When the grown-ups messed up, these kids stepped up and told the truth. Here are five cases when smart kids help cops arrest their criminal parents. Number five, mom ditches kid for boyfriend time and ends up in handcuffs. A six-year-old boy is found walking alone along a busy road early in the morning, barefoot and cold. A passer by spots him and calls 911. Good morning. >> Good morning, >> Deputy Win County Sheriff's Office. What's going on here? >> Good morning. Um, I always walk my dogs in the morning. >> Okay. >> And I had a gentleman pull his car and he said, "Ma'am, can you see back there? There's a little young boy walking by himself. He doesn't have Cuz I hadn't personally seen him since we were coming this direction, right? >> And he was in the other direction, >> right? And so he says, "I'm afraid because, you know, he's all by himself." And I said, and I'm looking, "Yeah, it's a little tiny boy, you know, he's all barefooted." And so I stopped and I asked him, you know, "What are you doing?" He says he's trying to get to his grandmom's house. And so I called you guys, 911, I should say. >> Okay. >> And and he says he's he's been left by himself. His mom and dad works. It turns out he says he was by himself and he's trying to get to grandma's house. >> Okay. >> Grandma lives in D Pepper Road and according to the 911 lady that's in St. Augustine. >> I see. >> And he says the ones in his house right now is Zach, his mother's boyfriend. And and the mom, he said he wanted to leave cuz they don't take care of him and he's left by himself. >> I see. Do you happen to have your ID on you, ma'am, or driver's license? >> I I do. >> Morning. >> How are you? Hey, bud. What's going on? >> He's just trying to get home to grandma. Yeah, >> because he said he was left by himself. >> Oh, okay. Were you just walking by or how did you find him? >> She was notified by another passer by as she was walking her dog. >> Oh, okay. >> Thank you, ma'am. >> What happened to your knees, buddy? fell off. >> The boy explains that he was left alone and didn't feel safe, so he set out to find his grandmother. >> Fell off was driving out a park. >> He seems to have bruising through his um leg here, through his legs. I mean, I scrubbed a little bit to see if he was dirty, you know, from just dirt kind of accumulating, but it >> And you found him right here? >> Uh right here. I was actually over there and I walked back when the gentleman told me, "Ma'am, can you double check on this?" And I because I honestly didn't initially see him. >> I just came out of burrows here >> and made a ride and I noticed that a car was parked like in front of me, but you know, sometimes people stop to do something. >> Aiden. >> Aiden, it's kind of chilly out. Can I put some socks on you? >> Okay, perfect. Here. Right here. You live with mom and dad. >> From there when the gentleman's going to my garage. >> I walked from over my friend is with the dogs. I walked >> I was living with my >> So this is where the spot >> boyfriend. >> Oh, do you know where? >> No. >> Uhhuh. >> In Pine Lake. >> That's all he had. >> Pine Lakes. Okay. >> And then his uh >> Was it an apartment or was it in a house that he >> an apartment? Okay. >> Do you remember what number it says on the door? >> No. No. >> Do you remember what building? >> That's okay. >> Do you want to go inside my car where it's warm? >> All right. The only thing you have is your scooter and your jacket. >> Yeah. >> All right. Come on. I appreciate it, ma'am. >> You're welcome. >> Let's set to my car. Watch the curb. I'm putting him in the car so it's warm. >> What? >> I'm putting him in my car so it's warm. >> Okay. It's a little chilly out. >> You have a blanket. >> Um, >> I I put my jacket on him. He was cold. >> I can just turn up the heat. >> Officers reassure him and make sure he's safe inside the patrol car while they begin gathering more information. >> All right. Can I give you a hug? Is that okay? >> All right. And and the police will take good care of you. Okay. So, keep that little jacket on you and um it'll work out. Okay. So, he says he's hungry. >> Bye, Aiden. >> I'm going to blow you a kiss. Okay. >> Going to keep this here for now and then we'll put it in if we go anywhere. I think she's taking some snacks. Okay. All right. Give us just a second. >> Hey, Aiden, if we drive to the apartments, would you be able to tell which building is yours? >> Yeah. Okay. >> Mine has a scarecrow. >> Yours has a scarecrow in front. >> Okay. He says he can point out which building is his once we drive over there. Okay. >> We have contacts not made on phone right now. >> You want some trail mix or Froot Loops or Cheetos? >> Froot Loops sounds good to me. >> Can I try one? Excellent. Perfect. I had to taste test it for you. >> He mentioned that he would be able to point out which building is his um if we drive over there. So, I believe that I'll just do that. Make it simple. >> Are you called? >> Yeah. >> Is that Deputy Wens? Did he give that to you? >> Oh, yeah. It's a girl right there. >> Oh, perfect. Excellent. I think we'll just attempt contact with um parents first and find out what's going on. I'm about ready to head out whenever he's done eating. >> Okay. >> Who else do you live with? >> My grandma and my grandpa. >> My grandpa's lives really far, but my grandma is saying >> Oh, okay. That's not too far. He shares everything he knows about his mother and where she works, helping officers track down her location. >> You don't like Cheetos? I paid you for a Cheeto guy. That's why I open these so I can share them with you. But if you're not a Cheeto person, I guess I'm just going to have to eat them all by myself. Unless Deputy One wants some snacks. All right. Okay, cool. Well, I'm going to go to that 13 vehicle, but if you guys need anything, let me know. >> He didn't say what exactly last city. Mom's boyfriend. >> He doesn't know. That's what in the notes it says he doesn't know. Let me Let me see. Hey, Aiden. >> Do you know what mom's boyfriend's name is? >> Zach. >> Zach? Yeah. >> Do you know what his last name is? >> You know what it starts with? >> No. >> No. Okay. >> Where does your mom work? at the hospital. >> And you know where Zach works? >> Is mom home now or is she at the hospital? >> He thinks that mom is at work right now. She works at the hospital. >> Does she work at the hospital here in Palm Coast or the one in St. Augustine? No. >> Oh, the one in St. Augustine. She That's where she works. What does she do there? Help people. >> She helps people. That's awesome. St. Augustine. All right, dude. I got to run to another call, but I wanted to give you some stuff here. I got you a coloring book. All right. I'll talk to you later. You be safe. Okay. >> All right. I'll see you later. >> Moments later, officers arrive at the boy's apartment to find it unlocked and completely empty. will be attempting contact at building 215. >> Do you know if this kid lives here by any chance? >> Um, I don't. I think the people who just live here just moved in not so long ago. >> Okay. >> Um, I I think I've seen him before, though. >> All right. >> This should be this apartment. >> Okay. Do you know the neighbor that lives here? >> I don't. >> Well, if he left, then the door's got to be unlocked, right? Still locked. >> Just moved in, would be like a month ago. Few weeks ago. >> So, it's it's unlocked. It is unlocked, >> but apparently there's a there's nobody in there right now. >> There's nobody inside of it. >> There's nobody inside. >> Sheriff's office. >> Sheriff's office. >> I'm just going to let my uh my girlfriend know just in case if she sees him or anything she can let you guys know. Okay, >> I appreciate that. >> I don't see anybody. >> Nobody's here. >> Oh, that's crazy. >> All right. [Music] >> Why don't you go get a shirt a long sleeve shirt on? Is there a EC for the apartment that we can contact to find out more information on the tenants? >> I'm sure I'm sure there is. Um I don't know what any of these names are. This is all like assisted living facilities and I only know that because I've recently tooured them for my father. But it's like Silver Creek and Bay View. It looks like all female stuff in there, like in the closets and stuff. It looks like women's stuff. So, I don't know if boyfriend was maybe sleeping over or something. >> The boy continues helping the officers as they work to track down his mother. >> He says that he lives here, but he's only here for the night because he lives with grandma in St. Augustine, which we're also trying to find. But he just brought this phone out to call his mom. doesn't know how to call his mom and there's no favorites. This is She called Jeff on Saturday. Jeff is your dad, right? >> Yeah. >> Where does he live? Dear Run? >> Yeah. >> I don't know where that is. Oh, mom's home. You want to go say You want to go see her? All right. Come here. Come here. Don't run out. >> Are you okay if I close this door? Do you have your key with you? >> Yeah. Okay, perfect. >> Oh my god. >> He went to the airport and left the six-year-old home alone. >> Yeah. >> You didn't think to maybe bring him? >> I don't want to wake him up. >> Did he call you guys? >> No, he was on Belair, which is >> 6 miles away. >> Four lanes of traffic where he could have gotten run over by a vehicle. >> When did you leave the house? >> Cuz he's 6 years old. >> I know. I mean, it it takes some time to get six miles away on a on a scooter barefoot. I put socks on him. >> So, we'll be contacting DCF. >> Who else resides here, ma'am? >> Well, my mom holds me with him, so she's in and out, but it's just me and him. >> Okay. >> And he lives with his dad. >> Where does his dad? >> St. Augustine. >> Where's his grandmother? >> St. >> How long is he here for? >> Till Friday. >> When did he get here? last Friday. We do a week on, week off >> between you and uh dad. >> Yeah. >> Okay. And you just got back from the airport, >> right? >> This is technically child neglect. >> I know. >> You left him home for close to 2 hours. >> I honestly thought he would be okay as he 6 years old. >> And what if somebody took him or he got ran over by a vehicle? Once the mother returns, officers explained that leaving a six-year-old home alone, even briefly, poses serious risks. >> What if he got home before we even found him and nobody else saw him and then we have a missing child? >> Do you know how he was reported to us? A driver on Belair stopped a pedestrian and let her know to check on this child that was in front of station 23 >> barefoot. >> Stupid. >> And with only a puffy jacket on. So, I have the lady who called us. She lent him use her jacket. I have his scooter in the back of my car as well. He was trying to ride all the way up to his grandma's house cuz that's where he wants to be. Hey, Aiden. Would you mind going upstairs with Deputy Lane real quick? I have a few questions for you right now. >> My name is Deputy Win Bash number 875. I have questions pertaining to child neglect. These are your rights. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say maybe use as evidence against you with these rights in mind. Are you willing to talk to me? >> Probably. >> Yes. No. Yes. >> Talk to you. >> Okay. When did you leave for the airport, ma'am? >> 3:20 a.m. >> Miranda. >> Who are you taking to the airport? >> My boyfriend. >> Okay. Does boyfriend stay here? >> Not with me. >> Okay. >> He has a house. >> Okay. Do you normally live leave Aiden here alone? >> No, never. >> Okay. So, here's the thing. While you were gone, Aiden went around the house, saw that there was nobody in the house. He got scared. He wanted to go to grandma's house, which is in St. Augustine. He then took his scooter out and rode his electric scooter for two miles in 65 66 degree weather next to one barefooted next to one of the busiest streets in Palm Coast. And then he was found because he was huddled up on top of his bike by a pedestrian in front of a fire station. At this time, ma'am, I'm placing you under arrest for child neglect. If you could please turn around, place your hands behind your back. >> I'm gonna take your >> She claims it was a mistake, but they inform her that the situation meets the criteria for child neglect. I'll just set this back in your apartment somewhere. They're not going to let you take it back. >> In addition to her arrest, the Department of Children and Families is contacted to get involved. Number four, toddler rescued from chaos inside horrifying home. Police respond to a disturbing call about a three-year-old child living in unsafe conditions. The child has already been hospitalized with serious injuries, including multiple bruises, a head cut, and broken ribs. Officers are dispatched to the family's home in Simpson County to investigate. >> I'm good. So, I got some information. There's a small child that lives here that's basically being neglected. Uh three-year-old maybe or girl. >> What? >> Mhm. Is there a three-year-old that lives here? >> Yeah. Uh Matt's little girl, but she's not neglected whatsoever. >> Right. And she may not be, but I just got the information that she was. Um she here now. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> You want me to go in and >> Yeah. I I'll have to I'll have to see her and check on just check on her or whatever. So, >> um Yeah. >> Is the living conditions any better than they were the last time we were here? >> Uh yes. >> Okay. >> As far as I know, yes. Well, Brian has a dang door lock. Let me go to his window. Hang on. >> What's up? >> Not much. >> How are you? >> Just got up. >> Yeah. Sleep your life away that way. >> Oh, yeah. >> Uh, like I told him, I I received information that there's a small child living here in poor living conditions. I know you still don't have running water. Um, >> so I want to I want to check on the living conditions and the child. >> All right. So, >> let me see if I can get him up. >> Okay. >> How are you? >> Pretty good. >> You doing okay? >> Yeah. >> Okay. Like I told him, I got a uh report that there's a small child living here that's being neglected, living in poor living conditions. Uh no food, no running water. So, my job is to just have a look at your child, make sure she's got food and a place to sleep, and then I'll be on my way. cuz um right now we ate what we had last night, but I'm I just got my K tap, so I going to go get some for today. >> Yeah, >> but she's not there exactly. >> Where's she at? >> She's asleep right now. >> Okay. Well, you can take me to where she sleeps and then um >> Well, we have to go around to the back cuz it's harder to get cuz of the dog. >> Okay. >> When they arrive, the adults in the house seem evasive. After some push back, they're led inside. >> Oh, you want me to go get her? No, I I want to see where she sleeps. >> Okay. >> I have to like go inside and see where she sleeps. >> I can know who called cuz she's not in the car, >> right? I still need to see where she sleeps. >> She sleeps with me and her right now. >> Okay. I'm still going to see before I leave. >> I can't get in there. >> Why can't you get in there? >> Cuz we got a couch and got two dogs. >> The one dog is a I've been here before, sir. >> I've been in this house and I know what it's going to look like when I go in here. I'm not going to be surprised at all. But I do have to check the welfare of the child before I leave this house. >> Can I go get her? >> I'm going to see where she sleeps. >> I mean, when you act this way, that tells me that it's not going to be good when I go in here. Okay? And as a parent, you should know better. All right? like it. There's no excuse for it. So, I'm going to see where she sleeps before I leave or I'll call social services now to come pick her up. It's up to you. All right. Bye. All right. You can take me in. >> It's messy. I hadn't had time to clean it cuz I've been working. >> I know it's messy. >> I'm trying to get everything done, but everything takes money in it. >> I had all this clean, but it's not now. I am trying. Hold on. >> She's right there. >> You get the dog. >> Come here. Here. Come here. Come here. Down here. Come here. I try to put him up. Come on. The conditions inside are far worse than expected. The house is filled with trash, dog feces, and broken furniture. >> Baby's right there. >> Excuse me. >> This is from last night from the dog. >> It's okay. It's okay. >> It's okay. Bye, man. >> What? I got to get it cleaned up. We usually keep it clean, but we do have She's been eating. >> Does your refrigerator even work? >> Yeah. >> Yeah. How do you get to the room where she sleeps? >> Got to go over that. >> Okay. >> That's crazy. I'm coming in here. Let me sit back there. >> Okay. Did you go on in for me? >> We have to keep our arms back here. because I don't get >> Where does she sleep? >> Okay. >> The officers carefully make their way through the clutter, documenting the scene with body cameras. >> Yeah, we have our dog back here because I'm going to move my way where I can see. [Applause] Can you signal six amber back at DCBS and just disadvisor? It's worse than last time. Oh, this is gross. Oh god. Oh, that's gross. Charles 912563 Charles 91253. >> I think that's the big fridge I got then too. I opened the fridge. It's got electric. It ain't too bad. Bet in it hardly. >> Here. I'll let you shine the light for her. >> Let me get in front of y'all where I can show you a path. >> Just stand right there for a second. The home is cluttered and dirty with nowhere safe or suitable for a child to rest. >> All right. So, we're going to go across this couch. >> Okay. >> I'm just going to Taylor, don't even don't even worry about Sure. >> There's another door. >> So, you have to climb this and you go through that door there. >> No, there's a door outside that goes over there. >> Really? >> Yes, they can open that. >> Okay, good. Thanks for letting me know. >> Yep. [Music] How are you? >> Pretty good. >> Where's the mom and dad go? >> Dad's out there. The mom's back there. >> What? Will you call for her? I need to get her information. >> All right. She ain't your information. >> Okay. What's your name? >> Angelica. >> Angelica. What? How you speak your last name? Sorry. >> Can we go outside? >> Yeah. >> Yeah. But ain't going to do nothing. >> Left one. [Music] >> I got mine. We >> watch where you stay at. [Music] Still, the child is found inside. And officers waste no time contacting social services. >> You got a clock back there? >> Yep. >> Careful cuz that's where I fell off the couch into this floor. >> Just losing balance or just >> There's a soft spot in that uh couch somewhere. I got you back though. I'll hold you >> back on this back door. Yeah, you got to go in where that cover's hanging and there's a dresser you got to climb over to see where the child sleeps. >> When you said you fell, I was like, "What the heck?" >> Ain't no way. >> Rolled right off that couch right here. Just rolled all around in it. >> Ankle going to be swole. Did you already get all this documented right here? >> Yeah, I videoed back there. If you'll take my body cam and do a slow p slow video just to kind of show it better in perspective for that [ __ ] paper right there. >> Oh yeah. As they move through the home, the officers stay composed and focused, doing everything they can to make sure the child is okay, even in the midst of such heartbreaking conditions. Heat. [Applause] [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] [Applause] Heat. [Applause] Oh my gosh. [Applause] I can't get down through there. Wow. Given the poor living conditions, it's clear the environment is unsafe for both children and animals. Careful coming out. >> Where are they at? >> Right there. Touch my camera bag and then hook them in. She can talk to them. I'm going to put one in your car and one in mine. That way they're not together. [Applause] Dad. Mhm. >> I know that's what this is, >> babe. [Music] Mr. An. >> Yeah. >> You going to stand around, put your hands behind your back for me. >> Okay. Can I ask why? >> What? >> Can I ask why? >> Cuz I don't. >> Well, >> we're going to talk about all that here in just a little bit. Okay. Social service is going to come talk to you and then me and you'll have a conversation on why you're going to jail. I feel like it's pretty obvious, but we're go up here to sit in my car. >> Think about going with the brother though, too. >> The brother? >> Yeah. He's in the back. After verifying the child's condition and confirming details from an earlier medical report, officers arrest both parents. >> Yeah. >> I only have one more. [Applause] [Music] Have a seat for me. I'll roll the window down. Okay. >> They're charged with firstdegree criminal abuse of a child under 12. Want an endangerment and endangering the welfare of a minor. Number three, unattended child found in running vehicle outside busy Walmart. A woman leaves her 7-year-old daughter alone in a running unlocked car while she shops at Walmart. After about 20 minutes, someone spots the child and calls police. >> I mean, we've been out here what 15 minutes. >> Okay. >> I was parked here and I was like, "What?" And then I pulled around when I was leaving. I just couldn't believe I thought maybe someone was sitting in the back with her. I mean, >> so did >> probably 15 minutes. >> Did you call us or did you >> Yes, I called. I came I went in. >> Do you work for Walmart or Okay. >> No, I I went and got him to stand with me. Okay. >> And he said we made the call. So, >> do you have your ID with you by chance? >> Uh, yes. >> Have rescue coming. I mean, he was nervous someone would come out while we were standing here. >> We don't know yet. >> We don't know. >> Oh, the door's been open like this. >> No, I just opened. >> It's been running and I was making >> But the cars are locked. Um I don't Nobody actually spoke with the child, right? >> No, she I saw her squirming, you know, rubberized. They didn't want to scare her, so I didn't um The dispatcher said not to try to open the car or anything. Um, so you were just shopping when you came out. You were going to get your car and you saw >> and put stuff in my car. What? >> And I said, "Well, let me There was a space here. I was here and there was a space there." I said, "Let me pull around and see. Maybe there's someone sitting in the back seat with her. That's what I thought." >> I was like, "No way." So, I went in and found security. And um, so that's what we're called. >> Okay. Here's what happens when the mother returns. >> Um, all right. >> You don't see any adults or anything around. It was just just like >> No. And this whole thing's been what now? Probably 20 minutes. >> Nobody's here. >> He was afraid someone would come and, you know, so he wanted to stay with me um in case the driver came by. >> Hello. >> Hi. >> Is this your car? >> Yes. >> Is that your daughter? >> Yes. >> Okay. Why'd you leave your daughter in the car? I've been inside for about 5 minutes. >> Not. >> Yes. >> Okay. >> I just got here. I went inside cuz she was sleeping. >> Mhm. >> I had to use the bathroom. >> You went inside where? >> Walmart. >> Why did you just walk from this way? >> Because I came out that way. I was trying to find my car. >> Okay. Do you have your ID with you? >> Um How old is your daughter? >> She's seven. >> I take care of her all by myself. I don't have anybody here. I went inside to use the bathroom. >> I have not been gone that long. >> You know, you left your car unlocked. I did. >> That's why the door is open because I when I got here, I opened the door to see if it was You left your car running with the door unlocked with your child in the back seat. >> I didn't think it was an issue. Like I said, I'm here by myself. I had to go to the bathroom and she's sleeping. >> Okay. We have conflicting accounts. Um the person that called us was security and they were dealing with the situation for what they claimed to be almost 20 minutes. She tries to explain herself, saying she didn't think she'd been gone that long. >> I don't know exactly how long it was. I just know I didn't think it was that long. Like I said, I knew she was in the car. I had to go to the bathroom. I was coming to try to find the flea medicine. I didn't find the flea medicine. So, I left my cart. When you see the footage, you'll see I left the cart and everything. I I came back. >> Okay. Um Okay. >> This is ridiculous. I don't know. Like, >> what do you mean it's ridiculous? Because I I I don't know. It's like I'm being treated as if I'm a horrible mother. I went inside really quick. I didn't think it was that way. >> Nobody's treating you any any different way. I'm asking you questions. >> No, it's whoever called the cops on me like I just >> There's There's a child in a vehicle that's running and unlocked. That's obviously a cause for concern when they're completely by themselves. The windows are clear. I mean, have you have you watched the news? Have you paid attention to anything? Like things happen where kids get abducted all the time, right? So, who's to say that somebody doesn't walk by, see that she's by herself with no adult supervision, they break a window, they open the door, they take her, she's gone, and we have we're getting a call from you crying because now your child is missing. Right. This is why you're saying it's ridiculous, but it's really not because >> a child should not be left alone in a vehicle running and unlocked, >> right? It's not ridiculous, I guess. What I mean is ridiculous. I just I I'm here by myself. I can't ever get a break. I just had to go to the bathroom. I don't have any help. I just I didn't think it was going to be an issue. I I live right there. I was going to come to get the flea medicine. and I had to go to the bathroom and I was going to leave. That's why I'm here. I I couldn't find my car. I left the keys in here so that she could, you know, >> the officers stay calm but make it clear just how risky the situation really was. >> So, just a a word for the future, right? In the future, if this situation ever presents itself again, >> I will wake her up. >> You need to wake her up and bring her with you. Okay. doesn't mean that this is over with yet. I still have to figure out what we're going to be doing with it and then we will go from there. Okay. So, when you first walked up, you told me that you were inside the store for 5 minutes. According to the video, you walked in at 7:06. You walked out at 7:32, which is 20, what is that? 26 minutes that you were inside the store. A little different than 5 minutes. >> Well, I knew obviously wasn't 5 minutes. It takes about 5 minutes to walk from here to there. So, I didn't think exactly 5 minutes, but I didn't think I was gone for that long. >> Would you would you agree with me that 26 minutes is excessive? Yes. >> Um, okay. >> I was shopping around. I know I got lost a few times. I was trying to find vitamins. I think that's another reason why it took so long. I cart. >> So, and this is my other issue, right? You told me initially that you went in there to use the bathroom. >> Now, you're saying that you were shopping, >> right? >> Well, I I did say I was trying to find treatment. I left it. That's why I left the cart. I was very discombobulated when I saw everyone. So that's that's what I said initially. >> What do you mean you saw everyone? >> Like when I saw like you and then there was a lady here like there was a lot of people here. So initially like I you know I was very jumbled discombobulated but I did say that I was trying to find flea treatment. I didn't find it. So I ended up putting the cart back but I didn't you know I didn't tell you in detail everything. >> Okay. >> At that moment yeah. >> After checking the security footage they confirmed she was away for a full 26 minutes. All right. Um, you said your mom is in Miami and does has does does your daughter ever stay with your mom? >> She does. >> Okay. Um, I'm going to be straight up with you. All right. I don't want to beat around the bush. Um, I hope that by me doing this, you'll respect it and understand that I have a job to do. Um, and that you're not going to cause problems or make this situation worse, right? Cuz it's already bad enough, right? You need to call your mom or her dad or somebody to come and pick her up. If they're not able to, then we're gonna have to call DCF and have them come out and pick her up. Can you start working on that? >> Why? >> In the state of Florida, child neglect is a felony. Leaving a seven-year-old unattended in an unlocked and running vehicle with the keys in it to go shopping for 26 minutes would constitute neglect. >> So, I'm getting arrested. >> Yes. I'm not physically going to put you in handcuffs in front of her. I'm going to try to avoid that as long as you're cooperative. >> There's no misdemeanor or a ticket or something you can give me. >> No. Ultimately, the officers determine that the situation qualifies as child neglect under Florida law. >> I'm going to try and do this as calmly as possible so that she is not harmed by this process any more than she needs to be. Okay? As long as you're cooperative with me, that's how it's going to go. If at any point in time you change your tone or your demeanor or you start going against what I'm asking of you, then that's when things are going to change and I'm going to be forced to handle this differently. >> My mom is 33 weeks pregnant. She has high risk. You don't understand how alone I am here. >> Okay. >> You have to arrest me. There's nothing else you can do. There's no there's nothing. I can't There's a reason I'm here alone. There's a reason she's not going with her dad this weekend. There's a reason my mom's not taking here this weekend. I do it by myself. >> I understand that. >> So I So how do I get her back? >> That'll be through the court process. How long am I going to be in jail? >> Um, I'm most likely just overnight. You get booked in, you get a bond. Once you pay the bond, you get out. >> And when I get out, I can't see her. >> That's not up to me to determine. That would be up to the judge. The judge at first appearance will determine whether or not you should have contact. and if you do have contact, what kind of contact that is, whether it's unrestricted, whether it's supervised or however it's going to go from there, but that's not for me to decide. So, are you able to call either mom or her dad? They inform the mother of her arrest, but make sure to handle it respectfully and out of her child's sight. She's given the chance to call someone she trusts to take care of her daughter, which helps avoid immediate involvement from DCF or another family member or somebody that you would trust with her. Cuz if not, then I need to start my process of getting somebody here. You're George. Okay. So, you have your ID with you by chance? >> Yeah. >> Um, she'll be able to explain it to you at a later time. >> Uh, but we at least appreciate you >> helping facilitate it. >> I understand. The main issue is if somebody wasn't available then she would end up going to DCF and we were trying to avoid that. So >> um >> I mean I I went through the DCF but I not >> yeah be a little bit of a different process with DCF and they're definitely going to be involved in this afterwards but um The fact that she's kind of by herself is what complicates matters. Yeah. So, you being able to do this helps to alleviate a little bit of the the difficulty. So, um yeah, I I'll let her give you whatever she needs. Uh >> temporary or whatever, but um and then I'll let you guys get out of here. My main thing is I didn't want to putting her in handcuffs in front of >> Oh, yeah. >> her daughter. >> Yeah. >> I wanted her to be out of here. >> No, that's nice. >> So, I'm trying to make this as easy as possible given the circumstance. >> Fortunately, the child's father is available to take custody while the mother is in jail. >> Um, so obviously I know it's going to be tough to get away, but um yeah. So, I'll tell her now. I just All right. If you can put your hands behind your back. >> If you keep your palms like facing each other, it's going to be the most comfortable for you. [Music] Just be careful because the seat is hard plastic, so if you lean back against it, it's going to be difficult. Um, I'm going to leave your phone in your pocket. Okay. There's there is there any other coordination that you have to do in order for George and Jazelle to meet up or they are going to be able to handle it all themselves? Okay. Um, is there anybody that you need to or want to call uh in order to facilitate on? >> No, he's going to help the day. >> He's going to do take care of it. Okay. Um, all right. I'm going to leave your phone in your pocket. Please don't do anything. Okay. I'm trying to give you some respect here. >> You've done amazing. >> Um, I situation, but I also want you to understand the gravity of it, and I'm also here because I'm doing my a job, right? The officer handling the case stresses he doesn't see her as a bad parent, but feels obligated to act due to the potential danger involved. >> The sad scary thing, right, where I look at this and maybe you're going to call me paranoid cuz you already went that route with with other s stuff, but if I were like, you know what, I think everything's fine and she's going to be good, right? and I let you drive away from here and like two weeks down the road, >> I see in the news that the child got abducted and >> it was her >> and it was the same type of story. >> When the news starts digging into stuff, they'll see that your name was in a report for the same thing and I was like, "You know what? I think she's okay." And I let you walk away. Guess what happens to me? I've been a cop for 15 years. So, I have a retirement, right? I lose that, I go to jail, >> right? >> And I get it. Things are in place. You know, >> at the end of all this, do I think you're a bad mother? Absolutely not. Okay. I understand it's difficult. I'm going through the same very similar situation. Luckily, his mom is more involved, but at the end of the day, I don't think you're a bad parent. I think you made a mistake. And I hope that at the end of this process that there's some sort of education provided to you to or other resources that are provided to you to help you in what you're going through. Okay. >> The mother is taken into custody and charged with child neglect. Number two, police show up at mother's job after finding kids alone. Two 5-year-old girls are nearly hit by a car after they run into a parking lot without supervision. The woman behind the wheel stops just in time and finds out the kids are locked out of their apartment. Here's what happens when police are called to intervene. >> You don't have to be scared. >> Hello. >> The police at the mall. Hi. >> Hi. How are you? I was dropping my son off. His dad lives here. I'm on my way to work >> and I was pulling out of the parking spot and they ran out in front of the car. >> Okay. >> They said that they're locked out of the apartment. >> I don't know where the apartment is, you know. >> Their mom is at work at the mall. She gets off at 3:00 p.m. They're 5 years old. They said, so I just drove them up here. >> I didn't know what to do. >> What parking lot were you in? >> He lives in 26500. Go in at the stop sign, go left, and it's the second left. >> Okay, if you can just wait here for a minute. Mind telling me uh what are you guys doing outside? >> Somebody was inside. Somebody I just wanted to stay um I wanted to stay inside. So, I'm not allowed to stay by myself. >> Who's at home with you? >> Nobody. >> And your mom's at work at the mall? >> I told mommy. I told mommy somebody had to come with me. But I can't me carto. >> Yeah. >> What store? >> She works at the curry store. >> The what? >> The cookie store. >> Okay. >> I think there's a kiosk. They sell cookies. If you can check at the mall, there should be a kiosk that sells cookies upper level by the food court. Believe that might be their mother. >> What's your mom's name? >> Mother's name is >> Okay. >> We make Tik Tok together and we have Instagram. >> You have your ID on your miss. >> Do you have an Ohio driver's license? >> Do you have a valid driver's license? >> No. Are you're the only one in the car? Officers meet the girls and ask some questions that could help him locate their mother. >> What uh apartment building you said? 26500. >> Uh-huh. That's where I was. She just said building 10. >> Oh, they're in Okay. You stay in 109. >> 11. >> Oh, building 11, but apartment 109. Okay. And they're in building 10. >> Okay. And you were just pulling out of your parking space and they ran in front of you >> like ran behind the car like almost hit them. >> Okay. >> You can wait in your car. I just can't let you drive off unfortunately. Hi. >> Hey. >> I'm Officer Cam. >> Hi, Officer. >> Hi. What time did your mom go to work this morning? >> I don't know. >> Okay. >> She gets off at 3:00. >> Yeah. Pardon me. What' you say? >> What time does mommy go to work? >> We don't know. I know, but I forgot. >> You know how long you've been by yourself today? >> Um, I I minutes. >> Yeah. Last time I would be lost by my dad. My dad being car by herself. This time I was alone a deep I didn't I was just like standing right >> uh you said you left the apartment cuz your tummy hurts. >> Yes. >> Okay. Where were you trying to go? >> I was trying to go to mall to a mall. >> What? You know it's so it's dangerous. Do you see all these cars? It's really dangerous to the sidewalk. >> Home? Yeah. >> Okay. Are you sure they're at home? >> Yeah. >> Okay. Cuz they're Where do you live? Do you live in the village? >> Yeah. >> Yeah. Yeah, they're out at the guard shack. >> What? Over in the village, so you're going to need to come get them. >> Oh my god. I just dropped off my cookies. My employee be here any second. Um I had my friend over there watching them, but I don't know what's going on. >> Okay. Do you want to try and call your friend? >> Where are they? >> They're at the guard shacked at the village. >> Police head to the mall and find the woman at work. She's surprised and insists she only left briefly to drop off cookies and that her friend was supposed to come babysit. So, was anybody supposed to >> Who who all lives with you? >> Just our mom. >> Okay. >> My dad lives in Bermuda. >> Okay. >> Does she leave you alone a lot? >> No, this is our first day. >> This is the first day? >> Yeah. We never been alone before. >> Were you lonely? >> No. >> Did she give you instructions on what to do today? >> No, I don't know. All she told me is that Carter has to listen to me. >> Yeah. What are you able to call her on like an iPad or anything in case of an emergency? >> No, we don't have an iPad. So, you don't have any way to call her if there's an emergency? >> No, I look for my phone and his keys so I can the way to get out, but I couldn't find her, I think. >> Yeah, because he keeps his keys in her car. >> The caller. She doesn't have a license. She's just waiting for someone to come to drive the vehicle away. Child endangerment. >> Yeah. >> Your mommy's on her way. >> No. >> Yeah, we found her. >> 8 n We're headed over there now. So, uh, the lady in the vehicle right there said that she was pulling out of her parking space cuz she was in building 11. And >> I'm in building 10. >> Yeah, you live in building 10. >> She was pulling out of her parking space and the two girls ran out in front of her and she almost hit him. >> Uh, she I guess Carter said her stomach hurt and she was coming to they were coming to the mall to see you. >> Okay, but where's Auntie India? She didn't come. >> What do you mean? She said she was coming. She said she was here. >> No, she wasn't. >> So, I was just dropping cookies. I have I have a um bakery over in Beach Mall. >> And then I have a friend who lives nearby. I just call her whenever I need her help. >> Um I was in such a rush this morning. I ran over and not this morning. It wasn't long. >> And I um just dropped the cookies off and I was coming right back. >> Okay. What time did you leave? >> Um like 10 minutes ago. I was at home baking. >> What time approximately? >> I would say like 1:40. Okay. >> Yeah, it wasn't long at all. >> And you just left to go drop cookies off? >> Yep. Mhm. >> She admits she left before India arrived and made the call to her after the kids had already been found outside, but when officers ask for proof, the story starts to fall apart. >> Okay. >> So, were were you girls sleeping on 91 left? >> Okay. And you said that their aunt was supposed to come over? >> Um, I just have a friend that lives nearby. >> Okay. And did you speak with this friend? Yeah. Yeah. I messaged her in accent. She said she was on her way. >> What's What's the friend's name? >> Her name's India. >> India. >> I know her. That's her. >> Did you? >> As long as it's still down in the front bag. >> Yeah. I'm so No, it's fine. I'm so sorry. >> All right. Yep. That's all I need. >> So, but you left without India being there yet. >> She was on She was on her way, >> but she never showed up. >> She wasn't there yet. But I literally call her every time and she always comes every single time. That's my honest to God that's my fault. I should have been until she was there. But I I'm just telling you. Is there any other relatives that live nearby? >> Yep, I have a whole bunch of relatives that >> my grandma stays over here in Shaker, right here by middle school. >> Do you have on your phone proof that you called this India girl? >> I >> And it would have to have a date and time on it. >> I mean, I called her at 1:40 to make sure that she was still there. I have the date and time on that. >> Are we able to see that? >> Yep. >> At what time? >> 1:40. That was just to make sure that she was still there. had just gone over the community. >> Mommy. >> Okay. And you confirmed that she was on the way. >> Yes. >> But she never arrived before you left. >> Yeah. Mhm. >> Okay. >> So, you called India after we had already received notification that the kids were loose. What we're what we're asking for you to show us is proof that you had somebody coming over to babysit the kids >> cuz 139 or 140 is not a good time. It was a private code. It's not showing up. >> Nothing prior to 139. >> No, but I mean I can call her >> any text messages. >> It was through Instagram. >> And are you able to pull that up? >> No, cuz it was on a private deleted. >> It was deleted. Okay. Well, that's that's where we kind of run into kind of run into a situation there. >> I totally get it. I absolutely >> There's no clear record of the babysitter ever being confirmed beforehand, and deleted messages raise more questions. The officers point out how dangerous the situation was. >> Uh we're just trying to figure out. So this I'll just give you the rundown. Char found mom and the girls were walking outside of their of their building and almost got run over and correct. And she's like, "Oh, India is supposed to be there." Well, mom can't provide any proof that she's like, "Oh, no, no, I called India." Well, she called India at 1:39. We got the No, she called Indie at 1:40. We got this call at 139. Mom's lying about getting a babysitter. Mom had no babysitter. So anyway, we have two girls that one said she had a tummy ache. These two 5-year-olds were going to walk to the mall to find mom. Yes. Cuz cuz she got a tummy ache. And so um yeah, she she's definitely going to get hooked up. However, this is requiring a bond from a judge. Child endangering requires we contact the judge. And we have two little girls we don't know what to do with. So, probably just going to have to tell the judge that and um and beg for a personal. I I would like to just keep the the girls and mom in the same car. I don't think the girls should be in a separate car than mom. >> Are you guys in kindergarten? >> So, you came you came to the house cuz Carson said something about you didn't come. >> We didn't show them. >> Oh, >> she was Oh my god. And then and then I don't know why would I call you on probably because it's not they need a date and a time to show that I told you to come real quick. >> Is that her? >> Yeah, it's okay. Just one second. Hey, Cam. Yeah, >> the girl's on the phone. >> She's on the phone with her friend India that could watch the kids potentially. >> Okay. Apparently, maybe the friend India can come watch the kids. So, we we might be able to just take all the kids and mom, drop kids off Advantage and then take mom. All right. So, we'll we'll we'll work on that. >> So, as soon as we leave, as soon as we're separated, he wants you to call 696 kids to see if they want to come and interview her at the jail >> cuz sometimes they haven't been able to get a hold of people. She seems like a respectable person. >> She's going to be here, you know, at some point. Not going to jump out, escape that. >> Yeah. >> My Can I speak with you, please? Outside. >> So, we don't want to talk about this in front of your kids at all. Okay. You have to be booked and processed for child endangerment. >> The mother seems genuinely upset, but the officers stay focused on the facts. They explained that leaving small children home alone is not only unsafe, but also illegal. >> Hires you to be fingerprinted. and they're at our station. Okay. You have to get arrested for this. Are we able to drop the girls off at at India's house while >> No, India's not alone. >> Okay. So, that's fine. So, we're going to put all three of you in the back of a police car together un uncuffed. We're just going to make sure you don't have anything on you. Okay. And you're not going to be handcuffed as long as you're sitting in the car with your kids. >> Can I go to my grandma's house? >> That's what we're looking for. We're looking for a babysitter. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Um my grandma is not home at the moment. Um, my grandpa used to watch. >> Is he able to drive? >> How long would this take? You know, >> no, because we have to contact the judge for approval to let you go. I'm imagining she will, but this this requires us to call the >> Okay. >> Bring ID, your cell phone. Um, if you have like your wallet cuz if the judge if the judge does set a bond, obviously you're going have to pay that bond to get out. >> We're go for a little ride. >> Police car. First time for everything, right? >> The field trip. You guys want the big car? Pick which car you want. You want the big car. All right, that's fine. >> I never been in a big car before. >> Is this going to go on my public record? So, it's not something that we like put out to the media or anything. >> Because of the seriousness of the charge, child endangerment, they need to contact a judge for bond approval. They prepare to transport the mother for booking, but allow the girls to ride with her so they aren't separated. Number one, 7-year-old left behind as mom chooses partying over parenting. At nearly 3:00 a.m., police are called to a bar after a 7-year-old girl walks in alone looking for her mom. The bar staff are closing up and have no idea who she is. When officers arrive, the girl explains the situation. >> Chris, how you doing? I'm like a little pumpkin. >> Yeah. Okay. >> Where'd you walk from? Um, I walked from my child. >> All right, this is on you guys. We're out. >> All right. >> It's okay. You can tell us where you came from. Okay. You want to sit in that comfy booth with them? >> You want to sit with us? >> It's okay. >> Where's your Spongebob ice cream? >> It melted. >> It melted. You let it You let him just melt all the way. >> This is Rachel. >> Awesome. >> Hi. to help. >> You can talk to me if you don't want to talk to them. Okay. >> And I we've got your apple juice and your French fries right now. Okay. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> And what's your >> All right. What about What's your mom's name? Um, her name is Veronica. Rox. >> Veronica. What was the last name? >> Roxan. >> Belle. >> Belle. >> Okay. >> Her name was Roxan and her last name was Belle. >> You're awesome at this. >> Where's your mommy at? >> Sit next to me if you need to. Okay. >> You don't know. >> You said you walked from your car. Yeah, because um she I fell asleep during it and then she has a bed there ever since. But cuz we um got there and like 10 minutes and then and then I my mom said it wouldn't be long and then she um after like 5 to 10 minutes she she just haven't came back. >> Okay. Where do you live at? >> Um I live on When the officer gets to the mother's car, they find the car turned off and unlocked with one of the back doors wide open. Realizing how serious the situation is, the police begin searching the area. >> Think it's going to be the car. So, we're going to intercept mom or catch up mom. We can run the plates. We can get address. >> You just lead us where the car is. Okay. >> For the, you know, registered owner, >> I'm with you. Okay. this year. >> Your mom usually you leave you in the car by yourself? >> No. >> No. >> Something important. >> Something important. >> Hey, you're doing a great Okay. I just want to come with you. Okay. You hold my hand. It's okay. I'm with you, girl. Is this your mama's car right here? But this one right here. >> Yeah. >> This silver one right here. Okay. >> Yeah. >> It's okay. I'm with you. Okay. You just come. I'm going to be right with you. Okay. >> You just hold my hand. I'm going to come with you. I'm never >> That's your seat? >> Yeah. >> Hey, you stay right here with me, my little cray. I'm not going to leave you at all. Okay. I promise you. >> These guys are just helping us. Okay. >> Okay. >> You tell them anything that you feel like you need to tell them. >> And they found Skyland. >> Oh boy. >> Phone. >> You found Sky a phone in there. >> Oh yeah. >> You left her phone. That light over there. >> Yeah. >> What is that? >> Yeah. Those are the keys. >> It's the keys. Okay. Do you want to give it to this night? >> Yeah. He's going to help us out. Okay. >> The girl helps as much as she can, describing what her mother was wearing and which direction she may have walked. >> I'm going to stay with you. Okay. >> Yeah. So, >> are you okay? If it's possible, >> are you worried? >> It's okay. It's okay. You hold my hand right here. Okay. >> I got the key right here in the windshield. >> You tell me you're still worried. Yeah. You told me. So Alaska central intellite contact anything right >> dear what was the >> get on >> that get on main and just see us >> if the sheriff's office just hey can >> um 20 >> I know there's a blue house >> can you ask 20 if he can sendense somebody over to >> the child's mother. >> You are so smart. You make me so proud. Okay, they just hang out with me. >> You're doing so good. Okay, these guys are just trying to help us. >> You're doing super. >> You're doing really good. Okay. >> Okay. >> Hold my hand if you want to. She can maybe be in any of these buildings. >> Okay. >> She walked off to one, but I can't see where because she turned the lights off. >> Okay. Has this ever happened before? >> Um, no. She never leaves the car without me. >> No. >> She said it's something really important. And she said it'll be a real quick, but it hasn't because it was like was like 5 to 10 minutes. >> Which way did you say she walked? >> Um, I couldn't see because she turned the the lights off. Every single one. >> Okay. Okay. >> But you don't remember which way she walked when she left the car? >> No. >> Okay. >> Got some words for your mom when she gets back. >> You're doing very good, girl. You're doing very good. You are very smart. Very good. Okay. >> Officers spend the next few hours combing through nearby buildings and paths, but there's still no sign of the mother. >> Just hang out with me. Okay. >> So, do you remember why you came on over here? >> Like with your mom? Do you remember? No, but it wasn't long before I found Skydive Deland and I heard people talking so I can >> What's your mom's name? >> Bell. >> Veronica Bell. >> Veronica. Roxan Bell. >> Roxan Bell. >> Just hang out with me. >> Do you remember why your mom um came over here? >> No. >> No. Okay, >> you squeeze my hand if you need to. Okay, >> there was just a lot of wondering if anyone could be here. >> You did a great job. Did a great job. always right over there. I'm still with the job. >> Okay. You promise? >> I promise you. She looks just like me, but but more freckles and >> more freckles like me. >> Bravo's 10 on patrol. >> He's a lot. >> I will always go with you. Okay, I promise. >> Okay. >> All right. Just checking. >> Bless you. >> Thanks. That was a good sweat. >> During the search, officers and staff do their best to keep the child calm and comfortable despite the difficult situation. >> You okay? Are you too cold or anything? >> No. No, not too cold. You're a superstar. >> You're doing awesome, pilot. You're doing so good. You're so brave. You're so smart. >> You go to school. >> She's not much taller than you. >> I'm not too much taller than you. It could the possible way she could have gone is by either one of these problems. >> Mhm. >> You're so smart. >> Veronica, my name is Matt Salman. I'm a sergeant with the police department. Uh I'm out here at >> Hang with me. Okay. >> These guys are just trying to help us out. Okay. >> You're not scared, right? >> They're just trying to help us. Okay. >> You're doing super. >> You're doing so good. >> I was curious if if she walked in that building or these two. >> Yeah. >> You're a curious kid. I like it. I was a curious kid, too. >> Um, there weren't much people around, but I saw that spark. I thought it was just a car, but now I can see that's a campfire. So, the campfire was there when you first got here. >> Um, yeah. >> Okay. >> But there was only a little bit of it. >> I gotcha. Were you able to see the people around the campfire? >> No. >> No. >> The bus is blocking it. >> Bus is blocking it. >> Okie do. >> You're doing so good. If she'd walk down here, she would never leave me >> because this she's never done anything like this before. But >> but that's blocked off, so she can't go that way. >> Yeah. >> Thankfully, the little girl is sharp, observant, and pays close attention to her surroundings. >> You feeling okay? >> Yeah. You tell us if you're feeling not okay. Okay. >> Okay. >> Okay. You would tell me, right? >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> Still got a really cool little juice box >> or apple juice over there. >> Yeah. >> You would tell me, right? >> You got your apple juice waiting. >> You better tell me. And these guys are just trying to help us, right? So, you tell them anything they need to know. Okay. [Applause] I thought that would have been him. >> So, how long ago did this happen? >> 5 to 10 minutes and then I found skydive to land. I heard people talking. I follow a bit and I went inside. >> Okay. >> You came to hang out with us, right? Because the car was off like completely off. >> That's good. >> Hour maybe. >> An hour. >> Maybe. >> Okay. You're thinking more than an hour or less than an hour? >> No, I think right around an hour. Okay. >> I don't I don't think it was a ton more than that. Right around an hour for sure. We got her some food and >> then it was kind of like >> Yeah, she was living good. >> What do we do? Good thing you called. >> Thank you. You doing good? >> Mhm. >> Okay. You want to hold my hand still? Okay. Um, she has a purse that goes around here and it's like um to here and then she wears it right mostly around here or here >> and then she has her phone in it but she didn't bring her >> she's able to clearly answer the officer's questions and provide helpful details about her mom. >> Where was her shirt maybe? Do you know what? What was it? Like pink, purple, >> like a long sleeved white. >> Long sleeve white. >> Longleveled white. Was she wearing pants? >> Um, no. >> No. What was she wearing? >> Um, she was wearing a long sleeve shirt. And then she wore um she wore some shorts. >> Wore some shorts. >> Like shorts like me. >> Um Yeah. >> Like this. Like little shorts. Tight shorts. >> Yeah. >> Okay. And a long sleeve white. >> I know. I know. when I I'll see her because he knows >> she's really good at hide and seek. >> Do you like hide and seek? >> Um, sometimes. >> Sometimes. I'll hang out with you till we find her. Okay. >> Okay. >> I promise you. >> Okay. >> Do you remember what color her purse is? >> Um it's like a really dark green with some like tannanish brown like this and like this combined. And then um then they h she has like it's kind of like blue and um and then that's it because it's like there's like squares like their rhombuses like that go this way and that's all I can really know about that person. >> Oh my goodness. You were so much smarter than me when I was seven. >> A rhombus. >> Come on now. You are very smart. Though understandably shaken, she's praised for being both smart and incredibly brave throughout the entire ordeal. >> I never knew what my mom's job was because I didn't have time to ask it. I said, "Wait." But she left the car. She left the car already and then she turned the and then she didn't she didn't walk in the direction that she turned the lights off. And then she walk off. It's okay. You did everything good. You came to find us. You found me. Right now we're best buddies. Right. You remember my name. >> You do remember my name. >> I'm going to keep you safe. Okay. >> You doing okay? >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> You tell me if you need anything. Okay. Um, open that as soon as >> wait before you sit in. >> Around 6:30 a.m., the mother returns barefoot, slurring her speech and smelling of alcohol. She admits leaving her daughter in the car overnight to go drinking and is arrested on the spot as officers ensure the child's safety. And that folks is what happens when the kids know better than the adults. Sound off in the comments.