ments that raised serious questions about responsibility and family care. At the start of the new year, an unexpected traffic situation unfolded when a mother driving with her four young children was involved in a roadway incident. >> Are you hurting anywhere? >> I Okay, let me look at it. >> On January 1st, 2024, right after New Year's Eve, a mother driving with her four children was involved in a traffic mishap. Police and medical staff quickly arrived to provide support. The children were comforted and checked on by officers to ensure their wellbeing. >> You all okay? >> Yes, I'm okay. >> Okay. >> Except for Charlie. >> Charlie. >> Yeah, he's my son right here. >> What? >> These two are having a hard time right now. >> Which one's Charlie? >> Right here in the middle. >> In the middle. Hey, Charlie. What's going on, man? >> Victor. >> Yeah. >> Do you call somebody help? We need some help here. >> Yeah, we're here to help. Okay. >> Yeah. Do you guys have other family that lives in Athens? >> Yeah, my um my sister-in-law is coming down right now. >> She is okay. >> You take us home. >> Yeah, we'll get you home. Okay. Are you hurting anywhere? >> I think because >> Okay, let me look at it. Can I see? >> Are you hurting anywhere else? >> Oh, no. >> Hey, I think you're going to be all right. Okay. I know it hurts, but it'll get better. Okay. >> Okay. I promise. Cold water in my neck. I need cold water in the towel. >> All We'll see if we can help you. Okay. Give me just a minute. All right. 392 Central is EMS in route. >> 104. One vehicle has four children. Mom's got some some scrapes on his neck. >> Hey, you okay? Are you anywhere? Your neck and where? >> Okay. >> Do you call somebody like Tia? He won't get us. >> Your tea is coming. Okay. >> Okay. >> All right. You're good. >> Thank you, police officer. >> You're welcome. You're going to be okay, man. Okay. You'll be okay. I promise. The mother also tried to explain the circumstances that led to the incident. >> I'm sure you already told the other officer, but what can you tell me what happened? >> The car breakd up in front of us at the light. I tried to like swerve to not catch them, but I caught them anyway. >> Which car was it? >> That one right up there. >> There's two over there. The one in the grass or you know? >> No, it was a red. >> Okay. >> Everything happened really quickly. >> Where are y'all coming from? >> My sister-in-law's house down the street. >> And where are you heading right now? Home. Where's home? >> Like we stayed for midnight and then we were just driving. Yeah. Where's home for y'all? >> Okay. Did you the other officer get your ID? >> Yeah. >> Okay. Does your sister have like enough uh seats and stuff for all of them? I'm just going to close this so it's a little bit warmer in there. Okay. >> Do you have blankets or anything you can put on them? >> I was just trying to air out the airbag. >> Yeah. Do you have blankets or anything you can put on them? >> Yeah. >> Okay. And if you need to take the baby out or something, you can. Yeah, we're we're blocking for you. >> I literally just got this car. >> Not long after the father arrived and appeared tense. Officers step in to help keep the situation calm. How are you related, sir? >> Sir, >> this is my significant other. >> Yeah. Okay. >> What happened, babe? >> There's the two youngest kids father. >> Okay. Where you parked, man? >> What's up? >> Where are you parked? >> Where am I parked? No worries. I just got dropped off, sir. What's up? >> Okay. All right. Well, we're trying to get the kids out of here. Unless they're going to the hospital. >> Everyone's okay. >> What the happened, man? >> Hey, man. What's going on? >> Hey. Um, so she was in pretty significant rear end. Um, she has four kids with her. A couple of them just have scrapes on their neck from the seat belt. I don't know if there's anything more significant with that, but that's the only complaints, but >> Okay. >> The kid in the front seat and the kid in the back middle seat >> up with that car. >> Who hits you? >> Um, I don't know if there's any complaints from them yet. I haven't talked to them. Are there any uh complaints of down there? >> No. >> Ma'am, what's your name? >> Uh, >> okay. Can you pop the trunk again so we can put a jacket on him? Unless you have one in the car for the little one over there. >> He actually has a jacket in. >> He does. Okay. >> Put your jacket on. >> Yeah, I'm calm. But what happened, man? You need to get a tattoo. >> What? >> That's your palm. >> Was there anything besides the seat belt scrapes? >> No, not on. He's complaining a little bit of like front neck. He's got his toy in his hand. He said he came back down the toy and him right there and he said he his kneecap on there, but his kneecap feels fine and I ain't seeing anything. I was just waiting for him to get out so I could lift up his pants and look at his knee. >> Okay, he seems like he's walking okay. I just want to make sure there wasn't anything more significant. During questioning, she initially denied any prior activity that could have affected her focus, but later acknowledged she might not have been fully attentive. >> And then he freaked out and then got them freaked out again. Now I understand. He freaks out anytime. >> Hello. What's up? >> I don't smell anything. She's very She's very awkwardly relaxed for somebody who was in this crash and her kids are all scared and everything. Um, the ambulance just rode them over there. >> Hello. >> Hi. Hi. You turn for Amy, but GSS. We have a Amy Hawker wallet. >> Can you tell me what happened out here? >> The heart break and I tried to swerve but still caught them. So I just >> Okay. So you rear ended them hot. I was air break down and then the everything locked up on me. So >> have you had anything to drink tonight? >> No, >> nothing. Do you take any prescriptions? >> And anxiety and anxiety medicine. >> Anxiety medicine. >> Yeah. And a depression medicine. >> Okay. >> So I really don't. >> Did you take those today? coming. >> Have you taken them today or this morning or whatever? >> No, nothing. >> All right. You haven't had any alcohol? >> Uh, we just >> I was trying to get home. >> Why? What happened? >> I don't really do routes and I lost my dad around this time. So, I went as a family obligation, but I really just wanted to go home. >> Okay. Was there anybody with you? >> Just my kids. >> You had your kids with you? >> Yeah, I had all my kids. >> How many are they? >> All four of my kids with me. Are they here right now? No, they're actually getting took them home by my my sister-in-law. >> Were they all buckled in and everything? >> How old are they? >> I have a one-year-old. >> Okay. >> Smoke marijuana? >> I don't. >> You don't do you use any other kind of uh or anything? No. Do you mind running through some tests real quick? Make sure you're all good and then I'll get you out of here with your kids. >> Yeah. >> She was asked to complete several routine safety checks which she found difficult due to minor discomfort after the incident. car isn't as big as I wanted to. I used to have a Honda Pilot, but that one went into shop this week leak, so I had to get this one. And then this one's been having issues, so that's great. >> It's got one big issue up there at the front right now. >> Yeah. >> I just want to run through a couple tests real quick and just make sure you're good to drive, good to go home, and go be back with your kids. Okay. You wear glasses, contacts, anything? >> I wear glasses, >> but you don't have them on now, so you're good, right? >> I don't. Okay. >> They broke my glasses this week. >> Oh, did they? Do you have any medical issues? Any concussions or anything like that? Get the airbag, I guess. >> Okay. All right. So, all I want you to do is just follow the tip of my pen. Can you do that? So, put your feet together and put your hands down to your side. All right. I just want Can you see the tip of my pen right here? All right. So, you can just follow that and don't move your head. Just move your eyes. Okay. >> Okay. >> I'll move your head. >> Sorry. My airbag kind of dust is in my eyes. >> Your airbag? What? >> The airbag dust kind of got in my eyes. >> Okay. It's okay. Just do as best the best you can. Okay. Yeah. All right, last one. Just keep following it >> up here. Foul the pen. Watch. >> Sorry. >> It's okay. Foul the pen. >> It's the lightest mess. >> All right. So, one more test. You have any issues with your legs? You're able to do You're able to walk. >> You messed up my ankle out is coming for the should be fine. >> Yeah, I think that'll be fine. So, what I'm going to have you do is I'm going to have you start this test like this. Put your right foot >> in front of your left foot, heel to toe. Put your hands to your side and just hold it like that. Pretend like there's an imaginary line right here. And you're going to walk nine heel to toe steps down. I'll tell you when to stop. >> Go back. There you go. You're going to walk nine heel to toe steps down. And on your ninth step, >> stop it. And you're going to take a series of small steps. Turn around. Take nine heels to heel toe steps back. It's going to go like this. >> Nine forward. I'm going to I'm going to demonstrate and I want you to watch your feet. Count out loud and don't stop until you get all the way back to the start. Okay. >> Another test. My ankle's not that that >> Well, let's just try it real quick and then we'll see. All right. You're good to go whenever you want. >> I really can't put weight. >> It's okay. >> You want to start over? >> No, I don't think I >> You don't want to do it? Okay. Which ankle is it? >> Honestly, this one. >> The one that hurts. >> Yeah. >> Okay. So, you're not able to do that? Uh, I do maintenance work. So, we're putting us a steel pipe that goes into the ground and it was too heavy and I threw it off. When I tried to get back up, I rolled my ankle real bad. Another test. >> Yeah, I'll have you do another test. >> You mind doing another test? So, this is what you're going to do. >> Put your feet together, hands to your side. What you're going to do is you're going to lift up. You're going to lift up your bad ankle and you're going to lift it 6 in off the ground and you're going to keep it parallel to the ground. >> How long How far is 6 in? >> Just picture like 6 in. >> I'm sorry. I have anxiety. I overthink anything. >> It's okay. You don't have to worry about you don't have to worry about anything out here. We're just making sure you're good to drop. So, you're going to uh lift it 6 in off the ground. Keep it parallel to the ground. And you're going to count 1,00 1,002 all the way until I tell you to stop. Keep looking at your feet and count out loud. Okay? It's going to go like this. You can start whenever you want. >> You said lift a bad one, right? >> Lift a bad one. Yeah. 1001200 95 >> 105 100678 work is probably busy if you'll call in and be connected that'll be good >> 1345 >> I'm going to end up hurting myself and I don't want to hurt myself >> no I don't want you to hurt yourself >> the results indicated concerns so officers proceeded carefully according to protocol >> so If you turn around and face that officer right there, put your hands around your back. >> Stay back. [Music] >> But when I just drove by coming into >> No, man. It's not just because of that. Here, let's walk over to my car for me. This way. >> Here, get him. >> I'll get Hold on a second. We'll get it. We'll get Do you have anything on you that you don't want or you shouldn't have? >> I just want to give him my keys and >> your keys. Okay, we'll give them to him. >> Do you have anything else on you? Can Do you guys have a female officer? Yeah. >> Do you have anything on you? Anything in your bra or anything like that? Okay. Um, so you just want these keys to go. >> Yeah. I just want to give him my keys. >> Okay. You can come grab the keys. >> Don't forget you can get your >> No. Do you want Do you want your phone to go with you or would you like to give that to someone? >> You want to give my phone? >> Do you have any money? I got your ID. Do you have your Do you have a wallet or anything, sir? Sir, sir. No, we're not You're not searching her. Okay. Do you have anything that you that you don't want to take with you? You want him to take? >> I don't. >> Okay. Do you have anything illegal on you right now? >> When officers explained her rights, the mother acknowledged the situation. >> Watch what I'm doing. I ain't doing nothing but getting >> Give me one second. >> Go ahead. >> All right. You over 21? >> Okay. I'm sorry. What did you say? >> I have alcohol over my pants, but it's not my fault. My sister-in-law had dumped it over. >> What kind of alcohol was it? >> You jump margarita mix. >> Margarita mix. >> Okay, let me read this to you. You have the right and with these rights in mind. Do you wish to speak to me? >> I'd rather just keep Is there no soriety test that I can test before? >> That's what I'm about to ask you. I have to read this to you before I can talk to you about any of that stuff. You'll talk to me. >> I don't have a problem talking to you. >> Okay. Based on the test that I just did, I can tell that you're under the influence of something. How much did you have to drink tonight? How many margaritas? >> I had one drink with my mother. >> You haven't taken any other narcotics or any other >> I haven't been arresting ever. >> Okay, that's okay. Well, we're gonna figure all that out right now. Okay. Do you mind doing a blood test? >> You don't mind? Okay, we'll go get that taken care of right now. Okay. All right. Hang tight. >> Don't be like I'm not here for you. I'm here for you. >> All right. We're going to take off. >> Just take a minute. Okay. I love you. Okay. I love you. Don't trip. Okay. Bye, baby. I love you. The following procedures were carried out at the station to clarify everything. >> This is what's going on. You're getting charged with DUI for you being DUI. You're also getting a charge for DUI for each child that was in the car, too. So, that's a total of five DUIs, plus you're getting following too close, which is what caused the wreck. Okay. So, that's what happens when you have the children in the car with you. You know that you put them at risk tonight, right? >> The mother was charged with DUI less safe. for counts of DUI, injuring a child under 14, and following too closely. Under Georgia law, if convicted, she could face up to 5 years in prison along with fines exceeding $5,000. This case highlights a clear reminder. Safe and attentive driving is the best way to protect your family. By respecting traffic laws, especially with children in the car, we preserve peace of mind and avoid legal consequences. At the end of 2024 in Georgia, another situation drew attention when a baby was found without immediate adult supervision, leading to an investigation. >> You know what's 3 hours for a toddler >> outside with no shoes on? >> On November 14th, 2024, police received a call from a hotel reporting a baby unattended outside. Some residents at the hotel quickly stepped in to help, offering care until officers arrived. Officers quickly arrived and took witness statements at the scene. Hi, we called about the baby. >> Where's the baby? >> Behind there. >> All right, bro. >> Uh, the mama just dropped the baby off and let jump hop in the car and left. >> Dropped the baby off where? >> Here. Come on, officer. Somebody has I don't search the whole I don't get room knocking on doors. Nobody knows. I can't find enough parent for it. You don't got >> I don't know how to do the the manager's not here and I don't know how to do what we going to do with this baby. I mean look look how this baby had on no side where was just through. Pamper was just through. The tenants helped me. They gave her a bath. Change of clothes. >> Did she talk? >> She finally talked cuz I've been walking around with her for long. She wouldn't talk. Hi. See the officer? What is that? Mommy. Hi, mommy. Look at him. What's that? >> What's that? Is he What is he? >> Hi. She talks. She can't talk. She can't. Are you Delila? Is your name April? I'm Paula. Hi. We got to call child protective service. I can't keep her. I got to work. I'm tell you when I tell you this community came together and bathed this child, put some clothes on her to give a fool. I have searched this hole. I have knocked on just about every door in this hotel looking for a parent. They're not in here. >> These people they just talking or they know something. So they really know who it is or no the mama. >> Nobody don't know. We just seen that. Everybody said they seen the mama with the baby earlier, but we don't see no mama no more. >> You know what time she left? >> No, we just the lady who found the baby, she said her son brought the baby to the baby was wet everything. I had to give the baby some of my baby clothes and some food and they washed her up and everything >> at the same time. They worked to comfort the baby and ensure safety. >> She turned up. >> She's hungry. >> This is crazy. >> It's crazy. This town was outside. No socks, no clothes. >> Ain't nobody even came to look for you. >> Yeah, you can go with me. Yeah. I wish I had some toys. >> I wish I had some toys. Did you eat? You hungry? >> Come here. Come here. Come here. It ain't much, but it better than nothing out there. It's cold. >> Where's your mommy? You going to ride with her? >> Come ride with him like my daughter like that. >> Come on. Come on, mommy. >> Oh, you got it. >> I got you. >> Oh, look at her. >> Authorities then contacted child services to coordinate care, though the process took time because the case had not yet been officially opened. >> Hi, my name is Robinson from County Detect. How are you today? >> I'm okay. My name is Officer Lewis. >> Mr. Paul told me you found a 2-year-old wondering where was the 2-year-old at? >> Yeah, not me. The patrol officer that was called on scene. He got the child. He was the child was found at 5021 Old National at the Best American. We're trying to make contact. We're trying to find We got some tips, some leads. We have the mom's name. We're just trying to see if we can locate. >> Does she know our name or anything like that? >> She is. She's not even speaking. >> Hello. >> Hey, how you doing? Is this Tommy Miller? This is College Park Police Department. >> College Park. >> Yes, sir. In in the state of Georgia. >> What's going on? >> Let me give you a background. I know possibly your family member Tikica Miller. So her child is up here. I found her at a at a hotel and the mom is nowhere to be found. >> Did you all have a phone number that young >> and we we have exhausted trying to call multiple numbers. We're not getting any feedback. >> We just going off of what somebody else gave us and we have a we got a picture >> trying to picture what And again, like I said, ma'am, we are trying to confirm, but that's the lead that we have that we're working with. >> Unfortunately, defects, we can't do anything without a case. We need a case in order to. And right now, we don't have a case. >> What do you mean you don't have a case, ma'am? >> I don't have a case. They didn't send over a case. Did you make this into an actual case? Did you make a report? >> This is the thing. When I called, they transferred me to you and told me based on the severity and we have the child here, we needed to speak to you and then we'll generate whatever report, I'll call back the initial number. >> Okay. until you have to call back to make a report. That's what you would do that you need to call back to make a report. Is that what they told you? >> Ma'am, they said after I speak to you and I give you the information, after I guess you do whatever you have to do, then I call them back afterwards. >> I can't do anything. I need I need to pay for them. Sorry. >> All right, ma'am. Thank you. >> Once records were confirmed, CPS sent a social worker to the scene. >> Thank you for calling the Georgia Child Protective Services Intake Communication Center. on the way. >> Hello, officer. Let me get your name and information and I'll just generate I'll just put a child that's been found with no caregiver and that just send them on out there. I'll go ahead and get um the information that you provided will be staff with a supervisor and the county will be notified of this vision. So, I'm going to go ahead so I get complete the report so I can Okay, you have a safe. >> So, question question. What else would you need from me? Is there anything else? Do I have to call back? Is somebody going to contact me and let me know what's happening or how does this go? >> No, you you shouldn't have to call back. I'm going to call the county and tell them I got an immediate I'm going to send this report to them. >> All righty. So, yeah. Uh my case manager uh like I said, she's on her way. So, she already got an estimated EPA from her. >> That's the case manager from DeFax. >> Correct. Yes. >> The mother arrived shortly after, but the information she gave was not entirely consistent, complicating the case. He's outside and he'll want to detain him. >> So you want So where were you? >> At work. >> This entire time? >> At work. >> You got proof of that that you >> Yeah, I can show you my tips. I was at work all night. I can show you how I show you. >> Do you have any ID first? >> Um on my phone. I got my ID on my phone. >> Yeah, no problem. >> My lady. >> Where is he? >> Where was he this whole time? He was watching her and he said he's going to get something to eat. >> You want to go get something to eat? He said he said >> what do you guys think? >> He's at the best American. We already in a situation. We can't afford jail. >> We already eat. He said she went to sleep. He left afternoon to get something to eat. So he barricade the door to go get something to eat. >> You see what time it is now? >> All right. You know what time your daughter was found? >> Mm-m. They had her at 6:00 p.m. We got there at 8:00 p.m. It is not what time in the morning. >> Who had her at 6:00 p.m.? >> This is what I'm trying to tell you. This makes absolutely no sense. I'm awake, but let me get your information. >> Oh, you said it. >> Ma'am, let me just get your information. >> No problem. You wait right here by the window. >> The stepfather also appeared. He explained that he had briefly left the child in the room while going to work and to get food. Also, he acknowledged it may not have been the first time such a situation occurred. My LT says she's all the way back as well. These are the individuals here. That's that's the mom. I guess the boyfriend, but I didn't ask any questions. I was waiting for when LT comes cuz I was going to do them random, but I'll just wait. See what else wants to do. >> Okay. Then I'll wait. >> Yeah. Exactly. Exactly. >> Oh, you're the bottom. >> Are you dead? >> Yes. >> So, I'm going read both you guys the Amanda rights. Do you understand these rights? >> Thank you. >> Does she understand? I didn't hear. >> You understand these rights, man? I need you to verbally say yes or no. Yes, ma'am. >> So, where exactly are you staying on national? >> At the back, the mayor came right today. >> Today only? >> Yes. >> What room is 2:26? >> 2:26. When was the last time you saw the baby? Around 6:00 p.m. >> Close to 7 p.m. Close to 7:00 p.m. Where was the baby the last time you saw the baby? >> Laying in the bed. >> Laying in the bed. Did you leave the baby in the room alone? Can you tell me why you left the baby alone? >> She was sleeping. I remember. >> Where do you work? >> At time comedy corner. And are you just getting home? And >> so when you walked in the room, what happened? >> At what time did you get back to the hotel? >> Left wake after 1 something. So probably two. So you do know that even a child a baby alone in the room is is is to children. >> Is there any reason why you didn't get a babysitter for the baby? >> I never took her to work. I went to go get some food at 12. I meant to go to work at 7 baby. She has a whole thing where she gets up open doors and pull door knocks. This is not the first time this happened. It's happening in another hotel. She ran out home. She was saying everything was fine. I fed her. I lay her down. Everything was good. But when I left, she still typically woke up. They said that door was wiggling and wiggling kept going cuz she came to open the door, but she'll keep pulling pulling with all night and she'll pull back and she probably feel like I don't know what's going on. >> So, are you saying that you noticed that she was missing before the mother? >> No, I had to go get the mama. I'm just noticing. >> In other words, once you dropped her off at work, you never went back to the home. >> No, I went back. I've been with I went back. So she didn't get up until 12:00 or 1:00 in the morning. The child been the child been in the hotel roaming around since about 6:00 or maybe 7:00. So you never went back at 12. >> Midnight? >> Yes. >> No, you didn't. >> I just had to come back. >> She get off at Listen. Listen. >> No. No. It's okay. I know. I'm telling you. >> Listen to what? >> She get off in toilet. >> Listen to me. You didn't see the baby at midnight. You didn't see the baby at midnight. You know why I know? To ask me how. Ask me how I know. Cuz the baby was with me. I have the baby. I've had that baby since 8:00. >> 8:00. Say we took a nap. >> So, are we saying So, so, so is it fair to say that? Are you the the real father, the biological father of the baby, or are you a her boyfriend and you just step up as a dad? >> Mom would say correct. Yes. Correct. >> Is that correct? >> Okay. >> Police continued to gather information from both parents while CPS took steps to ensure the baby's safety >> because this is your child. This is your your responsibility. You understand what I'm saying, Tina? So, you are going to be charged with uh control. Now, before we take you into custody, I'm going to go ahead and ask the social work at these facts if she has any questions for you. Is there someone that you can keep the baby with custody wise to be comfortable leaving it with? I need her to be able to have you sign some forms saying that you're willing to let him take temporary custody until everything's resolved. Okay, that just kind of gives us an idea of where the trial is and what's going to be going on. Okay, as a heads up, we will be having another case worker reach out during the daytime. They'll be contacting you, sir, and we'll be keeping away from my baby. My baby is my family just now. Sorry. >> He just told me that you are the biological father. You told me that you are the biological dad. And so if that's the case, you're both equally responsible. I've been told you responsible. >> She just asked me if that's her correct. >> All right. So, is that not your Okay. I am going to get her to set a few to do that before she goes back. >> Sure. Is there any other family members around here? >> You have any other family members, sister, mother? Anybody in the area that could provide care for the child? >> Huh? >> Uncle Joe. >> Uncle Joe? >> Where does Uncle Joe live? >> You have Uncle Joe's home though. Any contact. >> At this point, the mother realized the seriousness of the situation and grew visibly concerned when told that temporary care arrangements might be necessary. charge like I don't deserve that's not option that's option like >> and I understand also understand that the child anything could have happened to the child the same way people get charged with children and vehicles people get charged with their babies at home it wasn't god it wasn't Unfortunately, please have I listen my baby gone and I can't leave my baby. I can't leave my baby. I ain't never spent a day away from my baby. Never. Not one day away from my baby. Ever. Ever since the day she was born. Not a day away from her. Not a day. Not a day. And we in a situation, this is one time where she can't be away from me. I can't leave her out here. I just started a job. We just trying to figure it out. I can't leave my baby. Understand it does not You do not have to charge me with to children. I'm not doing >> Listen, listen to me, man. It's a lot of people out here doing some [ __ ] up to kids. I know it. I despise it. I'm not that. I don't deserve it. Everything I do for my kids, everything I do, every every breath I take, every time I get up in the morning, my intention is to take care of my babies. This is just this is just a situation where something reallyed up happened. And I up and I understand that Ied up but I don't deserve to be charged withyalty to children. I understand I understand the law. I get it. But right now my life is not I'm not in the position to leave my baby. I can't leave my I can't leave my baby. I can't leave my baby. I can't She can't be away from me. I can't let her sleep away from me. Ma'am, I can't. >> So, I'm going to go over some things with you. Okay. My job. I'm not with the police. Whatever they decide to separate. >> If you got any power in you, please. If you got it, >> that's this is what she has to say. >> Okay. >> After many discussions, she gradually agreed to a temporary placement with a trusted caregiver to ensure the baby's wellbeing. >> I'm going to give you some paperwork. Okay. This is very basic stuff that we're going to go over right now. Okay. You may be asked to sign other things later. Okay. This just tells you information we gathered during the course of our investigation. It's completely separate from there. >> So my baby going defects. >> We don't know what's going to happen right now. You mentioned an uncle Joe if we can get some contact information. >> I know how to get labor from for defect. >> My baby not going to defect. Y'all don't take my baby. Hey y'all. >> We do want to try and place her with family so we can get the content. Don't nobody love my baby like I love my baby mentioned. Okay. >> Yeah, she got a house and everything. >> What's the phone number for her? >> Let me write this down. >> Come on, y'all. >> I'm going to need you to sign, ma'am. Okay, I can't control what's happening right now. But what I can do is make sure that your baby girl goes to Uncle Joe and that she is taken care of and that she is well cared for. Okay? So, if you work with me, I can promise you that we will find Uncle Joe and we will get him, you know, and try and get him to help provide care. Okay? >> It's a female support. Mom older, that's why she be little. >> So, because you were involved in this situation and part of the reason that the baby was left unattended was because you left the room, we can't guarantee that that won't happen again until we assess further. So, for right now, we have to place her with someone that we believe would be able to provide that. We call Uncle Joe. We are going to do some checks, background checks, stuff like that before we release the child into his care. Okay? I can't control this. I know I told you that. Okay? All I can do is make sure that your baby's taken care of. But for that to start, I need you to work with me and help me. >> Only way you can guarantee she's going to be taken care of. She will >> Oh, I can't do that. I can't stop the police. That's outside my power. There was a crime committed and so they do have to make a charge. Okay. >> Throughout the process, police and CPS worked closely to resolve the matter while prioritizing the child's interests. Your child was attended from 6:00 p.m. to 900 p.m. Officers were there, asked everyone, spoke to everyone. No one was there. Gave you guys multiple opportunities. No one called, no one came. It is now almost 4 a.m. You made a statement. Your child has never slept away from you. Your child is sleeping soundly now because of us. We took care of her cuz none of you guys did it. >> Ma'am, please. >> Please just listen. I just want you to listen. We did this. This is not what we wanted. Nobody contacted us. You know what's 3 hours for a toddler >> outside with no shoes on? I have 11 kids. That's unheard of. >> But no problem. I have 11 and I've never done that ever. I know where all of my kids are right now. >> Are you sure? >> No problem. >> Cuz you as a man, you should step up and take this cuz you the child, not her. >> She wants to work. So trust me, I don't want to hear from you right now. I just want you to understand that we're what we have to do. We have no choice. This is why I took an oath. >> No, I don't. I don't. >> If I don't do anything, I go to jail. >> Thank you. >> So, trust me on this lieutenant. >> Lieutenant, we came here to let her so we so y'all bull crap. Let her tell y'all before we do what we have to do. And not even to mention, I'm not even have no shoes on >> outside. I can't I can't right now. We need we need to focus on this. >> Ma'am, are you going to >> I'm listening to you. Talk to me here cuz you got no secrets. Listen, as a man, you need to step up, please. >> Based on what she told me initially, she with you. So you are the you you are the responsible as a man. That's crazy. And so that's that's what I got to read. >> There's nothing I can do. >> Um I'm not going to get signatures. So go ahead. >> I'm just going to have to notice. She's unable to sign. >> Ma'am, whatever you have in your pocket, anything you can give it to the gentleman. Let let him hold it for you. >> Yeah. Allow him to talk to the baby. >> That's the thing. She She's going to make it harder. She's going to make it harder. >> Y'all, come on. Y'all understand? >> No problem. You understand? We'll make a call. It's no problem. You can make a call. >> Somebody, please just listen. What about my baby? >> Listen to her. Let her explain that to you. Just let her explain that to you real quick. We'll be better. >> If you sign papers, help me help your baby. Okay? You love your baby. You want to help her. The best thing you can do in this moment is sign these papers and help me help her. Okay? All right. This explains all of that. I'm going to ask you to sign that paper right there saying, "Do you understand?" So, right now, we're going to make the plan for you. Okay. >> Authorities also conducted further assessment of the family situation before completing the procedures. >> You'll be good like your jewelry, you know, you can't walk with that. Whatever else you have, he did give you some money, you can hold on to that, but everything else you can give it to him. One in custody. Yeah, that she didn't have to take that off and go down. You went to work. The boyfriend was left with the young girl with your daughter and then apparently he went for food but he never came back. That is our work. I >> No, but I'm saying I mean to be honest and you heard what I told him. >> My whole thing is honestly he should have been a man who stepped up and taking responsibility and not have everything fall on you. But obviously it's neither here or there. But I'm just trying to cover all bases cuz I'm saying me personally what I would have done I would have arrested both of you guys >> just based off of that alone by default because you didn't even leave her in his care. That's me personally but my lieutenant came and she said what she said. I just want to make sure I got everything from you. There's no faults anything there. So you did say you you got a lift. You went to work. Your boyfriend did not drop you but he picked you up from work. So that whole time you never went back then. That's the case. That is ours. That is not cool at all. All right. So, >> I mean, no. Um, um, we're we're working on that. The minute I get an answer, I'll let you know. I'm not I'm not going to have anything from you. I'm going to do everything. My question to you now, you said that you're no longer residing anywhere. You're so the you're basically homeless. >> All right. So, that part I can't put in, but everything else is accurate. Can you give me your social just based on the charge? There's no court date that'll be assigned to you when we put on the falter. >> Yeah. Till right. So that's how that's going to go. >> The mother was charged with firstdegree cruelty to children, deprivation of necessary sustenance. Under Georgia law, if convicted, she could face 5 to 20 years in prison. This serves as a reminder. The safety and proper supervision of children must always come first. Even short lapses can create serious consequences for both the child and the family. Also in this state, another four-year-old was taken straight into a bar. >> So, you don't see any issue with bringing a four-year-old to a bar? >> On August 22nd, 2021, police in West Palm Beach, Florida, received a call reporting that a mother had taken her four-year-old into a bar, putting the child in a potentially unsafe situation. >> You're the one that called. It's this woman over here on the corner. We're just worried about the child. I don't know if her mom is. We did not serve person, but she just showed up about 30 minutes ago and the poor kid was walking around no underwear, no shoes, crying, wanting to go home. C I had customers come come up to tell me that the mom was running into them, follow it. Thank you. >> All right, so I took care of it. If you want to leave me a card if I have any other issues, >> I just got to talk to her real quick. >> Okay, >> you don't mind. What's your name? >> Jennifer. >> What's your name? >> What is it? What's your name? Meline. >> M A >> D E L I N E. >> You're four. >> Four. Is there any reason you have a four-year-old at a bar? >> No, >> there is no reason. >> No. >> Can we go outside and talk, please? >> Yes. >> All right. Awesome. Come on, Miss Val. >> No. No. Bring her. Bring her. >> Bring her. >> Yes. She don't see any issues with bringing a 4-year-old to a bar. Even as the girl kept screaming, "I want to go home." >> So, is this your daughter? >> Yes. >> Okay. So, you don't see any issue with bringing a 4-year-old to a bar? >> I I I >> Do you understand? I'll call DCF on you and they'll come and do a whole investigation. That's a problem? >> Yes. >> Okay. We've gotten multiple calls about this situation, saying that your daughter's lifting her dress and she's not wearing any undergarments. It's an issue inside I don't know. >> Hold on. Charlie 6, we're outside now. We're out by the outside bar. I'm getting like they're saying that you're they think you're under the influence. You have a 4-year-old at a bar. That's no issue in your mind. >> Um, I mean, I did not think it would. >> It's not like you're sitting at a dining table. You're literally sitting at a bar with a 4-year-old. >> Agreed. >> I have a 2-year-old and there's no way in the heck I would ever do that ever. >> Understood. >> Are you okay? Yeah. You just want to go home? >> Okay. You're kind of like putting me in a real tough spot here. Will you just hang out with my partner here? The mother's concerning behavior became evident when she nearly dropped the child in her arm. >> That's your daughter? >> Yes. >> Don't be scared. >> My name is Officer Hannah. What's your name? >> Everything's going to be okay. All right. >> You're okay, sweetie. Everything's okay. I'm told that this was a not a spot to take my daughter. >> It's okay. Um, have you been drinking today, ma'am? >> Um, >> hi, mama. How old are you? >> It's just me. >> Four? You're four? >> Going home. >> Okay, it's okay. You're almost going to go home. Okay. What's your name? >> Maline. >> Maline. Oh, that's a nice name. Mine. I like your dress. It's unicorns, right? >> Yeah. >> Everything's okay. All right. >> Is it okay for her to go home? Just wait one second now. When we're done, then we'll tell you what's going to happen. Help me. Help me. >> Oh boy. >> Yeah. >> Is there a chair or something? >> Maybe on the stairs if she can sit down on the stairs. >> No, I'm fine. >> We just don't want you to fall with your daughter in your hands. >> The girl then revealed another secret. >> Can you talk to a child? >> Meline. Maline, don't come to me. Right here. Right here. How you doing? Are you okay? You okay? You want to walk over there? Just walk over there. >> Walk over there. >> I know you can talk to me. Okay. And you can talk to me. Stop right here. Right here. Talk to me right here. How are you doing? Are you okay? >> Yeah. And mommy. Okay. You have been arrested before? >> Yep. >> For what? >> Intoxication. It's not illegal to be intoxicated. >> It's not illegal to be intoxicated. >> No. for that. >> Go call. >> You were with mommy all day today. >> Where are your shoes? >> You left them in the car? >> You were hanging out with mommy. How long were you hanging out with mommy? What was mommy doing? >> She was good. >> What was mommy doing? >> She was in the store. >> Was she doing anything else? >> No, she was staying in. >> Everything is okay with you. No, she didn't hit you or anything like that. >> I just want to play I got it. What is daddy at home? >> Well, my daddy is sick. >> Uh, does daddy live with you guys? >> Well, my daddy lives far away. >> Okay. All right. Well, we're going to go back to mommy. Okay. >> Okay. >> And the mother, she still put her child in a risky situation that required police intervention. >> It says day. >> Oh, gotcha. Natalie, want to come over here real quick? Want to come with me? >> No. 1995. Let's call. >> All right, here we go. >> 1995. >> Okay. Come here. Come here. Come here. >> Ma'am, don't make this more complicated than it is. >> Come here, >> M. Please stop. >> Please stop. >> You're going to come with me. Okay. We're going to talk over here. Let's talk over here. Let's talk over here. Okay. >> You're being placed under arrest for child. Do you understand? >> Do you have anyone that can come pick up Maline? >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Do you have grandma who lives with you? >> I just have a grandma and Titi. >> Grandma and Titi. They they do they live close? Hm. >> Well, they live. >> You want me want to hold my hand so you can feel better? >> Your grandma and Titi, they live here. Do they live close? >> They live in Tennessee. >> They live in Tennessee. Okay. You want to go see the police car? >> Want to go see the lights? Yeah. Okay. Come on. I'm going to carry you. Okay. All right. Let's go see the lights. Okay. Hold on. >> All right. I'm going to bring you over to my car and I'll let you make phone calls there. Okay. But it has to be somebody you choose. Obviously, we can't just leave with somebody. And if you can't find anybody, we got to call DCF and they're going to come get it. We're going to go down the stairs. Be careful. Actually, let's go down this one. >> High five. >> Yeah. Good job. Good job. You're such a good girl. You know that. Going to wait for the car to come here so we can look at the lights. Okay. >> Still, the officers tried to give her a chance to contact relatives. >> My partner behind you, she's going to search you and then we'll take you out of handcuffs as long as you cooperate and everything. Okay. Um, you can make phone calls to have Meline get picked up. Okay. >> Mhm. >> All right. Do >> you have anything on you that'll stick me, poke me, me? Anything? All right. I'm going to put my hands underneath your bra. Okay. >> Mhm. >> All right. >> Which one's your car? So I can make sure it's locked >> in the parking lot. >> So I'm going to take you out of handcuffs. All right. You can make your phone calls to whoever you need to make. It's just to come pick up your daughter. Do you understand? >> Yep. >> All right. >> You just hang out with this officer. I get a good statement. >> It's cool, right? Look at the light. You're going to be here with Crystal. That's her name. Okay. I'm going to go get statements and everything. Okay. >> Right there. >> Not stopping there, the police returned to the scene to gather witness statements and complete the investigation. >> All right. Can you tell me what occurred today? Mom came in with a young girl who was screaming, having a tantrum, obviously meltdown. She was tired. She was begging her mom to go home. Mom seemed intoxicated. Totally out of it. >> When you say that, how how did she appear? Why do you think she >> glossy eyes just smiling at me? I was trying to talk to her. She didn't really have a reaction. >> Was she reacting to her daughter having >> No, not at all. Not at all. That's why then we started to think maybe she's not her mom. Like this is weird. Then I asked her, "Are you this girl's mom?" And she said yes. Like no one not even like how dare you ask me like no no reaction. >> Like over exactly. Then they walked away. 10 minutes later I had customers come to tell me please call the police. We just called them. Her daughter is standing in line. She has no underwear on. She's lifting her dress up, touching herself. Her mom is falling over, banging into us. We just tried to call the police. Please call the police. Then they left. Then I had people at my bar tell me the mom was reaching for their beers. Just like random people at the bar trying to drink their beers. >> Okay. >> And it just was an uncomfortable situation. Poor girl was begging to go home. And I told the mom, I said, "It's 10:00 almost. Like she's tired. Why don't you go home? Can we call you an Uber? She had no reaction. Like I don't know if she was drunk or on pills or she just seemed out of it. >> Can you tell me what occurred? >> I heard the childing >> top of the lungs just screaming. I want to go home and she was barefooted and I actually kind of kind of looked at her in a mean way cuz that she was out of control >> of course. >> But uh no it was >> and everyone was watching. >> And you were inside correct in the inside bar. >> Okay. And you were you were at the corner where you were sitting down when I when I went in. Yes. >> So you saw the child obviously screaming and saying she wants to go home. Did you see anything else? Like did she react? Did she react? What did you see her do instead? >> She just stood there like they didn't have a clue. It was sad. >> After that, did you see anything else? >> She tried to take my beer cuz I walked away and uh just to make sure the police came. My brother tells me they tried to take my beer. Okay. >> And that's what she was concerned with. You could tell that she was trying to drink, but but she didn't get any beer from anybody else. Let me >> She asked with the bartender. She asked them and they said no. >> Okay. Did you see the child do anything else other than screaming and >> No. >> No. Nothing else. >> I mean, she was very distraught. >> It was It was sad. Everyone was watching. Yes. >> Okay. >> Mother Jennifer was arrested and held on charges of child thirdderee felony. Under Florida law, if convicted, she could face up to 5 years in prison or probation along with fines up to $5,000. Hey. Hey. Maddie. >> Yeah. From the police station. >> No. From Grand View Public. >> From Grand View Public. >> Oh my god. >> Yeah. >> Um, Miss Rodriguez, who did you get? >> Her brother. >> Her brother. >> Hello. >> Take a seat. >> All right. I'm going to shut this door. >> All right. Just have a seat in here. You need any water? >> Okay. I'll get you some water. Okay. Your piercings, do they come out? >> I saw just >> none of the piercings come out. And your ears, they don't come out. And your glasses, they prescription. All right, give me one second. I'll get you some water. >> Miss Rodriguez. Miss Rodriguez. Ma'am, can I pat you down real quick? And then I'm going to try to get some of those piercings out. Come on. Wakey wakey. Time to wake up. I need to get some of your piercings out. I got your shirt. Can you sit up? There you go. All right. >> Stand up real quick. Going to make sure you don't have anything in your pocket. I know another officer rejected you. >> Do you have anything in your bra? >> Ma'am? >> No, nothing. All right. I'm going to try to take some of your piercings off. Okay. Let look up. Let me see your nose. Is that the turning? Okay. All right. You can sit down there. You can lay back down until we're done with paperwork. Then you'll be on your way. >> Children, especially those under five, should not be in places like bars where there are drunk people or risks of accidents. In such places, even a moment's lapse by a parent can put them at risk of a abduction or life for Illinois continues with a visit to the father of the two sisters. But an unexpected situation created significant challenges for the family. >> He threw a picture off the wall at her brother and the glass broke in into his face. >> On March 27th, 2024, Kowani police received a call about a family situation that could affect the children's well-being. What began as a visit to request food assistance quickly became a complex situation requiring police attention. Police promptly arrived, collected statements, and ensured the children's safety. >> I went over to my dad's house with my brother to go spend the day with him and we were hungry. So, we went to our desk cuz our mom's at work. We didn't have groceries at home at the time. And it was hard for us to get in. So, I was banging on the door and he finally let us in, but he was in a bad mood. And we were arguing and then I knocked something over and he he came in like my head. I had earrings in. That's why I was trying to go with my brother and my brother was getting into the car and he threw a picture off the wall at the car and the glass went into my brother's face and I had to hurry and take my brother to the hospital but my dad took my phone so I hurried up and came here. >> Deal with the hospital with your brother. >> Yes. >> Okay. >> My mom's on the way home from work. >> Ambulance is here to check you out. Okay. Where's at? >> I think just back here. Both sides. Did I hit you at all in the head or? >> No. >> Can I take a picture of your ear? >> Yeah. >> What's your name? >> I have glass in my car, too. >> From the picture being broken. >> Yes. >> Where's your car at? >> That's the Malibu. It's unlocked. >> Can I look? >> Yes. >> She's at her dad's house. Brett, go forth. Knock on the door. Finally let her in. Spent some time with her brother. She was hungry or whatever. He grabbed her. He was upset. Bad mood. Grabbed her by the head and squeed her head like that. Her earrings cut through her ear. And then as they were leaving, he threw a picture off the wall at her brother and the glass broke into his face. They're out at the hospital. >> That's why they're out there. >> Yes. >> Let's go rest this guy. >> Yep. >> Yeah. She has glass on the broken glass in her car. So she's on her way to the hospital. We're going to go out to the hospital now. Are you okay here? Are you >> My mom's going to want me there? >> You going to go out there with these guys then? Or >> Who took her brother? >> I took her. >> You took him? Oh, you took my phone. >> My dad showed up after you got there. >> No, I took he had he was in the car with >> Oh, okay. >> and he took my phone. >> You say why you took your phone? >> Cuz he didn't want me to call nobody. And that's why >> what happened? >> Yeah. And that's what when they went inside to hurry up and came here. So, cuz she's my best friend. >> Okay. How'd your brother get to the hospital? >> I took him I took my brother. My dad was with >> Where's he at now? >> He's still in the hospital with them, I believe. >> Okay. Do your dad have any weapons? >> No. No. >> We'll go find him. Okay. >> Okay. Should I meet you guys up there? My mom's going to be there. I mean, if you want to be there, I would just wait a few minutes. We got some stuff we got to take care of with your dad first. Okay, we'll just leave it at that for now. All right. >> Yep. >> Based on the initial information and evidence, police located the father and took the necessary steps to ensure he faced the legal process. >> Hello. >> Can I help you? >> Who are you here for? >> A child with glass in his face. Okay, go ahead and >> let me child kid with injury or glass to the face. >> Yeah. >> Eight. >> Okay. >> What's up? >> Hello. >> How are you? You Brett? >> Yeah. >> Can I talk to you? Come over here. What's going on? Uh, my daughter showed up throwing rocks and stuff at my house or whatever. My son had fallen or whatever. He fell. >> Yeah, >> that's how that's what happened to him. That's what I'm being told. >> Why did Elena come to the police station or something? We got called. >> Called by who? >> Her. She's got a bunch of glass in her car. >> No, >> she does. I I saw it. >> Okay. >> She's got some injuries on the side of her face. How did that happen? Don't know. >> All right. Put your hands back under director and brush for domestic battery. Do it right now. >> Go tell your mom and call my mom and right now. >> Do you have a phone with you? You want to make calls? >> Um, what is it? >> If you have your phone or if you want him to give you a phone, whatever. >> Bren, I'm going to leave this rag here. This is not yours, right? >> That is from my house. >> From your house? Yes. >> Can somebody that's here take it home with him? >> Um, yeah. >> You don't have anything in your pocket, do you? >> Um, just foam. >> Okay. You want to search real quick? >> Okay. >> The father was brought to the police station for investigation and to complete the required procedures. >> Is your wife on her way up here, ma'am? that boy >> or your girlfriend or whoever. >> Mother's on her way. >> The mother. >> Yeah. >> All right. There charges on my daughter then [ __ ] assault on myself and property damage. >> Talk to me against the police department. >> That's fine. >> Watch your head, bro. >> I want to press I want it where she can't come on my property or whatsoever. And I explain y'all how to do that when we get there. Okay. That'll [Applause] be 76 post one male 105 five is going to stand by wait for mom to show up. >> Cambridge or am I going to go get >> I'll explain all that when we get up here. Give you your chance to tell me what you know your side of the story. I want all all aspects of it. That's your choice. So I'll tell you what's going on when we get up here. Right this way, buddy. The blue door or >> this one? We're go through the side door. Want to stand over there for me. Stand right against that wall for me. Right there. Perfect. Okay. Through here. Go ahead and take that phone out of your pocket and put on the table there. Uh bracelet come off. Have a seat in there real quick. I'm going to get some paperwork and I'll come back and let you talk to him if you want to. Okay. >> During this process, his rights were protected, including the ability to contact family members. >> I'm almost done. Okay. Okay. >> Do you want to come use my phone or >> Yeah. My [ __ ] computer's not working, so we're not going to do that here anyway. So, that'll save some time. What do you What's the phone number? >> Um, with me having me charge with domestic battery, get a hold of my mom. I'm being taken to Cambridge. >> Yeah. >> I need to get over there so she's going to get me over there so I can hopefully see the judge and I don't have to spend the [ __ ] night in jail. All right. All right. Call my mom. Elena is shows up on the property, whatever. Call the police. I want her charged for trespassing or and anything else. Okay. Yeah, I know. I was in there, but I don't have time for this. I got to get over the Cambridge. Call my mother. I love you. Bye. >> Good. >> Yeah. >> All right. Let me get this done. Have a seat in there real quick. >> Want to talk to your mom? She's on the phone. >> Having me charged with domestic battery if she shows up on my house or she's having me charged with domestic battery if she shows up on my property. I want her charged for trespassing or anything else. So, whatever. Flat out. I want for real. You need to take the car back. Well, either way, I don't have time for this. Whatever. I'm trying to get over to Cambridge and you're going to have to come get me if I get released. I'm still in keeping or whatever, but I need to get off of here. Whatever. >> Go ahead. >> My car or I didn't. No. Sorry. Mom, you need to get my truck keys and Yeah. No. You hear me? I need you to get my truck keys. I know. That's fine. Whatever. I got to get off here. I will let you know. I'm going to jail. All right. Love you, bud. >> Everybody wants to talk to you. >> The mother was then guided on how to request a protective order to prevent the father from accessing the children and to ensure legal action if any violations occur. >> What's up here, babe? >> Did you guys end up getting my phone? >> There's a phone, but he says it's his. >> Does it have a purple case? >> I'll look and see. If it's a purple case, it's my phone. >> My phone does not have that phone. >> You pay for it and all that stuff. >> It's all mine. >> Hi, you mom? >> Yes. >> Come talk to me. You have to see right here. >> He was arrested for domestic battery. He'll go to jail. He's got to see a judge. He don't get home tonight. So, are you familiar with the order protection process? >> No, but I want to >> Okay, I'll explain it to you. And how is it your son? >> My son. So, he's with my in-laws um right now, his stepgrandparents. He got six stitches. Since I brought this, I didn't know if you guys needed this or not. >> We did not talk to him cuz there wasn't a parent there that >> and he is autistic. >> Okay. >> So, I also took pictures if you want to see >> Yes. I'll give you an email. You can send those to my email address if that'll work. >> Can I get a copy of this? >> Yes. >> So, the order protection process, this is what you're going to want to do. Call this number tomorrow and make an appointment so you're not sitting there all day. But that will that's the state attorney's office. Let them know you're you want an order protection. They'll have the report already because he's being arrested. So, they'll see the incident. I'm sure they'll give you an order of protection and then he'll be served while he's at jail. So stay away from his house. Don't go over there for any reason whatsoever. And once he's out, he tries to contact you. Don't answer. Contact us. Let us know cuz that sends him right back to jail. >> She also shared the psychological challenges the father has faced and continues to experience. >> He also has the tendency, this was not too long ago, where he tried to commit, okay, and he tried to involve my daughter. She's the one that contacted you guys and everything. He went to the mental health hospital, whatnot. When he got released, he sat outside of my house, refused to leave. I had to call the cops. They made him eventually leave, but this is just ongoing with his and physical and whatnot. And now it's now he's doing it to the kids. So, this is what I've been trying to do is get the help, but I don't have the money for a voyer to go get things changed. >> So, the order protection will help with that. Explain that to the judge. And the judge should include your address. We'll include your address so that he shows up, just call us, okay? We come over and we arrest him and take him right to jail. We don't mess around with it. He viol protection, gets to go to jail, he gets to answer to why he violated that judge's order. Okay? If he does it too many times, they keep him there. >> Okay. And he has her phone. >> Okay. That's what she said. Purple iPhone. He claimed the phone he has on him, he claimed it was his. I don't know what it was. >> And he has the phone, but it's it's Autumn's. >> Yeah. The phone that is hers, she purchased. >> It's iPhone. >> iPhone 11 with a purple case. >> Yes. >> Okay. You're okay though. Is he okay? >> He's shook up, but he's okay. >> His eyes get cut at all or >> It's a big I'll show you. It's a big laceration. His eyes already. They said that he'll have a black eye from it, too. He got six stitches. >> Oh, wow. Here's your email address. It's all lowercase. Just send the pictures to that email address if you would. And then >> or did you guys take pictures of her? >> I've got pictures of her already. Any questions for me? No. >> Any issues? Call right away. >> Okay. >> Okay. Judges are gone now, so he's going to spend the night, so we don't have to worry about that. >> Do we just come back for her phone? >> If you want to hang out up front, I'm going to go talk to him and see see what that phone looks like. I don't recall what it is. There's one back there, but I don't know what it looks like. So, but let me go look at it and see if it's an iPhone. If it's not, then yeah, we'll have to figure that out. You want to hang out up there? I'll be right back. Okay. >> While police explained the legal rights and procedures for both parties, the father revealed that the conflict stemmed from the daughter's phone. Brett, can you see that? Is that yours or is it your daughter's? >> Oh, >> is it all reality of this or whatever? I paid for this phone or whatever. I have the receipts to this and everything. >> So, this is my personal property. >> Did you buy it for her though? >> I purchased it [ __ ] and she was using it. But is it hers? She doesn't have the receipt. >> Okay. She's telling me that she paid for it with her own money. It was and she made that and it's her phone. Is it her phone? >> No. >> Who normally has that phone? >> She uses it. Yes. >> Okay. >> But it's not her phone. >> Can she have her phone back? >> Can she have it back? No. I I'd rather have my mom have it or stay in my possession. >> Well, it's going to go in your property. So, I'll take it. I'll put it in your property to go to jail with you. >> Okay. >> So, yeah, we'll work that out. She's good. She's claiming she tried to call police with the phone. You took it from her? >> No. >> Okay. Go. [Music] [Applause] How do things work out for you, dude? >> I got to buckle you. >> Yeah. I lean back on my wrist or whatever. All stupid. Sorry. >> Yeah. No, you're good. As long as I can. You good? >> Yeah. Okay. The father was charged with domestic battery and endangering the life and health of a child. Under Illinois law, if convicted, he could face 5 to 12 years in prison. Previous personal challenges may have contributed to the situation, highlighting the importance of timely support and supervision. Identifying risks, monitoring the children, and providing timely legal support are crucial. While the situation with the father in Illinois was ongoing in Idaho, authorities investigated a case involving a young child in a potentially unsafe situation linked to the caregivers's health. >> I have a hearing problem, so and my back's going. I have a slip disc, so I can't really move quick. >> On December 23rd, 2024, Bonavville County, Idaho, police received a report concerning a 3-year-old child involved in a household incident. Authorities investigated the situation and statements were collected from the child's father. >> How are you? >> Hi. Are you a Valkyrie? >> Yes. >> Okay. Hey, Aubrey. Shall I talk to you on the phone? >> Are you okay if we come in? And do you have one of you or do you have to >> do you mind sending me those pictures? >> I can't. This is the we um called you on. It's the back of that. Okay. Yeah. >> And you guys need to take Rebecca off. >> Okay. >> Having mom watch them for the week. Was that just kind of like last second decision? Like couldn't find anyone else or >> Yeah. my babysitter too. >> Okay. >> So, that's why they were over there. >> Yeah. >> Are you going to work on getting like a new babysitter? >> In the process out. >> What day did you drop them off there at grandma's house? >> Let's see. Wednesday. >> This last Wednesday down to Salt Lake. [Music] >> What time did you call? um >> from the paramedics. >> Well, it's from her >> or from mom. >> Let me see here. First call when she told me that you just got burned. Well, it didn't get burned, but he just touched hot water was around 11 >> p.m. Yeah. >> And then you said it was like 10 minutes later or so. >> About 9:4 Wait, what? Yeah, about 40 minutes later. >> What did she say happened? >> She's saying that he turned the water on and was in the bathroom and touched hot water. She didn't like expound like sink or tub. >> He's saying that she did it. >> Okay. >> He's saying that. >> Yeah. I don't know. I don't You never get this whole story out. >> Mhm. >> Police continue the investigation by documenting and collecting relevant information about the child and the surrounding circumstances. >> Did they do a like anything else like a CT scan or anything? I would just recommend not having her watch them right now. >> Stand up for me. >> That one he dropped off. He dropped what on his butt. >> That mean it's down by his private >> He can on him. >> Is it a Is it a >> like big? Okay. >> Well, with your permission, if we can photograph it, >> if we think there's it would be good to document it. >> There's like a little on the back of his neck right here. >> Yep. Those look like I don't know >> people on his buddy I'm sorry. >> The father also provided details about the events and schedule on the day of the incident. >> Where do you normally drop off at? >> Okay. Go to Robert and take between Idaho and Salt Lake. >> So no long haul stuff just daily. Well, I was working cuz Natalya is supposed to be going in the center of time. So, we can move back to Georgia. >> We're from Georgia. Where in Georgia are you from? >> I'm not from there. So, me and Becca moved down there cuz I bought a house down there. Bought a 5-bedroom house with an acre for 100,000. >> Oh, wow. >> That's nice. >> And uh all that stuff happened. We came back up here to Well, she came up here and I came back up here to deal with. >> Okay. >> Me and Natalia started fixing things. She was going to go sit her time and I was going to run to down there and work on the house and getting it cleaned up and ready for the kids and everything. And my mom did this. So I don't know. >> So what was the reason mom was watching them? Cuz you were gone from Wednesday to Saturday. >> Friday >> till Friday >> and then she or the kids wanted to stay >> say for the weekend and you allowed it. Okay. And then were you just down in Utah for those days or from Wednesday to Friday? >> From here to Utah and then back >> and then back. So you were back every night from Wednesday to Friday. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Any reason they just stayed the night? They just wanted to or >> they wanted to and it was a little bit easier than >> waking them up and getting them ready to go every day. >> Yeah, cuz I'm up at 3 or 4:00 in the morning, believe down there. >> Okay. >> The investigation then shifted to the grandmother. Police inspected the scene and reviewed related factors. >> How going? >> Not too good. >> Not too good. What's going on? We got one more guy coming with us. Uh, why not? >> Just because for safety, for my safety. >> I have my uh caregivers's boss on the phone with me. >> Okay. >> Did you want to talk to him while we're >> She's right there. She's on the phone. >> Okay, that'll be fine. Go grab a flashlight. >> Okay. >> You don't need the flashlight in the bathroom. >> I just I just like having it. Oh, you know what? >> I don't have my car. >> Do you have a flashlight? >> Um, no, I don't. But I have >> That's all right. hang back. >> Okay. Is there anyone in here, ma'am? >> Is there anyone else in the house? >> Yeah, my dogs. >> Okay, that's it. >> Yep. >> Are they frowning? >> Yeah, their bark is moreress than they're loving. >> What kind of dogs you got? >> One is a Chihuahua and um Jack Terrier. And the other one's a jack terrier and something else. >> Oh, okay. How old are they? >> The one is we got from a lady and the other one's about three, four, five about five years. >> Those little dogs live a long time. So the >> So he did it in the bathroom. >> Yep. >> Turn right here. Yep. >> Right there. He pulled up on the thing and leaned over with his lips right on the bottom. >> Right here. >> YEP. >> And the water hot water tank. It's right there in the corner. >> Oh, outside. >> Outside in THAT LITTLE CUBBY HOLE. >> OKAY, I'll take a look at it. >> So, >> OKAY, PERFECT. AT THE SAME TIME, the grandmother began recounting what had happened. >> So yeah, he I was in the tub and he was sitting right here playing with his toys and I GOT OUT AND THE BATHROOM WAS GETTING DRESSED AND HE GOES, "Me potty." I said, "Just hang on a minute." And I got up cuz I had three runs. I said, "Hang on." I got off and told my grandma and daughter, "Let's go to my room." We went to my room and as I turned around to set, he got up there in between, got up there and turned the hot water on. And I heard him shut when I heard it. I heard him came out, shut the hot water on, turn the cold on, and put his hand under the hot water. I mean, the cold water, not the hot, but the cold. >> Okay. Just so I understand. So, from the time you and his sister walked to your room, you heard the water turn on? >> I didn't hear the water turn on. And uh as I got in there to turn around and set, he was already up there. And he did it Saturday night, too, when his dad and his biological mother was here. And we was all out there and he came in and boom, turned it on and got water and left. >> Okay. >> Came out. >> She also mentioned her health condition. >> Did you hear anything at all? >> Uh-uh. >> Okay. >> So, I have a hearing problem. So, and my back's going I have a slip disc, so I can't really move quick. >> Okay. What was your name again? >> He has it. >> What's your first name? >> Cynthia. >> Cynthia. Okay. The conversation highlighted her responses to the situation involving the child, though it appeared to be accidental. >> And we'll we'll check the >> You are you guys going to check this one up here, too? >> Well, he was only in the bathroom, right? He didn't get up on this one. >> What do you need, Brad? >> If you don't mind carrying this. >> Absolutely. >> That'd be awesome. >> So, why are you guys recording and stuff? >> Because we're collecting data. We want to see, you know, if he burned himself, you know, we have to look and we have to ask these questions of, you know, is the water hot enough to cause a burn? Hot enough, how long would he have had to keep his hands under there? You know, so we have to determine anytime a a child is we have to determine if a crime has occurred, right? That's just a natural question, right? >> Yeah. >> In doing that, you know, my job is to figure out if one did occur or one didn't. cuz he when it happened, I put cold water on it and had my granddaughter come out and get a nice pack and I found the first aid kit under the bathroom and I grabbed the ant cream at the ointment and I put it on and I called my son and I said, "What are you doing?" And he's like, "I'm in the bathroom. We are in the bathroom and I'm dick wet." And I had him on the speaker and I said for his hand and what do you want me to do? You want me to call the paramedics? And he goes, "No." And he turned around to him and goes, "Hey, how does it feel, you dumb?" "Hey, dumb [ __ ] good dumb." >> Okay. >> Yeah. And I'm like, "You need to get here." And he goes, "Don't call the paramedics." And that called my neighbor across the street. She came over, sat right there, and she goes, "Yeah, you better go call the cop." The paramedic. I had them come out. He's going like this with both of his hands. Set him right up here. When they got got here, and they looked and they said, "You need to call your the dad." And so I did and um they came 45 minutes later they came and he goes I told you you don't to co and then that's when he left and went to the hospital. You know, I was trying to do, you know, I done what I was supposed to do and >> Yeah. No, you did. >> I had him all week and I asked them Saturday to take him home and they left him here and he texted me on my phone and said, "You you just screwed up my plans. You're jealous of me." >> Texted you that. >> Yeah. And by accident, you guys could go to cricket and get the text message from him. And >> is it not on your phone? No, I by accident I he was going through my phone was deleting text messages and stuff. >> He was >> No, I did. I got my sister's text. What he they he said to her, but as I was going through, I was just sitting there deleting and that's I hit his name. >> Okay. >> When you walked in was were both of hands under the water or just one? He was like this and I only seen the right hand under there and that's when I re went over top of him and I went like this, shut it off and turn the cold on. >> Okay. >> After careful discussion, police decided to search the house to determine the appropriate course of action. >> Is there any way to get it from another? >> Is it back in our room? >> How do you access the water heater? >> Right out there. Just tape. >> Is it behind that wood? >> Yes. >> Does it need any tools? I don't know. I never gone up there. >> Okay. She said she has no idea that, but it's behind that. There's got to be an access point somewhere else. >> It would show that it hasn't been manipulated. >> Yeah. >> Right. You can't access it. So, >> yeah. >> Yeah. So, >> let me I'll get some pictures. You think I should give her the search warrant at this point or is it just >> I think you should. Yeah, she let us cuz we still served it. But I think we should try. >> I think you could get it out of her. >> Hang on. >> So we >> Can I get a card from all three of you guys? >> Yeah, of course. I don't have any cards on me, but I can give you my contact info. >> I would like to have a card. >> Well, I can get you a card. You just have to come to the station to get one. >> Yeah, Cynthia, just have them give you the contact information. It's okay. >> This right here that I have is just a search warrant and it was just for what we did. just for >> I wasn't going to stop you guys coming in, >> but we usually get them just in case. We don't know if people are going to let us or they're not. And so we get them just in case. And so I'll just give it to you. It's just a copy and it just says basically exactly what we did. We took measurements of the sink and the the water temperature and all that stuff. >> Okay? >> Because you know, like I said, anytime a child, we have to we have to investigate and see if a crime has occurred, right? >> And so that's what we're doing. We'll just give you this copy. This is your copy. >> Okay? >> I'll keep that with you. And then we can't get to the water heater cuz it looks like it's enclosed. >> They there's screws around it >> cuz I'm on Idaho housing and they had to go around and watch your head, please. >> They then check the home maintenance records. The grandmother suggested someone had tampered with the water heater. Police later left to continue other procedures. >> When's the last time um anyone has been in there messing with? A last in October of last year, I had inspection and that was on the 14th and then >> October of just 2024 just just like a few months ago >> last year. So they came in and said they they had to do that some other things my back door and stuff. So >> that was what was the date again? >> That's when the I had Idaho housing came in on the 14th. 14th >> and then they gave them two weeks to get it fixed. >> Your water heater, >> everything. So they just inspected. >> Yeah, they inspected things. they they had to get some other stuff done and that's how they did it and then they the guy passed it. >> So October 14th, Idaho Housing did an inspection um and they fixed a bunch of stuff basically. And do you know for sure if they messed with the water heater? >> I really don't know cuz I just stayed right in the house. I don't get into people's when they do their things cuz they was here >> in October because they was doing my floor. My son got back from Georgia. Uh they was doing the floor the week that he came in, moved in. Apparently the CPS in Georgia was supposed to be was looking for him cuz they called me and I said, "I don't know where he's at." >> Okay. >> I just let I told them to call him cuz I don't want to get involved with >> everything. And every time I hear about and that I just cry because I should have been in there and I'm like, "Yeah, I should have stayed in there. Yeah, I turned off the hot water and put his hand under cold. I'm admitting to those two things, but it wasn't my fault he turned the hot water on. >> Yeah. >> So, >> well, you know, accidents happen, so you know, just uh give us some time and we'll we'll go through what we have and, you know, we'll hopefully we'll be able to determine, you know, what happened. And >> cuz when he gets up there, he gets his hands right there. I've watched him before cuz I told him tall enough. She's five. She just turned five. She reaches up and turns it on. He gets up there and he tries to walk hold it and walks up, you know, walks walks up and I tell him to stop and like do it. And I was thinking I should have stayed in there cuz I'm trying to give him privacy to go to the bathroom. >> So he can't unless he climbs up, he can't reach under there. >> He when he reaches his hand is just right there touching the faucet. Just barely touches the close to the faucet. There's about that much weight from the faucet. So he has to get up there in order to get his hand in. >> Yeah. And then when I went in there, he was all the way up there with his hip laying down like that. And that's when I went over, leaned over top of him, shut the hot water off, and turn the cold his hand under the cold. And I think that's where he's saying, "Grandma burnt my hand cuz I shut the hot water off and put his hand under the cold water." >> Okay. I appreciate you letting us come and take a look. Sorry you're going through all this. >> It's okay. Valkyrie has done worseer than what I've ever done and he's never watched had anybody watch the kids unless it benefits him. So I had him for a whole week that month that and when they was here and so and in October I had him she was here right my care coordinator was here when he was here and he just walks out the door when I asked him if he was taking the kids and he walks out the door. Well, if you have any questions, I call that number I called you on. You should still have it. That's my office number. >> It comes out as a spam risk. >> Yeah. Well, if you want to, you can you can label that if you want as Detective Graham. That's my phone number. You can you can reach me there if you have any questions. Okay. >> Okay. >> All right. Thank you, ma'am. Thank you for your time. >> Don't fall off. >> Oh, we won't. Thank you. >> Over two weeks later, police returned with an arrest warrant. >> Hey, CP. How are you? >> Okay. You okay? Sorry to come this late tonight. You have a minute we can talk. Why? >> Why? Well, can I explain that to you inside? >> Uh, no. >> Okay. You have a warrant for your arrest. Okay. >> Uh, can I have somebody come get my >> I'll let you put in the front. I'll let you have a chance to do it, but you got to listen. >> Can I get dressed? >> No. >> Okay. You listen or can I go get my phone to call? >> I'll go grab it for you and you can call somebody. I'm going to put I'm going to put you in handcuffs. >> CAN I SIT right here for a minute? >> I'm going to put you in handcuffs first. Cynthia, give me your hand >> here. >> Okay. Okay. Put them together right here in front. Okay. Keep them just like that. Okay. >> I am. >> You have somebody that can take care of your dogs or do we have to have animal control get them? >> No. I call somebody to come and watch them. >> Where's your phone? >> In my bedroom where the dogs are at. >> Are they big dogs or they little dogs? >> Little. Can you shut my door, please? >> Yeah. Let me just lock those cuffs up so they don't get too tight on you. Face him down this way. >> Can Can you go get it for me since I can't go in there? >> I just want to get you a handcuffed first, but I got to go in there with you. Where's it at? I'll grab it. >> We're in my back bedroom. >> Where at though? In the bedroom. >> My back bedroom. And where you shut my TV off and that? >> Get down, Heidi. It's on my phone. And can I get my wallet? >> Phone and wallet. Kiss them in. >> My wallet's in my backpack in there. >> There's a wallet in the backpack in there. >> Before leaving, police explained the legal procedures and assisted her in contacting family members. Do you have any idea what your warrant's for? >> No. >> Okay, I'll get you the charge. Give me one second. I have 81 once. >> Can you give me the details on that warrant for >> Did you >> I don't There's a wood backpack with a bunch of cigarettes. I see a wallet in there, though. There's a backpack right there where you got my phone. >> The charge is to a child and the bond is 2500, I believe. That's what she said. >> Hey, uh, you better call Rachel. I'm getting arrested. >> What? I'm getting arrested right now. >> Okay, I'll I'll message her and let her know. Okay. >> Yeah. I don't know if I'm going to jail in the morning or what. >> You want me to go lock up your house? What do you >> Well, I can do >> I got go see having my teeth and 22. Apparently, I can't have no pills. So, I'm going to be like down not be able to move. >> Which ones? What do you need to take? >> Oh, >> yeah. >> Hey, Cindy, what do you need to take? >> I have an immort back there. So, have her have her What? Go ahead. >> Go ahead. >> I'm trying to get a hold of my sister. So, will you get a hold of Rachel? Rachel to get a hold of Tina. >> I will get a hold of Tina. She's gone. Just call Rachel. >> Bye. >> All right. Thank you. Did you uh Is there a jacket we can throw over your shoulders or anything? Are you good? >> Come on, girls. >> I just hope I don't fall. >> I hope you DON'T FALL. >> COME ON. GO. COME ON. LET'S GO. GO. GO. GO. Girls in the bathroom. Anywhere. Hurry. Go for a minute. Hold on. It is pretty slick. So, why don't you My car is not too far, but I'm going to loop it around so we can just put you in. Okay. >> Cuz I have a bad leg. I just came out of my bedroom. >> Okay. Watch your step. It's slick. We don't want you to fall. >> Got it. >> Yeah. The grandmother faced charges related to child inment and was booked into Bonavville County Jail. Bail was set at $2,500. Under Idaho law, a conviction could result in up to 10 years in prison. This case also highlights parents responsibility to care for and supervise their children, no matter how busy they are. Children must always be kept safe and properly cared for. And finally, no less serious, another mother was accused of her child in an unsafe environment. >> There's there's no water. The toilet's full of toilet paper. And >> on April 2nd, 2025, police were called to a home following reports concerning child's safety and visitation issues. At the scene, the father expressed concerns about the living conditions and the quality of care provided to the children. >> You guys arrest? Yeah, I'll get my paperwork. I'll show you. I got an order. >> Please don't take my arrest. That's what they're doing. >> Yeah, she's perfectly fine. >> The order of protection got dropped. She went and pulled her out of school early today and then she called me on her phone and she said to come get me. I said, "Baby girl, you can come with me." Like, I can come get you. And she's like, >> by the way, they said I can have her if I want. I didn't take her from her. She came running down the road and what was I supposed to do? Her mom has been screaming at her, yelling at her, tell her she to knock her teeth out. She said she I'm done hiding the stuff from your mom. I want them to see this house. I haven't been here for 2 years. I wouldn't. This is not even humane. My water has been turned off for 3 weeks. Like, please come in here to see this house. Like, I I really want >> Like, there's dogs from the front door to the back. It stinks so bad. Just go kick your head. It It's She's been making this kid live in here for 3 weeks with no water. Yeah, she's been staying No, she's been staying here. >> I've been at that house. >> Come here. Please do me a favor. She's been staying here. >> I've been sleeping in this house. >> Yeah, she's she come stand by the door. It's downright It is disgusting. But I am a whole I'm supposedly allowed to have her. I I didn't think I did anything wrong. My lawyer said if I have her, I have her. If he has her, she has her. Cuz this is everybody's she wants to go wherever she wants to go. She can go wherever she wants to go. I didn't even go in the courtroom today. I was just told to get a a custody agreement and we're working on that. I mean, this just And then she went and yanked her out of school. And then she's calling and she's calling crying. I had to beg my mom to call you and she's like, "Haha, now you can get a custody agreement, mother." And I'm like, "Stop playing games with our daughter." Like, "This is not cool." >> And then check my phone and hung up on him. >> Hung up on me. She's telling her if she comes around me that I'm going to go to jail and she's going to get in trouble and she can't be around her dad. I I would love to see some paperwork says I can't be around my like please look in my house make a CFS case. I'm not worried about it. I just got home a couple hours ago and this kid has been living like this. There's in my toilet. There's no water on. It's not me guys. This has been the hardest thing in the world for me and I have played it to the tea. But I am not going to leave. I That's it. She's telling me my dog's been living in a kennel for a week. She won't even let out said mother is her ribs are showing two bearded. There's all kinds of animals in here. She's not taking care of anything. >> Legally, custody remains with a mother who is primarily responsible for the children's care. >> As for right now, mom's got custody of her until a parent agreement is in place. That's how it works. It's stayed at home. I can give you that number. >> I've had you guys here before and they were straight told her they ain't taking her out of her house, but I get that she has to be out of her house. Like she kicked her out 3 days ago and told her to go kick her out. Kicked her out of the house. You guys are telling me I have to give her back to it. >> I I get how >> you got to go get a court agreement. Okay. Yeah, >> I will stay with my dad just for tonight. >> You can't dude. >> She's scared to be with him. She's stayed here every night since I've left and you guys are going to go give her back to her. >> Well, I mean, I can call my command and see what we >> Please. Anything you can do to help me. I don't want to argue. I'm just >> I'm not trying to argue either. I get your concerns. >> I fully get that's not acceptable at all. And if she goes over back with mom and they come back over here and then stay here. Where you going to stay? Who has room for you to stay? >> Either or. >> Bam's house is what? stack full of glasses. You're worse than my house. I got plenty to take this. That's the whole reason she did this. >> I know you had a place to take her, but mom is she's not getting arrested for this child neglect and stuff. >> It's going to get all I understand that, but I'm not really happy about her going with her mom right now. How can I keep her way? >> No. >> You have to get an order protection. >> I think she should be in handcuffs right now. Like I how if I did this to her, I I guarantee I'd be a joke. >> Police also noted concerns about living conditions at the home. >> Well, this is going to be a crust. >> It already is. I mean, I'm already like What are your thoughts on the rest of >> for engagement? Out. >> Absolutely. I mean, I can't even step a foot in that house without wanting to gag. There's stuff all over the floor. I already seen poo. I seen pee everywhere. >> Did mom admit to you that she's been staying? I am not committed to me. >> After review, police worked with the mother to clarify her responsibilities under the law. >> So, right now, they're going to be placed under arrest for life. Okay. >> Okay. >> Oh, our body cameras are on. >> I can tell you. >> Okay. We're just going to go to >> Can you open the door for me for just a second? >> Just for a second. >> Hey, they're arresting me for child. I need you to call Doc. >> Yeah, I'm in cuffs right now. I need you to call Doc right now. Thank you. Love you. Bye. >> Bye. Who's died? >> My boyfriend. >> Did you know about the condition of the house and the state it's in now? >> I did. I was working on getting it cleaned. He left it just as bad as I did. >> Um I I've I've been working. I've had my daughter. >> So, >> what's up with the with her knotted hair? >> She came home from her dad's that way. She claims that she didn't have a hairbrush in her backpack and it's only gotten progressively worse. And I do not have money until Friday when I get paid. But as soon as I get paid Friday, she's going to a salon and it's getting fixed. whether we have to cut it or it the it can't get brushed out. I've had several people try to help me brush it out and look at it and we can't get it out. >> Okay. How long has their hair been like that for? >> Only like Well, the knot started last weekend and it was very small and it's just gotten progressive. >> It's just gotten progressively worse. Yeah. >> Have you been staying in the house while there's been no water? >> We only sleep there. We don't eat there. We don't stay. Like the only thing we do is sleep there. >> Did you know there's bed bugs in there? >> No. >> Quite a bit. >> What? I don't have a single bite on me. Our code enforcement just went through the house and they found them in her bed. >> In her bed or in my bed? >> Oh, lovely. >> Yeah, there's eggs on your bed. >> Lovely. >> There's that. The house is being deemed uninhabitable. No one can be in there until it gets fixed up to code everything. There's mold, there's there's no water, the toilet's full of toilet paper and >> and it's a complete disaster. During the process with authorities, the mother raised counter allegations regarding the father, which added complexity to the situation and further discussion about both parties responsibilities. >> So, I have a question. Is there any way I can press charges against him for because he coerced her? He called her on the phone and told her to run away. >> That I would probably say no. >> Okay. Why not? >> Um, give me just a minute. >> Oh, you're young love? >> Yep. And I definitely did not say >> You told me that. >> No, I have this to prove that I didn't say that either. >> Okay. Then I misunderstood you and I apologize. I thought that that when I had asked you that if he took her that >> No, I said if she does, give us a call and we can handle the situation from there. >> Oh, okay. >> I understand where you're coming from. >> I just this phone thing that he's been doing like he the OP got dropped today and he violated it probably about six times and I had all the evidence and I didn't get out of work in time. And so, >> when did he violate it? >> I have filed a police report. The date's in my phone. I can look at it. Uh, actually, you texted it to me. It's in your phone. >> I did. I Oh, yeah. So I I I did complete a report on that >> and he's done it several other times since. I have screenshots of phone call. He's hacked my Facebook. I have screenshots of all of that. He's changed it so I can't even see what devices are logged into my Facebook. He put a pin on it and I have a screenshot of that. >> There's not much we're going to be able to do with that. >> Yeah. >> So I understand where you're coming from as far as the but I don't know if we can reasonably say he was trying her. He claimed that he drove by and she ran after him. She told me >> parked up down the street. I have it on video. >> Okay. >> He stopped at that gray house where all that those pillars are and he backed up all the way to the edge of this brown house in that black truck and he was hanging out the window when he drove by. I have it all on video. They have surveillance cameras on this house. >> Did he get out or stop the truck and go and grab her and pick her up? >> He stopped the truck. He stopped a truck and got out of the car and opened the car door for her. Okay. >> And she got in and he shut the door and I couldn't get out of my seat belt cuz it was locked. And as I was getting out of my seat belt, getting out of my car, I called the police. >> I understand what you're saying. We can definitely document that, but I don't think it constitutes asing. It's not like he's refusing to allow her to go with you at this point. He's even told me on camera, if your daughter has to go back with you, that's perfectly fine. He's not trying to her. >> Okay. >> Hold on. Before you go. All right. So, >> you better go do a well check of that house and you better scour it. >> That's what we're doing. >> He's already gone to clear it out. That's why he drove by. >> Mhm. >> Did he leave already? I don't know. I wasn't up there. Yeah. We're going to go check the house first before she's allowed to stay there cuz if it's like that condition, no, we're going to find something else or DCFS is going to come and place her somewhere. >> Okay. >> The mother face charges of child in under Illinois law. She could face up to one year in prison and a maximum fine of $2,500 if convicted. Leaving children in unsafe situations can affect their well-being and development from the risk of infectious diseases to digestive and psychological issues. So, we've looked back at some thoughtprovoking cases in Georgia. From moments of unwise decisions to lapses in care, each story highlights the importance of responsibility, especially when children are involved. Always stay mindful, follow the law, and put children's safety first so that every family can remain a peaceful and happy home. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to stay with us for more meaningful content. See you next time. [Music]