Rent, work, sleepless [music] nights. >> I don't think I'll be able to get my car out. I don't know if we'll be able to work cuz he's the only one working. >> We're $100 short of what our rent is. >> The pressures of life can sometimes make it hard for adults to give their [music] children the attention they need at home. >> He's covered in from his pant line up to his shoulder with full handprint. >> He's got a very minor like he's not, but he's got a very minor. She's only supposed to think I'm seven cuz I'm seven but she's me 18 times. >> It's only when guidance crosses the line into unsafe treatment [music] and authority step in that children's well-being can be fully protected. When parents are too busy managing stress, teachers and the community often become the only ones able to notice the silent calls for help from children. >> Sto can't apologize. >> [clears throat] >> Ied up. I lost my temper. >> On October 5th, 2023, police received a call from a school reporting a 7-year-old boy showing signs [music] of an unsafe home environment. They quickly responded, listening carefully to the accounts of teachers and the nurse. Testimonies that left everyone in the room deeply concerned. >> So, from what I understand, PE teacher called us down to the gym called the nurse had went down there to go see what was going on. The student told the PE teacher that his back the PE teacher questioned like, "Oh, well, you didn't get hurt in here. Like, what's wrong?" And he said that his mom kicked him too hard last night. And so, he lifted up his shirt and showed the PE teacher. That's when the PE teacher called us down there. So, the nurse brought him to the office and he's covered in from his pant line up to his shoulder blades with full handprint. Um, he said that his brother took a piece of candy and blamed it on him and mom didn't believe him that he didn't do it. So, she thanked him too hard. You don't happen to know the mom's information, do you? >> Mom's name is Crystal. Crystal with the C. I can print you a demographics page if that would help. >> Um, yeah, if you could please. And then y'all went down there and looked at it as well. >> So, the nurse brought him up to our office and she did give him an ice pack for it, but then that's on their walk up was telling her the whole story. So, you know, mom him and then dad came home and was upset as well, but dad checked the security cameras and verified that it wasn't him. It was the older brother that did it. Dad was letting him play the video game that mom had previously told him not to play. The PE teacher is on the way. Did you want to talk to the nurse as well? >> Yes. What do you >> health assistant? >> Health assistant. >> Yeah, I work with the nurse in the nurs's office. He may still be on the phone cuz she was contacting CIF. >> That's my next question. If they were >> She was contacting them and we had contacted Dale Boding and he suggested because of the urgency of it almost thinking dismissal to call you guys as well. So both were happening at the same time. seems as though this has maybe happened before cuz he's very nonchalant, very open, not shy about any of it, which is kind of concerning in my opinion. >> The demographics page has mom's name on there, dad's name, address, phone number. >> You're the PE teacher. >> Yes, sir. >> Okay. >> Where you heard him? He said his back and he lifted up his shirt and I could see a clear handprint on his back and then there's like a couple of there are probably about maybe an inch to an inch and a half on his back. kind of pulled him away cuz we were talking in a group and I said, "Well, why don't you come talk to me for a second?" That's when he said that his brother had stolen a candy. He got the blame for it. And I said, "Well, so how did the bruise happen? Your brother hit you?" And he said, "No." And his mom had given him a a heart. And then then after that, I just called the nurse and asked her if she'd come down and take a look at it. >> This is the first time you've seen anything on him. >> Yeah, it's the first time I've seen anything on. >> Hello, >> I'm Nikki the nurse. I saw a handrint. Um, I saw deep and I saw scratches. They're like s not deep, kind of superficial, but they drew kind of like a nail, like if a nail did it enough to the skin and make it, but not gush or anything. And then it kind of did it kind of looked like hand print, but the was purple, pretty deep and wide. And I saw some in here and then like kind of on his back. He's just nonchalantly like I said, okay buddy. Hey, let's just go to my office and get an ice pack. PE teacher said that you weren't feeling good. Something hurts. And he goes, "My back hurts." I was like, "Okay, your back hurts. Let's fix that." He's like, "I don't know. My mom me hard. I don't know." And I was like, "Oh, okay." And he went like this. And I saw it and I was, "Oh, dang. She did. Mom did that. That's like, wow." As we're walking, he just started telling me. I didn't elicit anything from him. He was like, "Yeah." So my brother's always getting me in trouble. And he took some candy and he blamed it on me. He looked and he saw I didn't take the candy. So he let me play my game. But when mom came back in, I gave it to him cuz I don't want her to be mad at me. Didn't say anything else to him. Got him into my room, gave him ice and water, and then I called the social worker. There are two other kids in the house. There's a He is um middle school. He was here last year, so he's in sixth grade. I would see him periodically for self. He would always smell like and I would give him. And then there's high schooler, and I don't know his last name, but the but Grayson said Lee. >> Hello. My son, I'm miss the social worker. I asked him what happened. He said that mom saved him 18 times. I did ask him if he felt safe at home. He said yes. And then I just had him from there. Um, usually I just kind of do like a coping skill with him. So he kind of just drew me a safe place. So that's kind of just what we talked about from there. It's just a safe place that he can keep in his mind if he feels scared or worried or afraid. >> She about 18 times. >> Yeah. And I asked I said, "Did you count?" And he said, "Yeah, she's only supposed to seven cuz I'm seven, but she me 18 times." He did say that he has an older sister in the home who's in high school and he said her name is Lee. I wasn't aware of her. I know that he has a younger sister and a brother that used to go here last year. The younger sister's in kindergarten and then his brother is in middle school. >> Does he seem aged at all? Like um is this something that's like normal to him or does he seem like older than he normally would be with this kind of deal? >> No, he doesn't. I think his times are a little off though cuz he has a little penguin that he has with him and I asked him how long he's had his penguin and he said 10 years and he's only seven. So I was like, "Okay, well you're only seven. You've had it 10 years." And he's like, "Yeah." I'm like, "Okay." >> And did he say when the happened? >> Last night. >> Last night for sure is what he said. >> Yeah. I don't know how often it happens, but he doesn't seem affected at all. Like it's not bothering him. He's just like, "When I was in there with him, he's like, "Well, can I go back to class now?" And I'm like, "Well, we're, you know, we're waiting. It's the end of the day. We can't go back to class right now." And he's like, "Okay." And I read him a story and he just was like spaced out. He doesn't really wasn't really paying attention anymore. >> So she's saying it was her older son, the one that's the sixth grader. He's the one that him a couple of times with the belt. >> The observations on the boy match the statements. Confirming this was [music] a serious situation rather than a misunderstanding. >> Hey, how's it going? >> I'm officer to girls. What's your name? Okay. So, I heard your back was hurting. Okay. You mind if I take a look? >> You mind if we take some pictures, buddy? Is >> that okay? You mind if I lift up your shirt just a little bit? >> Buddy on my leg. >> On your leg, too. You mind if I take a picture of that? So, you feel safe going home with mom? Yeah. My mom spanked me too. >> Your mom spanked you too hard. You want a sticker? >> Hey. >> Hey. Um I I get these from Pizza 9. >> Do you give us a couple more minutes, buddy? And then we'll get you home. Okay. Mom's here. So, he said that he does feel safe going home with mom. So, mom just me too hard. >> He goes probably too. He's saying that mom did that. >> Mom, like I said, mom's insisting that it was the older brother, the one that did it. But yet, he's saying it's mom. I just don't understand why he would say why he would say mom did it. Somebody's not telling the truth. with you that he's not telling the truth or mom's not telling the truth. >> Dad's not here. He's hunting. So, he's not even going to be like at home. So, like if part of the safety plan is as long as dad's there, he can keep everything in check. That's not going to be part of it. The kiddo says that he's safe going home with mom. We have mom here. I haven't got a gauge on their demeanor yet. He's got a bunch of welts on his back that look fresh. They said it would look like fingers. Um but they look more like an object. Um, he's saying that it's mom, but mom is saying that he she caught brother who's in middle school him with the belt. So, so I don't know his he's pretty calm. Everybody's saying he's calm that he it's not like a shock to him. He just keeps saying mom mean too hard. So, I don't know if you want to do like a safety plan or >> I'm on my way. We just kind of talk about it a little bit when I get there and see where mom's at, where Taylor's at, what it looked like. When the mother was brought in, the boy's account and the mother's responses [music] created a tense atmosphere. Police took temporary steps to ensure the child's safety and wellbeing. >> Uh, are you mom? >> What's your first name? >> Crystal. >> Based off of what we already know, we have to call so they'll come to work with you and with him and then we'll go from there. >> I was going to say I got to go pick up my oldest soon, too. He's already off the bus. My house is lost. Oh my god. >> He doesn't have a key to the house. >> No, he loses it. He has ADHD. >> Okay. >> So, I have to pick him up every day and drop him off every day. >> You want a sticker? >> What are you saying? >> Based off of the report, from what it sounds like, they want to do a sleep house interview with him. Standard procedure when it comes to the safe house is when you're the alleged perpetrator only on the report. We have to have him stay with somebody else. Do you have anybody locally? >> No, I don't have anybody here in town. My closest family is in San Fe or in Trindad, Colorado. >> And I know that he's saying he feels safe from home. Do you have any new friends locally? you know, we stay at home and do kids and that's about it. And if I have a job, they go straight to the job and back home. >> May or may not pose a problem. As far as the interview, the safe house is a third party. They have no protective interest in the case whatsoever. And that's why we do it. That way, we can get the full story, no information that, you know, maybe I've received that may be inaccurate or information that they've received that may be inaccurate is related to the child and he can actually tell exactly. I'm going to lead this off by saying it's not legal to spank your kids. Where it crosses that threshold is when we have that come from it. >> I know. I don't know anything if I spank things with my hand cuz I already feel bad in the first place. >> And I can definitely see that you're distraught. So I I get that. I mean, and obviously nobody wants us involved in it, you know? >> This will be the third time you will test us and have it done. >> Your third time locally or is it third time just in total? One was here last year or the year before year before cuz he told his therapist that my husband was being home and he's not cuz I do the discipline and he's usually at work. >> We're on their body. >> I don't like him on the face or anywhere else. >> You guys been a minute so we can try and get her on the road. She's been when does he get home? >> He's already on the way home. I'm sorry. >> Like he's supposed to be dropped off at 4 between 4 and 4:20. >> Okay. So, >> does he have a phone by chance? >> No, they're not allowed to have those. >> Finding a temporary placement for the boy was challenging as authorities were concerned about his home environment. >> She seems like she's not going to go n or anything like that. But my main concern, like I said, is if we don't have that safe house interview. Before we send him home, we were sending a phone with this perpetrator and there's the potential for poor. That's my concern, too. That's why I was not wanting her to take him right away. >> But ultimately, it's really up to you guys as to what you're comfortable with. I mean, I wish she had like somebody locally that would be able to take him for the night at least. >> I'm sure I could find somebody to keep him for the night, take him to the safe house if we do the hold. But mom's going to lose it. I can tell you that much. I know. I honestly I don't care at this point. I'd like to know kind of more about what discipline actually looks like if she's minimizing. And I'm concerned about sending him home before we have the same house. >> Yeah. >> Know where I'm at with it. >> Yeah. If you want to try to work with her a little bit more. Um I'm cool with the hole. Are you? >> Yeah. I'm I'm fine with the hole cuz that's the direction we're going. >> Yeah. Obviously she can't think of somebody who can keep him for the night. Then we're going to have to go that route. You doing good? Okay. You having [snorts] kind of a rough day? Yeah. So I'm actually meeting with your mom, but I wanted to get an opportunity to come in and meet with you. Are you okay with that? So we're trying to get stuff figured out. It's going to take a little bit. Are you okay with hanging out for just a little bit longer? Okay. And we'll talk to you soon. I'll pick you up. >> My biggest concern right now, like I said, is, you know, if we don't have somewhere for him to stay until our interview, my only other option is for him to go into custody for tonight. >> Why? >> Because [clears throat] he's not allowed to be with his alleged perpetrator until we get everything figured out. I mean, like I said, if you know anybody that would be willing to do it, >> I don't know. I have to see if he'll answer. Maybe. I would really rather him stay with somebody he knows than come into custody if I can do that. >> Let's get you guys buckled up so we can go get Big Bubba. Come back. >> Pretty sure they're ready for you. >> All right, just hang tight. Okay. They'll be they'll come and get you here shortly. >> So, I'm sure that you got a call about the gist of what's going on. >> Yeah, it was my kid's dad called cuz he's friends with them while he's at work mostly right now. He's like, "Can you come and get it?" >> So, what we're doing um is we're working with UIFD to put a plan in place for somebody to take the child >> for the night. What that would entail is that you take the child. They would be in your custody. We would release them to your custody. You would have them for up to 48 hours. Mom can't be around them. >> We're try to figure out whether or not dad can pick them up and then you would have to drop them off at Child Haven right here for an interview within 48 hours. Is that something that you're comfortable with? >> Um yes. So, Lee was the one who wanted me to pick him up for him. He said he would take him if he needed. >> Justin did. >> Um, no, Chad, my son's dad. He's the one that called me because he's friends with Justin and Crystal like he sees them pretty often and he knows we could move stuff. He's just driving home from Dolce right now for working air. So, it wouldn't be you. >> I can if I need to if you can stay with us. >> Okay. whoever it would be, we would ask that we would do like a quick warrants check and then we would have to approve you if you see >> neither of us have any >> CFD for like you his information too if you want to like run all of that on cuz the only thing is I wouldn't be the one picking him up if he was home. He would be the one picking him up cuz called him but he's on the road so he called me and soft was seeing if I can come and grab him and see what it needed. But like if he needed to stay at my house that would be fine. >> Okay. >> It's just I also have three other kids in the home and >> let me get this figured out with them. Hey, so it's not her. It would actually be her. Your boyfriend? >> No, he's my child's father. >> Child's father. >> Lee's Tad Ranch just on his way home from Doulce right now and he's a friend of theirs. So, he called me to see if I can figure out what's going on. >> Did he say that he would be willing to to keep him and take him to the >> I'm willing to as well if he decides to camp, but I just talked to him and he said if he needs to take him for a couple nights, he's more than willing to and he can figure out. I can take him to the interview if I need to cuz he works the morning. >> Okay. Since the mother was under investigation [music] and did not have full legal custody, the boy was temporarily placed with his father. >> So, because of the top of the frame, the family friend, it's not this person, it's actually a guy. He's an hour and a half away. Dad's an hour and a half away. It sounds like maybe transporting to PD and having him stay up there until we get dad here cuz I don't know if they want to hang out anymore. >> Yeah, >> she wants me to do like right now. Like, it can't happen in an hour. I'm sorry. What are you going to want mom and kiddos to go? >> She could probably take the kids home because we're going to plan with that. >> Okay. >> If he decides that he wants to take Grayson and go stay somewhere else until the interview and take Grayson himself, I'm fine with that. He's planning on taking Grace home to the house. He needs to figure out where she's been about. So, I mean, like I said, I have to plan with dad because right now, mom really has no legal rights to she's it's a common law marriage, which means that New Mexico doesn't recognize that. I have to plan with that. She's the alleged perpetrator. I just can't have him and her having contact until it's ever concluded. >> We'll get him transported up there. We'll have Bird go home and then we'll figure out with them whether or not where they're going to go or stay. We can have him stay in our lobby, but our lobby is going to be shut down. But we can have them in there if if they want to wait in the car or something, that's cool, too. >> Since Justin is on his way back, I figured it would be easier on you. And then when he gets here, I will find him and figure out what his plan is. And that way you guys can move home and just kind of relax. >> Yeah. for now. Try and kind of wrap your brain around the day and all the stuff. And trust me, I know coming from a mom's perspective, I I can see why you're upset. I don't blame you for any reason whatsoever. But right now, my main goal is just to kind of keep you guys together. I think that would probably be the easiest for everybody, especially since you got to take care of these three. And then as soon as he gets back to the house, I'll go to T's house. >> You're not going with me. You're going to stay with daddy. [clears throat] >> Yes. All of you are staying with daddy. Are you okay with that? Are you hungry? >> That's not terrible. >> How about real food? What's your favorite thing? >> Rice Krispies treats. What would you like for dinner? Would you like a burger? Some chicken nuggets hamburger? >> Hamburg. >> A hamburger. Like a kids meal or something. >> Happy meal. >> Do you want a happy meal? >> I can get you a Do you want cheese or no cheese? >> Cheese. >> Okay, I can make that happen. Are you good with milk to drink? Water? >> Water. >> Water. Okay, we're going to head out in a few here. Okay, >> can't watch that stuff. >> Can't watch what stuff >> that it's about. >> Who can't watch stuff though? >> Why did I just click it? >> You're going to take a ride with uh some of my friends. We're going to go up to the police station and then your dad's going to meet us over there. Okay. >> So, I think you're going to have to get the tablet back and I'm going to stop and get you a half mill. Okay. >> Do you know this game Minecraft? >> Mhm. I used to play it all the time. >> It's on the square. It's a pretty cool game. We don't have tablets, but we have a TV and I'm sure my friends can put it on the TV some Minecraft videos for you if you like. >> See you next time. Right. >> Take care. >> All right. >> So, these are my three cool friends. You're going to go ride in their cool car. All right. >> Gradually, the underlying causes became [music] clear. Loss of loved ones, exhaustion, sleepless nights, and the pressures of raising three children had caused the mother to struggle with maintaining calm and control. >> Hi, Crystal. Nice to meet you. I'm Detective Vanc. Just let you know everything's being recorded. Okay. So, like I told you, I don't have a gun for you or anything like that. I'm not going to take you into custody. You know, this is on your own time. You asked me a while ago if you need to bring a lawyer. And like I told you, you're under arrest or anything like that. And it was up to you. And you're doing this out of know your own time. At the end of the day, it's it's up to you. You're free to leave at at any point. You know, you're doing this basically to get your side of the story in. And >> just the whole of my kids. That's all I want. So we had the interview today with your kiddo. Basically um whenever he reported it to the school that day which was the 27th he told the teacher hey my back hurts. Teacher went and asked him a little bit questioned him a little bit more and then he picked up his back and then he saw all those bruises and he said my mom me it was the level of concern that it wasn't it didn't look like just regular punishment. Right. So then we had an interview today and same thing. I have all the pictures here from the 27th. That looks taken. Does that look like your kiddo? Yeah. Could you tell me what's going on with those pictures? >> I lost my temper. >> You lost your temper. Tell me what happened. >> Started a week before technically. We lost my grandpa and then the day before I didn't get any sleep. I wasn't really on sleep as it was for cuz I was really close to my grandpa. And then my oldest son had an allergic reaction to food and it was full body hives and he woke me up in the middle of night and I didn't sleep that night either. And then Grayson was grounded because he stole a phone and then he rolled about and said I was still on the bus and then hid it in one of the girls's backpacks and then oldest son ended up with it and so he got crowded for lying stealing and trying to like some bills. So he lost TV and the toys so that way he won't cuz he stole toys. We lost his toys. He was supposed to only do his chores and he gets to read his book for school so that way he doesn't get behind on the book. He was just kept pushing it every time that we would come home. He would say that not grounded etc. and kept going at it. And then anytime I have to do his chores he would just break down and cry. That night I was just overwhelmed and won't walk away cuz no matter where I walk all of them follow. I don't get a break. Justin's hiking, working now hunting. I just lost my temper cuz he was carrying on beepers of Kimbers that she was so proud of making because she was actually writing it and then actually pronounced it was P stuff for P and he was just ripping it up. I took it away five times. I asked him to stop. He said, "No, I'm not going to stop." I just told him, "Go in the bedroom." And I grabbed the one of the belts. I don't know which one it was. If it was David's belt or one on top of the fridge that doesn't fit anybody once said that he was wiggling his only getting two and then he started wiggling and running, so it just I realized my times apologized. I'm so sorry cuz I want to do this. How many times did you hit him with the bell? >> I don't know, but I can remember four. >> Yeah, I could at least four at least. Were you holding him or how how did you do it? >> I had him lean over the bed so that way I wasn't holding him so that way he couldn't turn as easily cuz he's supposed to have his hands on the bed so that way he doesn't turn and I don't hit him anywhere else but the butt through his cheeks. [snorts] >> Where were you aiming? >> His butt. >> Okay. planned to aim anywhere else. I didn't want to do that and need to do that. >> You just lost control. What happened after that? >> Stumbled and I told him I'm sorry, but I realized that so you just can't apologize. [clears throat] I up and lost my temper. >> He basically said the same thing today except that it didn't happen inside. He said it happened outside. >> No, he was. >> Okay. Did any Was anybody else around? >> No, it's just you have kids there. Once you did that, what did you do with the belt? >> I just dropped it on the floor. >> Okay. >> Hide it. There's no point hiding it. >> Okay. And you don't know which one it was? Cuz when I I went out there this morning um with your husband, he let me walk the house and stuff and we couldn't find any belt in the room. Um I mean, there was there was stuff everywhere, but >> I was about to say it's probably dead. It's broken. It's probably on here. [clears throat] >> Okay. [snorts] >> Cuz I don't belt. >> Have you done anything like this before? >> No. That's why I felt so bad cuz I just lost >> cuz you can tell it's very excessive, you know? It's that's not >> that's why I came in. I was just there's no point like why I did that. I didn't mean to do that. Horrible. Cuz I should have lost a sevenyear-old. >> However, [music] as police emphasized, parents have the right to guide and correct their children, but any action that leaves [music] a lasting, even a minor one, goes beyond safe and acceptable boundaries. And there's different types of assistants out there for you that you can reach. And and I've been getting in contact with the people from Child Haven. They already got in contact with your husband. Same thing, you know, as far as counseling, as far as I mean, you have options. There's different types of >> whatever it tastes. >> Where are you staying right now? >> His friend's house. >> Okay. Your husband was asking and then you asked me if I was going to take him into custody. I told you. I was honest with you. I'm not going to take him into custody. Based on everything that we have, more than likely, it is going to be approved and it's going to be a warrant drafted. Okay. [clears throat] >> Just call me. I'll just call it. >> Okay. Sounds good. As soon as I have that signed by the DAS and everything, um, I have your phone number. I can I can call you. We can take care of that and then we can just move forward. But, I mean, this is this is big on your end. You know, you're owning up to it. You're not lying. You're you're saying everything how it happened and pretty much matches it. this story to an extent. I will make sure that I added [snorts] that on the report, okay, that you owned up to it, that you regret doing this, that you want your family back. Definitely get you into some types of counseling and things like that, right? I mean, it's only going to benefit you. There's different programs that the kids can get into where you're not just all the time. I have kids of my own, and I understand, but no one knows here because his family sold the property that we were buying out of under us. >> How long have you guys been here for? >> 3 years. I was just thinking meanwhile while this all this process going on if they could go stay at grandparents for you know a couple weeks or something like that. >> What about school? They're all in school. >> Yeah. Maybe they can take some assignments like you know what I'm saying. >> Yeah. >> You don't have to explain a whole lot. Just say we're going through some stuff and send their school stuff. They'll take care of it. Most of it's even they can turn in emails and stuff like that. I don't know. I'm just trying I'm trying to work with you guys here, you know. I'm not trying to get you caught up in your husband, you I know if I suggested he's already scared about losing the kids and he doesn't really want to be separate. I don't know if he will. >> Okay. Yeah. And he doesn't have to. I'm just trying to think of options while we take care of this. >> The father picked up the child, closing a day filled with emotion and a powerful lesson on family bonds. >> Quick question for you. >> Just try to get everything figured out and I know it's still fresh and everything like that. With her being get and taken in Thursday, more likely she won't be seen until next week. >> Till tomorrow. She'll be soon. >> Oh, she'll she'll be seen tomorrow. >> So, the warrants hold until uh hearing. There's no bomb to >> No, I'm not trying to >> No, no, no, no. It'll she'll be told whether or not she's going to be released tomorrow. If she has to pay something or she has to stay, it'll be up to the judge tomorrow. >> Okay. So, she'll see the judge tomorrow. Okay. Awesome. That's the biggest thing we're like stressing about. We're trying to get everything in motion on our end of how long it's going to be or what. a little bit. >> Thank you, sir. >> Does she have your number memorized? >> She got her phone on. >> They'll let her look through her contacts and stuff for full numbers. >> I'm pretty sure she has it. >> All right. >> Thank you, gentlemen. Have a good day. >> All right. Hang tight for me. >> The mother was charged [music] with child. Under New Mexico law, she could face up to 3 years in prison and a $5,000 fine. Love should never be expressed through harsh actions. A good parent isn't someone who never makes mistakes, but someone who knows when to pause before guidance [music] becomes unsafe. Behind a seemingly peaceful family in Florida were hidden pressures and ongoing tensions. It wasn't until authorities became involved that the reality of the situation began to emerge. >> But then you aggressively approached him and grabbed him by the throat. Is that true? >> No. >> Say like shoulders at most. >> Shoulders at most. Okay. On July 9th, 2024, police received a call from a 12-year-old boy who had long felt stressed and misunderstood at home. What began as a minor disagreement over walking the dog quickly led to a careful review of the child's well-being. Authorities responded promptly and worked with the stepmother to understand the situation. >> Community I got to talk to you for a few minutes. >> Do you have an ID with you by chance or access in my room? Do you mind grabbing it for me real quick? I'm so sorry. That just helps start things off. >> Oh my gosh. >> The little dogs don't bother us in the least. >> Okay. >> Sweet. Awesome. I'm going to hand it to you if you don't mind going on some food. So, real quick, I got to read you something just so we can talk to cover all our bases. Okay. So, what happened today? I know there was some argument about like taking the dogs out. >> Yeah. He was being aggressive with his sister, then he was being a little aggressive with me. And that kind of scared me off a little bit. >> Um, and I know that he has a history with his mom. That's why he moved down here. So we're down here for residency and he and so the kids they decide to go stay with their mom and after we've been down here for like him and his mom they got into an altercation and so was like okay might as well just come and stay with me then you know see if things get better and so things have gotten better and >> yeah things have gotten better a little bit better. Um we went back up to go visit family. >> So he was up and over and then as we came back down and brought the other kids down, his sister and his brother. And then just >> So are the two kids in there any of your siblings or are they >> So yes, the younger one is my or the boy is my brother and the younger girl is >> his sister his sister. >> And so yeah, I don't know where came from today. He was just arguing with his sister and then there were dynamics things going on so I had to step in. So, that being said, when you're talking about him being aggressive towards her, was he pushing her or shoving her on the ground? What was he doing to her? >> It was verbal stuff, but then I like, you know, I told her I was like, "Okay, go get ready, you know." So, she went to go get ready in my bathroom and he was being aggressive. >> Okay. So, what does that mean to you? So, just verbally aggressive towards you or he wasing hurting >> verbally aggressive, but then also kind of like making his way towards me, but I'm not going to let anyone get close, you know? So, I'm keeping my distance as well. >> So, and how old are you? Am I asking? I didn't look at You're fine. >> Okay. Gotcha. Gotcha. So he's essentially coming at you. I mean, does he have his fist ball? Does is he making any particulars towards you when you're saying he's being verbally aggressive? >> The So not any particular threats, but I felt like he was kind of like fishing me in for something. And just like a lot of his energy was directed towards me. So I was like, okay, I'd rather me than >> So what is he saying? He's like, I don't have to listen to you. You're not my mom. Is he saying like, screw you, I'm going to you. I'm going to fight you. I'm going to hit your butt. Like what's going on? >> Um, a little bit. A little bit of Okay. So what are the specific things he said to you? I can't make them up. I'm just offering some stuff that I've heard. >> Yeah. Just a lot of like why don't you do it yourself? You know, like this is so >> Well, he was originally fighting with sister though. So, how So, aside from you getting in the picture in between them, he's directing his anger at you now. So, now he's telling you to go walk the dogs instead. Am I understanding that correctly? >> But he's not making any particular >> No, not any particular >> Okay, gotcha. >> But it was just a lot of like angry energy. >> Yeah. No, for sure. For sure. I mean, the whole thing. So, that being said, um what's it called? Him approaching you like that. How how did you feel? Like I said, you didn't see that his fists were bold or anything? He wasn't making any kind of towards you. So, he was just being had aggressive vibes essentially coming your way. So, that being said, did anything get physical between two you? Did he end up you at all at the end of it or it was just verbal between y'all? >> It was just verbal on my end. >> Okay. What about on his end? >> On his end, I don't know. He went to the bathroom and then he went to his room. >> So, he didn't like you in the face or in the back of the head or anything I can't see. Noting you in the stomach or throwing you to the ground, grabbing you by the hair, nothing crazy. So, um, allegations that I'm being told from my dispatch, which is actually coming from the county because you're so bored. You're in the city, but like right behind y'all is the county. So, depending on where the call comes through. >> During the review, her statements were inconsistent. These changing accounts gradually revealed a clearer picture of the challenges within the home. >> Is that somebody? And is that Mr. Yeah. Hey, we're already over here, sir. How we doing? If you don't mind, you're Yeah, that's uh No, no, that's dad. Yeah. Yeah, >> if you want to stay with him for I just got to finish talking with your fiance and then I'll I'll hang out with you. All right. So, that being said, the allegations that we received is that obviously there was a verbal altercation of some kind, but then you aggressively approached him and grabbed him by the throat. Is that true? >> No, I would say like shoulders at most. >> Shoulders at most. Okay. When you're saying grabbing him at the shoulders, are you him away? Are you like grabbing him be like you need to stop this? was more like you need to stop this like you cannot pull this on when you know you did the same thing. >> So when he's telling me his vocal cords are being restricted that's a complete lie. >> So he's got a very minor like he's not going to but he's got a very minor injury that I've noticed on him that's consistent with him being battered in some way but it's not exactly you know clear. He could have been from getting, you know, caught, you know, actually getting or it could be getting caught the same way on the shoulder. But either way, unfortunately, a child is a problem, right? And especially the situation you're in. Obviously, you're not married right now, but you guys are living as a family unit. You've been together for what, like four, so you've been operating as a family unit for a long time. You guys have been living together for a long time. You essentially are. Okay. So, in the state of I don't know about the state of we consider anything that happens physically domestic. Okay. So, at any point in this conversation, are you being untruthful with me? I just got to ask. I I had to ask him the same. Awesome. I just want to make sure. So, I appreciate you being honest with me about at least maybe shoving him on the shoulders or something, but I know you said during that time when he's coming at you, you know, verbally aggressive manner. Sister was already locked away in a bathroom or a room or something by that point. So, honestly, I mean, that's separated, you know, it's between you and him at that point, right? You being an adult, I know you said you you don't need anyone to come at you like that. And I get that. But also him being a child, his brain's not fully developed like ours are, right? Cuz you're not that far off from me from me in age. Okay. I'm So that being said, okay, I know you're not scared of him. I know you can handle your own cuz you're an adult. Okay. But you got to keep those things in mind. Especially with a child, you can just as easily walk away. >> Yeah. >> So you got to consider those things, especially if you're trying to tell me that, you know, it's to kind of diffuse a situation or to get him to get back or to stay away from her. If she's already locked in a room and he's just throwing all his anger at you, you can go to your room whether he respects you or not. Cuz sometimes people don't respect their steps. And I get it. You can say you can go to your room and if you don't then I'm going to go to my room and I'm going to lock the door and you ain't going to talk to me. You know what I'm saying? Cuz you're an adult. You're able to do that. And then if you feel like he's still acting up, he start throwing things, breaking things, you hear a commotion going on, call us. That's what we're here for. And we will take care of business. Okay? Don't resort to doing stuff like that cuz even if it's considered an unwanted touch or okay, in the state of and like I said, the situation that you guys are in, it's considered domestic if anything happens. So we have to act whether they want us to or not. So, I want to let you know he doesn't want anything to happen to you by any means. So, this is going to essentially be on the state of and either me and my or me and my supervisor if anything happens. I'm just going to let you know right now you are detained. You're not allowed to go anywhere. So, just in case. >> All right. I'm not going to place you in handcuffs cuz you've been cool with Okay. Um you've been very honest with me. I'm trying to treat you with respect. >> Going to take Sorry. >> Oh, no. It shouldn't take too long. I just got to talk to your brother. So, I'm going to have one of my partners stand with you. Okay. Cuz I don't want to have to place handcuffs outside your apartment. That's kind of right. Especially my car is right here. If you're willing to walk with me, we could do all that stuff if we had to. Okay. But I'm going to have all my partner stand with you and I'm going to go inside and talk with your little brother as long as he's okay. If he doesn't feel comfortable, he doesn't want to say anything. Totally fine with me. Okay. I talked to your brother. He was fine with talking to me. Yeah. So, I've got to call my supervisor. You're going to see me near my truck. And then I'm going to try to talk to my partner as well, just to see kind of what happened between all them. And then we'll be right back for you. I'll try not to hold you too much longer than I need to. Okay. >> If she wants to go back in the house or >> I would probably stay outside right now just to be safe. While officials consulted their superiors to determine the appropriate steps, the stepmother continued to explain her perspective, sometimes attributing responsibility to the child. >> So, her little brother told me he heard the arguing between the siblings and about the dogs and then which is the victim wanted to go to the bathroom. Goes in the bathroom, shuts the door. While in the bathroom, he hears his sister start banging on the door aggressively and cussing at him. And but he can't remember if anything was said, you know, specific on either side. But if he's telling me she's a aggressively coming at the door and she's trying to tell me initially and changes her story. She tried to tell me initially the were arguing. She tried you know she got in between them to break it up and then he started coming the victim started coming at her aggressively like verbally to her and she said but nothing and I said so did anything physical happen between you two and she specifically states nothing physical happened on mine. And then I said okay so he didn't shoot you nothing like that. No. I said, "Okay, so I'm going to tell you what information we have. He's saying that you constricted his breathing or constricted his vocal cords by grabbing him by the throat. Is that true?" She's like, "No." She said, "At the most I grabbed him by the shoulder." Okay. So, I said, "Well, from what you're explaining to me, like, was he coming at you in an aggressive manner, like with his fist clenched? Did he say that he was going to punch you up? Anything like that?" And, "Okay." She's like, "No, I was just trying to break them up." I said, "But from what you just told me, sister was already in another room by herself, right? She's safe." She's like, "Yeah." I said, "Okay." Okay. So, I explained to her as an adult and you pretty much just told me that you're not afraid of him. You're not allowed to. You're not about to let some kid come up to you like that and that's why you grabbed him by the shoulder. You as the adult can also walk away. So, I guess the best charge it's it's got to it's supposed to be childish, right? Because he's under the age. But she was trying to talk up his aggression and stuff beforehand to minimize what she was doing. You know what I'm saying? Like in those type of tactics. And that was how she started the whole thing. She gave me the whole backstory of how they came from they came over here to be better and you know things have gotten better but all of a sudden and all that not necessary information to try to minimize anything she did. So, um that's why I lay where I feel. So, but he I mean he's adamant like his his vocal cords were constricted. I mean she's been very calm with me. I I can't say that she grabbed him by by the throat or by the uh thing, but I know she grabbed so I I would you know yes, very minute but nonetheless. So domestic wise we have to take action. authorities returned to implement the necessary procedures to ensure the child's safety and that supportive measures were in place. >> Pardon my delay. Okay. So, like I said, you've been cool with me, so I'm going to do my best to be cool with you. Okay. I've talked with my supervisor based on all the information that I've gathered today. Unfortunately, based on the statutes of what domestic violence is, although it's very minor in what you're explaining happened, it's something that we do have to take action on and I do have to take it with me. So, that being said, I know you got your wallet with you. if you needed to grab your phone or if there's anything else you wanted from the house, we can get that for you. As long as dad's cool with, you know, the two of them being together and I know he's older than she is, so I'm fine with that. Usually, like up, we're good. And dad already told me she's fine being by herself. Um, but I'm going to double check with him again before we go. That's up to you. So, >> okay. So, what happens when I go with you? >> What'll end up happening is you're going to be going to the jail. You're not going to have a bond tonight, but when you go to in the morning, they will give you a >> The stepmother was charged with child abuse. Under Florida law, this can carry up to 5 years in prison or probation along with a $5,000 fine. Children have the right to feel safe and respected. [music] Any action, whether a hold, a light punch, or a warning tap that causes discomfort, crosses the line of acceptable guidance. You ever been arrested before? >> Yes, sir. when I was a juvenile stealing from Walmart when I or being with somebody who was stealing from Walmart. >> To cover the rent, this couple made a poor choice that put their child's well-being at risk during a store incident. Florida police received a report of a couple involved in a store dispute while their one-year-old was unattended in the car. Authorities immediately arrived and took steps to ensure the child's safety. >> What's going on, man? >> Hey, what's up? >> What's up? Do you have >> car? Yes, sir. >> No, sir. What's his first name? >> William. >> Ma'am, I have your ID on you. >> So, I think the that time still Pokemon cards, man. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. That um just so we have an understanding. She had nothing. >> He was right there with you when you can see. >> I It is totally me, man. Totally me. 100% me. >> You guys put the Pokemon cards under there. >> Yeah. I I will give them back. Of course. Is 100% my responsibility, sir. Seriously, honest to God, I am short on my rent and they are very valuable and I I was hoping to pull something in order to make up the money. I'm short on my rent. >> And where are the cards in the car? >> Yeah, >> I know. Where are they? >> In the back seat. >> By the way, you can't say she had nothing to do with it when that's all you guys came in here for. And you concealed it right next to her. >> Just so you're aware of that. >> I get what you're saying. I'm just saying she would have never >> Doesn't matter. She was right there with you. >> I don't know if it would make a difference. Is there any way we could pay for it? >> This isn't an apology type of thing. You've already done it. I mean, there's no way to just suddenly, hey, we're going to pay for everything because we got fought by the police. >> Yes, sir. >> You ever been arrested before? >> Yes, sir. >> For what? >> When I was a juvenile stealing from Walmart when I or being with somebody who was stealing from Walmart when I was a juvenile and um for battery as an adult. This poor man, I guess. So, >> could I call my dad to come get my son, >> please? >> Yeah, we'll figure it out in a second. Okay. >> Call my dad. Call my >> Do not call anybody right now. We don't want to make it a bigger scene than it has to be. Okay. So >> have a seat back in the car for a moment. Okay. >> Okay. But can I ask a question? >> Have a seat back in the car. Okay. Have a seat. >> Although the mother promised to resolve the situation with the store that could not undo the risk the child had been exposed to. The child had to be temporarily placed [music] in the care of another adult. >> Just keep your hands on the dash. Keep the door open. Okay. Yeah. You also stole stuff with the baby. >> Yeah, but >> I have the money for it. I can pay. >> Yeah, but I just told him that's not how this works. You don't get to suddenly want to pay for things after you get caught by the police. It's not how it works. >> I literally You can literally see that I yelled for him. Like I literally >> walked right over to you and concealed it. It's on video. >> I literally >> you watched him do everything. You can don't you also have all this stuff here. It's the same situation. >> Well, that's bulk from what we had before when we were going through all of our stuff. >> Regardless, it's the same situation. >> Am I going to know when his bail is or does he have to call me or >> You're asking all these questions and you're just as involved as he is. You understand that, right? >> Yeah, but I >> Okay, so stop asking questions being that you might be taking the ride with them. Do you understand what's going on here? >> Yeah, I do. >> Do you understand what's going on? >> Yes, sir. >> Okay, but stop acting stupid. Okay. >> Oh, I'm just curious. >> And understand you're doing this with a kid. That elevates things. >> Yeah, but I I can't I talk to him. >> No, because even if he doesn't want to press charges, state of Florida does. >> I'm going to get first. >> I'll go get the fresh one. We had child and an unbel How old is your child? >> A year old. >> A year old. Then they use the stroll that was covered for it. >> All right, Courtney. You want to call your uh your father to come pick up your son? >> I wonder. >> Yeah, you're being you're being placed under arrest. >> What? Please, can I just be with the baby? >> You literally put your one-year-old child in prison. >> How is that? >> You cannot do a crime and then nothing happens because you have a kid. >> It is happening. I'm born. You use the stroller as a ways of concealing the >> merchandise. Arrested >> and so is she. I need you to call your dad to come pick him up. Either you call him or I call DCF and >> I'll take the phone. >> Can I call him and tell him? >> What's his first name? >> His name is William. >> Okay. >> Please. I just want to please. >> You can deal with him when you get out, but you are going to jail tonight. Okay. >> Please. I can't be without him. >> Hello. >> Hey, how are you? This is Deputy Kalis County Sheriff's Office. How you doing? >> I'm fine. How are you? >> I'm doing good. Hey, I'm with Courtney right now. Uh, where are you located currently? >> Okay. Right now I'm in um >> Okay. Can you come over to uh the target on >> Absolutely. >> All right. Just to make you aware before you show up on scene, you're going to be taking custody of her child. She's being placed under arrest. >> Okay. >> All right. So, we're over here right now. About how long do you think you'll be? >> Um, about 15 minutes. >> Okay. Can I get you the exact Can you look up the exact address? >> Stop. All right. Perfect. >> Yes, I'll be there in 15 minutes. >> All right, Judy. Thank you. I'll see you soon. All right. >> Can I ask a question, please? Go ahead. >> Um, before you put me in depress, please. Oh my god, I have a panic attack. >> First thing, um, are they going to post my bail tonight? >> I don't know that I don't control Bond. So, what I am going to do is obviously I don't want to place you in handcuffs in case we still need to, you know, worry about the child. So, as of right now, I'm going to keep you out of handcuffs, okay? But I do need you to take out all your everything out of your pocket. I need your key lanyard. I need all that stuff. Okay. >> Okay. Is >> listen to what I'm telling you for me. I'm being very cordial with you. I don't want to place you in handcuffs until your mom gets here. That way you can take custody of your son. >> Okay. Grab him and hold him, please. >> Not right now because I don't want to get into a fight with you over your child. Okay. No, that's I'm not going to give you that option. Okay. What's your What's your son's first name? So, if you want to go ahead and just have a seat right on this curb for me. >> Can I Can I please hold >> Have a seat on the curb, Courtney. >> Have a seat on the curb for you. Thank you. I don't want to handcuff you in case you need to do something with your child. Okay. So, just bear with us. All right. During the vehicle check, police discovered items that required further review to ensure safety, particularly with a child present. >> All right, Will, you have the right to remain silent. I answer any of my questions. Any statement can be used against your rights, will >> you guys are stealing these for to sell them because you got a you got a ton of cards in there. Do you can't sell those? >> Yeah, we >> I'm kind of confused, man, cuz that's like a >> Yeah, a lot of them like the ones that >> commons and stuff. >> Yeah, they're not worth a lot. The ones that are in sleeves, we have value. We're $100 short of what our rent is. That's why. >> I got you. And how do you sell them? You just sell them locally. Offer up and sell. >> Yeah. Offer up or to that crazy? >> Yeah. >> Or or to a game shop. They buy them immediately for cash. >> Okay. Fair enough. All right. Is there anything in that car besides Pokemon cards I need to be aware of? >> Okay. There's While I'm searching the uh the rest of the car inside of a Not only that, we have a cigarette or cigar. All right. That was on your side. >> Okay. >> I'll take responsibility. >> Well, I don't want you to take Is it yours or is it hers? >> The cigarette is mine. >> So, that's fine. Um, and then, uh, there's a Milwaukee lunch box. What's in the lunch box? >> A Milwaukee lunch box? >> Oh, I'm sorry. No, it's a So, it's a red lunch box >> is what's in that lunch box yours? >> Um, uh, actually, we went, um, fishing earlier today with my niece and two of my friends. They left a lunch box and a fishing pole in my car, >> but it's unzipped and opened. That's what I'm saying. Like, that's weird. And inside of there, we have pills and a pill bottle and a pill cutter. Yeah. >> No, sir. >> So, the lunch box isn't yours? >> No, sir. >> Is it going to be hers? >> No, it is not hers. Are you guys going to other stores and doing this? >> No, sir. >> So, how do you guys have so many Pokémon cards? >> I've been collecting for years. >> That's what I'm saying. But these are all new cards, man. They're all like fresh out of the bag. >> Yeah, the ones that I have, >> the ones that are in there. Yeah, >> those are I've If you see the sleeves in there, they're all sleeved up, well taken care of, fresh out of my binder. We were taking them to the game store, Prodigy. >> Okay, cool. All right, we are all right. So, Courtney, so I talked to him. The stuff that we found in the back seat here, is there any anything else that belongs to Target? >> Not that I'm aware of. No. >> It's a yes or no. Like you should be aware of what I mean you just you decided to take those out of the >> Yeah. Yeah. But no. >> Is there anything in here that doesn't belong to you guys? >> No. >> Were you guys somewhere with some friends about fishing or something? >> Yeah. >> Okay. Uh did they leave anything in the car? >> They might have. Yeah. >> Okay. Uh who was driving when you guys got here? >> Um I was driving when we got here. >> There's a lunch box on the driver's side floorboard. Is that yours? >> No, he just moved that over there when we got to the car. >> Okay. Have you ever seen that lunch box before? >> It's his lunch box. >> It's his lunch box. >> Yeah. He takes it to work. >> Okay. >> But I don't I don't mess with the lunch box cuz he usually keeps it in the work drawer. >> Okay. Do you guys have any kind of prescriptions or anything like that? >> Any what >> prescriptions? Like prescriptions? >> No, I don't. No, he don't. Not that I'm aware of. >> So, if there's pills in that lunch box, whose pills would those be? >> My guess would be his because I don't touch the lunch box. He like I said, he usually keeps it in the work truck and he brought it with when we went when we went fishing. Okay. They're not taking that until my baby's out, right? >> No, we were going to leave the baby in the car and then hopefully your mom can meet the tow truck driver. What kind of question is that? >> Because you're asking Why would you ask that question? >> Because my baby was still in the car. >> Obviously, we're still searching the car. Just sit there and listen to what's going on. Okay? Just sit there. You don't need to keep asking questions. All right? >> If you were so worried about your baby, you wouldn't be doing this with your child. That's what the bottom line is. >> Okay? This was a mistake. After completing their procedures, both adults were taken [music] into custody while relatives were contacted to care for the child. Can >> I get the baby? >> Yeah. Yeah. So, did um did Judy call you? >> Yeah, I'm Judy's husband. I'm >> Okay, perfect. All right. So, yeah. >> Can I get him so he stops crying? >> Yeah. Yeah, that's what I was looking for. >> Appreciate it. >> Absolutely. >> What are you doing? Huh? What's going on? You see all the lights? >> Hi, guys. Thanks. Thanks for taking care of >> You got a car seat. >> They are being arrested, you know, and it is a >> Who's being arrested? >> Both of them. >> Both of We have both of them. They're both they put their son at risk. >> Okay. >> All right. Yeah. >> So, again, I can't go into the full nature of it, but either way, they're they're both being transported to the jail tonight and their car is being torn. >> Okay. >> All right. I'm going to go up to the to >> Okay. You have anything sharp on you going to stick or poke me? >> No, sir. I don't have anything. >> Okay. I don't have bracelets on him. There's one on this one. >> Okay. I'm just going to take them off right now. I'm going to leave him in your car. >> Um, no. Oh, that's okay. >> You want to take them with you? >> I don't think I'll be able to get my car out. I don't know if I'll be able to afford to. He's the only one working. >> About the ring. You want the ring to go with? >> Oh, it's my engagement ring. Yes, please. Oh, no. I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry. All right, take a seat. Now, remember what I told you, okay? Think about your child when you get up a little bit better. All right. >> I'm so sorry. I really am. I'm so sorry. You want me to roll the window down for you? >> Yeah, because I feel like I have a panic inside. >> All right, just breathe. Just breathe. You'll be okay. >> Uh, so I was here um in reference to a shoplifting that almost occurred. Um, while we're here, we observed this gentleman here, you know, selecting multiple packs of Pokémon card, Pokemon trading cards. >> Correct. >> And then can you just kind of give me a rundown of what we were observing? So, while we were going through video review of the other incident, a individual coming into the store with selections of Pokémon cards, the toy aisle, and then making their way over to the baby infant care aisle, where there was another subject, and both subjects then had merchandise concealed under their cart. Right after making their way and meeting together with the other subject, white female, they both proceeded to exit out of the uh east side exit. >> What else did they conceal? >> Uh, they concealed larger packs of Pokemon cards. The cards were then concealed under the baby stroller on top of the baby stroller with the looks like a blanket and then moved around. Yeah. And then moved around on >> Okay. And then who who made those selections? >> Uh that was the female. >> Okay. So, and she had walked in prior to the male actually walking in. Correct. >> Okay. And then he came in after and then walked out with her and at that and at that point is when I made contact with them, >> you know, in order to identify them at that point, you know, do you want them trespassing location? >> We would. >> Okay. The father and mother faced multiple charges including shoplifting, child injurement, trespassing, and possession of under Florida law. The total penalties could reach up to 16 years in prison, and $16,000 in fines. This case serves as a reminder to adults about the importance of awareness and responsibility in every decisioning children. There is a thin line between guidance and inappropriate treatment. When that line is crossed, the consequences are not just physical. [music] They can also affect the emotional bond between mother and child. >> Get up from my car. You are impeding my investigation and I will take you to jail. GET OUT OF MY FACE. >> EXACTLY. >> On March 25th, 2025, West Palm Beach County police received an emergency call concerning a child's well-being. It started when a boy around 10 to 12 years old ran out of his home, but quickly escalated as police uncovered hidden challenges in the family situation. Which direction did you see him walk? >> I was at way. I stayed in the middle of things. So when I came out the door on the phone with dispatch, he was on the long sidewalk coming on 17th out of the complex. Then he ran up this way toward this way. I can't see way this way from my from my complex. Talking about he seen him go way down there and and then stop him. How you get way down talking about they seen him and then stop him. Duke, you just wanted to go there. That's This is not the time for that. >> Did you see him over there? >> No. >> Did you suffer from anything? >> No. >> So, what happened? >> You just had a little >> I grabbed his phone instead of the iPad so I could have showed you that he was in the act of doing this >> in your house. >> In my house. I just caught him in my bed. I had to call the police. It was the same thing. He tried to fight me, run away. It's the same thing. This scares me. You know what I'm saying? >> This is big brother. He 12. I never had an issue. I don't know how. >> Was he in your room this time or what? >> No, he was in my room. >> Okay. So you caught him in the act. What happened? If you go to discipline, he's the one called you. >> Oh, yes. She told you. >> Yes. >> Okay. Did you discipline him? >> Yes, I went to discipline >> and he ran out. >> Yes. >> Okay. They found 17. You want me to take you there? You want me to come? >> No. I guarantee you. >> At the same time, police located the boy. Observations on his arms and legs highlighted the seriousness of the situation. >> What's up, man? You okay? >> Did she hit you? Did you guys get in an argument? >> With an extension cord. >> With a what? >> Extension cord. >> So, what happened? What did she What What was mom doing exactly with You said You said extension cord. >> Yes. >> Why was she upset at you? >> You remember me from the bathroom? >> I do remember. Oh, that's you. What's your first name again? So, she got mad at you because you didn't hop in the shower right away. >> Mhm. >> So, the same You're saying the same thing? >> The same thing. >> And so, she got mad at you and did she pull you out of the shower or >> No, I hopped on the bed. She stepped in. >> She I'm sorry. Say it again. >> After I hopped on the bed. >> Okay. >> She went on the left. >> What happened before you hopped on the bed? >> Were you guys arguing? Was she yelling? >> She She literally just closed the door. >> Closed the door. Why' she close the door? Why would she close the door? >> She just got mad at you and >> if I were running, of course she would close the door. >> So I don't understand why you were at the house. She was right. >> I understand that. I want to understand what happened before she started. >> Me? >> I literally start. >> Sorry. Say again. >> I told you to go stop. >> She got mad at you about showering. Did you not want to shower? Is that what that was? >> I was going to shower. >> You were going to shower? So she was mad that you weren't in the shower because she said so. Then she got mad. That's when she got mad at you. Yes. >> She tried at you with her hand. >> That was really forgotten. >> So, as soon as she realized you weren't in the shower, she went to go grab an extension cord and start it at >> her over there. >> Yeah, I know. >> They're They're about to bring mom over here. I know. Well, >> you might as well. >> Can you What color was the extension? Was it orange, white, black? >> Is it like the ones that you use for like a TV? Like this. >> Is it one you plug in to plug in more? >> The thin one >> that you use to charge your phone. >> Let me see your arm. >> Charge your phone. >> What? Turn your arm like this. >> Where else did she hit you? >> In the leg, too. Or is that from running away? >> Just from running away. All I did is >> When she hit you, where she come >> here? >> So, she was just it like this. I can see it on your arm. You have you have that here. >> You all right? >> Yeah. >> You ran all the way from over there. >> Yeah. The whole way. All right. Call me if you need. >> All right. >> Yeah. As soon as he we come up to him. I mean, you can just see it. Put your arms like this. Here, here, here. His legs. She just start. So what he told me is that she was mad at him cuz he didn't hop in the shower and when she got on his >> she just grabbed >> mad. He said that he immediately got mad. Would you go grab an extension and just start? >> He's describing it as you >> can baby. What happened? I'm sorry. When the line between guidance [music] and inappropriate treatment was crossed, the mother faced legal accountability. She showed remorse, seemingly unable to believe things had reached that point. >> Stop banging on my door, please. Okay. Right. I just Listen, I just got here and they tell I'm telling you what's going on, so you have to be patient. >> Listen, I we just came over here. >> Ma'am on camera. My partner just pulled me inside. Did you see that? He has on him. That's what we're investigating. >> We're going to jail right now. >> Okay. No problem. Allow us to get it and I'll let you. >> That's That's fine. I wouldn't dare do that. >> Step off the car, please. >> Come on, ma'am. >> I don't want Huh? I don't want to. >> You have You have to. >> If she's going to jail, you have >> Can I see him though? I I prom mother. Please. I'm not that type of mother. Can I just please see him? I won't say nothing to him or nothing. You don't you are you a mom? >> He's okay. >> Are you a mom though, sweetie? I would never. That's what I need you to understand. >> Listen, but that's just my word against his baby. I told you I disappearing. >> He has wealth on his arms, on his legs, on his face. He's >> He MUST HAVE FELL or something. Investigate this on both arms. Both legs. I don't want to. Okay. I need you to step out the car. >> Ma'am, I'm hyperventilate. Can you please just I swear to you, I will not go nohere. I am going to hyperventilate. This is totally unexpected. Can y'all get me a sergeant or something? I swear to you, I'm not trying to do nothing wrong. I want this to be handled. I told you I'm scared for my baby. >> He's okay. >> We're letting you know he's right now. All of our body cameras are on. Please fine. But I need you to step out the car. Why? >> Cuz if your mom is going to jail, you can't be back here. Can you take us back to our house and I can let him in the house? He's old enough to stay home by himself. >> But he's not old enough to stay. >> We're not going anywhere. >> I think y'all going to detain me here. >> I think we by not detained. >> So I can walk to our house. >> Yeah, but we don't want you to do that. We can drive you. >> We at Nana House. I'm going to tell you one more time. I need you to come out. >> I don't want you to get in trouble. You're not going to get in trouble. You just have to >> He's not going to get He's not going to get in trouble. I >> just need you to step out the car. You're going to be fine. Come on. >> Can you wait till your sister come? The camera on here. We won't even talk. She's >> out of the vehicle. >> She's coming from the public right now. >> We'll put him in that vehicle. >> He don't want to be in no vehicle. >> This is not your choice. If you are under arrest, he cannot be in the back of the CAR WITH YOU RIGHT NOW. >> AM I UNDER ARREST? >> YES. >> OKAY. I'M UNDER ARREST. >> Get out of the car, please. >> Here. Here. I love you. I love you. >> Can I give him your key? >> No. No. Go on the sidewalk next year. >> The car. >> Sorry. You know you search me. Can I keep my phone, please? Because I want to talk to my daughter cuz she can't. You cannot keep the phone. >> So >> Maya, they taking my phone. Going to jail. >> Take all heck. >> They say he and all of that. >> I got I got him. >> Make sure you check on your brother. >> I got him. I got him. >> So tell me, can you wind the window down? I promise you I can hyperventilate. I won't speak to nobody. I'm not being rude to you. Sweet. safe. Sit in the car, please. Can you test? [sighs] >> Just lift up lift up your shirt real quick just so we can make sure. >> No, I don't got nothing. >> Yeah, just so we can make sure. We just >> We don't want to miss anything on you, buddy. >> Look, the window down and talk to me. I swear >> she's going to talk to you. >> I know, but I won't even talk to you. Please wind the window down. It just made me feel so much better. I crack it, but as soon >> I crack it, but as soon as you start talking or yelling at other people, I'm going to close it. So, if you stay quiet, I'll crack it. >> I will. I will. >> The situation became more complex when the mother's relatives arrived, shocked to see her son placed in temporary care and the mother escorted by authorities. >> She's in the back of the car in handcuffs. >> Are you who she was on the phone with? >> Yes, I'm the big sister. What's going on? >> Going under arrest for child right now. For what? Doesn't matter. >> It does matter. >> It doesn't matter. >> Okay. For what? >> Do you see any? I don't need to explain to you. >> I don't need to explain to you. So, right now, my investigation, if you don't leave the scene, I will take you to jail. You guys leave. Get back. Get back. Y'all get back. Get back. >> Don't say nothing to nobody. Mommy will come and GET YOU SOME. BACK UP FROM my car. You are impeding my investigation and I will take you to jail out of my face. BACK UP. >> PLEASE TELL HER STOP. >> MAYA, I'M SORRY. >> I KNOW. I know. I know. >> We don't need people screaming. It's a kid. >> That's our brother. She worried about it. >> I know. >> Do you feel safe now, honey? >> Okay. We're going to have the medic come and check you out. Okay. >> Don't say nothing to them. They can't get to the jail. Don't say nothing to them. Somewhere, right? It was mom. You're not in trouble. >> I know. >> Big sister, can I talk to you, please? Were you at home at all whenever what happened between mom and happened? >> No, I was out getting dinner. >> So, he has all over his body. >> That's why he ran away. He has wel. Okay. He's not in trouble, but we need to keep him separate from everybody so we can talk get his side of the story before you allow him to talk to anybody else. Okay. I'm I'm sorry that this escalated so high >> while he talked to you guys. He is underage. Can I be there while he talk to y'all? She's at the car with him by himself. Like, what is she doing? What if she said to him? >> If he wants you there, that's fine. But we have a we have a sergeant coming out. First thing I want done before anything happens, I want the medics to come and look at him. He has a couple on him that need to get evaluated. Okay. All right. And once our sergeant gets here, everything's We'll make sure that you guys are able to be he's not in trouble. He's not going to jail. >> I don't want him talking to her by himself. What is she asking him? just what happened. >> Okay. I don't want him telling her what happened >> cuz we can't we can't go too far into it. I don't want her I don't want her telling but we don't want her talking to him without a pan around. >> I don't want him telling her what happened. If we have to wait on your supervisor, that's what we can do. >> Hang tight right here for me. Let me go see. >> Anyway, my told him I'm my auntie. Let her come with me. It's her. She's very nasty. But what he's on to the hospital for cuz he's got all over him. >> He got no that just LET ME TELL YOU. SO I my mother and them ain't these children needing these days. That's what's wrong with him. >> Like you got ying off. >> Baby don't talk to nobody. I will be at the house right after you. >> Sorry. Are you a parent? Is he a parent? Yo, >> excuse me. That's That's my big brother. Where is you taking him? I wasn't that dog could be with him. Where are you taking him? >> We're taking him to take him nowhere. >> But you have to take him somewhere. >> For what? >> Somebody has to watch out in the world for this child. He's gotations all over. Okay. But you said my little brother and I can be with him. >> You're not going to be able to be with him. You can be at the hospital where he's at, but he's going to be at St. Mary. ride with him. >> No, they're not allowed to ride. >> It's more than likely going to stay. So, we're going to figure out the car. You can follow it. >> Oh, you guys. It's fine to follow. There's nothing wrong with again. There's also obviously issues with him. Whatever happened there was probably too much. I don't know yet. I have to get to the bottom of it. If it was you're allowed to coral, but you can't somebody till they're there's there's a difference between corporate punishment and someone that's I haven't got I just showed up. We've only been here for 30 seconds. >> They need with stitching cords this generation. >> No, you can't do that. >> I know we can't. I said they need >> I'm taking >> the mother was taken [music] to the station to complete the necessary procedures. >> So, what I was cuz you never talked to me. So, I asked you what uh what was wrong but tell me. >> Okay. So, he has welches. So, like if you beat someone with I don't know a belt, a cord, jump rope or something, they leave welches. He has walruses all over his arm, all over his leg. He has a wall along his face. And I don't know about his back and area. They will tell me that cuz he's at St. Mary's Hospital. >> And then you said something about >> on his face. Where else did he like >> his right leg? Right over here. >> And what kind of like what caused the like? >> I don't know cuz when they went out with him, that's what they saw. So I don't know. >> She was charged with child abuse. Under Florida law, the penalty [music] can be up to 5 years in prison or probation along with a $5,000 fine. Love is not [music] about physical correction, but about understanding and supporting a child's growth. Guidance is [music] necessary, but it must be accompanied by compassion and emotional control. Family life isn't always peaceful. Financial pressures, sleepless nights, and stress can [music] make parents feel overwhelmed. But even small actions leave last on a child's heart. What do you think about the role of the community in situations like this? Share your thoughts in the comments below. If you found this video helpful and want more in-depth analyses of legal [music] lessons, don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to support the team. See you in the next video. [music]