Um, he was trying to disarm him in me >> because he isn't injured. >> You can physically. >> You intended to him though, didn't you? >> That doesn't mean I intended to injure him, does it? >> Yeah, that's still got a little red mark there. >> Yeah, I know. >> All right, buddy. >> Okay, let me see the other side of your head again cuz your ear was really red right there and like purple. >> Parenthood requires care and responsibility. But what happens when a parent's mistreatment is so severe that the cops must step in? [Music] >> Yeah. Yeah. Hey. These were the moments when Hero Cops saved kids from a house of horror. Starting off with a shocking case where cops had to rescue kids from their drunk bullish dad after he couldn't handle a video game loss. >> Started punching your brother. >> Yeah. And like tackling him. And then um >> how old is your brother? >> Nine. 10. >> Calling him in the face for not being an athlete is okay. >> Uh if I want to raise my kids, I want to raise them if I don't injure them. The ear is pretty red from when you smack him in the side of the head. >> His ear is red cuz it's cold. >> This is what he does when he drinks. >> On December 26th, 2022, officers responded to reports of an altercation involving a father, David, and his children, including a 10-year-old over a video game. They spoke with the older child, and the account of what had unfolded left the officers genuinely surprised. >> Hello, how you doing, ma'am? Also Martine St. Cloud Police Department. Give >> me the issue today. So, um he was just we were just playing um a video game and I beat him and then so he started playing again against some a CPU and then he lost and he got mad cuz I I don't remember what it was. My brother had said something and then he started playing him and stuff and him >> started your brother. >> Yeah. And like texting him and then um >> How old is your brother? >> Nine. 10. >> 10. >> Yeah. And then um >> where's your brother now? >> He's in the house still. >> Okay. >> And then he then he said, "You're next." And then I I away and I got to the um door and I ran. >> The elder son told officers that David became really upset after losing the video game and even showed them video proof. With the footage and the children's alarming statements, officers realized this was far more serious than a typical family dispute. When they approached David for questioning, he was already ready with his excuses. [Music] That's it. Well, not first. >> All right. Is your brother at the house now? >> Yeah. >> Where's Where's Where's this address at? >> Police. >> Hey. Hey. So, this is what I want you to do. Uh, go follow me to the address, but stay a couple houses down. Okay. >> Yeah. You doing your step by the house? >> Yeah. >> All right. What's going on today? >> What's your son? Your son is with mom right now. She'll get a video. A video? Yes. Other times? >> I done that. >> It's on video. >> Okay. All right. >> Yeah, he's fine. I saw the whole thing. He's fine. >> The bars. Okay. >> Hey, buddy. >> What's your name? Um, >> yes. >> All right. You all right, buddy? >> Yeah. Huh? >> You sure? Yeah. >> Okay. Just look up for me, buddy. >> Okay. What were your dad do? You and dad doing >> because he isn't injured. >> Um, he was trying to do something >> because he isn't injured. >> He isn't injured. >> No, he's not. >> So, you in the face because he lost the video game. >> That has nothing to do with what happened. >> That is his mom manipulating the situation. No, I I saw the video. >> You saw the video? It's because he lost a video game. He wasn't even playing a video game. Calling face for not being as Okay. >> Uh, if I want to raise my kids how I want to raise them if I don't injure them. >> What does the Florida law say? >> Well, it's capital punishment. That's not true. >> No, that is not true. >> Franklin, are you injured? >> Read your laws. >> Well, sir, I'm going to explain something. Okay. Court's punishment has an extent. >> Yeah. >> And based on the video based on the video that we saw >> on my side. >> Okay. Who else is here? >> Who else is here? >> Yes, sir. >> Well, clearly me, my daughter. >> Okay. >> And my son. >> It's somebody else. >> There's nobody else here? >> No. >> Okay. Where's your other son? >> Uh, he left. >> Okay. Is there a reason why he haven't called us to reporting him missing? >> Because he told me he was going to his mom's. >> Okay. Where does his mom? >> And he's a teenager. If he wants to leave and go to his mom during a marital dispute, what do you want me to do about that? I can't do anything about that. >> David tried to brush off the incident, claiming that he had only disciplined his son, not hurt him. He stayed defiant and argued with the officers. With visible injuries and conflicting accounts, the officers pressed on, determined to uncover the pattern behind the violence. I >> contacted my lawyer since he lied. >> Okay. >> He said, "You have to let him go." >> So, you have no parental rights in controlling your son. You have to let him walk out the door. >> I have to. Yes. Correct. according to family court law. >> I don't know what >> you guys aren't involved in that. I know that. >> Okay. I don't know what lawyer you have, >> but you guys aren't in law to step into custodial issues. >> If your child leaves in the middle of the night and it's 45° out and you don't know how long he's been gone for, >> he's 14 years old. >> Okay. What legally makes him an adult, sir? >> Oh, really? >> Yes. >> Because if any of my children decide they want to go to their mother >> Mhm. I've already been through this three times already. Like your same police department. >> Did you call your wife and make arrangements for her to come? >> Do I need to? >> Do you need to? >> Yes. >> Where does your wife live? >> What is your right and family? >> No. You're going to be barefoot right now, right? >> What do you want me I cannot physically if I would have physically controlled him to stay here? You guys would be arrested. >> No, because >> Yes, you would have. No, you would have. That's illegal restraint of a minor. >> You're his parent. >> That is for >> We don't have a marital agreement yet. We're still in court. >> I called my lawyer. He said you cannot physically restrain him. >> Okay. So, what happened between you and your younger son? >> He leaves all the time. >> Your younger son here. >> What's What's up? >> Um you just dis. >> Yeah. >> Dad always like that. >> Does he have bruises? Well, his ear is pretty red from when you in the side of the head. >> His ear is red cuz it's cold. >> Yeah, >> it wasn't red. >> Are you guys serious right now? It look like we're flying. >> I did not intend to injure any child that I've ever had a video on the kids. >> Really? >> Yeah. The the video indicated what? >> I have kids and I would you discipline them like like you said there certain extent when it comes to corporal punishment. Okay. No, don't. No. There's no such thing as law. >> Okay. Well, you know what? Give me 30 minutes. >> No, no, no. For what? For what? >> For what? For what? >> What's your reasonable suspicion? What's your reasonable suspicion? You guys have to answer me that question. >> Are you guys What's your reasonable suspicion to detain me? >> Stop resisting. Really? Are you kidding me? This is what I'm doing. >> What are you doing to be kidding me right now? >> Because what? I punish my kids under the law. Are you kidding me? As long as I don't intend to injure my children in my punishment. That is my right. >> Also, does the fact that you're intoxicated and you're dealing with intoxicated? >> Yeah, I can smell the alcohol coming from. >> Yeah, I have. >> You can laugh while you want, sir. >> Oh my god. With physical harm confirmed and a troubling history revealed, officers had all the evidence they needed to act despite David's continued protests. >> I did nothing wrong under Florida law. >> Okay. Well, you and I obviously have a different interpretation of how you deal with your kids. Okay. And you >> Well, that's what Florida law allows. Like you guys absolutely not, sir. >> You guys don't get >> If you don't intend to your children, you can physically punish them. >> You intended to trick him, though, didn't you? >> That doesn't mean I intended to injure him, does it? >> Yeah. That's still child. But you're not No, you're not understanding. No, >> you're not understand. You don't understand Florida law. >> I've known me for 2 years under my lawyer's advisement. >> Okay. >> But you guys know better than my lawyer, right? >> Well, here's >> You guys know the law better. Correct. >> You talk to your lawyer. Okay. >> Okay. Yep. >> Uhhuh. >> You guys are perfectly perfect. >> Always believe messing up your kids Christmas. >> Yeah. Oh, you because you don't dis because you disagree with how I punish my children. That's what you guys both have told me. You disagree. Not that the state of Florida does. >> That's fine. >> Right. Am I Am I incorrect? You can disagree with the state of Florida all you want, but you arresting me is completely unlawful. >> I just need him to stop drinking. >> No, I understand. >> Cuz he's a good I just need him to stop drinking and >> No, I I understand. And like I said, I have a son myself and that's that's hard to watch that video as well. You know, there's a difference between, >> you know, there's a there's a line that, you know, you can cross and it was, you know, definitely crossed. >> Three two and a half years ago, we got into a fight and um they arrested me because um he said that I him and the dog actually bit him. >> Mhm. Um, so, um, no charges were filed, but I was the one that was taken in custody, and then I never came back to the house, and, um, it's been, this is what he does when he drinks. >> The drama wasn't over yet. Officers soon uncovered even more disturbing details that revealed both emotional trauma and visible marks. >> When did you hit your head, buddy? >> It's a little mark. >> Okay. How did that happen? >> Uh, when he texted me and I had to >> That's when you were leaving. Uh that's when I I got him off really. Okay. >> Uh he landed on top of my head. >> So what was the point of him tackling you? Just because he was mad and then that's when you tried to leave or was he trying to prevent you from leaving? >> No. Um I wasn't going to leave until he started cuz he was going to punish me on you. Are you sore? Real quick. Does anything hurt your head, your body, your neck? Anything? Can I come on and look? >> When daddy was telling you that it hurt >> you got a little red mark there. >> Yeah, I know. >> All right, buddy. >> Let me see the other side of your head again cuz my ear wasn't really red right there and like purple. >> Okay. All right, buddy. You can sit in the car. Okay. >> So, you have no injuries as you said? >> No. >> Do you want me to call the MS to check on you? >> No. >> Okay. >> My son doesn't either. My wife has called y'all seven times. This is the first time I've been put in cops. >> Officers arrested David for battery, use, and resisting arrest without violence. Moving on to another deeply concerning case where officers had to intervene to rescue a child from deplorable living conditions and unfit parents. >> What's your name, buddy? >> How are you? >> Can you stop running around right now? >> Okay. Well, he's out here. >> He got All right. He was He was down the street. >> Oh my god. >> All right, Austin. So, um, as of right now, you're going to be under arrest. Okay. On May 12th, 2025, officers were called after a UPS driver spotted a toddler wandering alone at an intersection. The child then darted to a nearby house and hid in a pile of junk. When an officer finally located him, the boy was dirty, streaked with paint, and clutching a cell phone. >> Where that little tight thing was, >> the little ty scooter? >> Yeah. And he was trying to get back in. He has a cell phone in his hand. >> Okay. Officer car. My body came on. But I tried knocking on the door and the door kind of opens up a little bit right here. But he ran back to this house. I don't even know if he belongs here. >> Okay. Is he inside? >> Yeah, he's right here. >> Hey bud, you doing all right? I'm officer car. >> He doesn't talk. He's probably about two, you know. I don't know what to do. >> Hey bud, do you live here? Hey bud, you want to come out here so I can just I can help you out. He's just trying to get back inside. >> Do you mind if I go get going, officer? >> Yeah. Can I just get your name? >> Thank you. >> Okay. Thank you. You said you saw you saw him down here by the little tight >> right down here and he's about ready to cross the intersection. I'm like, "Dude, you're going to get run over." I mean, like in a car and I asked him, I'm like, "Are you supposed to be out here? You look awful young." And then he just got out of the little pike. So, he run all the way up the street. >> Okay. >> And he has like paint on him and >> Okay. >> Yeah. So, I don't know what's going on. >> All right. So, you just saw you saw him down there. You asked him if he was okay and then he ran back up here. ran up here. Try to get into the front door. >> Okay. >> Front door is open, but he couldn't I don't know what's going on. >> Okay. You doing all right, bud? You're all covered in paint, dude. Knuckles, what you doing in there? You got your You got your mom's phone. >> Is mommy here? All right, I'm going to knock on the door. Okay. >> Officers learned the boy had been wandering the street unsupervised for an unknown period. They went to confront his parents and after a long delay, the father, Austin Peter, finally opened the door. >> Front door's open. >> Oh, you can smell it now. >> What's your name, buddy? How are you? >> Mine. >> What? >> And you ready for what? >> Oh, no. >> He lives He lives here. He lives here. >> Yes. >> Okay. >> I just talked to the neighbor. He ID IDed him. >> Oh, you did. >> Parents live here. >> Okay. >> The door's cracked. I might >> That door is cracked or >> No, this one. >> Okay. >> I might Let's see if we can get with the sergeant. Let's see. >> Yeah, that's what I was going to do. >> Hello. Police Department. >> Hi. >> Mind stopping out and talking to me? >> Uh, sure. >> Um, so you have a child that lives here? >> Uh, yes. >> What's his name? >> Inside? >> Uh, yes. >> He is. >> You sure? >> Yeah. Yeah. He's up running around right now. >> Okay. Well, he's out here. He got all that. All right. He was He was down the street. >> Oh my god. >> The UPS driver stopped. >> Stopped and tried to get a hold of him. All right. >> Hey, he's he's going around to the other door. >> What the Get him back outside. >> The conditions outside immediately raised red flags. The father tried to brush off the situation, but his answers fooled no one. >> Okay. Yeah. I had no idea at all how that happened. >> Okay. But I was in his room. I was in his room picking up and like was picking up uh a little bit and then he was just in the living room running around and yeah, I didn't hear any doors open or anything. But >> is anybody else home? my wife. But she's uh she's asleep right now. Okay. Can I get your name? Austin. Yeah. Last name. >> Peter. P E T R. >> It's okay. >> What's your middle initial? >> Huh? What's your middle initial? R. >> It's okay. >> Okay. And you said your wife's inside. >> Yeah. She's she uh has been feeling great recently, so she's just getting some extra sleep right now. Okay. If I speak to her as well, huh? You mind if I speak to her as well? Um, you can, but she's What's his name? >> How long you been covering paint? >> Um, since uh late last night. Like, he was asleep. When I got home, I I got home from work and I mean, he did this while I was at work. So, my wife put my wife's handicap. She didn't >> really get out on the >> You said You said I'm sorry. You said your wife what? >> Oh, sorry. >> Yeah, I got you. You're good. >> Um, she's uh handicapped. She can't really get up on her own like she can and her house was kind of out last night. She let me know that she couldn't get up and give him a bath or anything. So, I was going to give him a bath. >> You guys got power and water to the house and everything. [Music] or just a little guy right here. >> Just him and then we got a couple cats. >> Yeah. >> Uh yeah. Yeah. Hey. >> Hey. [Music] >> Tell me he's got a How long's he been in that diaper? Cuz it's >> It looks like I haven't been I haven't been able to get him get him dressed yet or get him changed yet. [Music] Where was he found? Kid down on the street corner. Middle of the intersection kind of area. >> He said on he was on Cooper down at the end of the street. Does he have like a little tight mic kind of >> um he does like he does >> cuz that's that's where he was in down at the end of the street. >> Yeah. I have no idea honestly because yeah that the mud room door uh is uh is locked twice. It's And uh there's a lock on the handle as well. And then uh same with this door, but uh I leave this one unlocked because it has like a uh well not like I unlocked it when I was coming to you guys, but uh it was uh it has like a child lock handle on it. So >> Okay. Because he was found out the end of the street and he ran back came and got into that front that front area, >> that little stoop. >> Mhm. And this front door was open >> or this side door was open. >> Oh no. >> How old is he? >> Uh he'll be four. >> Unckempt and filthy living conditions suggested ongoing mistreatment, but the worst was yet to come as officers inspected the interior. >> Any idea how long he was out of the house? >> Um >> I mean the first officer on scene knocking on the door for a while. Couldn't get anyone to answer. I I assumed you only answered this time cuz I got pretty loud. Yeah, like I said, I was in his room. I didn't hear anything. Like, I didn't even hear any doors open. >> So, that's what confuses me the most. >> So, but we You have no idea how long little guy was actually outside. Correct. >> Yeah. Like he was like I mean sometimes when he gets like really quiet then that's when I'm Yeah. That's when I'm like all right. >> Cuz usually he just runs around from from the kitchen to his room to living room whatever >> and whatnot. I am >> having a meeting with us. >> You said your wife's inside, man. >> Yeah. >> You good if I go chat with her real quick? Just make sure she's okay. >> Appreciate you. >> Can you just tell me how to get there if you want? If you want to hang out here, >> um, like I said, he's made a little bit of a mess, so she's right in here. >> Okay. >> Hey, babe. Babe. Babe. Babe. >> Cops. >> All right, we're good. We can go back outside and wait, man. That's okay. Jed, are you okay? Are you okay? >> I'm police department. You okay? I'm just making sure you're all right. >> All right. Just want to make sure you're all right. We can go wait back outside, man. There's kittens everywhere in here. >> Yep. >> Yep. >> Look out, little kid. >> One of the strays that we brought in recently had kittens. So >> had kittens. >> Yeah. >> I got you. >> All right. So >> I'm sure I'm sure they said our cameras are on, man. So what's h what's happening now with given the nature of the call and everything? >> I'm sure you're kind of aware what's happening. Um we have a policy to go by. We're we had to contact DCFS or the matter. Okay. Um, I'll be I'll be completely blunt with you, man. I'm not saying this to be insulting. That inside of the house is unsuitable for a child. >> Okay. >> Um, with that being said, we're not how it's going to roll right now. We're going to hang out here. We don't want to cause any more stress or anything to the child or anything like that. >> Mhm. >> On a technical level speaking, the child is in our protective custody currently. We're not going to remove you guys from each other. We're just going to hang out here together. Okay. Is that a >> make sense? Explain that further for you. >> Are you taking >> on paper? Right now, the child is in our protective custody. Um, physically, I'm not removing him from you right now. We're going to hang out here until we hear back from DCFS and they're going to come out and meet. Okay, that's how this is going to go. >> A strong odor came from the house and the child's diaper was unchanged. With the home condemned and the family deemed unfit, officers acted swiftly to ensure the child's immediate safety. >> They're a little concerned about the conditions of the house inside. >> Yeah. Yeah. I I've been in the process of uh cleaning as well, so >> Okay. So, do you mind if we take a look and see what's going on? >> Sure. [Music] >> Want you to go. >> Now, your owner is from in Israel, right? But you have a local person in Pory that is you pay rent and manage. >> Mhm. Yeah. >> Okay. >> Yeah. Also, if you want to holler in, just let her know that we're coming in. >> Yeah. Just let her stay out here with Officer Young. Okay. You >> just notice the the flies. >> We're good to come in, right? I'll get some pictures. Notice all the flies. >> What's all over the floor right here? >> Powder. He got into our bathroom last night. >> But we have this like candle thing like >> Okay. No, not that one. >> How old is that baby powder? >> Um, >> is it Johnson Johnson baby powder? >> Um, I do not know what the >> Do you know where the thing is for it? >> Uh, no. It's probably stuck in the garbage. I haven't been able to take this out. The garbage can was already full. We had one of these. >> That's like >> like that's been Oh, like how how long how long has it been there? It's been there since like >> last night. >> Yeah, but baby powder is is air toxic. >> Okay. I mean that that can make you and your wife extremely sick and and almost like >> in some cases it can cause some really bad damage to your lungs. >> Yeah. >> Okay. So that's there might be a situation where you guys going to have to leave the house. >> Yeah. >> All right. Is there some place that your wife could you and your wife could go? >> Um I don't know honestly. Like I mean babe, you know anywhere that >> I mean that I just haven't gotten to this part. Like it's been there since uh late last night. >> Can you guys So you got animals, too? How many cats do you have? >> Yeah, we we have we have uh two that are ours and we have like >> um a stray that we brought in that had kittens. >> How many kittens are here? four. >> Okay. >> And then yeah, the >> So, we have >> I'm going to have these guys get a hold of animal control and come out. >> Okay. Um >> I would get Yeah. [Music] >> cuz that that that'll >> The home was temporarily deemed uninhabitable and both parents faced scrutiny over their ability to care for the child, especially given the mother's disability and the father's carelessness. As child protective services took over and the investigation wrapped up, questions remained. [Music] >> See all the flies? [Music] >> Just getting a picture of her on the side of the bed. Okay. So, what I'm going to need you to do is you're going to have to get a hold of somebody. The the the carpet is just completely saturated. It's just completely saturated. I'm going to need you to get a hold of somebody. You can't be living in this. >> Can I open this door? >> Yeah. >> Is this the bathroom? >> Oh, yeah. Yeah. I was spending some time cleaning up on that last night. He [Music] just all over the floor and whatnot. trying to clean up the tubs and the door. >> I turned the faucet on the sink quickly and it did turn on, which I was shocked that >> I'm having Ryan get a hold of Misty. I don't know what she's going to be able to do, but they can't be in this house. >> We're going to go ahead and make up some signs and get it condemned real quick here. Uh, I'll get a hold of the property owner that and then the property manager and tell them they need to get over here. So hopefully I I hopefully Missy can find a place for them to go. >> But go typically in situations like this I would give them 48 hours, but this is going to be an immediate thing. >> So hopefully what >> could she get out of bed? >> She said she can get up and walk. She just doesn't feel good. >> Feel good. >> All right. So um Elsa is going to get transferred to the hospital. Okay. So, he's now in our custody. So, he's going to take him to the hospital, get an evaluation done. Um, you can't you can't ride the bus with them. Okay. Cuz he's going to go to the hospital, get checked out. >> Um, you can go to the hospital, try to see him, but he is now in our custody. Okay. >> Um, I'm kind of moving forward. Still waiting on a couple things. Um, but he's going to go to the hospital and get checked out. Okay. >> Okay. >> You just want to continue to sit tight for a little bit. Um, did it finish this? >> Do you actually mind if I run down there real quick to see if uh I can find my phone that he dropped? >> No, it your phone's here. >> Oh, >> yes. It's on It's in the mud room. >> Okay. >> You had it in the mud room. >> Okay. >> So, I don't know if he dropped it in there, but yeah, the phone is up here. >> Okay. All right. That's all I needed though. >> Yeah. >> I don't really care about it. >> All right, Austin. So, um, as right now, you're going to be under arrest. Okay. You're not going to jail, so don't have to worry about that. But you are getting an NTA. Okay. It's going to have a court date on it. You have to make sure you're at that court date. Okay. All right. It's going to be for um the life the life and health of a child. Okay. >> Austin was cited for endangering with court follow-up required. If you thought Austin showed poor parenting, the next case is even more alarming where Selena, a 40-year-old single mother, allowed her three children to live in truly nightmarish conditions. >> You know what that would no, >> Gabe? >> Oh, god damn it. Of course you two are here now. >> I just sle for three years trying to survive. >> Watch your [Music] >> On October 29th, 2024, officers responded to a welfare check after reports of children left alone in unfit living conditions. Upon arrival, they tried to contact the mother, 40-year-old Selena Galos, and assess the children's safety. >> Hi. >> Hi, Chris. How are you? >> What's going on? >> We got a call to just come check up on you. Is your mom home? >> I'm call you. >> Just a concerned citizen. >> You watch the music. >> Hi. Is your mom home? >> Seriously. >> Not home. >> Okay. >> It's like no. I can call her. >> Okay. >> Yeah. >> Do you have a phone number for her? >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> What's your phone number? >> I just need to call her for anything. And listen, you're here cuz you're trying to keep my brother in here. >> No, no, no, no. We just came to do um just to check on you guys. >> Can I have her phone number? Is it okay if I call her? >> Hi, this is Officer Bunny Farmington Police Department. I'm trying to get a hold of Selena. >> Oh, she's right here. >> Hello. >> Hi. Is this Selena? >> Yes, ma'am. Hey, we're actually here at your residence right now. We're planning on doing a welfare check right here. Are you anywhere near? >> Not at the moment. >> I'm at work. >> You're at work? Okay. Well, we do need you here. >> Yes, ma'am. >> Okay. We'll be waiting. Okay. >> Okay. >> Thank you. Bye-bye. >> How was school today? >> Hey, we're good. >> You got FHS? >> Yeah. >> I had my mom a chance like a spare work apron. >> Guess what? Your mom's going be bouncy dad versus sports mom versus soccer mom. So, uh, you can dress up like a soccer player or it can be like a barbecue. >> Yeah. >> You know, how long it'll be before your mom gets home? >> No. She hangs out with her boyfriend. >> But I don't know how long it takes. Maybe like I don't know, man. I don't know. Maybe like half an hour. Maybe like maybe like 45 55 minutes. >> While they waited for the mom to arrive, officers noticed the children outside, dirty and unaccompanied. Their initial conversations with the kids revealed clear signs of fear and uncertainty. >> Oh, we'll get away for you mom out here, guys. Okay. So, just so you guys are aware. >> Yeah, I'm aware. >> You guys aren't in trouble. We're just making sure you guys are okay. >> Yeah, be all right. >> Where's your shoes at? Your feet's going to get cold, man. >> It's all right. I mean, >> not It's not usual. I find myself a hobby. >> Yeah. >> Don't tell yourself a hobby for this. >> You know what I do with this? No, no, no, no, no, Gabe. Throw it on my fence. >> Let's not >> jump down it land. Let's not do that. Okay. Cuz I don't want you hurt and you What if you throw it and you hit you hit somebody over there? Probably not a good idea. Okay. >> Oh, don't worry. But I mean, don't worry. It's all right. >> I'm very I'm very careful with it. Just so you know. >> I know. I'm not saying you aren't. I'm just I just >> But let me get you. You know what I mean? >> Yeah. But let me get you math. Like take that away. >> It's not safe. You know what I mean? Maybe I had like half >> I mean look at the treasure stack of the wall. >> I mean look I mean you see this this was me night stuff. This is just for me night stuff. All that you see all those freaking nuts and heck even this thing right here. I freaking >> Hi. >> I'm the property manager here. >> Oh you're the property manager? >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Okay. We're just doing a well for Chuck. We're waiting on mom. So, thank you. >> We'll be here for a little while. Hey. Hey, Chris. Doing okay. >> Oh, god damn it. Of course you do. I want >> He doesn't like this. >> Do you have any family? The upholds or? >> Not really. >> My sister though. >> I mean, it's mainly just mom. >> Oh, okay. You don't have any uples or aunties? >> Yeah. >> Where's your socks? It's cold. >> Fine. At least you got a jacket. >> That's mother's. >> Let me see that. >> That's mother's. >> Thank you, ma'am. >> Okay. >> Hey, sorry about >> It's okay. Are you talking to me or her? Me or >> Gordon? I I was I was talking about her. It's just >> I don't know. I just I just don't like it when it's going to always down the >> Oh. The reason why I got mad about the cops in here is because I don't want to get mad at copies. >> Well, Chris, we're just checking on you, okay? To make sure everything's all right. So, we're not here to make any trouble or get you in trouble, okay? >> The mother, Selena, arrived after some delay. Visibly panicked and concerned, the officers began questioning her about the situation. How's it going? >> Good. How are you? Good. Too bad. It's working. >> Yeah. Can I have you keep your hands out of your pocket, sir? Thank you. >> I'm not being investigated. So why why you're passing me? >> I'm not. I just asked you to keep your hands out of your pocket, sir. >> I don't want to get involved. >> I've already heard spreading all kinds of bad juju. I dare not danger to this person. What' she say? >> Well, who whoever >> she Well, she's kind of his sister. They grew up together when they were kids. >> Her her dad used to date his mom and thing to this person. I barely talked to him. He already told me that she was talking to him earlier, saying all seeing all kinds of things and I was at work at the mess. I mean, her and I don't get along, but I've never been the same to her. And I think she's she's making it what she's doing. being that for a very long time and as far as living conditions as well >> meaning dogs passing away and dogs being disposed of what whatever I don't okay this is just what I'm getting as far as okay >> but don't you [ __ ] it >> okay I mean I I do have I do have four dogs. >> Okay. >> And I do have four puppies. But >> so so in the city, >> you can only have four dogs. Okay. So I'm just like, you know, that thing. >> So I have to get rid of two dogs or can I just get rid of the puppies? That's all I'm waiting for as soon as they're over, >> but that's still a couple weeks, >> right? No. And they're still babies. >> And that that's something I'd have to talk to him about, I don't really be honest with you. And I know I spoke to you before, but what what's your schedule like as far as today? like walk me through. >> I went to work at >> I go in every morning Tuesday through Saturday at 7 a.m. 2:30 I come home. I go get from Hamosa. Uh the boys ride the bus. >> I'll go get them dinner. She asked if I would stop by or the lady I'm doing the house for. Just wanted me to check a few things. He's doing like side project for her and >> not often. Maybe for a few minutes you're running Family Dollar cuz I don't have at the moment but um >> cuz we've gotten multiple reports that you're leaving here >> and this has been multiple witnesses that you don't come home until the mornings just to wake up from school and take it to school. And I already know the history as far as um your oldest going down aries and hanging up right >> and and we've had this discussion with that. As far as today goes, I had to contact CFD because that's part of our policy. So they are you don't know yet. I I got to speak with CFD. I got to figure out what's going on. >> Selena admitted she was struggling to manage the household's condition and was visibly upset and apologetic. doesn't think they're anybody. >> But it's concerning because we've had multiple calls. I've been here first. >> I'm sure you have >> But when when random people are calling or neighbors or it's anonymous to us, we don't know who >> so we don't know. But we're getting multiple reports from different people, which is absurd. >> Okay. I have been to this house multiple times for child for child. >> Okay. just keeps running away, >> right? >> And you leaving your children on the table and leaving your 11-year-old without >> going any further. >> It doesn't It doesn't matter. You can't leave your kids alone for hours. >> Weird though, >> right? It took you almost 45 minutes to get. And how long were you? >> How long are we going to be gone? She said, "Go up there, check a few things, and come back." She's not She's not at the house right now. >> And how far out is that? working. >> So, have a good >> All right. I have never leave my house again. >> No, but I asked you to be a responsible parent. >> Responsible ma'am. >> And that's whatever your opinion is. Okay. I have to call CIFD. They will be here soon. Okay. We do need to do a walk through the house to make sure that it is adequate living spaces and living kids. >> Okay. Um where do all the children stay? Where does um Kaylin's >> most sleep on the couch? >> Okay. And what about Gabriel? >> Gabriel has his room. Christopher has a room. >> What about the other what's up with the >> uh fixing it up? It's not great right now. There's no power cuz stay there. >> He was in there to be alone. Okay, >> Jimmy and his brother don't get along with their whole systems. >> Okay, so he goes in there. >> Okay. And my next concern, you know, when we get here, obviously Christopher's upset because we're here and that's fine. I'm not he has an array of knives that he somehow I I don't know. Okay. But he had So he had a knife with like a rope on it and he's swinging it around and throwing it against the fence. So I told you to get So that's that's on you. >> I understand. I caught him with that thing the other day. I threw it away and he went and found it. >> So take it somewhere else. I don't know. But he's out here unattended spinning that around. There's other children here. Okay. On top of that, we pull a fix that's about this long from him. Okay. Like do you understand my concern at that point? on the trampoline. Ma'am, where the kids play. >> Hi. >> Nobody over here even knows me. Nobody calls me. Nobody talks to me. No one says hi. But I leave my kids alone for more than 5 minutes. And I've got SWAT team >> all over the neighborhood. I am not anybody in here. I just a single mother for three years trying to survive. As the questioning continued, Selena shifted into a victim stance, lashing out at the neighbors who had called the police rather than taking full responsibility for the situation. >> Do you have >> I don't have anybody for services or anything? >> They offer all that. CID already talked to me about that multiple 200 times. >> And have you tried to get any help? I know about the whole Medicaid transport and health appointments and they want me to do classes and all this other stuff and have you have you accept all that or is there any type of >> I gave to my new number but it's out of service right now. So the only way you could reach me is here at the house or maybe at work. >> Whose phone is your daughter? >> It's my phone. It like you can still call but like I I don't have any data or anything like that. Sometimes she gets the calls, sometimes she doesn't. >> Okay, cuz she called you perfectly fine. >> Why? >> She's probably using That's why my phone says it's over minutes cuz it only gets five gigs and they said I've got like >> Yeah, it's over my limit. >> Okay. So, I mean, she's able to make phone calls, right? >> Yeah. It's It's a lot of excuses that I'm getting. Okay. And not a lot of accounting at this point. >> Okay. So, game plan for today. >> I can never leave my house again. No, we'll wait with your CYFD to show up. Okay, we're going to do visit inside. Okay, they're probably going to talk to you. They're probably going to talk to the kiddos as far as that goes and do their investigation. Okay, people don't even know what's going on. They just see cops or they don't see me here. They're just nosy. They have no idea what's going on with me right now. >> And this is all just bunch of added drama that's completely unnecessary. I didn't do anything to anybody. I have no parents. No family. I have nobody around here. Is my mom going to jail? >> Oh, she's fine. >> Did you take a shower, Chris? >> Yes, I >> Okay, >> you can go inside if you're I don't know if you stand on here while your hair is wet. You're cold. >> Yeah, your mom >> your mom's fine. >> Okay, but what did mom talk tell you? >> That that's more of an adult conversation, Chris. So, we're going to wait till mom comes back out. Okay. Can you maybe get mom for us? Is >> she inside? >> You want mom out? >> Yeah. Can we talk to her again? Mom will get pissed off. >> Oh, we won't. Nobody's mad. Nobody's mad. Chris, >> you're fine. >> See, I told you. Mom hates it when you're here. >> And plus, you know, we don't want you to get sick. Here's all >> I'm sorry. I can't. I just can't. >> As Selena faced the reality of the situation, officers began a thorough inspection of the home's hazardous conditions. Oh, >> don't let the dogs get out. Oh, sorry. Man, it's a workout. Can you go get your mom, please? >> She's really freaking out right now. >> Okay, tell her we we need her at the door right now. >> And the thing is, she at me cuz of my freaking rope spear thing. >> You're not in trouble. >> You're not. Yeah, you're in trouble. >> Did you get your mom? >> She's coming right now. You guys can come in. >> Okay, thank you. So, like I said, do their visit as well. We do have to do a whole room question to talk to you about, too. Um, so as far as you said, where where does everyone sleep? >> Most Well, they have their rooms, but mostly we sleep in here cuz we don't have the internet at the moment, so we watch movies. >> Yeah, but the only escape. Do I have to take you or can you guys >> I'll just let you guys say [Music] it's in the process of cleaning, but it's Yeah. Okay. Go do what you got to do. It's okay, man. Can I talk to each of your kids by themselves? Maybe we'll just go outside. >> Yep, that's fine. I didn't talk at the >> You usually sleep in here and hang out. >> Yeah, I do sleep here. >> Do you watch TV in here sometimes? >> Oreo. If if there's internet here, I could, but for right now, there's no internet. >> No. Okay. Can I look back there? Is that a bathroom? What is that? >> Yeah. Sorry, but that one's off limits. It's the bathroom, but you don't want to look in there. >> All right. I won't look in there. All right. Well, cool. Nice little hangout spot. I appreciate it. >> Okay. I'll I'll go get my stuff. >> I'll go over here, guys. I just need to get my stuff. >> We appreciate it, Chris. Thank you. >> Got my stuff packed in. >> Okay. >> Call Dave. >> Hey, are Gable and Kaylin in the callad? >> Not yet. >> They're getting their stuff. Yeah, they're getting their stuff. >> Despite the terrible conditions, officers stayed calm and focused on keeping the children safe and comfortable. For Selena, however, things quickly took a serious turn as the evidence of neglect left little doubt about her failure as a parent, prompting officers to take action. >> You guys are going to stop. >> Oh, we're having So, we're just having to stay the night with you guys. >> Yep. You're going to stay the night over here. So, let's grab your bag and you can put it. Your brother's in the car already. Okay. >> Yep. And the thing is we be back home tomorrow. >> Um, just depends. Okay. >> Depends. That's possible. >> Yeah. >> Possible cuz I came out myself. >> That's okay. >> Just for the night. That's okay. >> It'll be okay. You guys can just >> I just hope we come back cuz the thing is if we have to get taken to the first home, we need to get brought back so I can take the suitcase and everything else with me. >> That's okay. We're going to worry about we'll worry about tonight. As long as you have stuff for the evening, we'll be good to go. Okay. >> Yeah. Yep. And >> they're taking off to Jubble. >> Yeah, you guys are not in trouble. >> Yep. I just hope Yeah. I just hope we'll be able to actually come back home. >> Yeah. >> And actually making a school. >> Oh yeah, you guys will go to school. So embarrassing. >> And let's just say and let's say it's actually spirit. So, I hope you have an apron over at CFD cuz I do barbecue dad. It's like on Wednesdays there's like a sp Wednesday like barbecue dad like a soccer player or like a like like a dad cooking like barbecue. I'm going to do that. So, yeah. I need on like an apron or something. >> Perfect. >> An apron. Okay. >> Let's see what we got. >> Yeah. Like I don't care if it's like a green apron, a blue apron, a black apron. >> Just an apron. >> Apron. Just like any apron. Just like any apron. I just like I just hope we can get these dogs taken care of. >> Yeah. Yeah. We'll get him. >> Well, let's get you in the vehicle. It's cold. >> I think your brother's in there already. Ready to go. >> Brother. >> Yep. He's already go. >> Mom. >> Yeah. She's looking for a jacket for him. >> Oh, perfect. >> All right. S put your hands on you. >> Okay. So, you're under arrest right now. It's going to be for Okay. >> Patrol for the dogs. >> It doesn't mean that they're going to just like be sent off. There'll there'll be at least a hole. >> There'll be a hole to say that you're >> concern the dogs today. >> Okay. >> Can you let go of your feet your fingers? I need to adjust these cuffs. >> Watch your head. >> Go to the right. Right. You can face the wall. >> Selena was charged with three counts of abandonment. Moving on to another case of unfit parenting as officers had to rescue five kids from a moldy, hazardous, and rotting house. >> I'll be honest with you. I mean, that house needs to be condemned. All the mold that's in there. There's no recovering from that. That's gonna That's gonna a newborn. You're responsible for these children. You're responsible for where they sleep and put their heads at. This is not an acceptable place. >> My daughter Michaela been coughing. My son Damian's been coughing. My baby girl's congested. >> You guys are taking my children away from me. >> On February 28th, 2020, Banell, Florida, Flaggler County deputies carried out a welfare check after the children's school raised concerns about their living conditions. When deputies arrived, the mother, Tiffany Barry, answered the door and talked to them with hesitation. >> Hi, how are you? >> Somebody called and said something about the sewage backing up in the house. >> You having a problem with the sewage, >> huh? >> Somebody called and said that you had told the health department about the sewage backing up into the house. >> Yeah, I haven't been to the health department. >> No, you called or something like that. They said or off. Okay. Are you guys having a problem with sewage? >> Um, no. The only problem I have with my sewage is something uh crashed in, sir. >> Okay. >> If that's been crashed in for years. >> Okay. So, is anything happening with the sewage or? >> No. My sewage legitimately goes onto the ground because of my piper. But >> I don't have any issues with my stuff. >> So, where's your sewage dump out to? >> Underneath the house >> right here. >> Like >> just straight underneath the house on the ground >> pretty much. Yeah. >> I'll be honest with you. I don't know who gave you a call. I'm actually very puzzled, sir. Well, we got the call from the health department because they said that they got a call from the school and then the school called them and then somewhere along the lines they somebody that you talked to about this told them or something. So the health department was trying to reach out to make sure that the kids had somewhere proper to use the bathroom and shower and stuff. Do you have water? >> I have water, but very low water pressure. >> Tiffany's response confirmed the urgency of the situation and only heightened the deputy's concerns. >> I think I know where they need to. >> Why is that? >> Do you mind showing me inside the house? >> Absolutely. I knew she could. >> Why do you think that somebody call? >> Well, they did talk to the school yesterday. >> And what did you tell him? >> I told them that my kids came to school smelling like must do that. But I apologize, but there is nothing I can do about that. >> Excuse you. We're really >> So, how long has it been this way? Have you guys gone to this? How >> So, who have you called? Who have you reached out to about these living conditions? >> I've I actually have a case worker, >> Miss Maria. She's uh told me to call code enforcement. I try calling code enforcement. >> Okay. Who Who's your case worker with? What? What department? Um, she's with >> You have a card or a phone number for her? >> I have a phone number for her. Yeah. >> You want to get that for me? >> And I've also dealt with DCF at least. >> Who have you dealt with >> every year? >> Who have you dealt with at DCF? >> I think my school is >> Yeah. If you have a card for Miss Maria, who does she work for? >> Um, Miss Maria. >> You guys can't live here. >> So, you know that, right? >> Yeah. Not needed. Well, we're going have to find somewhere. Kids, you can't live in all that mold. >> Oh, >> I mean, your kid that's kind of >> I know. >> That's definitely the newborn. I mean, >> I know. Trust me. We were waiting for a tax suture >> so we can do something about it. >> That'll kill I mean that that's I'll be honest with you. I mean, that house needs to be condemned. All the mold that's in there. There's no recovering from that. That's going to That's going to kill that newborn. >> I'm surprised that newborn's not sick yet. >> I don't know. She's contested. But thanks to my other manager over here, she watches the baby for me while I work. >> Who is she? >> Who is she to you? >> She's >> a manager of what? >> Uh McDonald's. >> Is that where you work? >> Yes. >> McDonald's. >> The one in the Target Plaza. Okay. Any these cars run or? >> Nope. >> What's all in this car? What's all >> laundry? >> Dirty laundry. >> What are you going to do with it? >> Uh, get it washed as soon as actually I get paid today. >> Tiffany admitted she was struggling to care for her five children and said she'd received little help from social services while deputies continued their careful assessment of the home's condition. >> Do you see us been in the house, though? >> Oh, yeah. >> All right. They've been in the house and I told them we were >> let's start >> trying to get my house. >> All right. >> We were trying to fix it up and everything else and they say the same thing. What does the landlord say? Oh, well, the landlord blames us. We don't have a lease. >> Do you have that landlord's name or phone number? >> Daddy, not right now, honey. I can get the um name for you. >> Let's start with the names of the kids. >> My kids aren't going to get taken from me, are you? >> I listen, I got to call DCF because of this, okay? And I'm going to have to do a report. So, I have to document who's here. Okay? My goal right now is to get you out of this place. Okay. Now, if you're telling me what if everything you're telling me is true is that DCF has been here and gone inside this house. >> They have been. I swear you were >> and they've seen these conditions and they have not contacted us. To be honest, I'm going to be pissed at DCF cuz that's not okay for them to leave you in here. Okay. And if you've made any kind of >> Oh, yeah. If you if you've been making some kind of progress to get out of there or approve this, then I don't see where you would be legally, you know, illegal side of that. But if I go and I find out that DCF hasn't been here and that they haven't been here in a while and all this and there's not been improvement or attempt to make improvement like you said, then that's a problem. You're responsible for these children. You're responsible for where they sleep and put their heads at. This is not an acceptable place. >> No, I >> I mean, this isn't healthy for adults, let alone a newborn. >> No, I understand that. >> But I can tell you right now that my goal right now is not looking at the criminal side of this. Okay, that's where we're at now. No, I I promise you, TC, I've spent out here. I'm not going to tell you no bull or anything like that. >> Okay. What about the father to Jasmine and Michaela? >> Michaela's father's somewhere around here this state. Um, Jasmine's father lives in New York. >> Deputies observed serious hazards. Despite earlier warnings and interventions, Tiffany confessed that progress had been minimal due to financial and housing instability. With the risks now undeniable, the deputies faced a difficult decision to ensure the children's immediate safety. >> Something's got to happen today that's got to be put on paper that something's changing cuz that can't happen. Whether it's the shelter or DCF putting you guys in a hotel, I don't know what what they're going to do. Who have who have you talked to at code enforcement? Um, I ended up talking to a lady and when I told her that there was mold in the house and stuff like that, that I needed somebody to come out and look, she um, basically I was told that there was nothing they could do. >> When was this? >> This was a couple few months ago. >> Was it over the phone or emails or >> It was over the phone, sir. Okay. I'm going to tell you from here on out if you don't you need to document everything everybody you're talking to in emails. >> Okay. >> Okay. >> Yes, sir. >> All right. I'll be with you in a little bit. Are any of the kids currently sick right now besides you? You said which one was coughing this morning? >> My daughter Michaela been coughing. My son Damian's been coughing. My baby girl's congested. >> Have anyone been to the doctors or anything like that? >> We've all been to the doctors. >> And what do they say? >> The usual. You got the stomach virus going on or you either got the flu or >> All right, >> that's about it. >> All right. All right. You want to go say goodbye to your kids? >> Are you picking the other two up at school? >> Yes. >> Yes. DCF. So, I'm not going to be able to say goodbye to my other two. >> Yeah, >> not right now. But you're going to you're going to see them. >> Oh my god. >> She's old enough. >> There is no law in the state of Florida. The states, what age? They cannot be left at home. >> Okay. But 12 is not okay to be left alone to take care of a three-year-old, especially in a condition of that house. You have buckets full of water that three-year-old can fall in. You have holes in the ground that kid could fall and hurt himself, break a leg. Not to mention the 12-year-old hurting and break your leg. Listen, >> there's there's a lot going on here. I understand. >> You guys are taking my children away from me. >> No, listen. The fact that I was here earlier today and told you I was coming back with DCF and certain people and I came back and you weren't here and the kids were left alone. That's a felony that happens in our presence. We don't have the ability to say she's getting help and she's doing the right steps. We don't have the ability to say So this is that this is >> it's that incident combined with the lack of action. >> With the evidence documented, there was only one step left for the deputies to take. >> Can you get the address? >> Walk around my car. >> Don't have it. Okay. So he's going to answer the phone. trans your back for me. >> Do you have any weapons or anything on you? >> Nothing hidden anywhere. Hidden handcuff key. No hidden. >> No. >> Nothing else. All right. You got a seat right there. You see what schedule do you work? You work nights. And Nick works days. >> Yes. >> So Nick watches the kids while you're >> Yes. >> Which kids are Nick is Nick the biological father of? >> Damian and Laura. >> And Laura? >> Yes. He's on the birth certificate as well for Aiden. >> Aiden. That's the one that's in there. All right. Cheers. I got to talk to you for a minute, Nick. All right. I'm Deputy Grand Sheriff's Office. It's okay. >> We were called here today about some issues with the sewage in the house. We've been here all day. >> Um, >> we've been and out of the house. We talked to the kids. >> GCF is now here. >> Um, >> based off everything, based off his house, >> you and Tiffany are going to be arrested today for child. >> All right. Do you have anything in your pockets that can't go to the jail? >> Okay, I was going to say that if anything. >> What else? That's it. I think. All right. All right. Go ahead and put your hands behind your back for me. Take that. [Applause] Um, the kids are going to be taken by DCF tonight. All right. They'll be sheltered over the weekend. Monday, you and Tiffany will have to show up to court. DCF will show up to court. I'll probably show up to court. The kids will be there, but we're all going to sit down in front of a judge and go over what's been going on, okay? Cuz you and I both know this didn't happen overnight. >> This has been going on. >> It's been like this for a little bit. You know, the dude won't fix them. >> Okay, I understand. I understand that to a point, >> but that's not a suitable condition for >> any child. If I could afford, >> especially an man, I would >> an infant. All right. >> Deputies took temporary protective custody of all five children who were placed in safer environments by social services as they closed the investigation on the neglectful parents. >> What's the running water? What's the running water situation in the house? >> Uh, all three run off that pump. >> So, minimal. >> It's It can be good some days, bad others. The hot water doesn't really last worth in ours cuz the uh not very big. >> Now, what about Michaela's medicine? And when's the last time she got any of her mental health? >> Are you aware she needs a year? >> Do you care for all the kids in the house? >> Yes. >> Your father figured all of them? >> Which kids are biologically yours? >> Biologically is um Laura there, the baby, and um Damian Carter. Okay. >> And then I'm on the birth certificate for eight. You're good. >> Um, so I talked to Michaela earlier and she said frequently she has left home by herself or with other kids to watch these kids while you and the mom are home. Tell her to lock the doors. >> Is that something? >> Yeah, I mean something we had done before, but it hasn't really been done since because we have a switch. >> She did it today. >> We have a while we were here. uh switch on um different shifts. >> Okay. >> Basically, >> do you think the kids have been given adequate care, shelter, >> mental health? >> Well, care we do, like I said, the best we can as far as like the living conditions go. I I can't do nothing with that guy as far as getting anything fixed. He wants me to fix it all. I mean, I was a contractor at one point, but I'm not licensed or anything else, so I'm not supposed to be doing none of the work. >> Have you guys looked into moving anywhere? I mean, there's government housing. >> Uh, we've looked to move all over the place now. Nothing else affordable for us. That's the only reason why we been stuck here. >> How much >> How often do you guys get paid? >> Uh, bi-weekly. >> How much do you guys bring home by weekly? Somebody will call you back. >> Uh, right now I'm sitting about 1300 right there just in those checks. >> So, you guys each get total. You bring home 1300. >> Total for both of ours about 13. >> Bring home. Take home. >> Yeah. >> Okay. She's got 700 and something on hers. >> And how much do you guys get in food stamps? >> Uh, last I know it's like 9 something. >> Okay. >> All right. You going to take them for me? >> I appreciate it. >> Yeah. She Well, she's already in my car, but >> she'll be at the jail at the same time. >> All right. >> Go over to my car. >> Can we give that food to one of the kids? >> Yeah. Thank you. >> I appreciate it. Both Tiffany Barry and the father, Nicholas Carter, are arrested and charged with felony neglect due to the dangerous living conditions and failure to provide adequate care. From one intense situation to another, officers arrived just in time to prevent a disaster when they were called to save a daughter from her heartless parents. >> No, I'm not. >> Officer, can you please make this man let me go? >> And my mom grabs my wrist and she's like, "No, you're not going upstairs. You're going outside." >> They've been abusive to her for a while now. Yeah. The stepdad has her hair like this, slamming her onto the bed, slamming her onto the wall, dragging her so he can pin her onto the ground. And the mom, same thing, is slapping her and hitting her. Like I said before, like she had reported that he had touched her inappropriately. >> On July 9th, 2023, officers responded to a home in Georgia after receiving a report of an assault in progress. Upon arrival, they spoke with a man who said his girlfriend was inside the house being attacked by her parents. screaming on the drop. [Music] >> John's Creek Police, >> please just get her out safely. They're hurting her. >> Hello. >> What's going on right now? >> Um, we have our daughter. She has been like these hair up there. Tell him to get home. >> What's going on? >> Help her. Help her, please. Impatient. What's going on? Up here. >> Up here. Yeah, I'm right here. I'm right here. >> Ma'am. Ma'am. Hey, I'm Officer Win. What's going on? >> Can you please get this man off of me? >> Shut up. Riding around together. >> Please help me. >> Holding you down. >> See? Thank you. She tries to run away and then come see me. >> I'm 19 years old. I'm not running away. They knew where I was at. >> Everything. >> Yes. Again, I told you I was at Chris's house. >> Chris me up. >> She was sure we driving. >> We could have a conversation. >> 30 to 31. She's a 24 patient. >> Oh, 24. >> She was coming back so that we could have a phone call. >> Can you let me go? >> No, I'm not. >> Officer, can you please make this man let me go? >> It's not an assault in progress. He's holding her down by the arms right now. I'm watching. Can you please get >> No, he's watching. >> Hold on a second. I'm waiting for my other officer to get here right now. Okay, I'm trying to figure out what's going on. >> The officer quickly learned that the father had been restraining his daughter due to her violent outbursts. While it initially appeared that the father hadn't done anything wrong, it soon became clear that something far more disturbing was unfolding inside the home. >> Your dad, he seems like he's actually familiar with what's going on. So, I I appreciate your help. So, she and her boyfriend were coming back so that we could have a family discussion about what the boundaries and the rules of the house were going to be. >> Mhm. >> Their car broke down on the way here. >> He's not even supposed to be driving cuz he has a DUI. >> Okay. >> Does not have a DUI. >> We come home >> and immediately she starts screaming in my face. >> So, I was like, "Okay, I'm trying to have a constructive conversation with you. If that's not going to happen, >> just leave." Obviously, like I don't want to I don't want to get into this, right? We have two smaller kids. Their grandfather removed them from the house so that they would not >> No, I'm not letting you go. >> Were they here when it started? >> We knew. >> So, just the four of us. >> It was just the four of us. We knew that it might >> escalate to this point because it has in the past and so we asked my father to take our two younger kids >> to the park. She has planned to play. Yeah, you're stupid >> to play with them. And >> in case I I just don't want them. >> Stop moving. >> If you're allowed to hold me down, I'm allowed to try to put some pressure on my neck. >> No, you're good right now. You're >> There's a lot of pressure on my freaking chest. >> There you go. No, he just moved you. So, you're not >> Your neck isn't all up in that corner. >> No. No. >> Do I have the right of a normal person? I don't understand. I did not. >> The officer is letting me finish right now. Well, last night I I told her, "Hey, I want to talk to you tomorrow. It's her day off school. It's my day off work." >> And instead, she was like she she runs away >> and she's asked that when she runs away that we just give her her space. >> So, we're trying to respect that. >> 19 >> and she's 19. She ran away. She had her boyfriend >> run away. It's not running away. >> She had her boyfriend come pick her up. She stayed the night at his house. >> We got a text this morning saying, "Hey, mom. I'm on my way." And I'm like, "Okay, what what are you on your way for?" Like, >> "Are you wanting to pack your stuff? Are you wanting to talk? What?" >> And she's like, "For our talk." And I said, "Okay, that's fine." >> Then we get the text that the car broke down. We go pick them up. >> I try having conversation with her and it just escalates. >> Um, and this is kind of >> so escalating. What exactly happened? >> She grabbed my wrist and I said, "Please don't touch me." And then she continued to drag me. you were talking. >> Sir, I just step over here to the foyer. >> Yeah, go ahead. >> All right. So, >> at this point, two conflicting stories emerge. One from the parents and one from the daughter. Coming up, the officer spoke with the mother to gather her account of what led up to the incident. >> I want to talk to her about like if if you're going to be a roommate, >> that's one thing. >> And roommate rules are different than when you're a child and when you're financially dependent on us. If you want to be a roommate, that's fine. >> Then you're gonna start kind of >> paying your own way. >> Um, that's the conversation I wanted to have. >> Now, last night, we were informed that when I was trying to talk to her, >> recording us the whole time. >> So, I asked her at the beginning of the conversation, I said, "Please turn your phone off. I don't want to be recorded. I don't like that. That doesn't feel good. I don't want to be blackmailed." >> Um, and she refused. I said, "Okay, if you can't abide by the civil boundary, >> stop. >> Then right now is not the right time for the talk. >> Just go." >> Yeah. >> Stop. >> Stop. >> Can you chill out? >> Yes. Tell her, please. >> She's not. >> I know. I'm not letting you go. >> Does the door automatically lock or are we relocking? >> I'm not I don't want the boyfriend inside. >> Gotcha. Okay. >> You want to put you on your stomach so you can breathe better? >> Oh, yes, you do. Cuz you're complaining. When I told her, >> I'm not putting any weight on you. >> She wanted to do it. >> Then I asked her to leave. >> She started running up to the room. >> Stop. >> This is not how we're going to do that. >> Stop. He's He had you on your back. Hold on. Okay, that works. >> What began as the father restraining his daughter escalated into something more violent. And at first, the officer didn't seem to intervene. been praying for her for 12 years. >> So, >> you're making it worse for yourself. >> So, was she trying to hurt herself or anything today? >> She was lashing out at us. >> Lashing out at you guys >> and I get >> I get raised up and so we lash back and then he gets in the middle to separate us. >> Yeah. >> Stop. >> And then he gets hit. >> Yeah. >> And then boyfriend came in to try to pull. >> Yeah. >> And then boyfriend started. [Music] >> Just a second. We're going to let you up, but I got to get you a hand cut off right now. Okay. >> Okay. Just give me a hand. >> Get him off me. >> Yeah. Yeah. I'm going to get that in just a second. Okay. >> As soon as this happens, I'm off. >> Yep. >> Just hold on just a second. Okay. >> Okay. >> All right. So, I got my second knuckle here. It's not tightening up. >> I'm going to get up. Okay. >> Yep. Go for it. >> Okay. I appreciate you. Okay. I'm going to double lock these so it don't get any tighter. Okay. >> You're okay. Okay, I'm going to and after that I'm going to sit you up. >> Okay, thank you. >> Just promise me you're not going to squirm in all this stuff. Okay. >> No problem. >> Okay, you roll over. Just roll over to your side here. >> I just kick up this leg right here. I'm going to pull you up. Okay. >> Okay. >> Just hang out from here. Okay. >> Okay. >> At this point, the daughter was handcuffed so the officers could speak with both the mother and stepfather without interruption. Coming up, the officer learned that it was the mother who first escalated the situation from verbal to physical. >> So, it was verbal until you started. >> And she's your daughter. >> Okay. >> I mean, she kicked out at me first. >> She kicked out at you first? like like pretty close. Okay. >> Like as I was cuz as I was telling her to get out, as she was coming up the stairs, she was like trying to back kick you and then that's when Okay. >> And then when I called her into her room, I was telling her get out, get out, get out. >> My stepdad's so certainly but okay. I can work >> for a while. >> Okay. And then happened last night. >> Mhm. Also, we were having a trying to set up a talk with her. >> She came up here when I let me in and her in her room. I was gonna tell her, "Hey, we need to set up a talk." >> Yeah. >> She brought up a butter knife so I can unlock the door. >> I walked in with a knife >> and she freaked out. >> Good. >> As soon as I realized I had it, >> I threw it down. >> Yeah. >> Just in case she comes up saying I was waving a knife in her face. I just walked in. I was like, and I threw it down right away. >> Yeah. So, but >> and you can meet our other kids. We have two other girls. We have a sister older than her. >> More evidence began to point toward the parents and soon the officers spoke with the daughter to hear her side of the story. >> I've seen it happening before. >> But I'm just saying like we do not children. We do not we're not heard. It's totally >> Yeah. Come back. Let's go. >> Attack her first. >> So apparently coming up the stairs. >> So then when they got up here, yeah, she she says she says that she pulled her probably to roll that way more than anything. >> I don't know if >> officer. >> Okay. Now tell him what happened. >> Okay. So what had happened? They told me I'm free to leave. And since they Okay. When we got in the car, they didn't say anything to me even though I had said like, "Hey, I'm coming home. I want to try to talk." that type of thing. They just didn't say a word. It was just silent. So, I came inside and I was like, "Okay." So, and it was just silence again. And then my mom said, "I want you to turn off your phone." And since my phone was the only thing they had left me, they had taken my keys and everything. I was like, "No, I don't feel comfortable doing that. Like, if an emergency happens, I want to at least be able to call something or someone to come help me." >> And I said, "I'll transfer over the phone anything that you guys own like as soon as I can." >> Mhm. And they were like, "Okay, you're free to leave. Just go then." So, I go to leave. >> Okay. >> And I'm like, "Okay, I need my school stuff cuz I go to school full time. I pay for school myself." >> Mhm. >> So, I was just going to grab my backpack that has like my necessities. So, I go up here to grab it and my mom grabs my wrist and she's like, "No, you're not going upstairs. You're going outside." I was like, "Let me go. Please do not touch me physically right now. Like, please do not physically like hurt me." Cuz also like with all the stuff they told you, I was like I so I get really triggered when people touch me physically in an accident. So I just told her I looked at her and I was like, "Please do not touch me physically." >> And can Why can she >> Do you want me to leave? >> Yes, please. >> Okay. if you can just wait for me like downstairs like another or something like that. Yeah, >> so as I was coming upstairs, she tried to grab my wrist like I said and then I was I did not try to kick her back. I don't know why she said that. I just run up the stairs as fast as I could to grab my stuff cuz I did not want to get into an altercation with her >> cuz like she said, they've called the cops on me before this type of things happen. I was trying to avoid that. Just grab my backpack and leave with my boyfriend as soon as possible. So >> I grabbed my backpack >> and they started me my stepfather in the face and my mom said my mom goes she's like no you cannot take anything you cannot have anything and I was like I just want my backpack and I just want to leave and they were like no and I was like this is my possession like I paid for everything in this backpack I paid for this all like this is mine I'm allowed to take this and they were like no they just start like grabbing my stuff been grabbing me. And that's when I called for my boyfriend so that he could witness it, you know, and also so that like >> I don't know, for protection. And he comes up and he put an arm out against between me and my stepdad and my mom. >> Mhm. >> And cuz I'm out in the blood at this point and they're just trying to like hold me down, hit me, whatever. And he's like, "Hey, stop her. Like, stop touching her." D like this is not okay. And they, my stepdad then turns to my boyfriend and starts like shoving him, pushing him. He shoved him against the wall so hard he hit his head. And that's when I started to get physically aggressive cuz I didn't want to see my boyfriend get hurt. So that's when I started like kicking, being like, "Don't touch him. Don't touch like don't touch me. Don't touch us. Like just let us leave." >> And that am. >> Yeah. >> That's when >> Hey, we're up here. That's when my boyfriend called the police and that's when my boyfriend got out of the situation cuz obviously he doesn't want to be like involved in any sort of stuff like that. And then my parents just kept like holding me down and hitting me every single time I tried to move until eventually we got into it. >> Yeah. >> So, >> okay. Are you good? Are you going to do anything if I take out the handcuffs? >> No. Okay. >> She's shoulders. >> My shoulder. Yeah, my shoulder hurts. Is it left or right? >> Let me get those off. Can you stand up? >> Yeah. >> Off you. Okay. You You said your step. So, Nathan's your stepdad. >> Okay. So, and you said he you in the face? >> Yes. And I'm pretty sure he hit my boyfriend also either in the face or in the chest. >> I just want to make sure. So, once like you got um from what I understand, they picked you guys up after your boyfriend's car broke down. Once you guys got here, like well the entire car where they were silent and everything, >> right? They were just like talking to each other, >> talking to them like between themselves, but like kind of ignoring you guys. Yes. >> Okay. And then once you got here, um somewhat had to talk like you're free to leave like you can go. >> Yeah. When I got here, I come in and I was like, "Okay, so you know, my boyfriend got a call from I believe his dad >> to like about the car." And so he I was like, "Well, do you want to like some privacy? Like you go upstairs, you go outside, like it's fine." I tell him that. And my mom goes, "Well, he could be here or he could be outside." So I'm like, "Okay." >> And then she goes, "I want your phone or turn off your phone." D. And I was like, I think she cuz something about me recording her. >> Yeah. Were you trying to record the conversation or anything? >> No, officer. The only thing that I've done which she I don't know if she like misunderstands or what, but she'll be like, "Okay, call your boyfriend to come pick you up then." And so I'll call him, but then they'll still be arguing or touching me or something like that. And my So they say it's recording, but nobody's recording them. It's just my boyfriend will be on the phone sometimes to come pick me up. >> Okay. >> So, no, I've never like recorded. >> Yeah. So, it was just like an active phone call with you. Okay. Gotcha. >> And then when you guys were coming up the st when you were coming up to get your bag >> is when And what was what was in the bag? Just like a few things. >> It's my my So, it has my iPad for school and my other school possessions which I need to just like go to school on the regular day. >> Okay. And then are you in college right now? I'm guessing classes. Uh, cosmetology. >> Cosmetology. Okay, gotcha. >> After listening to the daughter explain everything, one of the officers stepped outside to speak with her boyfriend who had called the police after being hit himself and witnessing the physical altercation between his girlfriend and her parents. >> Okay. Yeah. Yeah, she's good, man. >> Is she going to be able to come out? >> Yeah, just just a second. I just want to talk to you really quick. >> Yeah, of course. >> Yeah. So, do you know what's going on? >> This is what happened. Sorry, I was on the line with some I'm just very concerned. My parents are coming to pick us up if she can come home with me. She's in need of being there. We came, my car broke down. We were on the way 2 days ago. She lost her social security card and she was scared to tell her mom cuz they're not really close. She was living with her biological father before this and they came to save her. They claim, >> but I mean the stepdad like she told me they had some issues >> that and they also told her >> yeah whenever she lost social security card they just started screaming at her and when she was like I'm going to go to my house cuz I told her I'd help her get that sorted like she wouldn't have to worry about social security card >> they started screaming at her saying she can't leave the house that she's not allowed to leave that this isn't her car and she her stepdad got butter knife and kicked the door down and started intimidating her, screaming at her in the face. So, I came, I picked her up, I took her my house, wanted her to be safe. >> What stood out to the officer was how differently the daughter and son-in-law interpreted past events, like the butter knife incident, which the parents had described as nonviolent and non-threatening. The officer asked the boyfriend a few more questions before heading back inside to speak with the parents. >> And then today, uh, her parents wanted to talk to her. That's what they said. They wanted to talk. picked you all up after your car broke down. >> Yeah, they picked me up after my car broke down. I was in the middle calling my dad, telling him everything that happened. And as soon as we got in, her mom's like telling her to turn her phone off and she was like, "Are we going to talk?" And then her mom was like, "You can get the out of my house." And she was like, "Okay." She was like, "I'm going to go get my stuff." And her mom just started grabbing her by the arm saying, "You can't take anything." And the most of the stuff in her room is her property. You know, she has her stuff for her school in here that she needs to get. She has uh a bunch of just her clothes and stuff like they're make basically kicking her out and taking all her stuff >> and then I'm downstairs like I you know me we have I this isn't the first time for them like they've been >> to her for a while now >> and I try to stay out of it cuz you know I didn't want to have problems with her parents but then she starts screaming my name screaming for my help and when I go up there the stepdad has her hair like this slamming her onto the bed slamming her onto the dragging her so he can pin her onto the ground. And the mom, same thing, is her and her. And I'm like, I step in and I'm like this. I'm like, "Hey." I'm like, "Calm down." Like, and then the stepdad just grabs me and pushes me and starts saying he's going to hit me and get out the house. So instantly I'm like, "Sir, call 911." And that's when I called you guys. And as soon as I got kicked out, all I could hear is screaming and screaming and breaking and smashing. And then when the when you went in the first time, I see he just got her pinned down on the bathroom floor, face on the floor. Like that's not okay. >> And that's my whole side of the story. That's everything I saw. I mean, I saw a lot of hair pulling, a lot of slamming, a lot of >> Mhm. >> And she was trying to defend himself. And I just hear you want hit me by the stepdad. And you know, he's the stepdad. She's known him for maybe a year. And he, like I said before, like she had reported that he had touched her inappropriately. And it's just like >> and she just needs to get out of there. She just needs this environment is not okay for her. And they got two other younger children, a nine and a 10-year-old. And I'm scared. I I don't know. This this dude is a 6'5, 350 lb man who's just using his aggression against these young girls. The officer then walked back inside to talk to the parents inside. And based on the statements Chris had just given him, he knew exactly what the next step had to be. >> Did you happen to lay hands on the boyfriend or anything when the whole thing was going? >> He got up in my face >> when I was breaking them up and stuff. >> He was they all he jumped in into the middle of the frame >> to stop >> to stop. And I didn't want him in the center because he has >> right nothing. We've already me and him have already had issues. >> Mhm. >> I pushed him back. >> Mhm. >> To get out of my face and to get away from us. But he was already in the middle throwing hands before you pushed him. >> Yes. >> Can you talk me over? >> Um, do I need to change out my pajamas? Are you arresting me? Cuz if so, I'm going to put some regular clothes on. >> Yes. >> Okay. >> I'm going to have to come up with you. I'm not going to look, but Did you give her free rain of her room? I really do not want >> She lives here and everything. So I can't I can't keep her out of there and all that stuff. That's that's a matter. Um so just being upfront with you. So based on what you told me, what Nathan was saying, what what um what Melody was saying, and what the boyfriend was saying, >> I I have to because it is between family members and everything. It falls under family. Sorry, let me look away really quick. Um >> I've had four kids. I work in the hospital. I see naked bodies all day every day. >> But um it falls under the the Family Violence Act in Georgia. So because it is between family members, I got to >> Is it going to be a misdemeanor or a felony? >> Misdemeanor. There's no mers or anything like that. Um so I'm going to get you outside first and then we'll put the handcuffs on and everything. Um I appreciate your your honesty with me when you told me everything. >> Should I put socks and shoes on? Do I want? >> Uh, I would I would say so. Um, and then, uh, Chris's parents are going to be here about 10 15 minutes to pick him and Melody up and we'll get them out of here and everything. Um, and >> can he see what she's getting out of her room? >> Um, >> we really don't want her taking things that are our property >> with with stuff like that. That's all a civil matter that would have to be handled through the mall service. So like we can't handle or like >> we're not here to like settle disputes and stuff like that. Just that'll we have to be handled through like through through like court itself and everything like that. And that's not a criminal that's not criminal stuff like that. >> Okay. Is someone Is there going to be an officer here with her until she leaves? >> Um if you would like I can ask I can ask my supervisor. >> I would rather like someone with her until >> until until she and Chris leave. >> Yeah. >> Just for protection. I got you. >> Am I going in the pool? >> Yeah. Uh, is it cool if Carter stays here till his parents get here to pick up the girl and him and just Oh, you can say. Okay. >> You want to go and get her and get the paperwork done? That's what you >> Yeah. So, I'm letting her get stuff on. We're going to go do it out there and then I'll >> Yeah. Am I um am I going to >> be in a holding cell or am I going to be with a bunch of >> It'll be a cell. >> It'll be a cell. >> Okay. >> I don't think they have too many people over there anyway. I know yesterday. >> So, I don't know if they explained it to you. Um but basically based on what you're telling me, what Nevin was telling me, what Melody was telling me, what Chris was telling me. >> Yes. Um, and because they're related, it all falls under the uh the Family Violence Act of Georgia. >> Okay. >> Um, so based on that, we I do have to make an arrest. Um, and based on everybody's statements, she's identified as the primary aggressor in the law. >> I should at least do stuff first. >> Um, Mary Perishe, okay, >> is who you need to call to let her know I won't be at work tomorrow. >> Okay. >> And I might not be there Tuesday. >> I'll let her know. I'll just let her know tomorrow. Then >> you let her know >> tonight. >> Yeah. As soon as all this goes all >> the plan case load. >> I'll call her. >> Thank you. >> Um she's going to be going to the Alpharetta jail at the moment. Um >> I don't I don't I can't make any promises if bond will be set by the judge or not. Um I would call you can Google Alpharetta Jail and it'll pull up. You call that main number and ask them uh just inquire about her and they should they should be able to tell you in a couple hours. Okay. >> Okay. >> All right. >> All right. Thank you. >> You got it, sir. Yeah. You don't want to put our hands behind our back. You can get them waist chains from off my on spotlight and >> just hold on to them until >> Yeah. >> Um we come back to work if you get them. >> But they on my spotlight on the side. >> Okay. I appreciate it, sir. >> And there's nothing in your pockets and stuff, right? >> Okay. So, we're just going to go into the front of my car, the one with the flashing lights on, everything because of the way the call came out. The mom was charged with simple battery. If you thought that case was wild, wait until the next one where officers encountered a mother who took disciplining of her child far beyond any acceptable limits. Watched a video of you and your daughter. >> Yeah. >> Walking down the road. >> Yeah. >> And I watched you hit your daughter twice. You hit her in the face. >> Not face. >> I watched it. >> Oh, it looks like that. I watched it and then you left her on the side of the road. >> On September 19th, 2024, police were dispatched to a home after an employee claimed to have seen a woman strike her toddler and then walk off, leaving the child behind near a busy road. >> How are you, sir? >> Can we speak to you? You're not in any trouble, but can can we speak to you for a moment? >> Yeah. >> What do you think the topic is, sir? >> My daughter-in-law and her rage towards her children. >> Yes. Yeah. We just watched a a pretty disturbing video. of what of what just of something that just recently occurred like maybe a half hour ago right in front of the transfer station. >> She's done that two days now. She walks out of the house >> and goes where we can't see her. >> Mhm. Are you the grandfather of >> Yes. Okay. >> She's my daughter-in-law. >> Okay. >> She's uh from Japan. She doesn't know a lot of English. >> Okay. >> My son is still in Japan. He works there. >> Okay. >> He plans to come for a couple weeks in October. But >> Yep. >> Yeah. She's her mother. One reason she's here is to be away from her mother. >> Okay. >> Because she and her mother >> have the same relationship. >> Yeah. >> They yell at each other. They even physically >> Mhm. >> hit each other. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. So, I think she's passing it down to her children, too. And I don't know what to do about it. >> How many children, sir? >> Two kids. >> Two? Yeah. And >> the older one is the one that's the biggest problem. >> Was that the child that >> Yeah. was with this morning? Yeah. Fouryear-old. >> Fouryear-old. Okay. >> And does that does that child speak English? Okay. >> Better than her mother does. They've been here about 5 and 1/2 months now. Okay. >> And English is improving while they're here. >> Yep. Yep. >> But I noticed a bruise on her forehead when she came back to the house. So something happened there >> today? >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> And how old is the younger child? >> Uh 2 years old. >> And they're both here. >> Yeah. >> Both the children are safe here with you without the mom, correct? >> Yeah. And my wife, she is down at the community center exercising right now. But >> Mhm. And yeah, we don't know how to how to deal with the situation, how to communicate with Cahoo. >> She has told us things like she and my h my son have decided that he will be the he'll be the one that doesn't get angry and she'll be the one that gets angry as if somebody has to get angry. You know, I don't know if it's part of the Japanese culture or >> or what it is, but I can't believe that's what Japanese families are like that they're all like that. The first time we went to visit her family in Japan, her mother hit her. >> Mhm. >> And then they proceeded to have a screaming time together out in the street. >> Yeah. >> It's the first time we met the family. >> Yeah. So, it wasn't a good introduction, but >> after a brief introduction to the family, the officer got straight to the point, explaining the consequences of the video they'd just seen moments before arriving on scene. >> Based on the video that that we watched, it's it's not it's not a good video. >> Oh, yeah. >> Okay. Um, >> the mom is going to have to come with us. >> Really? >> Yeah. >> Yep. Yep. >> I bet she'll resist. >> Yeah. She She's going to have to come with us. >> And then where will you go and what will you do with her? >> Yeah. >> Well, she'll There's uh she's going to be charged with some criminal offenses based on the video. Um, we've I've already spoken with the with the state's attorney. It's some serious stuff that that I just witnessed that no child or no person deserves. >> Yeah. Right. >> None. whatsoever. >> That's going to be tough. Hopefully, you can communicate effectively with her. >> We've got uh we've got services to uh for interpretation. >> Yeah. >> Yep. You can't be assaulting people, specifically children. >> Coming up, the officers walked inside to check on the children before talking to the mom. >> We definitely need to see the daughter cuz I'm >> Yeah, you mentioned that there's a beard on her forehead, so I need to see that. >> Yeah. Right. >> Hi. >> Maybe she's in the toilet right now. >> Aren't you beautiful? Hi. >> How are you? Are you good? Yeah. Can you look at me? What happened here? Can you tell me what happened? [Music] with you. >> You did? Oh, >> hi. >> Hi. >> We just Somebody called us and we just need to chat with you about something real quick. Oh, >> yeah. Can you step outside with us? How do you pronounce your first name? >> First name? >> Your first name? >> Oh, CHO. >> Caho. I'm John. >> Hi. >> Nice to meet you. >> Nice to meet you. >> And this is this is my my >> Nice to meet you. >> Nice to meet you. >> Do you have Do you have any idea why we may be here right now? >> Oh, yeah. Today. uh problem. Uh Winona has problem. So >> yeah, what was the problem? >> Uh she steal some food and uh how to explain? She is very excited in house. So we go outside. >> And what happened during your walk? >> Uh I take her outside. She's running for the dump. So I'm so confused and take um keep distance for her >> distance. >> Oh yeah, distance for her the load. So some people is looks I don't want to >> you don't want her to run out in the road. >> Uh no I sorry I don't know how to say English. Um, >> at this point, the officer sensed that it would be difficult to communicate with the suspect in a way that helped her understand why they wanted to talk and what they needed to talk about. One thing that stood out was Koha's claim that her four-year-old had quote tried to steal food. >> She tried to go outside and she is far away for me, but I don't want hit her. So, I kept a distance for a while, maybe 10 seconds. >> Mhm. >> For the Lord. I don't I know that not good because the load. So, but I don't want to hit her. So, but some people look that looks like virus. >> So, there's there's cameras out here. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> Yeah. >> And we watched >> Yeah. >> a video of you and your daughter >> Yeah. >> walking down the road. >> Yeah. >> And I watched you hit your daughter twice. >> Oh, really? >> Which is not good. >> I know. Not good. >> And the the on her forehead, that's you hit her in the face. >> I not face. >> I watched it. >> Oh, it looks like >> I watched it and then you left her on the side of the road and you walked away without your daughter. >> Oh, sorry. >> This is this is a very very busy road as you know cuz you live here, right? >> Here in Vermont in the and in the United States >> that you can't do that. That's That's a criminal charge. >> Okay. >> Okay. >> Yeah. >> So, based upon what I saw on the video, I have to place you under arrest. >> Okay. >> Okay. And you're going to have to go to court because because of what I saw. >> Okay. >> All right. >> Do you do you understand that? >> Mhm. >> Okay. >> And how do you do you understand English? Okay. >> And I can get an interpreter if you'd like. Just so you understand. Yeah. >> Yeah. >> You take me? >> Yes. Yep. >> Over the forest. >> Yeah. You're coming with me. >> Oh. >> And then so we'll just go back to the police station and then uh we'll figure out from there. We'll talk to a judge and and figure out what happens from there. >> Oh. >> Um and we'll make sure that your children are safe. Are they safe here with their grandparents? >> Everybody's safe. >> Okay. Okay. >> All right. >> Um so if just if you could just remain calm. Do you understand what I'm saying? Mhm. >> Yeah. We just We're We're not going to do anything bad to you. We just You're You are under arrest. Okay. >> I'm >> You're under arrest for assaulting. >> Sorry. >> Yep. >> No, go ahead. >> Yeah, that's good. >> That's Go ahead. >> I just want to make sure you understand. >> Arrest. >> Arrest. Under Under arrest. Yes. >> Oh, >> yes. >> No. >> Yes. >> The language barrier made the arrest quite unusual. But once Koha finally realized she was being taken into custody, you could see her world start to unravel. >> No. >> Yeah. Yeah. We have to because of uh assault assaulting your daughter. >> No. >> Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. >> Are you um I'm staying here in visa. So I have to go back to Japan now. >> That's something that you can figure out. >> No. >> Um but right now we have to >> place you under arrest. >> Yeah. >> Arrest. >> Arrest. Yeah. And then and then we just take you right here to the station. Your children will be safe and then you just have to go in front of a judge. >> I I'm crazy. >> Have I crazy? Kids still kids have to stay away. >> They're they're fine. >> Yeah. Oh, no. I kids her kids are stay April. >> You were going to go back October 1st >> and then come back. >> And then come back. Is that what your plan was? >> Yeah. But >> yeah, >> that doesn't that doesn't uh that doesn't mean that can't happen, >> right? Do I type? >> Yeah. No, please. >> Okay. Uh do I push here? >> No. No. Please. >> Uh so so an arrest is not a criminal record. There's a lot of things that happen right before >> you have a criminal record. >> Oh me. >> Okay. So just because just because I take you under arrest does not mean that you have a criminal record right now. >> Okay? >> Do you understand what I'm saying? Court first. >> You have to go to I don't know how to use that app, but you you have to go to uh court first. There's a whole proceeding through the court system. Okay. And you don't have a criminal record until the proceeding is is final. Um, can I back to here? >> So, we don't we don't decide that. That's not um that's something that you can talk to the the judge. >> Okay. >> In the court about. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Can I say bye-bye to No. So, just uh so what we have to do um I just want to make sure you understand. So, when we arrest somebody >> and we bring them back to the police station, >> it's it's right down the road, not far. We have to place them in. We have to put handcuffs on them. >> All right. >> Yeah. Okay. Are you okay with that? I just want to make sure you understand. Okay. And we're just going to go behind your back. Yep. >> And if they if it hurts, tell me. Okay. >> Other than your cell phone. >> Uh, not say. Oh, your phone is here. >> Phone? >> No. >> Okay. >> Have I never met daughter? >> Can I back today? >> We don't know. That's not up to us. We'll call a judge >> and he will tell us what to do. Okay. Right. Do you have anything in your pocket? So, >> I just patted. Okay. Lean forward. Lean forward. Yep. And then come right back. >> How long? >> Um hopefully not long. >> Sorry. >> Yeah. The woman was charged with domestic assault and cruelty.