You had your chance to be a mother and you failed miserably. >> Got kissed me in the forehead in 75 and ever since. >> She was here last night and she did steal alcohol last night as well. >> Children should never be left unattended in a car, a store, or on the street. >> Do you have children in your car? >> Okay. Do you have a house or do you guys stay in your car? >> I stay in a bus. >> You stay in a bus. >> Do you have three kids? >> Are you home alone? Is there anybody home with them? >> I am working two jobs and I'm going to school. I'm doing the best I can. Can personal struggles ever justify these actions? Let's explore real cases in Florida. To find out in this situation, the mother appeared to prioritize personal errands, which raised concerns from observers and authorities. >> So, how many times have you been at this Target right here and stolen items? >> I don't remember. I'm not sure. >> So, it's just been a a whole bunch of times. >> Notably, this was not the first time. On September 7th, 2023, [music] Semino County police received an emergency call about a woman taking items without paying, valued at around $1,000. When officers arrived, they found three children, ages 1, four, and 10, unattended in a parked car outside while the mother went into the store. She had done similar [music] actions multiple times, even returning to the store several times that same day. Hey strength that I have on her, but just dealing with today. Miss Latasha, she's more than capable of speaking, but she did let me know that she is living out of a hotel right now. She's having a hard time managing and paying for her stuff. Relatives or anybody here? She had her mom was just calling from her from New York. She said want to chat with her. You're more than welcome to. >> I understand. I understand. >> All right. So, right quick, um are you going to uh >> I would like to uh prosecute and trespass for this majority of the time. She was here last night and she did steal alcohol last night as well. She stole alcohol today, but those are the most like frivolous things I like that I'm going to start compiling on. Um I'm actually going to Oh, you mind if I take a picture? >> Oh, sure. Okay. So, this is what I'm going to go ahead and do. Technically, I placed you into investigative detention, but since you have your daughter with you, I'm not going to put you in handcuffs right now. Okay. So, I'm demonstrating with the Sim County Sheriff's Office. Okay. At this point, you are in investigative detention, but for this, like I say, for the sake of your daughter right now, I'm not going to do that. Okay. But here's the thing. If you try to run out this door, >> I'm not. >> Yeah. And then we we we in a whole totally different situation. Okay. So, I'm go ahead and read you Miranda right now. >> A baby in the car. >> No. Don't tell. >> Oh, so they have two young kids in the car. And a baby in the car. Okay. Might as well call DCF. >> You have your ID on you? Hey, what's going on? Do you have kids in your car? >> Do you have children in your car? Do you have children in your car? >> Yes. >> Okay. Yeah. Yeah. Hold on. Let me give me a second. I'm I'mma read her. Miranda, I'll call you back. Okay. Bye. All right. Um, you have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you in court. You have the right to have an attorney present now or at any time during questioning. If you talk to me, you have the right to stop answering questions or speak to an attorney at any time. Do you understand each of these rights? >> Yes. >> Will you talk to me? >> Yes. >> Okay. All right. So, the incident today, what was going on with it? >> I just got some clothes for them. >> Okay. Just makeup. Okay. >> That was it. Like I'm living in a hotel. I'm just having a hard time. >> I get it. And we all have hard times. >> I know. >> But we have a bigger issue right now. How many children are in your car right now? >> Two. >> Two kids. What are their ages? >> My son is 10. >> 10. And >> my daughter is one. >> One. So you got a 10-year-old and a one-year-old in the car? >> That's it. Okay. All right. And then how old is >> She's four. >> She's four. >> Hi. >> Four. Okay. I thought they were baby babies. Like an infant in the car. Okay. That's that's that kind of kind of got me. Why? What are we doing? >> All right. So, have you been here before? Okay. And what what has taken place before? Why you came to this particular Target? >> There was no particular target just that my son go to school in the area. >> So, how many times have you been at this Target right here and stolen items? >> I don't remember. I'm not sure. >> So, it's just been a a whole bunch of times. Okay. And have your children been present with you while you've done it? Like physically in the store? >> Maybe. >> Maybe. Okay. because um that's also a completely different charge because you are committing a crime in the presence of of juveniles. So I'm not taking the arrest. Somebody else is going to take it. I'm here to pretty much kind of feel it until that person comes. Now I will whatever it is what you're telling me right now. I will relay it to the arresting deputy and it'll be up to them what they want to do. Okay? But I'm just I'm just letting you know your your op what you you're pretty much dealing with right now. You're committing a crime in the presence of your children. We dealing with two different crimes right now. Okay? I'm going to leave that up to them. whatever it is that he wants to do with it, then that's him. Okay. >> Oh, will they take them? >> Do you have anybody that can come and get them? >> I can try and find somebody. Please. >> I mean, you can give us a second. Again, here's the thing. You You kind of put yourself in a bad situation. I get we and honestly, we all go through trying times to be honest with you. So am I. But >> I understand. >> You get what I'm saying? I mean, I don't want to kind of beat a dead horse. >> I know. >> All right. So, all right. So, you are trespassed from this particular target. Okay. If you do come back to this target, you will be subject to arrest. Okay. I do have to take a photo of you. >> Okay. >> Did you get the vehicle open? >> I can just open it. >> They got the vehicle open. >> They broke the window. >> I can't say if they broke it or not, but if your 10-year-old is in the car, pretty sure he opened up the door for them. >> Meanwhile, [music] officers outside the car ensured the children were safe. Yes. >> 4 513. That's 10 4. Hey. Hey. So, I'mma leave this car open so you So, I'm going to go ahead and leave this car open so you guys could get some fresh air. Okay. >> All right. >> Uh um what's your name? And that's your sister Bernie. >> Yeah. >> You going to be in the fifth grade? >> Let's see. Make sure you guys getting some hair condition. See, make sure you guys get some get some hair over there. Okay. Like I said other I'm going wait for the other deputy to see what he wants to do and then we'll go from there. Okay. >> After assessing the situation, the police took legal action against the mother. >> Chocolate. >> Do you have any information if he's picking up the kids or? >> Yes, I got it. I'll put this. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Did you get her? It's right there in the Target. Yes. They're right there. They about to suck. Okay. >> And they're on their way. >> Mhm. >> All right. All right. If you want to put your phone in your purse. >> Okay. Is it possible I can just leave it with them? >> The purse? >> Yeah. >> That's up to you. >> Yeah. I I trust this person. >> So, they are taking the stuff. I thought you just told her. >> No, I told her that they were taking the stuff because I don't know like how this works. I've never been to jail. So, I have to tell I don't know like how long I'm going to be there. So, I They need food to eat. >> Go ahead and stand up. Turn your hand by your butt. >> Relatives came to pick up the children and were given a full explanation of what had happened. >> Hey, how you doing? >> Just come to pick up the kids. >> You are? >> Yeah. Um, I'm your dad. Sorry. >> Your name? >> Yeah. >> Can you tell me what happened? Um yeah, if you want to close the door. So their mom got caught a stealing out of that and so she's going to jail. >> No, not stealing. Um >> stealing. >> Yeah. >> What? What? Now when you say stealing as a what? What? >> I don't know exactly what she took or what she know. Of course, this isn't the first time. So that's So let me call you right back. Let me call you right back. So, >> let me ask you a question. Um, >> is there like bail or anything like that? >> Yeah, it's probably depending on what it is. As of right now, it's probably $500. It could be more. She >> license to pay that now. >> No, you won't be able to pay. It'll take some time. Ego, our loss prevention officer. >> Are you related to the subject? >> Yes. >> That's the This is all the stuff that she actually paid for. She didn't want to refund it. She said that she would like for it to go with you guys. >> Now, let me ask a question. What? This is what she stole? >> No. >> What did she steal? >> She actually asked us if we could not disclose information to whoever was coming to pick up. Um, it will obviously be public record and you'll be able to see it anyway. But this I'll just say this isn't the first time. >> No, she's never did this before. >> I'm saying this isn't the first time out of the store. I'm telling you, it's not >> that she did this. >> She's done this many times. I had documented incidents on I think probably seven or so, but I'm only charging her for the one today. I will say that >> she has children in the car. >> Absolutely. I told them that we we knew that she had children in the car before we even stopped her. >> So, she was >> she just she just didn't pay for some stuff, but I >> What's in that pocket right there? >> It's a pen. >> The pen? >> Yeah. >> Walk you this way real fast. >> All right. I'm going to go in there and grab it. >> Yeah. >> I'm just going to tell you right now. Um, anything else you have on you if it's introduced into the jail? It's going to be another charge. You understand? >> Anything what? >> Anything else on you? Any other cont? >> No, I don't have anything. >> Okay. We're just explaining you introduce it to the jail after this point. It is introduction contract. Okay. >> I don't have anything. >> Okay. >> Take his food. The mother was charged with grand theft [music] and committing a crime in the presence of a juvenile, but received only a 3-month suspended sentence, [music] which led to public discussion regarding how such cases are handled. Even during difficult [music] circumstances, legal responsibility for child safety remains. Adults should seek [music] safe and legal assistance rather than taking risky actions that could put their family or others in danger. When living with a father who has a history of challenging behavior and a pregnant mother, this raised concerns about whether the environment was consistently safe for the children. >> I don't have a license. I don't drive and I have two jobs and I'm pregnant right now. I don't go to school. >> Oh, no. You're pregnant? Are you okay? >> 16 weeks. Yeah. I mean, I'm okay. >> On May 7th, 2024, Marian County police were dispatched to a Dollar Tree store after a report of a man acting unusually. The caller also mentioned hearing the children calling for help. Officers immediately arrived and confronted the father who was speaking in a confused manner. >> Why Why are my kids in the custody of somebody I don't know? Calm down. Okay, calm down. >> They're my children. >> And they're with the sheriff. >> Calm down. >> Where's the kids? >> Then went inside to talk to them. I guess >> see what all going on. >> We are doing our investigation. >> And my police for justice have been ignored steadily for years. People are covering up for evil. and I'm an innocent victim who's being escape from by the government, by the Vatican, and and the communities that I've lived in. And that's the honest testimony to the best of my knowledge first. >> God kissed me in the forehead in 75. And ever since it's been an ongoing spiritual battle of goodness, so there you go. >> Yeah, >> I'm not violent. I don't intend to hurt anybody. I'm not mentally ill, even though they want people to think that. I'm I'm severely and targeted and persecuted. >> What happened today? >> I started preaching over there and given a testimony about what I've been going through and the Walmart people came and came came over. He said, "You can't you can't do that there if we'll call the police." I said, "Okay, can I come over here?" And I drove the car right over here. And I parked it right there. Stayed in the car talking to my didn't even come out or nothing. And then lo and behold, here comes here comes all this. >> How old are you? >> Are they okay? >> Yeah. >> Do they go to school? >> We homeschool. Is there any other family that lives with you? >> My wife, she's working down the street at the uh at the the health store, the vitamin store down. I just dropped her off and I I was on the way home. Who's got my kids? And this is serious. I love my children. I This is This is kind of random for an innocent man to have his children taken away from him without explanation. >> We just got here. So, we don't know yet. >> You don't know who has my children? >> Another officer's in there with them. So, just making sure they're okay. Okay. Can you understand my concern since this this land is crawling with? Do you understand that? You probably see a lot of that on your feet. >> He's with they're with one of our right now. We just want to make sure they're okay. >> Protect my children. I think you I think anybody >> Did you hear them yelling for help? >> No, but I saw people taking my children away that I didn't know. Okay. >> Okay. So, we want to make sure they're okay. That's what we're going to do. Okay. >> I'll say food. I got I got them something to drink. All right. Can can you understand why I'm leerary when when this land is problem with with people? I know you guys see these people. >> I got a next door neighbor who looks at my daughter like like a piece of meat. I seen that look in his eyes. >> You wonder why I'm protective of my children. It's because of people like that. >> That's why I homeschool my kids, too. I I just don't relinquish my kids to random person and let them get indoctrinated. >> I'm innocent 100%. I'm not I'm not trying to instigate. I'm not I don't have to make sure that everything's good at your home. Do you have everything you need there? >> What's not good? God provides for us. We have plenty of food and shelter. >> What's Yes. >> running water. >> Yes. What's not being provided for me is communication in the community. >> Okay. >> People aren't talking to me about anything that's going on. I'm severely. See, the thing is people know, but people hush hush. People know her. People know about the underground. people know about the occult secrecies and in America you don't even have to talk about it. >> Inside the store, the children were cared for and comforted by staff. They also shared information about their living conditions, showing that some of their basic needs at home were not consistently met. >> We got dinosaurs. >> Hey guys, >> here babe. Which side do you want to watch? >> Guys, can I talk to you for a second? Hey, what's your name? >> Do you have a name? Do you guys go to school? You get homeschooled. What grade are you in? >> It's okay. What's your favorite thing to do? >> You like to draw? >> Yeah. >> Yeah. Let's come over here and get your snacks over here. You can take it with you. We're going to take care of that for you. But just So guys, what happened today? >> Were you guys yelling for help? >> No. >> No. Somebody said that you guys needed some help, so we came. Do you know that the police come when you need help? Isaac was reacting because he wasn't getting any McDonald's. >> So, he was hungry. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. Were you yelling for help? >> No. >> No. We got you some more snacks over here. So, let's have these first. Okay. Can you guys tell me about where you live at? Do you have a house or do you guys stay in your car or >> I stay in a bus? >> You stay in a bus? Oh, that's interesting. Is it a nice bus? Is it big? Is it small? Can you tell me about that? >> Oh, I think I pretty big. >> Do you like that? Yeah. >> Do you guys stay by yourselves or who lives with who lives with you in the bus? >> Mom and dad and I >> just y'all four. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Nobody else stays there. Do you guys stay at um at a house in the bus or is it in the woods somewhere? >> In the woods somewhere. >> Gotcha. Okay. Do you guys have any other family around like grandparents or >> No. >> You got some more snacks right here too. You see these? You want me to open it for you? >> Yeah. >> Okay. Do you guys um have any friends that you talk to or see? >> Yeah. >> No. When did you guys last time before now? >> Did you guys eat breakfast? Did you eat today? >> Yeah. What did you eat? >> That's okay. Were you hungry? >> Yeah. >> Did you yell for somebody to help you? >> No. We're okay. >> Has anybody tried to hurt you? >> No. >> No. What about in the past? Has anybody hurt you guys in the past? Still no. >> No. Okay. Or do you feel safe with mom and dad? >> Yeah. >> Do you guys have clothes at besides extra clothes when you're in your bus? >> Yeah. >> Do you guys have a way to take a shower? >> Yeah. >> Do you have water? >> Yeah. >> Yeah. Where do you get water from if you're in the woods? I'm just curious. >> Neighbor. >> Oh, there's a neighbor nearby that gives it to you. >> Yeah, I think so. >> Do you have a hose? >> Yeah. Okay. >> And a garden. >> Okay. So, do you have food to eat at the bus? What do you guys usually have for breakfast? Do you know? I like rice. >> You like rice? >> Yeah. >> Do you guys have a way to cook? >> No. >> No. >> No. So, what do you guys usually What have you been eating if you guys can't cook? >> Rice. >> How do you eat the rice? Do you guys get it like already cooked? >> No. >> Yeah. Do you guys have um electricity at the bus? Yeah. Like, do you have >> solar panels? >> Do you have like air conditioning or is it hot? >> No, only a fan. >> Fans. Okay. >> Stuff in the background. Um, and then if you need there's cameras and stuff. >> Okay. >> The manager came over said they'll give you some coloring books and crayons and that you could go to the back of the table where the cameras are if you want. >> Unable to gather further details from the father, police plan to speak with the mother to better understand the situation. >> They were sitting in that back seat. >> I'm worried that he's doing something to her, but I mean, she's not disclosing anything. >> No, but this they need >> Yeah, I'm getting an emergency response. >> Yep. I'm working on that. We've got two kids that were seen in the back of a car yelling for help, acting like they were being kidnapped. Barely verbal. They're not really talking to us. They had no shoes. Their clothes are ripped. They're covered in dirt. They're with what we think is their father, but the father is um crazy talking crazy. >> And do you know where the mother to the children are? >> We're trying to locate a mother. The dad says they're homeschooled, but they're obviously not. During the conversation with officers, the mother explained her relationship with her husband, his mental health challenges, and the difficulties she faced in caring for their children. >> Smoke? >> No, just uh just some some some THC flowers. Okay. >> I I don't smoke sigs. I haven't smoked sigs in like 10 years. >> You've been with him the whole time? >> I have not been with him the whole time cuz I've been with the kids and different other people. >> I just got here, so I'm not sure exactly what the story was. >> My name is Sergeant Warren. I'm going to tell you what the story is, but before I go back, I'm going to just read you your right because I want to ask you some questions and we're obviously doing an investigation. This has been ongoing. He wasn't like this. We had been together for 11 years and he was really bad. It's got progressively worse like to see how with his bipolar. I've talked to him so many times about him getting help and talk to somebody and go to a fellowship and he doesn't want to do it. It's like leave a horse in water and make him drink and he just doesn't want to drink. Yeah, >> I'm hoping this is a wakeup call cuz >> I live in a little school at this point. The only thing is like I don't have a license. I don't drive and I have two jobs and I'm pregnant right now. I go to school. >> Oh no, you're pregnant. Are you okay? >> 16 weeks. Yeah, I mean I'm okay. I need to get to my appointments and things. But I He's He's my own transportation. So if he gets taken away somewhere, then I'm stuck. >> Where where's your family? What happened to your family? >> They're all up in Pittsburgh. But I mean, if you didn't have him, like then what would you do next? Like if something happened to him, >> I'd have him learn how to drive and I'd just have to figure out daycare and I have to be had to talk to him. I've been gentle with him. I've been I've argued with him. I' I've both ways, you know. I've done everything I could to try to get him to a Christian counselor, to get him to a church, to get him medication. I've tried holistic modalities. >> Can you just keep your hands out of your pockets for me, please? That's for our safety. You don't like to? Yeah. >> Yeah. I've tried a bunch of things and it just doesn't work. >> So, you have the right to remain silent. Do you understand each of these rights and having these rights in mind? Do you wish to speak to me? Can we talk about this? >> Yeah. >> Okay. When did this start with him? >> So, the first inkling I got of his bipolar was probably about 2 years into our relationship, which would be around when >> I mean together 11 years. This would be 11 years now. So, probably 2016 maybe. And this was maybe like once every month or so, like every other month or so, he would do what you see in there, like rant and rave and like preach. He called the street preaching at the time. I didn't really think too much. I was like, that's kind of weird, you know. It's like, but if that's what he wants, you know, preach. I said, "Go ahead." Cuz people are all different colors and background. And I said, "Go ahead." You know, I don't see any part of it. But as time started going on, he I noticed he it turned like into like an every month thing. And then like as the year was going by and like it was like a slow decline. So like I noticed more times where he would be agitated and just pacing around you know it was probably like maybe about 2 years ago that I was like hey honey this is you should probably go talk to somebody. And he's like well he's like no I don't I don't need help. I said no. Since then he just kind of like me off. >> Was he diagnosed bipolar? >> She was diagnosed bipolar about 6 years ago. >> When did you guys come to Florida? >> This will be almost a full year. Almost a full year. What brought you here? >> Well, I'm going to school for integrated health science and so like there's a lot opportunity for me with job field down here and also the the climate is ideal for me to garden. >> Where do you stay at? >> We stay in like the country so >> Okay. Hey, what's your address? Do you have that? >> Yeah, I have it memorized by the license. >> Is that the physical license? Yeah, >> that's your physical address. Okay. Is there a house there or where do you guys stay at? >> It's a schooly. It's a converted school bus. So it has like we run on solar power. We have electricity with running water. We have everything like that. >> You have electricity for your kids and stuff. Yeah, we have all that. >> Okay. >> It's a little rustic, but it's all is there. Yeah. >> You guys have food? >> Yes, we have food. >> Okay. Do the kids go to schoolish? >> We homeschool them. Yeah. found a homeschooling program for them yet, but I've been teaching them via different um sources on the internet, different videos, and then we have the school the curriculum school books that we go by. >> No specific program. >> Not a program that we found yet cuz we're still looking to find the right one up as well. >> Do you homeschool him or does he or is it a >> I proactively homeschool him? I try to get him to homeschool, but he's like in the past couple months I've noticed things like he hasn't been doing like house chores. Sometimes souls forget to like come and like I have to remind him a couple times to come and get me from work cuz he just gets sidetracked. And I told him, I said, "You need to be busy with something, you know, for for yourself, for your mind." You know, it's like go find a church. Go find a fellowship. Said, "Why don't you just find something part-time parttime that you like? Go work at a nursery. Go find something where you're like in the zone. You don't have to interact with people." >> And you said you have two jobs. >> I have two jobs. >> Where do you work at? >> Uh Lake Nutrition Center and Cracker Barrel. I'm an online student right now. So, does he take care of the kids when you're at >> He takes care of the kids while I'm at work. >> Do you have any concerns with him taking care of the kids? >> I don't have any concerns. No, I just my only concern is whenever he starts like today. I don't have any fear of the kids being a I just feel like other people will view him as a what he's saying and his tone of voice sounds more hostile. So, >> this is the DCF. Um I think he told you we were calling them. >> Yeah. >> This is mom. Dad's over there. Um, we have determined he will be able to play grass. >> The children shared information suggesting that daily care routines may not always have been consistent and gaps in daily care according to general standards for child wellbeing. >> Hello guys. >> This is a friend of mine. >> So, what were you guys doing this morning before you came to the store? >> You almost got me. >> You're so silly. >> Oh, you took mom to work. I heard you live in this super cool bus. Is that true? >> Yeah. >> You have a shower in the bus? >> Yeah. >> You inside the bus. You have a shower. Oh, that's kind of cool. >> And we have access to water. >> And what else? Do you guys have enough food at home? >> Yeah, we have food in and fridge and we and we go and we have solar panels. >> So, that's kind of cool. I heard that it is a pretty cool bus. Did uh mom and dad do that? Did they make it? >> Yeah. >> So, when's the last time Did you take a shower this morning? >> No. >> Did you take one last night? Definitely. I know. >> No. Okay. So, what about yesterday? Did you take one yesterday? >> I think maybe three days. >> Who usually tells you to get in the bath for the shower? Anybody? Anybody reminding you to get in there? >> Mom and dad. >> Which one do you like? >> Oh, did you make this? >> I like this. >> Oh, look at that. >> How about that? >> A happy meal. You tell them thank you. You got you going to keep this safe for your sister? >> The father's condition continued to raise concerns about his ability to safely support the children. >> My name is Michelle. I know you guys were recently working with Mr. Car. Is that right? Yes. >> Yeah. We were part of the program for a short time. >> Yep. I see that. And um there was some engagement with some fifth activity health concerns for dad. >> Mental health concerns for dad. Yeah. >> Okay. And um I see that he dropped out of that. Well, we had him on lithium orate for a short time. He was actually making improvements. I've noticed over the past month, like recently, past month he's got he's gotten down drastically like just in the last month the case, which is why it was I think like almost a month ago. Yeah. And then he dropped because he had a month before he was doing better. Still having episodes, but it wasn't bad. Okay. But then he just started going downhill again. I'm I mean I don't have any concerns with the kids. He's He'll take care of the kids before himself, you know. I' I've known for 11 years and so I've never had any concerns with that. It's just right now I I know what you're going to say. >> Yeah. With his mental health. I get it. >> Mhm. >> Yeah. I mean I have concerns for this situation right here. And obviously I mean he has the kids in public saying that being kidnapped and dad having a manic episode. Well, I I didn't hear that. I mean, you're telling me that this has been going downhill. He's been going downhill. Obviously, last month, yeah, he's been it's like every day it's like negativity and I've been talking about the same thing and being persecuted and hard. I said, well, talk to somebody, but I said, I will be with you Christian, I'll support you 100% away. Where do you want to go? Well, I don't trust them and they're all clothing. I said, well, honey, what do you want us to do? We have to do something here. So, can I ask if you've seen him going downhill? Why were you like kids with him? I know you said he won't them, but I don't know if he would directly. Obviously, I've not never met No, he never me he never kids. Um, it's just I work two jobs and I go to school. I'm not my student. I I don't have time. Do you have anybody else that is able to I have nothing. Police ensured the father received appropriate health checks and [music] support to maintain safety. >> How we doing, William? Are we calm now? You're not being arrested, William. You're not going to jail. Okay? You're going to the hospital. That's it. You're mad at me and all I'm doing is taking care of you cuz I care for you and I believe you really need help. That's it. Okay? There's nothing I can do. I'm just trying to help you. Okay? And I want you to understand that. >> But you know the people >> I I do not know the people that you're talking about. >> I see it in >> buddy. I'm buddy. I'm 53 years old. I'm full of the Holy Spirit. I see I I see your Holy Spirit. >> You see what? >> I see I I see you know some stuff you're holding. >> I'm not. >> No, I see it in your eyes. I have a gift of this. >> That's fine. Maybe you're seeing something I don't. >> I'm seeing whatever you're holding anyway. >> That's fine, man. >> You're holding some stuff back. You know some people. >> I don't. >> If you want to do me a favor. >> Yeah. I even found your car keys for your wife. I gave it to her. >> I'm not trying to belittle you. I'm just letting you know. My testimony is true. >> I'm not saying you're lying. >> I could run the until 21st. >> Okay. So, whenever you go there, prove them that and then you'll be out out of there in no time. >> You want to make this about my mental health and and not go to investigating the people who areing you, then you'reing your position as a >> I'm not, man. I'm just doing my job the best I can. >> The best you can is not is not trying to put me in a dusty file as the guy with mental health issues when I'm at >> No, I'm not trying to do that. I'm just trying to help. That's fine with him. I'm not going to get into an argument with you. Okay, man. >> I'm not being put in the know about anything that's going on. No, I'm telling you what's going on, man. >> With with my children. Where am I? >> Your wife and your childrens are going to be going home. Why? Why would they be in trouble? >> How are they going to go home? >> She told me she's going to figure out. Your wife did. >> How come I can't communicate with her? How come I was put in the backseat of her car? >> Cuz you're going to be transported to a mental health facility. >> As if I'm the problem. >> I'm not saying you're the problem. I'm trying to get you help. That's it. The mother was informed about the Baker Act, a Florida law that allows individuals experiencing mental health difficulties to receive temporary care if they are unable to safely manage daily life. >> Do you have anybody that can help you while he is so like I would have to call off work and cuz obviously I have concerns with dad keeping the kids supervised at this point in place. >> This was last week. It was another officer that talked to us. This was a similar situation. They said that they had resources for someone in my circumstance to get to and from work and daycare and most of >> Oh, this would be the resources. >> Yeah. Um I don't I don't drive and Okay. Is that something that you would be open to considering is going to public school because you're working two jobs, you're going to school yourself, dad's kind of in and out. I mean, that that's a that's a major resource to help you. He's kind of leaning on him for homeschool, but it's kind of been less less just because of his mental state. Now, consider do you have any insurance right now or Medicaid? Um, do the kids have Medicare? >> Yeah. >> Do you guys have food stamping? Okay. When you were in with the hope program, what is you? They just asked about overall wellbeing. How's he? Um, and at the time, he was better. So, I had hope that he would be better. Come up with something. Are they going to go to school? School's almost out. It ends on the 24th. What is your plan for summer? Dude, you're asking me what my I'm okay by day first time. Okay. Well, unfortunately, kids, you can't really be day. I know. Yeah. But that's why I live. So now what husband like, you know, you got to help me because the only other option right now is you don't have to help quit your job. You're not going to have to source in my jail for you help me, a friend, a neighbor, somebody that can help. I mean, maybe my neighbor. What is your What's your address? >> Is this a a piece of property that you own that you paid for and bought? Because like like is it property? Are you just like out in the woods living or do you own it? >> Property that that we bought. We're making payments. >> Are you buying it from somebody then like your neighbor or something? >> No, from David Pasarella. So, he he has several lot and he just offered to sell us a lot. >> How much do you pay him a month for that? >> Just 200. I mean, we've been making payments now for a couple years. name was someone at my job. Um, do they live close to you? Who gives you Jennifer Jennifer? She might she might got to come up with some arrangement before we can leave before we can do anything. I've got to make verification and do all that. I can just let the kids go back to because they're just going to be okay. Right. Right. I get that. But after he's the bank is over with, what are we doing? Are they going to help him? >> The Baker Act is only an initial help. Like the follow-up help has to come from the support system. He has to either want help or you have to make him get it. And what we're trying to say is if you can't make him get it, then he can't be in the kid's life. That's the bottom line because that he is not safe and fit to be a parent. So if you allow him to come back and you don't get him help and you can't force help on him, then you're definitely going to lose your kid. That's now showing that you you aren't protecting your children. >> Do not cover your drink, boy. How is he acting? >> Um, crazy. But not like violent. Just ranting about people out to get him. Government's got a chip in his head. >> We don't want to take the car. >> No, I'll just put the window down for you. >> You going to catch it? >> Yeah. >> Almost. >> Wow. That was a good one. >> So, the call last week was for the same matter. He was >> the same guy. that he went off the street. He was >> I'm noticing your address, right? >> Yeah. He was ranting and walking up the street. A neighbor overheard him. My boy was following behind him and my boy was saying, "I want to go back to mom. Meanwhile, I'm I'm behind I'm down the street. I see I see them walking up the street. He wants to come back down to me." You know, and so he started yelling, "Help." You know, I'm down the street. So, I'm just waiting now. I said, "Come on." A neighbor overheard this and said, "Is that a kid call for help?" And so then they called the police and then it it became a whole big thing. >> After evaluation, authorities proceeded with legal actions and arranged temporary care placement for the children to ensure safety. >> Give me your keys. I'm going to have Cheryl drive your car back down to work. Okay. And then we'll figure out everything else after my home. Drop us in the house. >> The thing is Cheryl's got to get back to work. I'm going to stay here with you. >> They're not going to get my car already. >> No, Cheryl. You'll be fine. The managers will know. They won't call cops for nothing on it. That way, she could take care of that. >> I have to get something out of the car. >> That's fine. >> So, what's what's happening, okay, is I get you're in a a really difficult situation. >> One of my contact people actually just arrived. >> Um, she brought somebody with her to take the car over to the crack parking lot so that it's at least I know where it's at. >> And who was that? >> Donna. Donna. >> Donna. She'll be back to get me to get the car. So, if you want to talk to her or whatever, she'll be here. >> That's what we're going to explain. So, what's going to happen right now if you're actually going to be arrested, right? >> Yep. And I'm going to explain to you what's going on. Okay. But first, you're going to go with this officer and then we'll give you more information. >> Are you authorizing them to if they pass the background to give your kids to this person? >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Otherwise, >> I don't have another option. >> I mean, the other option is they would provide the home, a foster care family. >> Would they be able to keep your children long term? >> I don't know. I have >> Where is she at? So, she can talk to her. I was going to say anything. >> He's coming back to you. >> Emotions ran high and the mother expressed feeling overwhelmed. She had been offered multiple support services but had not fully utilized them. >> Here's what's going on. You're the one in this relationship that's that's uh competent. He is not competent. He cannot care for these kids. He cannot be in charge of these kids. Um he can only be in their life if he can not cause mental or physical or emotional to them. if he's um doing those things, he cannot be the caregiver for sure right now. If he was on medication and mentally stable and and getting the help he needed, that'd be totally different. But you're leaving him in this care knowing that knowing this has been an ongoing problem that he's getting progressively worse that we've got people calling because your kids are in distress being with them. >> I don't have any resources to to help. >> But you've got to be independent. We can get you can be in a shelter. They could begin school where at least they're getting food throughout the day and they're getting and they have to have baths daily. >> Don't hurt me. >> They have to have baths daily. DCF has been to your house already twice. You haven't you haven't done anything to try to improve. >> They haven't told me that >> you haven't done anything to try to improve that situation. Instead, you continued to leave him with them. >> You got to physically provide me you, not him. >> I know, but not hurt me though. >> Yeah, but that has already happened up until now. You've had a chance. I was given no resources. I was given no outrage. >> You don't know how to be a parent. That's what I I mean >> I was given no resources. You were given Florida. >> And I told them everything. I told them my situation. >> I told them my situation and they gave me no resources. >> They did discuss to you about school and you disclosed that you didn't want them in there because of schoolings and co the resources were given to you. You chose not to take them. >> You you basically made them. So at this point, how would you expect them? How do you expect to to be an adult in 8 years and be able to survive on her own? >> We've been working on it. >> Well, set me up with a program. Set me up with something. You can't take my kids away from me. >> You've already had these chances to get them to help you. >> So, help me. So, help me. >> You didn't You didn't reach out and get your own help. You've got to >> I have working two jobs and I'm going to school. I'm doing the best I can. >> I have to be able to pay the bills. >> You have to provide first. You have to provide for your kids first. And that may mean staying in a shelter if you can't get the help that you need somewhere else. But I need help. I need resources. >> You can't stay in the woods in a bus and get help. People can't drive you to and from work there. They can't do that to help you. You've got to make steps to your for yourself to get the help that you need. You can't expect everybody to do for you. >> And you think a jail cell a jail cell is going to help me. >> No. What it is? >> A jail cell is going to help me being away from my kids. >> They have to be fed on a regular basis. You have to provide them those meals. But you have to sit and provide them a structured meal that is nutritious for them to keep them alive and healthy. You have to provide schooling. In the state of Florida, it's required that you provide it and that they're tested and so that they actually have a chance in the future. You can't just go off of a book or some online thing program. You have to do a structured program approved by the state of Florida. >> But I need help >> or they have to go to school. >> I wasn't told that whenever I was talking to the whole program. >> Okay. They they don't require them. >> They can't go to bed dirty like they are. That's full of germs and it's not helpful. That's not taking care of their health. >> That's where I fall short then. But you've got to you've got to provide. >> They have a whole house full of food and they're very love. >> They are acting very scared. >> Yeah. I'm sure they are scared. I'm sure they are scared without their mom right now. I'm sure they are. >> They were scared when your husband was acting the way that he was acting. >> I'm sure I'm sure they were scared. >> They're acting completely fine now. They actually tried to take food off the shelves and just leave the store because they said they were so hungry. We fed them twice already. >> He didn't feed them and he didn't. >> Exactly. He can't provide care. But you should know that. >> You should have known that. >> It was It was dramatic the way that just this past like couple weeks. He just got worried. He wasn't like this before. He was confident. When he's not in an episode, he's fine. He's He's confident. Whenever he's not in an episode, >> he's not though. So, this is going to be the lesson to you. And this is going to be what you're going to have to choose and you're going to have to decide. having him continue to do this and you continue to leave him or you be with him or your kids like you got to make a choice. >> I did speak to Miss Donna just now and she is in agreeance to keep the kids. Okay. So, they will be staying with her as long as you're okay with that and you're verbally telling me that you are okay with the children staying with her. >> Yeah, that's fine. >> Okay. As long as she clears the background screen and everything's good with her house, then I just want to let you know that's where they are going to be staying. And she does live in Aqua. Are you aware of where she lived? Yeah. I I never actually been to her house, but I seen on her Facebook. >> Okay. And you're okay with the kids staying there, correct? >> Yeah. >> Okay. After everything gets done, I will have to come to the jail to see you to get you to sign the actual safety plan for them to stay at that house, saying that you're in agreeance to that. Okay. >> As a result, a temporary arrangement was made for the children to stay with relatives who could provide more stable care. >> And then, um, you're going to stay the night with one of those friends, but she's going to take you somewhere until that she can get there. Okay. Do you know who Miss Donna is? She works with mom. Okay. So, we're going to take you to see about getting some new clothes, too. Sound like a good idea? I know it's a little nerve-wracking, right? Yeah. But it's okay. It's Everything's going to be all right. >> The mother was charged with child [music] and under Florida law could face up to 5 years in prison or probation along with a $5,000 fine. Children's well-being and safety must always be the top priority. Community support and professional intervention are necessary to [music] prevent any risk to them. Parents should seek assistance, especially when facing mental health challenges. Also in Florida, a vacant house drew neighbors attention, revealing serious concerns about children's safety. >> I saw two kids. I was three and I said I saw another one like 2 years old laying in the ground, did not move. So I came back and then I saw him walking his dog. So I called 911. He went and grabbed him. He grabbed the little girl. >> Nobody knows where they live. >> I live on this street. I've never seen any of >> that. Black Hulk over there. >> That black van >> right here next to the yellow one. Hey sweetie, can we come over here out of the road? Hey, come on. >> On May 18th, 2025, police were dispatched to a house after an urgent call from a neighbor reporting three children left unattended outside with one even lying on the street. Officers quickly arrived, but all attempts to make contact were unsuccessful. Now, I was going to look up some prior or something. See if we can maybe figure something out. The uh sideyard's open. Unless the door is open, but all right, I'm going to keep beating on the door in case somebody's like sleeping. That's what I'm assuming is happening. The mother eventually appeared and tried to explain her actions. However, whether intentional or not, this situation put her children at considerable risk. >> Hi. Do you have three kids? >> Are you home alone? Is there anybody home with them? >> Okay, cuz they're all the way down the road. Jesus. >> Nobody's home with the kids. >> Nope. >> I was trying to arrest the public to get some food together. >> Read. >> Yeah. I'm going to read you something real quick. [snorts] >> Before you ask any questions, you must understand your rights. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can't be used against you in court. Do you understand your rights? >> Okay. >> How old are the children? >> It's four and a half. >> Okay. >> Okay. And then the other one? So, how old's the oldest one? >> Four. >> There's four. >> Four. >> Why would you leave them home alone? >> I don't do that. I always take them with me. But >> you don't always do that cuz you left them home alone today. >> And to let you know, one of them was just laying in the middle of the road. The other one was just wandering about aimlessly. And there's another one about three blocks down. >> Oh, >> can we get her info so I can >> call Delta Charlie Fox? >> Do you have your ID on you? All right, let me see it. >> I'll request an immediate response. >> Yeah, >> I'll be okay. >> Oh, they're fine. No thanks to you. >> Your oldest child. Where did you go just now? >> I picked grocery from Publix and then I went to Aldi to get him some fruits. >> What time did you leave this morning? >> 11:39. So >> 11:30ish. Who else lives here? Who all lives here? my husband. But he's traveled. >> He's what? >> He's traveled. So currently I'm the only one with the >> He's traveling. >> He's traveled. Not around. He's travel. >> Oh, he's not around. >> Yes. >> Okay. So it's just you. Do you have any family in the area? >> No. >> So you have nobody? >> No. >> No. Aunts, uncles, cousins, brothers, sisters? >> No. >> Okay. Why did you leave them home alone? >> Sorry to tell you. Honestly, today I don't know. >> You don't even have car seats in the car. >> No, I I I This is the car I use, but this is my car. I use the white one to go for the grocery. But this is what we use. I can get you the car, too. >> Okay. So, you have nobody that could come get the kids? >> No. >> Nobody. So about an hour you left him home alone with no care, no supervision, no nothing. >> All right, I'm going to call DCF. She can >> Yeah. >> The mother faced legal responsibility while the children were temporarily placed with DCF to ensure they were cared for. >> Put your hands behind your back. You're under arrest. We're going to call DCF and DCF's going to have to come get your children. that they want to eat and all. >> Yeah. DCF's going to take care of that because you didn't. Okay. DCF's going to make sure that they're taken care of because you chose not to this morning. >> You know that I wouldn't choose to say as the latest. >> Well, you you left them home alone. You got the one-year-old girl laying in the middle of the road. They're just wandering up and down. It's It's a miracle they didn't get hit by car. >> Your middle son had no pants on. >> Oh, we done. >> We have an adult female under arrest. I'm going to go call DCF. I got all the kids info. I'm going to request an immediate response. She has no family in the area. Her husband's traveling. So you ask around for a female for a female search, please drive. >> I'll do that cuz you got the kiddos. She can sit for a minute. >> Huh? >> Yeah. >> I saw you pick some shoes. It doesn't fit her. Can I tell you where her shoes are? >> No. You had your chance to be a mother and you failed miserably. So, >> the mother was charged with child. Under Florida law, she could face up to 5 years in prison or probation along with a $5,000 fine. In similar situations, parents need to plan ahead and seek support before leaving their children alone. This helps them avoid legal trouble while keeping their children safe and well [music] cared for. >> My mom calls me a liar and stuff and I'm like, I'm just telling them what the truth, what I saw. In this case, the children were the ones who contacted authorities, which highlighted their level of distress. On August [music] 16th, 2023, police were called after a dispute between a mother and father while the father was holding their child. They quickly arrived [music] and gathered information from the father, gradually clarifying the situation. The conflict followed a series of ongoing family [music] tensions involving disagreements and stress. >> Okay, what happened? H it's a constant fight about beer and spirits every night and I'm getting tired of it and uh I with my dog to the dog park park up there. >> So you're at the dog park. >> Yes. So I came home. So you see what happened? >> That's correct. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. So pretty much it's a kid kid drama that I don't want to deal with and she wants to hold on to and she flipped that on me when I came home. I just got off the phone my mom. I was up there with my dog Nala. I got off the phone with my mom and she called her >> and she was here. >> Yeah. And my mom said that she was fine. She was calm. She was acting good. I came home because we just got into an altercation. So I drove up there. >> All verbal? >> Yes. All verbal. So I drove up there and this just happened literally 25 minutes ago. I come home and she's videotaping me in the car. So I take my other dog and I go down. Like I said, I go down to this dog park cuz I took my little dog. You see her come back. I take my little my bigger dog up there and she's just like, "Oh, you want to do this and you want to do that?" And I'm like, "I'm not doing nothing, Jessica. I'm not doing nothing at all." I don't know. I really don't. It's just It's a pity fight, but I got She acts like I do all this bad stuff and I'm I'm tired of it. I'm done with it. >> So, you said the 2-year-old was in your arms when she hit you. >> That's going to be bad. >> Tell me what happened. >> I'm going to be honest. Yeah. >> Yeah. >> He's been right here the whole time. >> How did me about four times? Open fist, closed fist. >> If this was open, then I would not like to see her. [laughter] >> I guess what I'm saying is that it's more to the sense where she flips out every night over alcohol and she's going to use the excuse because her mom passed away 3 years ago and that she's going through some stuff. I don't know. But yes, ma'am. She me she me in my eye and I had Trist in my arms. >> You allowed to press charges. >> I don't want to. I just want this to stop. I want her to be scared. >> Whose kids are they? >> Mine. They are yours. >> Yes, I am married to her and I had this one with her. Okay. >> Him, the 10-year-old, I'm not too for sure, but him, whenever I got out of prison, we got pregnant and he's born here, blue eyes, so I can't say nothing. So, I can't say and but the other one, you know, I do believe he's mine. >> Either way, though, she's mom of both. Correct. >> He's mine. >> So, we're married. It's She has my last name. Both kids are legally both ours. >> Are you guys getting a divorce, stay together, or what's happening? On the 22nd, she knows it, but she don't really know it. 22nd, I have a a appointment for divorce. She don't know that because of what's been going on. And so, I just had to do it behind her back because if I tell her, she doesn't know. She does this. >> Yeah. So, I got to stay quiet. >> Have we been out here recently taking any reports on you guys? >> Oh, no. Y'all got a call whenever somebody up there or whatever said that we had a domestic here and y'all just took here and there but other than that you know two three times just from anonymous call >> you know where she would go. >> Her dad le it that's all she has but other than you even die guys I don't know cuz like I said prison life so I don't know what she's been doing while I was up here cuz I'm from Arkansas. >> The father shared the challenges he had faced past legal matters and his efforts to maintain a stable environment for his children. Has she hit you with? >> Yeah, she has. She has. She hit me in the back two weeks ago with a metal pole and I broke my back in 2011. My legs were numb for a little bit. I feel like I can't, you know, >> you're not in trouble. >> I want her to be I want her to be. >> She also can't you especially in front of your kids. That's not okay. >> But still get it. >> I mean, she's like if you was my wife because I wouldn't want nothing to do wrong with you, >> right? And I get that. I do. Kids being involved. I mean, >> no, I understand it. I told her I didn't want to do this. I told her I was going to and I got textures to prove it. Last night I told her I'd call cops and I did. Somebody called back and said, "We got emergency call." I said, "No." I said, "You know what? My phone does that all the time." But it don't. It's actually me calling and then me hanging up cuz I'm so scared of what's happened. I've been in prison. >> Text us, right? >> Yeah. You can text my old one. So if you're too scared to call us, text us. Hey, I need help. This is what's going on. Okay. They can send you it's a it's called a prepared live and it literally can show what's going on in the birds via a text message that dispatches us out here. >> Okay, >> that's absolutely an option. Have you thought about an exparte? >> Like I said, I've been in prison so it's like >> good for you. This is like my son, he's 10. I did 8 years in prison in Arkansas and I missed his whole life and I'm here for him is I don't want to get no more in trouble. I'm just I don't want to go back to jail. I I don't want to. >> But if she you that's not going to go to jail. >> I know. I understand it. But what I'm saying is that if I wouldn't have called, what could have happened? You know what I'm saying? Like exactly any type of persuasion or manipulation or lying could have happened because she's a female and people take her, you know, more or less their their position with my background with me being in prison and with me doing all this. But what I'm saying is I don't want to get in trouble. I want I just want this stuff to stop. And if it has to do what, like you said, my kids are involved. I'm done with it. I mean, you see what I try to do. >> Yeah. I mean, I try to do this stuff. I can't do it with her drink and smoke every day and not work. She hasn't worked in three years. >> Sounds like she did smoke and that's what I tried. I mean, I got a job interview tomorrow. I got to do a physical and a test and I'm gone. It's True Jail Corporation out of Springfield and she I feel like she's just trying to track me and she wants me to go to jail like all times. I'm tired of it. >> I don't blame you. That's not a fun place. It's not meant to be. >> When I went to the worst ones in Arkansas, Cumins Veru, I was 18 years old. Oh, Bubba. >> No. >> I get your D change. >> Did your son see what happened on night? >> No, he didn't see it. But she opened the door and was like, she told him. She was like, "Does anything do I do everything every night?" And I told her, I told Eli, I said, "You tell her the truth." He said, "No, mom, you don't." She's like, "Are you serious? You're going to lie to me and you're going to lie for your dad?" And he's like, "No, I'm not lying. I'm just telling you what I see. Then you're more than welcome to talk to her." >> I probably will. Did she say anything directly threatening to your kids along the lines of I'm gonna hurt somebody here? >> I'm not. We It's a little bit. She does it every night. She threatened me every night. Pow. Ow. I hate to face I do that. But that's beyond the story. It's an ongoing process. But she's not going to hit me six times in front of my kid and then call me a bad person. I can't do that. Whenever I work for 3 years and I've been doing everything, she hasn't worked. She hasn't paid a bill. She hasn't done nothing. And I'm the bad. You want to talk to my son? >> Yeah. >> One of the children spoke up providing important information that helped police understand what was happening. >> Can you tell me what you saw tonight or what you heard? You're not in trouble. >> I'm not at all. >> So, all that happened was I heard yelling. I opened my door. My mom's yelling at my dad and my dad asked me, "Does your mom ever clean up the dogs and stuff?" And I'm like, "Well, only like two times." My mom calls me a liar and stuff. And I'm like, "I'm just telling you what the truth, what I saw." And then um so I'm punching my TV and then my my dad comes in and he has like a big on his eyes and I don't know what happened. >> Do your parents fight a lot? >> Yeah, most of the time. >> Does that scare you? >> Mhm. >> Do you feel safe with your dad? >> Mhm. >> Do you feel safe with your mom? >> Uh kind of. >> What does that mean? >> Like sometimes she's chill, but whenever she doesn't want her, she like gets super mad. >> Your mom your dad often. The only times I've seen her was one time she was a beer can and then she took a pole on the back and he had back problems now and then she died. >> Have you ever seen your dad your mom? >> No. >> I'm sorry you're having to deal with this. I appreciate you telling me the truth. Okay. You can go back inside if you want or stay there. >> She did this to you. [laughter] >> Yeah. >> What'd you hit me with? >> What a fool. >> Really? >> Yeah. >> A couple times. You know >> I I might have You know what I'm saying? I might have shut cuz he was in my arm. So I might have did this and it might have hit me a little bit better. But I got 10year-old inside. I don't want to cause no problem. I'm on parole. So it's more or less like a a borderline for me cuz I'm not I'm not with the drama. I did 8 years in prison. I don't want to go back, brother. You know what I'm saying? I'm trying to do good. I'm trying to do what I'm supposed to. And if anything happens, I got to report it. Just I showed her a text message. My mom sickly said, "If you're fighting with Jessica, call the cops." So I didn't. >> Okay. Does she live here with you then? >> She lives here. Right here. really period, brother. >> Oh, over here. >> Yeah, that's fine. That's fine. That was okay. >> If she breaks in, you know, she breaks in the door or something like that, then doesn't really >> It can't do nothing. >> It ain't going to hurt nothing. Yeah. As far as like she goes, she'll she'll still go out the original charge. She can't get in trouble for damaging know her own property or I guess the other party leasing this. >> I'm I'm not >> cuz she has no she has had a job in 3 years. >> If you lock the lock the door and stuff, she might just try to beat on the door and try to get you to open. Just give us a call. Well, she might be cooled down. I don't know what she's doing, but I'm just I I had to call. You know what I'm saying? Absolutely. >> I had to. >> Absolutely. >> Do you still have those videos? >> This one right here. >> You said the >> I'm done. You started stuff and stuff. I don't know what to do. >> What the are you talking about? I just ran >> and I come in here and you're taking everywhere. Nathan >> came in here and said they turn. >> So I was like, "Yeah." So I was like, "Yeah, >> I'm sorry. I don't mean to do all this drama. I don't I don't like drama. >> You got to fall back, too. Okay, they're involved. It's not okay. >> Yes, ma'am. >> You're not in trouble. >> I don't really care if I would. I just You know what I mean? It's just to the point where it's just like, gosh. >> The mother also gave her account, though it differed from the father's version. >> What's going on tonight? >> I really don't. And you know, at this point, I'm just like, you know what? Just take me because it's whatever. >> How did it start? >> These stupid puppies. His mom put up these. our dog which is big dog and her six puppies. I've been trying to work it out. I've been trying to help as much as possible and then all hell broke broke loose crazy since then. You should see our wall back there in our bedroom. He punched two holes in the wall but today right after that and then he broke like several plates and I decided to take the car even though it doesn't work very good. I took the car and drove it down there to our neighbor cuz I didn't want to deal with it. And then he just started acting crazy and I was like I gotta go wait 30 minutes later I'll come back and now he's just likeing all kinds of stuff. >> He said and your family he was like I'm going to your throat. I was like do I need to even be here tonight? I'm trying to like deescalate the problem. He was like no I don't care. And he's just beening and me constantly. He was like well when the cops come they're going to come get you. And I was like, "Fine, I give up. I just I'm done." >> He didn't touch you in any way though. No hitting, nothing like that. >> No. I mean, he kind of went like a couple times. Like he wanted to hit me. I mean, he kind of like I don't want to do it to you. But he was just like constantly like that in my face and I was like, "Quit, just leave me alone." And then he took our one-year-old and put him in the little room when he's back there in our room with me. And I was like, "Can I please like bring him back here because he won't take a bottle or anything from anybody but me?" Said the little one. >> Yes. Okay. Or the little one, the one-year-old. >> And I was like, "Just I'm just going to put him back here." And he was like, "Yeah." And blah blah. And he kept and I was like, "I'm going to call the cops if this is going to keep escalating. I'm not doing it." me is just like and now I'm I'm just kind of scared. I don't know what to I called my sister. I called everybody. I don't know what to do. And because our car isn't running, >> this one right here. >> Yeah. My car running earlier. >> Just down there. >> What do you mean it's not running? >> The radiator. It's broken. We have to keep filling up with water. And I didn't drive anywhere. I just went down there, parked my car to get deescalate the situation. And then when I came back, I was on my phone with my sister and I was like, I don't know what to do. I'm scared. I'm so scared to go and eat. And she was like, you got to just go in there and go to sleep. I was like, okay. I took Tristan's play and everything. And that's when pain started again. And he kept to me and I was like, I don't know what to do. I want you to hang out with my partner. Okay. I'm going to go talk to um Jason. Okay. >> Information from the father highlighted a family under significant stress where support in [music] stress management, counseling, and legal guidance was critically needed. So what happened when she died? >> Uh nothing. She picked up about to throw it at me. And that's when I emailed you and said she's back starting her stuff. I'm going to bed. That's when I said she called me call the cops. Then I couldn't take a hit from the girl. I was like no call the cops because this is ongoing process. But like I told you earlier, I just wanted to stop. I had my two kids. I was here. You seen me. They're in bed and we was laying down. So that's what that's what I did. >> Did you say anything? >> No. Like I mean from the text messages where it said you and your family. >> Well, no. If that's what I sent her because she started to fight and she called me a crackhead. Call my family. Watch you and your family. And then she was like, "Oh, you got the audacity to say this about my family, but my mom could back up everything that she says." I got, I said, Facebook messages, regular messages, uh, from her threatening herself. Threatened herself. Yes. One night she said that she was going to take a bunch of and she wasn't going to worry about it. I saved it because I wanted to turn her in, but I wanted to make sure that I was financially stable to take care of my kids before I did that. But when this happens, I can't do nothing now. >> Does she make those statements on a regular basis? not on a regular basis. I don't even care. So nine times out of 10 fights that we're having, I'm late on electricity. I'm behind on a bunch of bills. Worries about career. And I try to tell her, "Babe, we got two kids. We got responsibilities. We can't be doing this." And I even got the text message. She said, "It's the only thing that helps me relieve my stress anxiety." And I fully agree with that. She says that I'm a narcissistic piece of and that she says that I throw her in the basement and do this and do that. And I'm like, I have no money. Like, my accounts are negative. You know, my bank accounts, everything that I got is negative. And my mom has to send me money to cash out just to do what I have to do. And be my boss today and get 150 bucks. Still have 100 in my wallet plus a little bit for the other 50. >> Did you throw stocking? Just fact checking, man. That's all I know. Oh, I swear I'll call my mom anymore cuz I have all these all the and the bigger and my cuz my dad was a ser. He was in the army. You see, you know, welcome home four years. >> Yeah, >> I got pretty normal. >> I mean, I've been to prison. You know what I'm saying? It's not I got this stuff from my dad passed away. My grandpa passed away last year. So, I obtain this stuff. For her to sit here and say, that's crazy. >> Listen, I'm just kidding. >> No, what I'm saying though, I would have done it then, huh? I'm I'm going to violate. She wants to sit here and she told me if I go to jail tonight, it's on you. I told her I don't care. I was like, I don't give a >> It is what it is. I want to tell the truth no matter what. Yeah, we do argue. She says things I keep till to this. And the only thing I know how to do is this because I know if I do this or if I do this, >> this is where I'm going. Yep. >> It happened before. I spent [clears throat] 14 months over domestic. My face was like this and I pushed her off up in Arkansas. This is 2012. And her elbow hit the wall like this and swelled up. They gave me a domestic three intent to cause. It was a misdemeanor. I did 14 months in the penitentiary for that. I don't care. I passed, but I'm not going to be blamed for what she's accusing me of. I'm not I'm not going to do it. I work every day. I do my part. I do what I'm supposed to. So, I mean, if if you don't blame me, that's okay. I could I'm a criminal. I understand. But what I'm trying to say is that I'm not a bad person, man. I don't I don't do that thing. I might have stood in my life in the past. I've been busting my ass ever since. So, I mean, if you want to look at my POS and do all that stuff, check my test. Never once f once f anything. You know what I'm saying? I haven't stayed up with my fines. I haven't done nothing. And if you do look up my record, yeah, you're my god. >> You know what? You would know if I was doing. But no, man. >> I'm just fact checking. got to make sure investigating both sides, right? >> You do what you're supposed to do. You got a job. I got a job. So, I'm just I'm here for you. I called y'all. I don't want no problems. So, even if the truth, I'm still going to tell it. >> Okay. >> But no, ma'am, I never >> In the end, the mother faced [music] legal responsibility. >> All right. So, let's take a hand. >> Yes. Turn around. Put your hands behind your back. >> Turn around. >> Yep. Turn around. Put your hands behind your back. >> Please. I didn't do anything. >> We'll talk here in just a second. Okay. Please. >> You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. Do you understand? What happened to his face? >> What happened to his eye? It's >> He did that to himself when he banged his head in the wall. >> He said he the wall. He never said he banged his head in the wall. >> Yes, he did. In the in the door right there. Mhm. >> If you go to the back door where he's at >> the back door. >> Yes. You see that back door or that door in the back? He did that to himself >> earlier. You said you hit him. Where did you hit him? I like literally slapped him. Where just happened? >> On the ear. >> Which one? >> His right. >> Was he holding Tristan while that was happening? >> No. >> No. >> Where was Tristan? >> Tristan was in his play pin >> the whole time. >> Did Eli see anything? >> No. >> We are under arrest of third. >> No. >> We are going to go to jail. You need anything to take with you? >> Okay. Take a seat for me. >> Yep. >> The mother was charged according to state law which allows for penalties that may include imprisonment or probation. Children who witness serious family [music] conflicts or feel caught between parents can experience emotional and behavioral challenges. This underscores the importance of handling all family disagreements [music] with care, responsibility, and a focus on safety. Today's stories [music] are not just about laws or penalties, but also about the children in real life. When life becomes overwhelming, seeking support early can help prevent situations that may negatively affect children. At the same [music] time, we see the essential role of the community, police, and official agencies in supporting and protecting children. Timely, legal, and compassionate assistance is always more effective [music] than risky or improper actions. Thank you for watching. Don't forget to like and subscribe so you won't miss our next in-depth [music] analysis. [music] >> [music]