm sorry. >> No. I'm going to continue with the next test. Okay. Keep your hands down by your side. >> Don't move your head. We're going to move on to the next test. Okay. All right. So, the next one will be the walk and turn. >> And like you said, you don't have any physical problems that keep you from balancing off or anything like that. Correct. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Place your left foot on this line. So, we can use this line if you want or we can use an imaginary line. It's up to you. >> What's that? >> Which line? >> We can use this line or we can use an imaginary line. >> You want to use this one? Okay. We'll come back here. Okay. So, you place your left foot on this line. Place your right foot in on the line in front of your left foot touching heel to toe. Place your arms at your sides. Maintain this position until I have completed the instructions. Do you understand? >> When I tell you to begin, you'll take nine heel to toe steps down the line. Turn around and return nine heel to toe steps back. I'm going to demonstrate. Okay. So, I have my left foot. Keep keep on the line. Stay on the line. >> I'm sorry. I just need to come. >> So, I have my left foot. I put my right foot in front. >> I'm going to do one two on to nine. A series of small steps and then I'll do one 2 3 on to nine. So, you'll do you'll continue to nine. Okay. Do you understand those instructions? While you are walking, keep your arms at your sides. Watch your feet and count your steps out loud. Do not stop until you have completed the test. >> You can take your shoes off if you want. >> Well, I guess I have to be serious because I I'm cold. >> Watch your feet. Count your steps out loud. Do not stop until you have completed the test. Do you understand these instructions? You may begin and count the first step from heel to toe stance as number one. >> 1 2 3. >> Okay. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 and 9. >> So, we'll go on to the last test. Okay. So, this will be the one leg This will be the one leg stand. Okay. So, you're going to stand with your feet together and your arms at your sides. Take your hands out of your pockets. Do you understand? Okay. So, you stand just like this. All right. >> Okay. When I tell you to start, raise one leg, either leg with the foot about 6 in off the ground, keeping your raised foot parallel to the ground while you count out loud. 100 1,002 1003 until told to stop. Keep your hands at your sides and watch your foot while you are counting. Okay, I'm going to demonstrate for you. So, you keep your hands at your sides, put one foot out 6 in off the ground, 100,00 1 until you're told to do so. Keep your I'm going to tell you when to begin. Okay, so it'll be like this. I'm going to demonstrate it for you. 100,00 1 100 2 100 3 and on until I tell you to stop. >> Do you understand those instructions? >> Yes, sir. >> Okay, you can begin. >> Do you understand the instructions? >> Yeah, you said it like this, right? >> I know. >> Okay. You're supposed to count out loud when you're doing the test. >> Okay. I didn't know you was telling me. >> Okay. Okay. >> You can do it again. >> 100 1,002 1,00 3 100. >> Look down at your foot. 1 5 1 6 Okay. Okay. All right. So, for the last one, just put your arms out like this, and then you'll lean like this. Okay. All right. All right. You're being placed under arrest for DUI. Okay. >> Uh, no. Uh, yes. I'm serious. I'm not joking, man. Um, your kids are going to be picked up. >> I had the everything, right? >> You failed every test. I'm going to put you in the back of my car. Is the state coming? All right. There's nothing in here, so if anything ends up on the ground, it's yours. >> At that point, the mother's explanation raised further questions after an initial check revealed an unusual item in the front of the vehicle. >> That the aunt's coming from Belleville. >> She said she was lived around the corner. >> Soon as she started walking back to my car, I'm like, "No. Did you see me?" I turned around. I'm like, "Yeah, you're going to jail." She was >> She's drank a lot more than what she said. And And her blunt's still warm in there. >> I'm going have stoner come pick these kids up. >> Take them back to the PD. >> They're still sleeping probably. >> 80 82 45. She just kept gaining speed. I thought she was fleeing. >> I get They're still sleeping, so I'm going to let them sleep. I know for my kids, I just let them clean. But I don't think I drive 82 and drunk with my kids either. So I don't even know. I didn't even look at her ID. >> That way that way they can just Hey, let's go meet the mom. >> I don't even know. I think she lives in Evansville. >> You already searched the car. Search. >> I haven't searched shirts. I searched the back seat yet because kids are in there. I did the I did the front, but she's got that blunt in there. >> That's That's the only thing. Yeah, that's the only thing that I found so far. But I didn't want to wake the kids up too much with going through all this. >> Right. be better just to keep them in there. >> Uh, I think so in the back as long as it's in here. >> I don't have my car. >> Smiley's like, "Hey." He's like, "Hey, I'll put everything in the car, but I don't know if I got it all." You still live in Granite? Still live in Granite. >> Lives in Granite. >> She lives in Granite. >> Got it, too. Coming this way, I guess. Getting on the interstate. That's Reese's. So, it's probably even I guess we'll just wait for the kids. >> What's that? Your aunt is picking up the kids. >> Why? >> Why do I have to what? >> And then also, she'll need to pick you up from the police department as well. >> I have insurance on my car and my >> I have insurance on my car, too, but I don't drive drunk at 82 mph. >> You'll have your chance to blow at the police department. All right. This female officer is going to search anything on step out. >> Yeah, you can follow me. >> Okay. Open your mouth. You guys are good, right? >> Yeah. Yeah. >> I know. >> Thank you. >> We'll put her in the back of this over here. Step on with this. You can follow me. Thank you. >> [laughter] >> Yeah, I mean you you saw she failed every test. Every single one and her eyes were bounce. I bet she blows double. I can smell it still on her. I can smell in the back of my car. >> I can smell in the back of her car. But I think when I first got up there, I can smell that. It was strong. But the blunt's still warm. So I guess we'll get the kids out in your car. Um I already told them in custody, right? Originally, >> attention then shifted fully to the two children. Although officers did not want to startle them, they had to wake them while checking the rest of the car, where they later found a nearly empty drink container intended for adults. >> There's one of them that time. >> Hey guys. Hey. Hey, wake up. Dang. >> You step out for me. I'm going to give you a ride. Okay. >> And we're going to give you a ride. Can we give you a ride? >> Any help? You're okay. You're not in trouble. >> You want your blanket? Yeah, you can take your blanket. >> Hey, wake up. >> Anything else you need? >> Okay. You okay? >> Is there anything else in there that you want? Okay. >> You got it. >> Okay. Just wait right here for me. Okay. Is this your sister? >> I'm going to pick you up. Is that okay? Do you want to walk? Okay. Do you want me to put you in the car? You want me to pick you up or do you want to walk? >> I like your Sonic sandals. Those are cool. You want me to pick you up or you want to walk? >> Can you come out out here with your sister? We're just going to give you a ride down the street. Okay. Are you scared? >> You want this? You want a blanket? I think your aunt's coming to pick you up. Can you come with us? >> You want me to pick you up? I'll I'll carry you. Is this your sister? Your brother? >> That's my brother. >> That's your brother. Okay. He's going to come with us, too. >> That's my mom car. >> That's your mom's car? >> Okay. She's going to come with us for a little bit. Okay. I'm going to put you guys back here, though. Okay. You want to get in there? >> We'll have to just take a little ride in here. Okay. Your brother's going to come in with you. You want to sit with your sister up there? >> You need help? There you go. You want this? No, you don't want it. Okay. You want to hold it? >> You guys look tired. You guys should be in bed sleeping. Okay. That sucks. >> You can't drive drunk and 82 miles an hour with two kids in the car either. 82 and 45. It's like, what in the world? She passed me going super fast and then I couldn't get a speed on her and then she just keeps and I'm like, okay, she slowed down and then she just keeps gaining speed and I'm like, what in the world? whole bottle of tequila under the seat. Almost gone. Uh one of those uh what do you call it? The not a fifth. It's the little like gas station bottles. Slim. What What size is that? Liter. A liter, right? It's like that much left. Cold under the seat. So that was probably what she was drinking as I was pulling her over. All right. You good then? All right. I'm going to take a back booker and do all the DUI stuff. >> Both the mother and the children were taken from the scene, but in very different directions. One towards safe and supportive care, the other toward legal review under the law. >> All right, you guys. All right back there. All right, we're just going to go for a short ride. >> Okay. You okay? >> Good. Go ahead. >> All right. >> All right. You awake? You want to go inside? You want me to carry you? Okay, I'll carry you. >> You want to go inside? Let's set one of these chairs. Take it down. Okay. >> Driving while under the influence of alcohol, other drugs or intoxicating compounds or any combination thereof, DUI or section 11-41. Leaving the scene of a fatal personal accident, you're hereby notified that as provided. >> What's that? >> No, that's okay. Just let me read through it. do the right way. >> What's that? >> I did everything you asked me to do the right way. >> Okay. >> And I feel like >> Okay, let me read this. As providing section 11-500 of the Illinois vehicle code, you're you are a first offender unless within the last 5 years of this arrest for DUI or leaving the scene, you have had a previous conviction of court assigned supervision for DUI or similar provision of a local ordinance. You are further warned that if you are a commercial, are you a CDL? Do you have a CDL? Okay. And then you're not under 21. Are you a school bus school bus driver? Okay. Um, so then I'll just need you to sign here and then I'll do the rest. Okay. Um, >> was that that I read? Okay. So, you'll just sign right here. Signature motor. >> Yes. Two videos. I have mine. Then there's other officers there and then also my dash cam. Yes. >> All right. Are you going to blow? >> No. The suspension revion shall take revion shall take effect on the 46th day following issuance of this notice. What's that? >> Why am I getting revoked? >> Suspension. >> Why am I getting suspicion? >> What's that? After the 46th day, >> why am I getting >> from the DUI? >> Memorial, right? >> What's that? You'll have you'll have a court date. Let me read it and then we'll say that. Okay. Because you refused to submit or failed to complete testing, your driving privileges will be suspended suspended for a minimum of 12 months. And I'm gonna fill this stuff out and then I'll have you do the rest. Okay. >> Uh and it got towed by fastening towing. >> Why? >> What's that? >> Why? >> It would have been towed even if you didn't get a DUI. But with DUI, you tow and then there's a hold on your vehicle. >> A hold. >> There's a hold on your vehicle. >> For what? >> What's that? >> For what? >> For DUI. >> So I came in my car. >> Not yet. I'll let you know after we're finished with all this when you can get it back. Okay. >> That my car is no longer for no reason. What do you mean? >> Like I can't get it back now. >> I don't know what you mean. You can't you can get it back. It there'll just be a 12 or 24-hour hold, but if this is your second DUI, it be 24 hours. >> I've never had DIY >> on from according to dispatch you did. But I'll check back into it. Okay. What's that? >> Declining certain roadside or chemical assessments can be a legal right. However, in situations involving the safety of young children, choosing to cooperate and act cautiously is often in everyone's best interest. >> Don't do any citations. What is that? >> DUI. >> Well, I I was thinking about that. I was actually just coming out because I was going to call you. The I have to have a citation number for the machine. She She didn't want to give >> She refusing everything. >> She's refusing. Yeah. She don't want to give breast samples. So, Skip that. >> Yeah. So, um >> Well, I did. It says citation. I'm sure I just put zeros. >> Yeah. >> And then go a DUI and then release her out of here with nothing and then see if they'll charge a cuz I mean 82 me kid was in seat belts. The aunt was even like >> so um >> I just looked it up section K. It's a second subsequent or something like that with >> she said I never had DUI before. That's what dispatch said. >> She had that's what I said. And then she was like, "I hope you had cameras rolling because you're arrested me uh falsely arrested. I could have arrested you for 82 alcohol. >> I could go stick your head in here. I'm smelling right now." >> I mean, I thought when I was out there, I got a whiff. Seriously. >> Oh, I did. When I was when I was talking to her, I could definitely smell 100%. But when I first went up to the car, it was just like came out and hit me in the face. You do child one and two. I call DCFS >> do that tonight. She'll release the kids to the end and all that. But then I'll just But I was going to get her on two for uh kids. No insurance. 82 or 45. >> Get all the kids information either from her or the aunt. >> The name and the date of birth and all that where they're living too. >> Okay. With She said they live with her in Grand. >> Make sure it's a good address. Yeah, cuz I asked her if she still lives in Granite, but I'll make sure it's still the right address on there. >> Um, but for the citation, just put zeros. >> Hey, for the warning motorist, just what do I put for that citation number? Nothing. >> Okay. So, just keep everything and put it in the Okay. All right. The mother was charged with aggravated DUI, a class 2 felony, injuring the life or health of a child, a class A misdemeanor, and possession of in a vehicle with a minor, a class A misdemeanor. Under Illinois law, she could face a prison sentence ranging from 5 to 9 years. Most parents love their children to the best of their ability, and because of that love, every decision an adult makes behind the wheel carries great weight. Sometimes choosing the safer option is enough to help protect an entire childhood. Domestic conflict does not only affect adults. It can also deeply unsettle a child's sense of safety. >> You can't take you to jail. >> I'm not taking you to jail. Why would I take you to jail? >> On July 16th, 2024, police received a call from a mother reporting an intense dispute between two people in the home. By the time officers arrived, things had settled, but standard legal steps were still taken, and the children had witnessed everything. All right. Um, so let me So this is going to be the ticket. Okay. So it's for domestic battery. It's basically uh Yeah, it's basically like going to being arrested but without having to go to jail. Okay. >> Okay. >> You have court on August 2nd, 2024 at 10:30 in the morning at the courthouse in Urbana. Make sure you go to that. If not, they'll issue a warrant. And I said you can you can tell them you don't want if whatever you say, you know. Okay. Uh, I will say that I know you say you don't have ears, but it does appear that you might have your lip might be a little swollen. Okay. Is that where you hit your was in the mouth? No. >> Okay. Okay. And then this is a I got to fill just fill a couple things out on this. Okay. And um but this is a domestic violence form. I don't know if you received one of these. Okay. Something that the state tells me I have to give you. Uh you don't do anything with it, but there's resources in here uh for domestic violence victims and whatnot. Hey, what are you doing? >> So, where was she at? >> She was in her room and the altercation and the yelling happened in my room and she just heard me crying. So, she had came in the room and that's when I just immediately grabbed her and just left the house. >> Okay. Um I don't I don't think we will. I have to I'll talk with the sergeant, but if she wasn't in the in the room when it happened. >> Yeah, she was in her room. >> Then probably not. >> Hey. >> Yeah. Hey, what are you doing? >> I'm just writing out some paper here. >> I like this. >> Those are handcuffs. >> There's a handcuff. >> Mhm. >> I a hand. >> So when bad people have to go to jail, I can take them to jail. >> Well, that's why. >> Huh? >> You can't take you to jail. >> I'm not taking you to jail. Why would I take you to jail? >> You're not taking me to jail. >> I I That's my cous. >> No, it's your birthday. I know. Happy birthday. Yeah, that's my birthday. >> Okay, so here's your ID and the ticket. And then here is this. Okay. >> No, I have to pay a fine when I >> No, that's basically just like being arrested, like I said, but without the jail part. So, we're just going to go and see a judge. >> Okay. >> Okay. >> Do you have any any questions for me? >> No. >> Okay. Anything changes, call us back. Okay. >> Okay. >> All right. Happy birthday, sweetie. >> I'm going home. >> Have a good day. >> Byebye. Initial observations at the scene led officers to consider additional action involving the man and I asked what I do. But I did arrested for domestic battery. >> How how you alleging that you her and she's >> but I have a mutual fight. Yeah. >> But you I mean you her as well. >> How if I mugged her, sir? >> Pushed her in the face, mugged her me first. >> I understand. and it's going to all be documented in a report and she's also going to be getting a MTA. Okay. >> What's that? >> It's a piece of paper that says that she committed domestic battery. There'll be a court date and everything. >> But how come she don't go to jail? >> I think it's because she has a child. >> Your double lock thing is not work. >> That's crazy. >> You slip her in there and push it up. Double lock. >> I never hit her. >> I just twist it. >> I never hit her. >> You can twist it one way to unlock her. >> Can y'all ask her again if I do her or not? I said, can you ask her again if I do her or not? I never but did I say I >> Okay, you saying mugging like you put for page, right? >> Yeah, I'm crazy. >> I got 734 758 is 95 on the mail. >> Wow. >> You got I got my phone. Hold up. Can you >> I got some on me in my pocket. >> What's that? >> I got some in my pocket. >> Where's it at? >> It's in my left pocket. >> It ain't that much. It's just a little bit. >> Yeah, that's it. And can you also check and see? Do I have my car key on me, please? >> Car key. >> Car key on me. Yeah. You got Where do you want this at? >> You take this pocket. >> What you say, sir? >> Where do you want this at? >> You sure? >> Uh, can you take my other pocket real quick? >> Yeah. Give me a sec. >> You can really just slap it in my car if you want to. My car door unlocked. >> It's unlocked. >> Yeah, >> don't be riding around with it. >> No, I How do you unlock it with this? >> Oh, yeah. For other things. Yeah. Before I leave or whatever y'all going to do, can you lock my door for me? Can I show you how to lock it real quick? Cuz you can't lock it with the button. It ain't nothing though. What happened to it? >> He is crazy. I would never with her again. I didn't even do anything. You >> just turned around. >> Yeah. Uh no, no, no. Shut it real quick, please. >> I just locked it. >> You sure? All right. Shut it. See if it's locked. >> All right. You got your key, your phone. You good with that? >> Got your wallet. I'm >> This is crazy. >> Can you pull my pants up for me, please? >> Yeah. So, what's it on this? I got sitting here all day. >> Uh, you'll see a judge in the morning, tomorrow morning. Wow. >> In the back of the patrol car, the man felt he was being treated unfairly. But from the moment the mother carried her child outside to feel safe, the situation had clearly moved beyond an ordinary disagreement. When children feel scared, it signals that the home environment needs immediate care and attention. Really though, there ain't no way you can ask her to see like what we're saying. You can't do that. >> I know, but you explain your situation. >> Well, I never hit her, sir. When did I ever said I hit her? I mugged her. >> Y'all can't y'all can't email. >> I'll put I'll document her report, man. >> What you mean? Like, what you mean document? What does that mean? >> I'm a report on her. Like you can't even say like you can't ask her like like what >> clip >> that's crazy like I didn't do anything sir >> how can y'all just say what somebody say and just go off that though like >> well our partner talked to her we told him what you told us about she you >> right I never hit why why you saying I hit >> that's the same thing as >> bugging somebody if I physical contact is physical contact if I but me, sir. >> I know. I know. >> I never I don't I don't Here's the thing. Here's here's the thing. Can I explain something to you? You can. >> So, she hit you right first, >> right? >> So, the thing to do >> Yeah. >> I understand in the moment you mugged her. >> Yeah. >> Muffed her. Whatever. >> No, no, no. You didn't let me finish. >> Yeah, I hear you. >> So, you could have got up and left the residence instead of her back. That's the thing. >> Saying I hear her, sir. >> Mug, muffed, whatever. Made physical contact with her. That make you feel better if I said it like that? She slapped you. Then you made physical contact with her whenever you had the power and will to leave. >> There ain't no way I could get out in the morning or anything. >> Do you Does that make sense to you? >> I hear you. I understand. Okay. I'm just asking there ain't no I'm going to get I'm not I'm not going to be dis I just ask like there ain't no way I can get out in the morning or anything at that point. The the judge what time can I I can't see the judge at this point. >> No, I I I don't know. They might be able to get you in. The sooner you get over there, the more likely you're able to see a judge. It's all about their court scheduling. I don't know how it all works. That's all that's more the jail and court side of things. That's not our side. >> Okay. Since you want to since I'm going to jail, tell the officer the car she in right now that she's driving, that car has no insurance and that's not her car. And the license plates on the back of the car is the wrong the wrong license plate to that car. That's not the license plate to that car. >> I'm good. That's crazy though. >> Wow. I'm going to jail. All right. It's cool. Can I get a uh what time back anyway? >> Huh? >> Can I get a time? Like what time it is right now? You don't think I can get a court date? >> They might be able to see you today. I I'm not guaranteeing anything. >> Wow. Like what did I do? Like this is crazy. So she don't don't get nothing. >> No, she's going to get she has a daughter inside, right? >> Yeah. >> So we're not taking her to jail cuz she has a daughter inside. She's getting arrested, but it's through a piece of paper. So she get to pull off with >> charged with the same thing. You guys are both going to have a court date. >> So she get to go to uh >> She has a daughter inside is why she's >> I understand why you're saying that. >> Yeah. >> So she get to pull off with a car with no insurance and with the wrong >> I'm going to let >> with a wrong license plate on the car. >> I'm let Okay. >> It's all right. That's cool. Thank >> Huh. All right. >> So y'all just going to let her pull off in the car like that? So, he's going to he's going to talk to the other officer and I mean, she ain't going nowhere. She'll be going home, >> huh? >> She They're going to talk to her about the vehicle and the status of the vehicle. And if that's extra charges, then that's extra charges. Okay. >> That's crazy. She ain't never sent me to jail for no reason. I literally didn't do anything. >> And I I'm going to So, what's going to happen now is you're going to go to jail. You're going to see a judge. The judge is going to read my report. I'm going to document. So, with a domestic battery, >> it's different than just a regular. >> I don't understand how a domestic I never even heard of the lady, though. I >> Let me explain something to you, okay? A battery, if let's say you muff me, all right? >> And we both say we don't want to press charges, nothing happens. Okay? But with a domestic battery, we have to take a report. We have to make an arrest if physical contact was made. Okay? However slight. >> She hit me first. >> I understand. >> And I never even hit her or nothing. That's crazy. That is crazy. >> I know it's tight back there. I'll try to get you. >> So I go to the what? The satellite. >> Yeah. Out on >> in our banner. >> Yeah, >> that's all we taking people now, man. >> It's crazy. This [ __ ] tight. I'm starting to cramp. >> Yeah, I know. It's tight back there. >> You You're tall. How tall are you? 6 What? 63? Yeah. Yeah. That car, that back seat ain't made for people 6 feet or not. It's made for short people. >> So, I won't be able to see a judge today, like in the morning, in a couple hours. >> It all depends on what they what they have prior to you. >> 15 people coming in. Maybe they'll be able to squeeze you in. I don't know. I don't know. >> This is crazy. I'm going to jail for no reason. Wow. Over nothing. Like, I would never with her again in life. >> That probably be the best choice of action. >> No, trust me, I won't. the I didn't even do anything. Like this is crazy. >> It seems like she was upset that you were out, >> right? So I'm basically going to jail cuz a girl mad cuz I was out. That ised up. That is crazy. Like I never >> The man was charged with domestic battery. Under Illinois law, he could face up to 12 months in prison and a fine of up to $2,500. Family protection laws exist to keep situations from worsening and to safeguard those who are most vulnerable, especially children. Emotions within a household can be [music] complicated, but ensuring a safe and stable home must always come first. Not over yet. Another case showed how a mother's carelessness placed her children at risk in the cold weather. >> Chilly, please. >> Hi. There's a car in our parks lot. It's been here for at least 40 minutes. It's a red Nissan four-door Texas plate and it's got a kid in there. >> Red little little kid, four or five years old >> and nobody else in the car with him. Uh, one more question. Is the car running? >> Yes. Yeah, the car is running. >> Okay. All right. No problem. I will uh I will get them head over over there. Okay. >> Awesome. Thank you so much. >> On January 19th, 2024, police received a report of a child was unsupervised inside a vehicle. When they arrived, they found not just one, but also another boy sitting in the back seat. Shortly after, the mother showed up. >> Which one is it? This red maroon car right here that she's walking back to. >> Wait, which one? Kate, >> the one that's walking up to this red car right here. >> You want me to approach her and you can take with the kids? >> Yeah, go ahead. >> Hi, Officer Kazki at the Joy Police Department. What's your name? >> Clark. >> Got some ID on you, hun? Are you from around here? >> I just moved here not too long ago. >> You're from Sherman, Texas? >> I'm from here, but I just moved back here. >> Okay. You looking for your little ones? I've got them. You can't leave your kids in the car like that in the state of Illinois. All right. >> I'm so sorry. >> Vehicle's off. All right. It's 9° outside. Your 2-year-old, sitting in the front seat with the window completely down. Your little boy, the 8-year-old, I didn't even realize was in the car until I made a second approach up to the vehicle because he was hiding in the back seat, probably scared. I'm going to go talk with my supervisor. We're going to make some decisions about what happens next. But to be completely honest with you, no matter what, some sort of law enforcement action is going to be taken. Okay. >> I'm so sorry. >> All right. Police immediately took the necessary steps to ensure the children's safety. >> Inside, ma'am, uh, probably about 20ish minutes. I think it's close maybe like 45 to an hour, do you think could be possible? >> I wasn't keeping track of time. >> I don't think we need I was literally in here to get some stuff for them. They were asleep, but when I went in, I really wasn't expecting to take so long. >> I'm Bill. Nice to meet you. >> Nice to meet you. Ha. >> Sean, how you doing? >> Looks like you know. >> So, you're training him. I think finally someone's training them. >> Apologetic, but I still think he's going to do the thing here. >> Car seat headed this way. If so, what size? >> Think check on the car seat. Can you go check on car seats? >> They don't have any inside. >> You have car seats for both your kiddos. >> I have one for the oldest for him. But yeah, you need one for him and you also need one for the little one, the 2-year-old. Is there a regular car seat in your in your car for the two-year-old? >> It does strap. He probably he's very >> He's supposed to be in a fivepoint harness, rear facing. >> You guys get off at 7. >> Can you run down to the station? Start heading down that way. I'll let you know what kind of seat we need. They're in a watch commander's office. >> All right. >> How many? >> We'll we'll advise just start heading that way if you would please. >> Although the mother expressed regret, authorities still had to apply firm measures under the law. >> Like I said, I was not keeping track of time as I should have >> and the weather. These little ones can't be out in this weather. your little window, >> right? >> Something terrible could have happened in this these. >> Uh, unfortunately, I had to take you into custody. Okay, >> you can once I do what I have to do, and I'm trying to keep this as simple as possible and as kind as I can possibly do it. All right, I'm on the side about this as possible. All right, go ahead and put your purse down. Put your hands behind your back. Just leave your jacket on. that you're alleged to be called him and talk to him on the station. >> My baby DCFS, which is like our children and family services in Illinois. >> Where you at? >> Um uh traffic. >> What time you go? >> 7. >> All right. Nothing in here that shouldn't be in here, correct? Nothing on you that shouldn't be in here. Correct. Come over here. >> I'm just going to search you really quick before we go putting you in any squad cars. for me. >> Alongside handling the case, officers worked to comfort the children, sought temporary care, and coordinated with the Department of Children and Family Services, DCFS, for an appropriate resolution. >> Okay, she's ready to get transported. Yes, please. I've got the two little ones. >> West station. >> Where do you Where's Where are you going to get picked up from? >> Woodside. >> I'm fine with the West station. West station. >> I got someone. >> Whatever you want. >> Yeah, but I'm fine with West station. >> I got to wait for some um appropriate car seats cuz I can't transport them in my squad. >> That would be way better. >> Let's do that. >> Okay. >> Something that's quick. I mean, it's the weather. >> Okay. get his info. >> Yep. >> I can get it, too. I mean, >> just keep an eye on them, would you? >> We need to come to Target. >> Okay. Either I mean either Target contact while I was running in the store and they're taking me down to the station. Come get the kids. I need that >> while he's on the phone. Get his name and do the OB. So, we can do a situation and keep track of time on. I had the phone on it and everything, but like she said, cars aren't supposed to be on and stuff like that. >> Well, I would have felt better if the car was on, but it wasn't. >> Oh, it wasn't. >> It was not on. >> Oh, goodness. I probably was moving too fast trying to get in and out. Well, yeah, they're uh they're about to take me down to the station. Can you see me? Come get the boys. Okay, you're going to go with this officer. She's going to transport you down. I'll let you down there and I'll explain more to you as we go on here. >> So, somebody's coming from the west side station with car seats. Who knows if we'll need them, but might as well just get things moving. >> Okay. >> Thank you. >> I'll start working on them now if there's anything I can do. >> Nope. >> I'll call DCFS. >> Okay. >> CCF, you mean? Call them now. >> Okay. Just since the weather and all that. >> Yep. >> What kind of snacks do do you guys like? Can I get you some snacks? >> Hold on. It's It's the way you twist. It's got to be like on the on the curve of your wrist. What's bothering you? Which one? >> Both of them. They're they're tight behind my back. Okay. >> Are they chocolate? >> Yeah. >> I'll go look. >> During the investigation, officers also found an item restricted by law was discovered in the vehicle that raised legal concerns. Meanwhile, the mother had no license to [music] possess or carry it as required by law. >> I don't know if it was advised, but she was placed into custody being transported to the West Station. Back from 31, it's going to be injuring the life and health of a child. He's going to come pick you guys up. Okay. We're working on trying to get you guys some car seats, too. You'll be seeing her again tonight. Okay. >> Got to get them snacks. Let's check with uh her because she was she's the main one. >> Yeah. And then the the arresty, she's in that car. Just want to make sure. Are you okay with them having these? >> All right. >> You like the I know you like these >> gummy bears. >> Yummy. >> And then the target guy just wants to make sure >> close to an hour. 45 minutes to an hour like I thought. Okay. I don't need anything else. >> Thank you, sir. >> Take care. >> You guys have a good night. stepped out and >> but not a registered child. You know, okay, we'll just do that. >> Yeah, but I definitely call the ECFs now just to make it known. Yeah. And then if they get back to us, you know how they're busy. Yeah. Go ahead and put your window up. >> Thank you. Just going to let me know if you need something. >> The mother faced a felony count of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon and two felony counts of childment. Under Illinois law, she could face 5 to 13 years in prison. Carelessness not only puts children's safety at risk, but also brings serious legal consequences. [music] Following child's safety laws and regulations for vehicle use is something that cannot be taken lightly. But Illinois didn't [music] stop there. This time in Bloomington, it was a mother's anger, her children, and the legal consequences that followed. >> But you were with what? You said that it was what? >> Was it somewhere? It was like place all that. On November 15th, 2024, Bloomington police received a call about a family dispute where the mother was showing disruptive [music] behavior that created a tense and unsafe atmosphere at home. Officers quickly arrived at the home and questioned her. >> Couple things for you. Why does he have bruising everything all over his face? >> Don't throw at him. I was throwing plates. I was throwing silverware. You can see all over the floor. I was throwing brooms. I was throwing all over. I was throwing everything in my kitchen at him. >> Why you throwing everything out, though? >> Cuz he won't leave. I just told you I'm the guy to stay. He won't leave my house. I'm throwing at him. Get the my house. >> So you're throwing stuff at him. That's why he has little bruising all over his face. Did you Did you ever him or anything like that? >> No. I I No, I did not him. >> But you him with what? You said it was what >> was it? Somewhere like plates, broom, all that. >> This broom. >> Yes. Everything you see, I'm throwing [ __ ] out of a bottle. >> Did you pour anything on? >> Yeah. A pop. You see right there? He's laying right there. You want to get the [ __ ] up? So I pour pop. >> How long you two been together for? >> We ain't been together. I've known him for 10 years. He's my baby daddy. For 10 years. We haven't been together in like five or six years. He babysits the kids for me while I go to work. He stays here sometimes when he needs a place to stay, but we don't even sleep in the same room, in the same bed. Nothing. We're not together. No, we have to be here. >> Okay. So, you guys have been together or not together, but >> together? No. >> You guys have known each other for 10 years? He is the father of what? Two of your children. Brie. >> Is this one of the children he's now? How many kids are here right now? >> All of them. >> All of them? >> Yeah. >> Okay. Did the other officer get that information? >> I don't think so. >> Okay. >> The mother also began revealing the cause of the conflict and how events [music] unfolded afterward. >> That's I was confused for a second. Okay. So he wasn't leaving. So he just he poured stuff on him and started talking. What what like ignited the argument? >> The baby threw up. Um he cleaned up the throat and it's hectic, you know. It's hectic as I told him, you make her some get some some water instead, you know, eat her stomach. He goes and makes her a whole cup of sweet tea, which is [ __ ] but he made a whole cup of sweet teas. That's where the argument [snorts] came from. I said, "Why the did you make her a whole bottle of sweet tea?" And he was like, "Well, I just made her something quick." I'm like, "Bro, no, she don't need nothing sugary right now. She don't need that." So we started arguing about that. And I'm like, "Well, bro, if you got an issue with me, then just leave." He's like, "Okay, well, I'll leave then." So he started put on his and then he was like, "You know what? Actually, I'm not leaving. Call the cops on me." I'm like, "Bro, we don't have to do this. When your kids sleep at 3:00 in the morning, we ain't got to argue. We ain't got to be loud. Just leave." Like, "We didn't need to get this in the past." Like, like I keep telling him all the time, "When I'm mad, just leave." Then we could talk about this later. But no, he want to sit here and ignite the fire and keep talking. Leaving my house. So now I start throwing like, "Get the out of my house." Like, "Well, no, I'm not going over. You're going to call the cops on me." So before I started calling cops, you got to show up. I'm like, "Well, there look at God. Okay. >> You could die. >> Okay. What else in here says? Is it this? Is it Does he have anything else in here that belongs to him? >> I mean, he got shoes and little clothes, but not really. >> He was saying he wants to get his stuff and whatnot. Um, >> got >> Okay. How long has he been staying here for? >> I mean, off and on for like been working for like 6 months now. >> 6 months. >> Yeah. >> Okay. So, he's been living here on and off for 6 months. >> Yeah. Just when he needs to. >> Okay. Give me like two seconds. I'll be right back in here with you. Okay. With clear signs and evidence, police decided to detain her. However, she reacted strongly, claiming she was being treated unfairly. >> Ma'am, I never got your name. Where's your name? Do you have any clothes that you could put on? >> For what? >> So, here's the deal. I'm going to be straight up honest with you, okay? And I [clears throat] don't want to do this in front of the kid right now. You're going to be placed under arrest for domestic battery. Okay. >> Yes. You already told me you struck him with the stuff, okay? He's got all over his face. That being said, okay, there's multiple ways we can handle this. All right. One, I don't want your kids to have to get taken anywhere. He is the father of three of the four kids. It it's up to you really, I guess. I mean, he kind of has residency here since he's been staying for 6 months, so we can't force him to leave. But instead of your kids getting taken right now, he should stay here with the kids to ensure their safety. Okay. You have his ass backwards when I told him to leave. Now he can just left. I'm asking >> Y antagonizing me the whole time though. >> I'm asking you to stay calm. >> No, I'm not staying calm. Wait, he's antagonizing my house. He just left. Here's the >> deal. Okay, whatever you guys have going on. All right, that's between you two as of right now. We obviously got called. You mattered him. You admitted to me that you did. Okay. For the kid's safety, then he should be here over the night until you get out. Okay. >> Can y'all leave so I can put my clothes? >> So, we can't leave. Where are your clothes? >> I don't know. I got [ __ ] all over the house. I'm not Man, move. Can y'all just stay right there? Stand outside so I can put We're not leaving you at this point. So, we need to go get clothes. >> I CAN'T EVEN LEAVE. I CAN'T EVEN GO TO MY BACK DOOR. SO, WHERE AM I GOING TO RUN? WHERE AM I GOING TO RUN? >> I CAN GO GET A PAIR OF PANTS or something for you, sweatpants, whatever. >> You guys hate police here. I swear to God an hour ago. NONE OF THIS HAPPENED. Y'all don't see that [ __ ] THOUGH. HE ANTAGONIZING mother they own insane. I'm getting the mother arrested. Move. >> We're not going anywhere. WE CAN'T SEE IT. >> OKAY. FOLLOW ME THEN. Get my clothes. Get the clothes. Y'all see this? >> Hey, I'm going to go nowhere without you. So, WAIT TILL I GET DRESSED. NOPE. >> TURN THE AROUND THEN. I WILL do this first for my safety. Okay. >> Great. Insane. You just left. Y don't talk to THEM ABOUT THAT THOUGH. WHY YOU STILL HERE ANTAGONIZING HER? WHY ARE YOU STILL HERE antagonizing her? >> What you talking >> out of here? >> Exactly. Why don't you watch MY KID? [laughter] TELL HIM TO DO THAT. >> During the process, she was reluctant and expressed [music] disagreement as officers tried to bring her into custody. All these kids give a about my baby sweet tea at 2:00 in the morning. You don't give a [ __ ] about the baby. You going to trust me to watch my kid though. >> Y'all in my way like I got or something. Y'all move. >> All right. Stop right there. Okay. >> Put my shoe on. >> Stop. I can't PUT MY SHOE ON. What the CAN I PUT MY SHOE ON? LIKE WHAT IS YOUR PROBLEM? DOING NOTHING FOR >> BEING NOTHING BUT NICE to you. >> I CAN'T PUT MY SHOE ON, BRO. I CAN'T PUT MY SHOE ON. YOU'RE IN MY WAY. YOU GET THE OUT OF MY WAY. YOU MEAN that person? You're in my way. >> Can you get any tighter? >> Well, you can't find my shoe. IT AIN'T GOING NOWHERE. ABOUT TO PISS ME OFF THIS NOWHERE. >> Stop moving. We cannot adj. THAT'S ALL I'M ABOUT TO DO. Should I put these ones down first? >> No. >> How many times you got to go do this? >> Stop. >> Well, if you keep moving, it's going to shut up. >> He called. We were in custody. >> One in custody. I >> hate police here. >> Said I'm 60. >> My god. This our first rodeo. >> One in custody. >> God damn. >> I did this a million times. >> We should be 10 for Thank you. Come on. >> Police escorted the mother outside, but she expressed frustration. >> No shoes. >> You can put ON YOUR SHOES. >> HOW? [screaming] >> OKAY. >> HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO PUT ON MY SHOES? I CAN'T HELP. WHAT DO YOU MEAN? >> COME ON. >> JUST GO. NOPE. >> We tried so hard to give you an opportunity. We're going to be next to you and then you do all shut the suck. >> Can you move out the way so we can open the door? Another Jewish arrest. Can you >> just put her in my squad? Yeah. I will be a nice being nice to him. Oh, >> hold on. Before you go anywhere, I have to double lock him. Stop moving. >> Double lock. MY GOD. Y'ALL ALREADY DID THIS. >> YO, the more you move, it's it's a little more. >> BRO, YOU SHOULD FIRST RODEO, >> MAN. YOU up at 12:00. >> You like to talk. >> Oh, yeah. >> Are y'all done? >> I like y'all rookies. Close the door. >> Enjoy your night. Okay. >> Suck a >> Yep. >> She was officially charged with resisting arrest and domestic battery. Under Illinois law, the maximum penalty could be up to 2 years in prison and a $5,000 fine. >> Good. This way. Hang right. Go in that door right there. Hello. >> Hello. >> Set the seat >> on the bench or stand over there. One of the two. Whatever you want to do. A single uncontrolled reaction can cause legal consequences and emotional to children. Controlling emotions, choosing reconciliation, and cooperating with authorities are the ways to avoid severe consequences. Illinois continues with an overturned car. What seemed like a simple crash soon revealed deeper complications involving the mother. >> He told me if I wasn't going to do that, if he was jumping, he jumped. On August 22nd, 2025 in Joliet, police received a report of an accident. Inside were a mother and her two children, ages six and seven. They were found traveling without the appropriate child safety measures. They ran to the scene, but the mother's explanations did not align with available evidence. >> Back up. We got the fire department. We're going to have to bust the window. >> Step back. Step back. you. Okay. >> Okay. One second. Okay. >> Are you guys okay? Is there three of you? Okay. We're going to get Chad. All right. Oh, I want to cover him before I take the class. I'm going to break the window. Okay. Have her come forward. Take it to our angles, please. >> Are you okay? >> Go on the side. Around around the car. >> No. Anything to do? What about you guys stack? >> How are you feeling? Head neck. I know you I know a lot just happened from them. >> I don't >> her hand any pain. What's your name? Any pain in your head, neck or back right now? >> Yes. Where at your neck? >> My neck. I'm I'm worried about them. >> It looks like they're okay. She has a small cut in her hand. >> Do you guys have any right here? >> No. Okay. >> It sounds stupid, but I told them I wasn't going to go with them. >> So, you weren't driving? >> No, you were in the passenger seat. >> I I went to try to steer it away. >> Yeah. She stuck to her story even though camera evidence showed the opposite. >> I want to get my phone. >> I want to do that. >> I'll grab it. >> I'm going to follow it. >> Can you explain to me what There's glass everywhere. >> No. Well, I'll grab your phone then. You're obstructing right now. Okay. >> How am I? >> We're going to grab your phone. Yeah. >> I just ashole. Why can't I do that? >> I don't even know what you just said. >> You're not going back in the car. >> I just want to understand what happened with the situation. Okay. So, what car did you hit? >> I can tell you. >> Okay. Show me, please. >> Right there around the turn. There was another car coming. >> Okay. And then you this car. >> He told me if I wasn't going to do that, he was jumping. He jumped. >> So, where'd he go? Where you Where are you going? >> I was still stuck in the car. He was in the passenger seat. >> He was in the passenger seat. He was the passenger seat at first when we went there. Okay. As soon as we went there, I said I didn't know where I was. He switched lanes with me. Basically, he just switched passenger side. And when I told him that I wanted to go back to Street or Illinois and told me I was a piece of >> Okay. So, I just want to What? So, you were out here hanging out. You wanted to go home and you were driving. >> No, I wasn't driving at the time and I can show you the the house that we went to. >> Okay. We We're going to look at the cameras right here. It's going to show you driving. >> No, it won't. How did he jump out and where did he jump out? >> We jumped out around left it so I had to jump in. >> So then you were driving. >> No, I wasn't driving. >> Sensing problems, police asked her to cooperate, but the mother avoided giving personal information. >> Why would I take you to jail? Why would I take you to jail, ma'am? >> Because you're saying that I was driving. >> Yeah, but why would that indicate that you're going to go to jail? Can you talk to me real quick? >> I can't. Ma'am, can we start with your information? >> What he wants to do? >> Ma'am, can we start with your information? We're all waiting for you to provide information, right? >> Because you ran um because he made the car roll seat belts or were they in car seats? >> They were in seat belts. >> Okay. >> Well, no car seats. So, >> we got to get information. >> Do you mind just hanging up the phone? We'll just get this stuff. >> Ma'am, >> should I hang up the phone or no? >> There were no carry systems in there at all. >> Okay, ma'am. With how severe the accident was, I do think you should go to the hospital and get checked out. Same with them. Your car flipped. Best to get checked out. Okay. >> They won't be separated from you, right? >> Nope. They'll stay with you at silver. No, you guys will all be together. >> They're mad because smoothies. I don't know what else. >> I get you want to talk to other people, but it's kind of more crucial information. You go in the hospital >> and the welfare is exactly what I'm worried about. >> Like my partner said, we suggest you go up to the hospital and get checked out. That's a pretty good record. She has a pretty good seat belt rash on her stomach. Everything seems good on the >> rash from the car when she was on a bike. >> It just It looked like it was from the seat belt. I can't promise you that they're going to grant a refusal. Okay. >> We got to ask also, have you been drinking? Cuz you got to be able to sign for this refusal. >> They're trying to lock me up. Can you like come and get them or some [ __ ] They keep saying to say that if I don't let them go to the hospital, then they're going to do all this other >> ma'am. for the time being. Do you mind just hanging up the phone so we could just get some uh medical stuff down for you and then I just have some more questions to ask about the whole situation? Obviously. >> Do you mind just hanging it up? I just want a little rundown of the whole situation. Could you explain to me after you were leaving what happened? >> Fantasy. >> They jumped out of the car after I was I honestly don't even know his name. >> I don't understand. Where was he in the car? Despite her conflicting statements, officers continued listening to verify the truth. >> We have multiple cameras in this area. Okay. >> We're canvasing the area. So, I would appreciate you don't lie to me cuz obviously your whole situation's not really making sense. Okay. If you're driving, you're driving. Accidents happen. All right. My main >> That's not what happened. >> Okay. Then explain to me what happened. This whole >> I jumped out of the driver's seat and I jumped over to make sure that we were okay. >> How did he jump out then? From the driver seat, he just rolled out. We How fast were you going? He literally jumped. >> Okay. How fast were you going? >> He's probably going 10, 15. Not much. >> And what was the reason why he jumped out of the car? Allegedly >> because I told him I wasn't cool with driving to Wilmington. >> So he jumped out of the car. You jumped in the the driver's seat. Where did exactly? >> Okay. Where exactly did you jump out of the car at? >> Well, I don't even know this. >> So you were able to get into the driving seat? >> It was hard. It was hard to do. So >> yeah, but you were able to. >> No, barely. >> This doesn't make sense. What do you mean barely? I couldn't even get to theing to this theing brake. I couldn't even do any of that. >> In the end, she acknowledged having made choices that affected her ability to drive safely. >> Do you have anything to drink tonight >> earlier? Yes, I did. >> What did you have to drink? >> Hello. >> I'll give you uh one more minute, but then >> they're taking my phone. >> Yeah, cuz we're investigating something right now. So, I gave you a little courtesy of letting you answer the phone. >> Just come to Silver Cross. >> All right, man. >> I think you hang up, please. >> No, they're going to take my phone now. >> Do you hang up? Can I make one mark off you later? Take you guys like >> Yes, I would like that, but I do not want you having someone to pick them up. So, >> I don't want you guys to take them away from me. That's not what I want. >> We don't do that. We're just here to help. Let me uh go get the other guys to come on the phone with them. >> When was the last time you had someone to drink? >> It was around 3:30. >> And that was the last time. >> How much total do you think you drive? >> In total, 2 and 1/2 years. Now, scale of 1 to 10, one being like stone cold, sober, absolutely like you want to go to church, absolutely like 100% be able to drive. 10 being you're blackout drunk. What would you rate yourself in scale? >> A one. >> So, absolutely sober right now. >> Okay. Would you uh be willing to provide a test? >> All of that. That's not the again that's not the point. >> I mean, the thing is like he a liar. I mean, there's weird situations going on right now, but you're only occupied in a car that's flipped over with children. I can smell a heavy odor of an alcoholic beverage. I'm just trying to understand the whole situation. Like I said, accidents happen. Things in life happen. That's why I'm just trying to understand and I would appreciate you if you give me honesty cuz I know you're lying. Is that correct? >> So, we're going to be going up to the hospital. >> Okay. >> Um, >> I'm going to ride with you guys. She then used her phone as a way to avoid answering police questions. >> I'll hold on to your phone for the meantime. >> Hold up. I'll hold on to your phone. >> I'm not I haven't even called anyone. >> No, >> I can take it from you. But I'm just going to say I'm going to continue to ask you questions. I want your full uh concentration while I'm talking to you about the situation. Okay. >> You guys know, but you get distracted very easily. And I hope you're aware of the whole situation. >> I am. And that's why I'm so upset. Why would you hinder me trying to get help? >> I mean, that's what we're all here to do is help you. We're trying to handle all the information here and you've been disturbed on the phone so we haven't been able to get that. >> I severely wanted to actually just get some marijuana at the end of the day >> out here. >> Yes. >> So you drove out here just to buy some? >> Yeah. >> Okay. I mean that's what it is at this point. >> It it literally is because it was taken away. So it didn't have >> suspended or you just never had one >> suspended. >> Okay. But at the same time, that has nothing to do I I understand it does have something to do with it, but it has nothing to do with that. And that's the reason it happened. So, I'm not okay with it. >> Not okay with what? >> I'm not okay with I'm not okay with being there. I'm not okay with any of it. >> That's the point the part where I'm pretty confused. >> So, you went to the house up on the hill to just buy some. You didn't really know him. He just got in the car. >> No, I knew him. >> You knew all him, but not. You just know his first name. That's why I'm confused. >> I don't even know his first name. My nose was big. >> So why would you let that kind of person drive you? >> Because I was supposed to have enough money to stay in a hotel room tonight instead of staying in my car with my kids. >> Okay. >> Records suggested prior legal difficulties which added complexity to the case. Yet she shifted responsibility for a strange man. >> So you didn't have the money so you like, "Okay, here's my car." >> No, he just didn't accept it. It had nothing to do with that. >> How he got possession of the vehicle now? >> Cuz I can't drive. >> How did you get here? He drove. I was at Walmart. >> Okay. But then you drove home. >> No. >> You were starting to drive cuz we we looked at all the cameras and all the cameras show you in the driver's seat. Do you hear me? >> I don't care because that's [ __ ] >> So why would you be in the driver's seat? I just find it really hard to believe that some random guy would take your car. >> It's not some random guy. >> You just said you don't even know his first name. >> No, I don't. But that's very common around here. >> I would never let some random guy that I don't know anything about drive my me. And you jumped out of the car at which point you >> I wanted to go back home. Once he dropped out of the car, I just wanted to go back home. >> Was the car still driving or was it in park? >> It was actually still driving. >> It was actually still driving. He was still in motion. >> Kaitlin, can I talk to you one more time? I know you want to talk to your kid. So, at what point did you after he allegedly jumped out were able to gain control back of the vehicle? It was somewhere before the convenience started. >> The what? >> Before the convenience. >> Before the convenience and then you you got in the driver seat, tried to >> tried to. >> Okay. At at which point obviously if you jumped out and the car was still moving, the car would be idling down that turn. >> It wasn't just idling. My transmission is up. Idle at all. >> I got you. Well, I'm telling you how cars works. It doesn't work that way because the transmission is up. >> I got you. The truth became clearer, but she still chose to deny responsibility. >> You have to hit a car pretty fast for over like that. So obviously the other car that hit me. >> Do you know what happened? You parked car. >> So there's a parked car on the street. >> This is what you hit and then what caused the vehicle to flip. >> I'm curious if that's not the situation, what what occurred down your end that you believe. So I'm just I'm >> You don't You don't want to share that with me? >> No. You're trying to say some [ __ ] that didn't even happen. >> Okay. Well, obviously with the evidence of on scene, that's what we that's all we have to go on to. That's why like if you have another side of the story, another perspective, I would love to hear it. Anyways, like I was saying, the car has to go pretty quick to flip over what I'm saying. I'm trying to understand the situation. >> He messed and I $200. >> I I'm confused. What's that? Cash app with $200. >> At the hospital, the mother kept refusing to cooperate, declined testing, and disagreed with staff. >> Do you spell your last name one more time? >> What do you mean? Which one? What? Your last name? >> Yes. >> How do What's your last name? And you said which one? Is there another one? >> Whatever. Anybody wants to claim that? >> Doesn't make any sense. You've never had a license, >> correct? >> Okay. Never had a license. >> I didn't approve anything. >> She's getting her weight >> again. I didn't approve anything for my kid. buddy. >> So, get off. >> Okay, now they're doing without my permission with the test. >> All right, here's the deal. Cable, >> now he's going to take my phone. So, I'm going to hang out before he takes my phone. >> Are you willing to provide the hospital with a sample sample? >> I'm not willing to provide anything. >> I'm just trying to get a grasp of >> I want to talk to my lawyer first. >> Okay, you could do that, too. Well, at this time, I'm going to say I'm not going to handcuff you in front of your kids, but you >> I'm not going to take my phone. I'm trying to take my lawyer. Why? Here's the deal. I'm not going to put you >> I'm not going to put you in handcuffs in front of your kid. >> You can stop so I can call my lawyer. >> You don't tell me what to do. >> Please. Can you please let him know? >> Do you really want your kids to see that? >> You want to be >> No, I don't. But I would like to call my lawyer. >> You'll get an opportunity for you. >> But can you give me mying phone? >> No, you don't have that right right now. >> Why not? >> Because you're under arrest for DUI. So, and child. So, >> no. Good for you. When someone came to pick up the two children, police found that person also not in proper condition to drive, forcing them to consider involving child protection services. >> Who's the name of that guy? >> Says he has multiple. >> Is he Hispanic? >> He's a predicament that we're in right now. >> Who's here? >> I don't know. Whoever's here right now is intoxicated. >> How is that person intoxicated? He can sit until then. >> That's not how it works. So that's why I'm trying to avoid DCFS as much as I can. >> We live in Strider, Illinois. >> Okay. So, what does that mean? We'll try to figure out something. >> They're taking me down downtown. >> You're not doing that. >> You're going to lose your blanket privileges if you're doing that. >> Why? Because they're >> I have to have visible >> Because they're cold. >> You're not putting the blankets over both of your heads. I'm going to take the >> Again, that is Oh, you're taking the >> You're under the impression that you're in control right now. You're not. >> Oh, I do know that. Okay. >> But again, they are cold. That is >> They look quite fine to me. >> They're the ones that >> Well, you're the one that put them in this situation. >> Baby, are you cold or no? Right. >> So, you are under the arrest. DUI, aggravated DUI, >> and for doing the life and safety and operating motor vehicle without driver's license >> out of fearing for my life. Can I give him a heart? >> Nope. No, absolutely not. >> I'm going to talk to you. >> I can't. >> I'm not talking to you. >> No, I know. I'm going to put the handcuff on you now. >> Okay, I understand. >> I am just putting I'm just putting the blanket on me. Like, what the was I going to do? Also, you do have a warrant in a different county. >> I do know that. I've known that for some time. It's been for 13 That's been for 13 years. >> Okay. I'm just letting you know. >> I mean, you're under arrest. Yeah. We We still got to figure out all the logistics of it, but this is your >> So, yes, I'm going >> I don't know yet. This is it going to be your fourth. The mother faced multiple charges including aggravated DUI while [music] license suspended or revoked, reckless driving, aggravated DUI, third or more offense with a child passenger, [music] and aggravated DUI, fourth offense. Under Illinois law, a conviction could bring 8 to 18 years in prison along [music] with fines exceeding $75,000. While no lives were lost, the [music] case stands as a powerful reminder of the responsibility adults have in safeguarding children's safety. What leaves many people quiet is not the possible legal result, but the smallest moments, a gentle reply, a careful [music] glance, or a child's lingering silence. Those details often say more than any explanation. Guidelines can address actions, but mending emotional strain takes time, patience, and the right support. If you find the content we share meaningful, don't forget to like, subscribe, [music] and turn on notifications to keep up with our latest stories. See you again tomorrow. >> [music] >> Hey, what about you? [music]