All right, you explain it to her. She thinks we're going to take them and put them in like a foster home. That's not the goal here. >> Aggravated battery. >> So, when I open the door, I'm looking and it looked like it >> why you put the baby in front of your door? >> So, we looked around. Again, there's no food, no water. >> Some situations sound almost unreal when told by someone else. But for the people living through them, everything can begin to feel [music] unexpectedly normal. >> I'm not some type of animal. Can I please stop? >> What is the thing with the baby in the >> Put up a hot pot off the stove and start as needed. >> Today's video shares a series of true stories where the boundary between struggle and responsibility becomes unclear, leading to outcomes no one saw coming. >> We're here for a couple hours while I went to go get a a truck and some boxes to come and move the rest of the stuff that we had here. I didn't see nothing wrong with that. Fed my kids and everything. Yeah, they didn't have a phone to call, but what what what would I expect for them to get into within the couple hours of me being gone? >> Her children had been living without some basic necessities. Yet, she still felt that nothing was seriously wrong. On December 20th, [music] 2024, officers came to an apartment in West Palm Beach regarding a move-out situation, which began as a routine civil matter. The situation shifted when they found three children inside on their own in conditions that appeared to fall short of basic daily needs. Concern grew when they were unable to reach [music] the mother for several hours. She later returned and said she had only stepped away briefly to clear her head. >> I don't know. Apparently, their mom has a car, but it's broken down in Jacksonville. >> Okay. >> So, we don't even know if >> Do you know her? >> Uh thanks. >> Yeah. >> Oh, okay. We're trying to reach you about uh your kids. I guess they uh They had some sort of issue in the apartment and they came here. They're trying to look for you. We're trying to find >> Oh, okay. >> Yeah. They're they're They're here. We're with >> Is everything okay? >> They have a 10-06 193. Um >> Yes. What's happening out here? >> My son's old enough. >> No, it's not. >> I have another problem. >> Oh, okay. >> Um, so when was the last time you were here? >> I was >> When were you together? What's the first thing you guys did? >> Oh, the last time I was here, I was here like a couple hours ago. I just >> Oh. >> We went to go work out. >> Is this just based on the circumstances here or what's up? Yeah, I just have to read you your rights so that you're aware. >> I'm being arrested? >> I I just have to read you your rights. >> Yeah, he put the questions we're asking, he has to read that before he >> Oh, okay. But am I in trouble now? >> We're We're trying to figure things out. We just came here figuring it out. Again, we've been here for a little bit wondering where he was at. We were trying to get in contact with you. So, again, just Okay. So, before you know, I'm required to warn you before you make any statement you have the following constitutional rights, okay? You have the right to remain silent and not answer any of my questions, all right? >> Okay. >> I can make no promise or to induce you to make a statement, and this must be out of your own free will. >> Okay. >> So, you Did you kind of see why I kind of have to read you that before? >> Okay, yeah. I understand. >> So, you understand. Okay. So, when was the last time you were here? >> I was here like a couple hours ago. I can't give you a time exactly, but I usually like exercise, walk around. >> Was that morning, before the sunrise, late night? >> No, I was here like I left like around I want to say 10:00. >> 10:00? >> Mhm. >> Okay. Um, is there any reason why the kids aren't in school today? >> Uh, the kids are not at school today because my car is having problems, and today this week was the last week before winter break, and so I decided to keep them here, but I don't even really live here. This is my cousin's house, but she's in Georgia. >> What's her name? >> Julie. >> So, Julie's in Georgia, and she rents this place out? >> Yes. >> Okay. And she gives you permission to accept it. >> Oh, yeah. She actually told me that we were actually supposed to be like trying to help her move out of these furniture. We were trying to stay here like 2 3 days out. >> 2 3 days you've been here? >> Mhm. >> Okay. Um so, prior to being here, where did where did you stay? >> Prior to being here, I stayed in Boynton Beach. >> With family? >> With family. >> Okay. Um so, the kids and you guys have all just been staying here the past 3 days. >> Oh, yeah. I mean, they just If you're If you guys were here because they didn't go to school, they just didn't go to school today because it's the last week and then I'm supposed to be trying to get them out of here. So. >> Okay. So, the last 3 days you guys have been eat- eating, sleeping, and all that stuff here. >> Uh yes, the past 3 days. >> Okay. So, when when we got in there, I noticed there was no food in there. >> Mhm. >> So. >> Because my cousin's supposed to be was trying to um leave this place. So, she had already like disconnected her power and everything like that. So, today we're supposed to be leaving after I came back from, you know, I was supposed to be grabbing the kids and leave. >> Okay. So, just so that you're aware, your cousin, right? Is the one that stays here. Okay. So, Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office responded here in reference to an eviction. >> Mhm. >> Because I guess >> She was Yeah, that's why she >> She was being evicted. >> Yeah. >> When they arrived here, they noticed that three three kids were here, right? So, then we tried to get in contact with you and we couldn't get in contact with you, but so we looked around. Again, there's no food, no water, and property management came here and said that this room hasn't had power for the last 2 3 weeks. >> No, that's I mean, when we got here, we didn't My whole goal of coming here was to help her get some of the stuff out to move out. I actually just ended up staying the night here a couple of nights, but that was about it though. Today was the day that we were supposed to be leaving though. >> So, for the last 3 days, there's been no power in this house. >> The last 3 days there wasn't no power here, but my kids go to school up here, so they were in school. They weren't like here the whole time. >> Okay, and I'm sorry, where where do you do you do you work or where do you work? >> I work from home. >> You work from home? Okay. What do you what do you do? >> I work in customer service. >> Okay. >> From her words and emotions, it was clear she was under significant housing-related stress. However, her account did not match [music] the information the children shared, causing initial sympathy to gradually turn into concern. >> All right. Well, this based off the investigation and what we've seen and what we've heard >> And then just a couple more things. So, we asked them like how do you communicate if you were got pulled over something were happening here? They had no means of like communicating. >> No, because like my 15-year-old son, he he has a phone, but his phone recently got broke like 2 days ago. So, it's at the phone store getting fixed, but he goes to school. My kids go to school in everything. So, like I said, we're just here for a couple of days. Like I was just trying to help my cousin get some last-minute stuff out, but I'm actually >> And I'm not going to lie to you. We were here since 11:00. We've been here since 11:00. We've been here since 11:00. >> Yeah, I left at 11:00. >> When was the last time they had a the special little ones? Like when was the last time they had a meal? >> Uh before I left, like they had Wendy's and stuff like that. I just went up the street to like walk around and stuff like that and clear my mind and then I was going to come back and we were going to leave to go to my sister's house actually. So, like >> And you drove here? >> No, I didn't. I walked I walked >> We asked them and they said it was a lot longer than what you said before you guys were staying here. >> I mean, they were young they're little kids. fine. No. No. >> You're saying he's wrong? >> You're saying 2-3 days. >> Yes, I'm saying 2-3 days. Yes. >> So, you think >> Yes. >> Them being kids, I understand what you're trying to say, but they know the difference between 2-3 days and 2-3 months, correct? >> No, they weren't here for 2-3 days. We haven't been here 2-3 months. My cousin was here, we visited here, we came here, we left, and stuff like that. So, she was supposed to be moving out, like I said. So, I came here to kind of like get some last minute things for her, and then I just went up the street with my kid like for a little bit to walk around and kind of figure things out. But, um my kids ate and stuff like that, they're actually supposed to be in school today, like you stated. They just didn't go to school today because of the situation of the moving and stuff like that. So, that's why they didn't go to school today. >> Okay. >> Yes. >> So, is there any reason why they would say that they've been here for 2-3 months then? >> I'm not sure why. They've been coming back and forth, and back and forth, and back and forth, but they >> They said about 2-3 months. >> been here back and forth, back and forth, but it hasn't >> The 2-3 weeks they've been here without furniture and stuff, no bed, no nothing. Sleeping on the floor. >> No, for the past couple of days we've been here. My cousin already moved out everything she had here. >> And when did she move out? >> She moved out like maybe 2 weeks ago, but I still have stuff here because I was like in between homes, but I still have stuff here. So, today was the day I was supposed to come and collect all my stuff and leave. Here. So, that's why my kids didn't go to school cuz we have a lot of things going on and I was trying to move. So, that's why. But, my kids have not gone without no food, without anything, just because they've been here a couple of days, but they've been going to school. After school, they don't come here right away. >> Okay. >> So, it's only been like 2-3 days. So. >> And your cousin in Georgia, if you call her, will she pick up? >> Um, I'm not sure if she's at work right now, but I can try calling her. I mean, this is her place. This is not my place. >> Cuz we tried calling her, too, and she hasn't answered. >> I'm not sure. She's probably at work, but like I said, this is her place. This is not my place. He's crashed here a couple nights, came back and forth and stuff like that, but that's about it. >> All right. All right. >> From a legal standpoint, unsuitable living conditions cannot simply be viewed as temporary hardship because they may affect the well-being of children who are not yet able to look after themselves. >> Again, based off of what we responded to and what our investigation conducted. >> I mean, can I call my sister and my family? >> We're going to give you a chance to call. >> I'm not from orphanages or anything. My kids have family. >> We're going to give you a chance. Okay. Bye. >> You don't have to hold my hand so tight, sir. I'm not going to run. I'm not handcuffed. >> That's fine. I'm sorry. I just I have to do my job. Okay. So, you can go this way. >> I want to know why I'm being arrested. Because my kids were here? >> No. >> I don't get it. >> Yeah, that's Hang on. Stage uh Make sure you don't have any weapons on you. >> no weapons. I don't have no weapons on me. I don't have no weapons. I don't have no weapons. Okay, you're asking me. I don't have no weapons. Y'all don't want everybody in my business, but can y'all please let me inside? I have no weapons. No weapons. >> No pockets? >> No pockets. No weapons. None. None. None. None. >> Can I please call my family now? >> I'm going to give you a chance, okay? >> Okay, I have nothing else. Nothing else. If you want me to take the jacket off, I will. >> You don't have to take the jacket off. >> There's nothing else in there. >> Okay. >> When can I call my family, please? >> Even after being asked to wait in a patrol vehicle, the mother still did not understand why she was being held and expressed frustration when questions arose about caregiving responsibilities. So, I >> When can I call my family, please? >> I told you I'd explain everything, so I'm going to explain everything to you, okay? So, we did We did a lot more research other than just coming here, finding them here, and then deciding we're going to place you under arrest, okay? >> What is the research? So, what did I do that was wrong? I didn't do anything wrong. >> I'm trying to get to that point, okay? >> Okay. >> So, we come here, we speak to the property management. They said that the power like there was no power here. They They turned it on now as a courtesy because they saw the kids in there and they brought them water and everything, okay? So, the deputy was here. He was evicting whoever the resident was prior. It It It wasn't you guys. It was whoever was staying here prior that we know that was your cousin. >> That was my cousin. Yes. >> Okay. And then my partner here, he interviewed the kids, and there's a lot of inconsistencies with what he said and what he said. >> they're They're kids, though. They're kids. So, they're kids. >> The first thing you told us when we came outside is your son is grown and he's old enough, right? >> To watch my kids. Yes, he's 15 years old. Yes, he is. >> So, I I think he knows the difference between 2 days and a couple months. >> We've >> depends. I don't know what you guys asked I know but I don't know what you guys asked my kids. My kids You guys didn't have no adult present when you guys questioned my kids so I'm not sure what you guys asked my kids. >> that's and that's the whole issue. We were trying to get an adult and there wasn't one present. That's why we're here. >> Okay, so okay, but I'm asking though so but then shouldn't you guys wait till adult becomes present to question to question minors though? I'm trying to see cuz I don't know the law. I'm not a lawyer. I'm just saying. >> in this case we have to talk to them. There's no adult present. We can't just stick We can't like For example, like I couldn't we couldn't we couldn't get there and >> And when can I call my family? >> We can't we can't just walk in there and stay mute next to them. That's not That wouldn't make sense. >> Right. >> like like for example, I find a kid out here, I'm going to try and talk to them. I'm going to try and make contact with them. >> did you ask my kids but like I told you before, we've been here back and forth for the past couple of months. We have been staying here. >> We are going to let you talk to family, okay? But we do have to wait for DCF to show up. We're not trying to take the kids away from you. They obviously they're all like obviously their their first resort is another family member, okay? So, don't think that they're like taking them to okay? >> Oh my god. >> I just want you to know that. We're not you know, we this whole thing could have been avoided if you had been >> to me. Thank you. >> Cuz we're now put in a situation where God forbid anything happens and we just left and they're like, "Okay, mom's Mom will be back." and we left, that falls on us. And God forbid something happened in there, they have no way of communicating to They have no communication to anybody in there. They had no way of contacting anybody. They had an iPad that was couldn't even find the charger. Nothing. >> Okay, I have my stuff so what's what's what's going to happen with my stuff? >> Well, we're going to figure it out. We're going to take care of it for you, okay? We'll figure that part out, okay? >> So, what am I being charged with and when can I call my sister? Because my kids have family. You guys are not going to call DCF and throw my kids in the back of a DCF car. Like they have no sit They have grandma. They have grandpa's and >> again, I just I just explained to you we're not trying to do that. If they have another option, if they >> Yes, they do. So, can I call them? >> what I'm saying. If they have that option, but they have to come here and they have to speak to you and you have to go through them to do that, okay? >> Have to go through who to do that? >> We can't call them prior to them showing up. All right? >> Call who? I'm sorry. I'm confused. >> DCF is coming now. We can't like We can't overstep them and before they come here. >> They're going to come and they're going to have a conversation with you. They're going to ask >> going to sit here in this car until DCF gets here? I can't speak to my kids? >> Relax. Just We're going to figure it out for you. Just give us a second, okay? >> Okay. Can I Can I please at least know what I'm being under arrest for? >> Child neglect. You know what >> Child neglect. Okay, and what else? What What What else did I do? >> Just child neglect. >> Because my kids were here? >> Okay. >> She appeared to believe that relatives were responsible for her current situation and that of her children. >> I explained to you that there's >> it You're putting it as if you left your kids in a house full with stuff, with food, with water. There's no food and they have running water, but there's no drinkable water. >> Yes, I understand that. >> So, you agree with me that there's no food and no water in the house. >> I mean, obviously, yes, because my cousin cut off all of her stuff when she left. So, yes, I'm not disagreeing with you, of course. And that's why I left. My kids go to school every day. So, my kids are not here every day. My kids go to school. They just didn't go to school today, which I should have found a way to send them to school. Then all of this, then I would never be in this mess. 5 days before Christmas, I'm going to jail for child Never my kids. Never. Never. Ever. So, one day I don't send them to school. One day that they don't go to school, all of this, I'm going to jail, child All of this for one day that they didn't go to school. I never did to my kids. Yeah, my kids been here for a couple of hours. Yes, because I was out. Yes, my kids been here a couple hours, but as soon as I came back, my goal was to come get them so we could leave cuz my cousin said we had to be out of here. >> She also seemed not to recognize that the central concern involved caregiving duty, rather than whether the child was attending school. Although the mother continued to express negative feelings, officers remained patient and allowed her to spend Christmas with her children. >> Naughty people not to put me through hell just to be with my kids again. >> Cuz again, I'm trying to get them with family. I want to keep them with family members. I'm not trying to like >> Yeah, because I mean it's 5 days before Christmas. I don't want my kids in some DCF home like they like they don't have family. >> that's that's what I'm trying to avoid. Do you know Do you know her phone number so I can just give her a heads up and have her just start this way? >> Yes, I do. >> So where were you guys staying prior to this? >> We were staying in Boynton Beach like I said, sir. >> But so again, the oldest one is the one we spoke to the most. >> I'm not sure what he told you guys out of fear, out of being scared. I mean, hell, you guys probably scared my kid So that's whatever he said, he's a kid. He probably was scared to police officers in his face. Like what do you And you guys probably approached him like a like a like he was a black suspect. Ain't no telling what how you guys came at my kids. So out of fear, he could have said anything. Out of fear, he could have said anything. So whatever he said is what he said. But like I said, I know my kids. He probably was scared out of his mind, didn't know what to say, what to do, what what, and just said whatever. Told you guys whatever you guys wanted to hear. >> Yeah. >> 5 days before Christmas. Never [ __ ] neglect my kids. Yes, my kids were here for a couple hours. Yes, they were here for a couple hours while I went to go get a truck and some boxes to come and move the rest of the stuff that we had here. I didn't see nothing wrong with that. Fed my kids and everything. Yeah, they didn't have a phone to call, but what what what would I expect for them to get into within >> Despite cooperation being noted from those involved, it was [music] unfortunate that the mother reacted emotionally, making the situation more difficult for herself. >> Never neglect your Ma'am. Please stop Ma'am. >> Yes. >> Let me explain something to you. There's one thing. If you damage the car >> I'm not damaging your car. >> any car. >> But I'm not damaging it. How am I Look at foot >> kicking it. >> I know, but look at foot >> kicking it and you damage the car, it's going to be another charge. >> That's fine, but I'm not damaging your car. >> stop car. >> I'm not damaging the car and as far as I can >> Please stop car. >> I'm not damaging your car and as far as I could see, I see a lot of footprints down there that I did not make. So, obviously it's been before. So, I'm not damaging your car. >> All right. Can you sit Even if we show nothing but respect to you. It's my car, okay? I I don't We None of us came here with the intention of doing this. We didn't want to do this. We don't want to do this. But it comes down to liability on our part. We have to do our job. All right? I didn't have to call your sister. I didn't have to do any of that. Obviously, I want the kids to be with family. >> I mean, can't they just come to the jail and speak with me or the police department or wherever you guys are taking me? >> Uh who? >> The DCF. That's what we're waiting on, right? I'm waiting for them to come speak to me before you guys take me to jail. >> they they So, they come here and speak to your sister. They got to just confirm that she is in fact your We can't like we can't release a kid to just any random person. That's why. Not saying she is a random person, but that's our process of verification. Please do not get offended by me asking. I just don't want you to catch another charge when you go to county. Um do you have anything else like any weapons anything like that on you? >> Um >> Cuz if they find anything on you they they do the extra charge and it's a felony for bringing it into a jail. >> It's okay. >> Do you have anything on you? >> I don't think so. >> What do you mean you don't think so? >> think so or you don't? >> I mean I'm I'm not I'm I'm not a criminal. I I don't have knives and stuff on me. >> That's what I'm saying. It's it's just a yes or no. >> No, I don't. >> trying to I'm trying to look out for you. I don't want you to have something on you. >> have nothing on me, sir. Nothing at all but my phones that was in my pocket. I'm not walking around with stuff to hurt people. I don't >> You're good. >> Yep. Yeah. >> Watch out watch your head. >> I don't want to fall on these stairs. >> You got it? >> Yeah, I got it. >> All right. >> After the information was documented, she was taken to a local facility in West Palm Beach for further steps in line with standard procedure. >> Yeah. >> Huh? >> Hello. >> No, have a seat right here. >> Okay. >> The mother was charged with felony child neglect. Under Florida law, she could face up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine. Many families experience instability not because they lack love, but because they lack timely support. This highlights the importance of community assistance and social services before challenges [music] grow beyond what a family can manage alone. A quiet motel hallway, a plastic bag left outside a door, and inside was something no one expected. >> I messed up. I put her in that cuz I put her in I wasn't certain about if she can breathe or not. But as far as I >> On January 23rd, 2021, officers carried out a child welfare check at a motel after receiving a concerning report about a baby discovered in unusual circumstances. At the scene, they identified room 105 as connected to the situation. Inside the room, a newborn was lying on the bed. The baby was alive, but very sleepy and not very responsive, prompting medical staff to quickly check breathing and overall condition to ensure the child was safe. >> Room 105? Can you Can you open this for me? You got the med bag? >> I got the medical bag. Just go. Just go. I got the medical bag. Go. Go. Go. Go. Go. >> Room 105? >> 105? >> Police department. >> Can you open it? >> Hey, what's going on? What's going on? Is everything okay? Hold the door. Hold the door. Hold the door. Thank you. What Is this baby okay? She's sleeping? Let me check her. Make sure she's okay. She's okay? All right. So, what what happened? So, what what what's I don't even know I just heard that there was a a baby in a >> I was laying down. Yeah, I'm That was the baby in the I don't know why they was saying the baby in the >> Okay. Baby's fine. Baby's brea- breathing. Okay. Yeah, she's breathing. She's breathing. Breathing and conscious. Can you open your eyes for me? >> Whose child is it? >> Mine. >> Your child? Your child? How old is she? Okay. Was Did you have a dispute with somebody over there? With another room or something? Hey, baby. So, was there a dispute or something? >> No, I was laying down. I didn't hear a dispute. She was at the Dollar Tree. She was at the Dollar Tree. They was out there yelling. >> So, what what what is the thing with the baby in the I don't I don't know what the >> Like that was dumb, but I didn't call nobody in here. I called the police. So, I was telling them about the baby in the pack that was out there. >> Okay. >> Listen, she was just laying down. She was with me. I was saying I don't know if they think they They said baby in the >> Hey, let them let them check check her out. >> Yeah, just let them check. She was just sleeping on the bed? >> Yeah. Yeah, right here with me. >> She was sleeping with you? So, she she How do we get the report of the baby >> I don't I don't Whatever I don't know how they said the baby in the That was dumb. I was telling you No, cuz we didn't call the police. The baby I think cuz we the only ones in here with the baby. They might They might have told y'all to come here cuz >> But, who reported the baby >> I was just sleeping. I don't know who called it. I don't know who called you guys. >> The baby's been in here the whole time with you guys? >> Yeah. I was just here the whole time with you guys, you know what >> They're going to take a look at the baby. >> Yeah, let's make sure she's okay. I know you guys last time. You want to come speak with the >> Do me a favor. >> Talk to the officer. Okay, you guys can speak outside. >> Okay. >> What what was going on? >> Nah, I was laying I was in here sleeping. My girlfriend had went to the Dollar Tree to get something cuz she about to cook. And the police came banging. It was just something about baby in the I got I don't know if we the only ones in here with the baby like in the whole like in this >> At first, the adults in the room believed nothing serious had happened. However, differences in their explanations led authorities to speak with each person separately to better understand the situation. >> You were in the room with the baby the whole time? Okay, and what happened at the store? >> I'm sorry. >> Okay, and then you came back and what happened with with your baby? She was just sleeping in the room? >> sleeping in the room with me and I was freaking out. >> And you thought that that was the baby? Did you have So so who called? >> You guys see my car? >> Okay, okay, hold on. >> Hold on, I was about to ask who she called. >> No, no, no, we'll we'll get to that. >> The baby was never in a though. >> No, the baby was laying right here this whole time. >> Okay, so why is the baby not like opening her eyes? Like what's going on? >> She was sleeping, she laying down and sleeping with me. >> Okay, she was sleeping. Okay. >> laying down here sleeping with me. >> Let me see your identification real quick. >> I got my wallet right there. >> My name is What's your name? >> My name is Marvin. >> So They're just going to check her out. All right, listen, they're just checking her out to make sure she's okay, all right? What happened? >> [laughter] >> They're not taking her, ma'am. They're they're checking her out to make sure everything's okay. They're just checking her out. Do you want to go see her? Come on, you're the mom. Come on, let's go see her. Yeah, we I'll go with her. I'll go with you. We can go to the ambulance and you can see everything's fine. So the baby's been in here, she hasn't been outside in a or anything like that? >> been right here with me and then me and I put the baby to sleep. And then the police came straight here talking about baby I don't know. >> room 105, there's a baby in a We don't know if the baby's unresponsive, if the baby's know anything. That's why we're coming in here showing urgency, try to make sure that the baby's okay. Is she a Is she a heavy sleeper? Is that what it is? >> That too, she sleep just like I do. She sleep just like I do. >> Heavy sleeper? >> Heavy sleeper, just like I do. Mouth open like if I can go on the phone and show you pictures of me and I sleep the same way, heavy sleeper. >> A statement from a nearby relative introduced another piece of information. >> my room and um that's my cousin, we're related. So when I opened the door, it was like somebody knocked and ran away, but you could hear like the plastic on my front door. So, when I opened the door, I'm looking and it looked like it >> That's what you put the baby in front of your door? >> Yeah, it looked like it was garbage. When I went to hop out the door and see that it was a baby, he was walking towards me saying that it was trash. >> All right, you good? >> and picked the bag up as soon as I was there and was like, "I messed up. I messed up. I messed up." So, I'm scared running back down here and like, "You better not be saying what you what I think you're saying." As he was running that way, my cousin was coming in from coming from the store. So, >> All right. >> she wasn't in the room, I guess, when the whole situation happened. I kid you not, those grocery bags are her grabs her bags from Dollar Tree. >> So, then if they I guess that she got back and it started >> When no, when she got back, we all met She got back, I was running down the hallway, called her out here, and we all basically was saying that like something happened to the baby. >> Hallway camera footage showed the father carrying an item inside a plastic bag, a detail that matched witness accounts and did not align with his initial explanation. When speaking with the mother, she continued to change her story saying the bag contained only a doll, which did not match the known information. >> known information. >> Was the baby inside here with both of you guys? With the >> No, she didn't have a name. >> Just with you? >> Yeah, in the back seat in the front. >> All right. Put your hands behind your back. Just cooperate, all right? >> No problem. >> While Lamar was in custody, I guess they heard a commotion. We went when when you were you said you when you found the doll in the bag. >> Yeah, but that wasn't me. My cousin said that the cops were already on the way before. >> So, did you have a like a commotion going on in the room that you So, you have no idea Okay. >> No idea. >> I'm just trying to figure out how the whole baby in the thing like even came about. >> I was walking and Lamar was walking down the hallway. My cousin was like they was yelling at each other, him and my cousin. >> All right, listen, when you came back to the room, the first thing you did you opened the door and you saw the baby in the bag. >> No, he had it in the hallway. He was walking with it and then I guess when he seen me my cousin said, "Shanae, is that you?" And I said, "Yo." And then he walked into the room and then she was like, "He got the baby in the baby in the baby." So, I started knocking on the door. That's why I'm >> So, he was carrying a doll in a bag? >> Yes. >> Okay. Okay, then when you happen when you went in there your room? >> [screaming] >> They actually have to get checked out. They actually have to get checked out. >> Okay. >> Your daughter's going to be okay. The number one thing in life is is that little baby, right? But how long was she in that >> She wasn't >> She wasn't We have video of him holding the baby in the You got to tell us the truth. How long was she in the Did you guys have a dispute that he would do this? >> He's what? >> How long has he been paralyzed? What do you mean he's paralyzed? >> He's been at the Aquarium Medical Center >> Okay. >> They they let him go. >> Okay, why was he there? >> He I don't know what they He's He took something that was leased or the like something wrong in the >> Okay. Okay. >> [snorts] >> This whole story you told me, it's not adding up cuz apparently they have video now. So, can you please be honest with me? >> Okay, everything I said was the God's honest truth. >> Let's meet up. Okay. I need the baby for further medical care. The father was also asked to speak separately to help clarify what had happened. >> Can I ask you something? going on. Who called you? >> This small white chick. Nobody called me. I came to bring them some black and mild. >> And he has a daughter? >> Yes. >> All right. He's under arrest. >> He's under arrest? >> He's under arrest. All right. >> He's out here. Can we talk to my wife for a minute, please? >> Hello, ma'am. I don't know exactly what happened, all right? It's still being investigated. The baby's okay. >> And my son, he's been trying to get a video in the hospital for the last year. >> That's all mental issues. >> Well, he's going to be at the police station and then I and and then I don't know where we're going to go from there, okay? >> Yeah, you need Mr. Help. You need Mr. Help. You need Mr. Help. >> Right. Baby's with the mom. They're going to the hospital. What's going on? What happened? >> Um that's what I was trying to figure out. The woman was laying down and police came banging on the door saying something about a baby in the bed. They brought me here. I'm in here ever since. >> Let's start off with the beginning of the day. What happened? >> And I was here about 8:30, 9:00. Waiting for my girlfriend to get up. She got up. We discussed tonight. We were waiting for the food. And then she went out to the dog. She was going to get the Velveeta. She came back. Next thing you know, it's like police and everything everywhere. I'm trying to figure out what was going on. I didn't really understand why. >> Did you see anything? >> No. >> Pretend I'm an alien that came down from Mars and you got to explain everything to me how it works in human society. How do you put this baby to sleep? >> All right. So, this is what I do. Normally I I give her a bottle. Give her a bottle warm her bottle and lay her down. Normally lay her down on my chest. But if she's up watching TV, like like the TV don't shut off, or lay her in my arms. Like she'll lay Like I said, on my chest going to sleep, she'll lay in my arms first. >> Okay. >> As a >> Just You're saying normally. I want to know what happened today. We want to know what happened today. >> Yeah, that's what I'm That's what I'm telling you. So, the TV was The TV was off, I told you. I had her on my chest. She was drinking a bottle going to sleep. >> All right. That's not how it went. We know that's not how it went. >> Let's Let's rewind a little bit, okay? Let's just let going to try and refresh your memory about a couple things, okay? >> Okay. >> At any point did you have to go to the front desk to get a new key card made? >> Oh, yes, I did. I did. >> Okay, can you tell us a little bit about that? >> So, I got the I had to go back and get the key cuz I gave her mine when she went to Dollar General for her to get back in. >> Okay. >> But when she came back in, she knocked instead of using the key, so I got up to open the door for her. >> Okay, so where was your daughter at that time? >> She was laying down in the room. She was sleeping. >> Is that when Shenaya was at the dollar store? >> Yes. >> Okay. So, during that time frame is when you went to the front desk to have your key made. >> Right. >> After reviewing the information, the father shared that he became frightened when he noticed unusual signs in his child. In a moment of panic, instead of seeking medical help, he unintentionally put the baby in a worse situation. A reminder of how important it is to stay calm and ask for help when a child needs care. Needs care. >> During that time, there's video of you. So, that's why I know that what you're telling us is not completely truthful because we see you walking up and down the hallway and you're holding something on your >> I had the the old clothes from my child. I mean, the old toys from my my childhood toys. Like, when I knocked, nobody answered the door, so I put it back down. >> Why would you be Why would you be giving these to Shenaya? >> I know that she had a kid. >> Um well, you just said that, you know, you don't really interact with any of Shenaya's friends. >> Right, I don't. >> So, why would you go to the room during this time when Shenaya is not even home? >> Because she was coming right back. I didn't think that it would have been a problem. >> Well, that's not what Shenaya is telling us either. Shenaya is telling us when she came in the room, her daughter your daughter was in a closet and Shenaya said her birth open that closet. Lamar, we all make mistakes. This is your time to come clean, okay? For your daughter, for your girlfriend. >> There was a chance >> I >> she wouldn't have made it. And you know what? There's still a chance she might not make it. We don't know. You're telling us what you want to tell us. You're not telling us the truth. >> I'm telling you what happened. >> Something happened in that room. We're going to get that We're going to get DNA evidence on that bag. >> I understand what you're saying 100%. >> Right. >> Not in no bed. >> So, what you're telling us three other people are lying and the video is lying? >> You're supposed to keep the family together, right? >> Right. >> That's what we do. Sometimes we Like I think you just did today. But you're going to destroy everything, you know that, right? Like she said, the daughter's going to be okay. Once she gets out of there, she may never never see her mother again. You're in a real situation right now. God, tell me what's going on or it's going to be I don't have much more time to give you. >> I was laying down with her on her bottom Like I All of a sudden she just started like choking or something. It made me paranoid. I don't know what to do. Why didn't I take her like put her in like put her in the the goal. I don't know. I went to Shanae's cousin that's someone that can help. My phone in my room it doesn't work. So, if there was something wrong with her and I can't get in contact with you guys, I that means I'm going to leave in the room, go to the front, ask them call police, come back. Who knows what happens by the time I Yes, I was scared and I was and I shouldn't have did that. I was I was afraid. I was scared. I shouldn't have Like I didn't know what to do. I I needed help. I didn't know what to do. That's what I meant by I effed up by putting her in that cuz like putting her in I wasn't thinking about if she can breathe in that or not. But as far as like purposely hurt her or something like that, that's not my intentions. I never tried. No. I just didn't know what to do. So, I walked all the way to the front. I got the key. Went back. I got the bag. I opened the bag. I had the bag was never sealed shut or anything. Shanae didn't do anything. She was choking like she I don't know. My just My daughter has not been the same since I've been like since I've been back. Since I've been back. She's been back. I've been >> It happens. >> I think there's a little bit more. And I think maybe you did this on purpose. >> I never would I would never I would never never never would never have. >> It's not common. I mean, normally a parent if that was happening would just open the door and maybe scream, right? To get anyone's attention to call. They wouldn't worry about bringing it to another person's room, bringing the baby to another person's room, leaving them there and then being like, "Oh, let me go get a new car." You know what >> Maybe you need to Maybe you need to watch me get on the camera. Bang on the door. I knocked when I said I called her name. I walked to my room but I realized I didn't have the keys. I ran to the front. >> But when you went to the front, if you thought your child was right? I'm serious. >> I didn't care. I thought she was I didn't know what I never seen I never seen her I don't know what she was. >> But that would have been your chance to say call 911, right? >> Right. >> Telling the front the guy at the front desk instead >> The good news is that after two days of treatment, the baby's condition improved, but this did not free the father from legal responsibility. He was charged with first-degree felony intention and second-degree felony of a child's welfare. If convicted, he could face a sentence of up to 20 years in prison. >> [music] >> Not every mistake comes from bad intentions. Sometimes it comes from fear or confusion. But when a child is involved, reaching out for help right away is always the safest and most caring choice. Some homes appear ordinary from the outside until the door opens. >> Dude, you bit one of them? >> Probably to get him off of me cuz he had me pinned down on the floor for one minute. >> On November 17th, 2024, officers received a report about a mother whose actions had gone beyond safe limits with young family members. When they arrived, they found several children visibly upset. The children described a tense atmosphere that had been present in the home for some time. >> This is the look at our precious child. >> She's being violent today. >> Okay. >> This is their house. >> Okay. >> They said they can't put her out. >> I'm the one who called cuz I seen everything. >> First charge on him. >> You see her face? >> She going to jail today. >> You see him? He got cake mix >> cake mix all over him. >> Okay. >> She's tripping. >> Can't she go to >> And it was hot. Like just came out of the >> It was hot cake mix. >> Like it didn't even get to finish cooking. >> Do any of y'all need to be seen by any >> She did her >> No, she put her pregnant in >> She put She put her [laughter] whole hand in >> Okay. >> Like imagine me digging my hand in your eye like that. I That's how she did it. >> to jail. I don't want her >> She >> Can you come speak to me over here, away from everyone? >> It started with him. She hitting him with >> to speak to him, too. And then I >> And I'm making her mad. >> What happened? >> I was I was at my friend's house. Then I started walking down the street to go to the park. And then the girl right there with the arm around She came and she found me. She was like, "Your mama here, brother. Go in the room." And I came back and all I know she was just screaming and cursing and cussing. >> Who was? >> My mama. >> Latricia is your mom? Okay. >> Okay, I'm sorry. I don't know what it is. She's just going on her stuff and stuff and she's like, "Can you just please leave?" Like, cuz cuz of that last night she broke our windows. Like, I screamed and all this stuff and broke >> [laughter] >> Did she do this to you? Okay. Go over there for a second. I'm going to go deal with >> The mother shared a different perspective, that the children began the conflict while she was cooking and that she was trying to protect herself, highlighting the gap between personal perception and the effect the situation had on the children. >> Sir, I don't Hey, how you doing? >> Good. >> Okay, I'm their mama. See these See their names? >> Okay. >> Now, I'm in here cooking. Come on. Come on. Go step in. I'm in here cooking. I don't know what got into them. They Look at the cake that was in the oven. It's all over the floor. I don't know. I wouldn't do this. Like, they all attacked me, so I was trying to keep them off me. So, I don't know who got all of us probably got violent up a little. They pretty big kids, but nothing I don't know what happened. But, the cake [laughter] was in the oven. I came in here to see what was going on. They both attacked me at one time. All I wanted to I ain't got nothing with it. That's they own good. They can go here. They can come here and sit down with the kids. But, if this is such a problem with the kids, why why don't you just take them with you or come get them to ride to your house or something? They did this. Nobody else did. You see the cake? I was cooking Sunday dinner. >> Why you get their birth certificates out the closet? >> THIS IS I'M THEIR MAMA. I JUST GOT THEM OUT OF STATE. I HAD TO get >> Which ones are her kids or your kids? >> three of them. >> She don't have custody of them. One of her sister does. >> Yes, but she's in jail, so she left them here with me. >> No, she doesn't. No, she didn't. >> [laughter] >> No, she didn't. >> Sir, she left them here with me. >> Well, why aren't they at your house? >> No, I stay over there. >> Well, why are they at their house? >> She in jail. She left >> Where's the other I guess her sister at? >> This all our sister. >> Okay, you're all her siblings. Okay. >> Where's your sister at? >> She in jail. >> Okay, when she get arrested? >> She got arrested four days ago today. >> Thursday? Okay. >> And she been doing this everyday. >> I know. Yeah, I know about her already. >> My thing is They can't be They can't be in their own home. They got school tomorrow. >> You said they stay here with >> Stop talking for two seconds. >> At this point, she's been >> No, stop. >> Bothering them for no reason. They were upstairs. >> You are a liar. >> One is getting ready to get cuz their birthday is tomorrow. >> She They getting ready for their birthday. >> I know you know this. They got one got one lash on and one ain't got the other lash on. At this point, she's been We was okay. They was all okay if they was upstairs >> with them two? >> No. >> Okay, you're just making sure they're good. Okay, let me talk to her just a second and I'm going to come back and talk to them. >> But at this point, she's been >> I know I know. Let me do my job. Let me investigate everything. Miss Lucretia >> Yes, sir. >> Start from the beginning about what happened. >> All right, let me get it together. One of them was in here washing her hair. The other was in here I came in here to check on the cake. And Kate was they turned the oven off. I turned the oven back on. The little one >> Who's the little one? >> You want to shut the door for a minute so she won't get involved? >> No, I ain't shutting it. I got stuff in here. So, what do you mean get involved? >> The little one, Zakiyah with the red shirt on, the oldest one. She kind of came at me. So, I kind of got her up. >> came at me? >> She kind of came at me. She snatched the cake from me. >> So, did you have the cake in your hand? >> Okay. >> So, I had the cake in my hand turned I pulled it out. I thought it looked done for a second. I just found out you smell the gas. They had turned off the oven. So, I turned the oven back on. The boy came in and said, "You going to get out. You going to get out. You going to get out." That's their whole conversation since our sister right here showed up. You going to get out. None of this happened. Before three days ago, I've been here 3 weeks 2 weeks when I say 2 >> Okay, weeks I'm not worried about the how long you've been here. What today? Only today. What happened today? >> Nothing. All this is about the cake. Everybody got banged up trying to hang on. >> So, you're saying they're mad at you about making a cake? >> Yeah. You see the cake So, like I said >> So, you're saying they I was Yeah, I'll speak to you. Just let me finish with her. Just go. Please, let me I will come out there and talk to you. >> This my day to be out of here. >> I will get everything figured out. Just stop. Okay. So, you're saying all the kids are mad at you because you're baking a cake and >> And that she they want these two stir up so much about getting out and who got what kids and all that. But before I was supposed to leave, she wanted to be here with me. So, anyway, when they roll in or whatever they do, go hang out with them. They come back. You're going to get out. You're going to get out. I got up and started cooking Sunday dinner. Went to the store, got the food to make food with. Cakes everywhere. And they just started showing up. And then their little friend came on and walking in and out. But whatever >> friends >> The one with the long hair. >> Two that are yours are the boy in the black shirt and the girl in the red shirt? >> The boy in the black shirt, the girl in the red shirt, and the one in the little tank top. >> So, they turned it off. You came in here to check on it, saw it was turned off, and turned it back on. >> Right. >> At that point, did you go back into the living room? >> I went back in there so I watched the TV again. I was watching it. Soul food. >> Okay. So, then you came back in here. >> They turned it back off again. >> Did you turn it back on or did you take it out? >> it back on. I came back the third time. They had taken it out. I went to grab the cake and they >> Okay. So, you said the cake is in your is in your hands and then all three kids just came and attacked >> Not the little one. Not the dark-skinned one. >> Just the one in the red and the black? >> Yeah, the red and the black. >> So, they just randomly came up here and it >> They wanted a cake out of my hand. >> I'm saying the cake was in your hands and they just >> wanted a cake. And she was all fat nasty. You're going to get out of here and fat nasty business. I don't know what got into her. She's normally the sweetest little girl ever in the world. And then the boy is sweetest, too. I don't know what's into them. Me and my big sister, the one under me, we never have a problem out of them. But since these two want to get into like you said, she living with him, you heard her tell a lie. They've been here the whole time. Every time they come >> Who all Who all was here when this happened? The one >> Just me and the three kids. >> You and the three >> And everything was down. She Sometimes when they called them over the phone, I was stirred up. >> I'm taking a picture of your face real fast. >> What's wrong with my face? >> It's bleeding a little bit. You got a bloody nose. >> I didn't know I got that figured out. >> After y'all got into an altercation, did you hit them at all? >> Maybe [clears throat] not, but maybe so. >> What does that mean? >> Like I said, it was a little brawl in here, but >> Okay. >> It was him on me and her on me. Uh yeah. I probably bit at one of them, too. >> You bit one of them? >> Probably to get them off of me cuz he had me pinned down on the floor for one minute. >> Okay. You stay in here, I'm going to go speak to them. During the discussion, several household items were mentioned that had shifted from everyday use to factors that made the situation more serious. A reminder that a home environment should always be kept safe and calm. >> happened from the start. >> Okay, so I was there and >> First off, we already had some officers here because she wasn't supposed to be here. She broke in. >> Where are you going? >> Okay. We left because she was already making our mental very bad. >> Can you just let me finish up with what I'm doing? >> Go ahead. >> So yeah, she We already left. We came back. She wasn't talking to us so crazy like she always did. >> We went up there. I was in my room. She came down. She came up on me. Came in, bit right there. Bite mark right there. She bit me right there. >> So that happened upstairs where she bit you? >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> And then we came downstairs. I'm like, you got to go. Get out. >> Boom, boom, boom. >> Mhm. >> She tried to fight me. She got in the room, started trying to hit me with it. >> Okay. >> So I took the broom, threw her down. Then they come in. She come in. She tried to attack Sugar. That's the girl with all the cuts on her face. >> Okay. >> So then she had her like this on the over the kitchen. So I got >> She had >> Yeah, she had her by the neck. So then Sugar trying to get away. She tried to push her off and went through the stuff, whatever that was. >> There's a cake? >> Yeah, that cake stuff. >> Okay. >> And then that got all over the place. then >> Okay. >> And then she do what she >> I just want to make sure I got your side of the story correct. What did y'all argue about up there that she bit you? There wasn't an argument before that. >> an argument before that. >> No, she wasn't arguing. She just out of her mind. She starts stuff with you. >> Well, I know Lakisha. So, it started downstairs where y'all kind of got into it a little bit verbally and then you went upstairs to your room. Then she run right behind you. Okay. Did she say anything before she bit you or did she just come up and >> She was just like, "I don't want y'all to live here. I don't want y'all. Y'all wasn't supposed to be here. If I can take y'all." All that stuff. >> Pretty much saying you're not wanted. >> Yeah. >> So, she bit you and then did she go downstairs after that? >> No. What happened was when she bit me, I pushed her. She tried to follow behind me. She grabbed the broom, started hitting me with it, and I ran. I ran in the living room when she >> Okay, so you pushed her upstairs and ran downstairs. >> No, I pushed her out my way and then I ran downstairs. >> That's what I'm saying. Yeah. >> Yeah, and then she >> And then she followed you downstairs with the broom. >> Yeah. And then she >> hit you with the broom and you grabbed the broom, pushed her away again. >> Yeah. >> And then that's when she showed up and the altercation with them happened. >> Yeah. Okay. >> I'm Daisy. So, I was there, too. We just We just think that we like we can't >> She bit you. >> Right there. She bit me. >> Yeah. >> [laughter] >> In the In the pot. In the pot. >> Can I see your arm? >> She don't have custody of us. >> Where did she hit you with the broom? >> She hit me on my face and all on my front body. >> Okay, go back. I told you I spoke to you. While the full picture still needed clarification, officers noted multiple details that matched between the children's accounts and a witness. You were at a friend's house. Did you say she came and got you or you just came or walking back? >> She came and got me. >> Okay, [clears throat] so she was here with your brother and then she came and got you from friend's house. You came back. What What happened at that point once you stepped inside? >> they were arguing and we were trying to tell her to get she leave because like she had all our birth certificates and stuff. >> She wanted do other sister's >> Yeah, that's this is our We stay with our aunt We stay with our aunt, so we don't stay with her. And like she don't throw all her stuff away. Like she broke Like she got a phone like this and it's cracked like it's bad. So we were just telling her to leave to leave because you got kicked out of your apartment. This is the only place we got to stay, so >> They they're not safe with her. Calm down. >> Can y'all talk to you? >> Yeah. My mom >> She got 16. She never did anything for the kids. Never. >> Yeah. >> It was me, my mom, my mom dropped and hit went cold. It was my sister and Jaden and me. >> Okay. >> And my brother. She just wanted them for the benefits. >> Mhm. >> She don't care about the kids. >> Yeah. >> And this is our part right now and I'm feeling She needs to go. And they going to put her on child support. >> Yeah, I know. What happened from there? >> just It was just like Why? Like why you keep doing all this stuff? Because we need to get out of here. We don't have nowhere else to go. [laughter] This This is just start popping off. And she got in my face and then she pushed me and stuff. >> Like pushed you by the shoulders? >> Yeah, like she did like that. And then we started fighting. We did start fighting. >> Both of you together? >> [clears throat] >> Okay. Did she first or >> Yeah, it's like after because when I When she When she had me like she had me like this, but I could still move my arms. And I was like I was hitting her and then >> Did she have like her arm around your neck like this? >> No. >> Okay. >> She just had like she just had me. >> Like a bear hug? Okay. >> And like Okay, you see her hand is messed up. That hand is messed up. She took that whole hand and stuck it in my eye like this. >> Okay. Was she behind you when she did it? >> was She was like in front of me. >> Okay. >> She had her hand in my face and then we was all swinging at her. After that, my brother had like his little girl in the room and I just came outside cuz I could I couldn't see. Like I could see a little bit, but I just I can't see that well. I'm sorry. >> You're okay. Take your time. >> I was I came outside and they was still in there with her and stuff. >> Okay. >> And this one Y'all them had came >> They came outside too then after a little while later. Okay. You can come back over here. Thank you for talking to me. Were both of y'all inside whenever it started? Okay. Whoever wants to speak to me next, I'll go with Just from the start of what happened to the end. >> Okay, so I I had just got out of the shower. I text my cousin to do my lashes. Me and my brother we we didn't stay here last night cuz the incident that happened like he pushed me and all that. So we came here this morning. This is our house. She did not stay there. So I take a shower. We all just chilling and then she come up there. She come upstairs. She bite my brother. >> Did you see him bite her or bite him, sorry? >> He screamed when she bit him and then I went downstairs. >> No, our room's like this. >> Okay. >> I was in my room. He was in his room. She went up there, bit him and then he screamed. I ran in there. I saw her on top of him. He walked out and then I walked I ran in my room to call my uncle so he can come get us. He was trying to walk past but she was in his way and he was already mad at this. So he tried to like he pushed out of the way, ran downstairs. >> Uh-huh. Okay. >> She come after him with the broom. I run downstairs. >> grab the broom from upstairs? >> It was like a red broom. She hit him with the broom and then we all ran down there. Like let's do we ran down there. I tried to break them up. Then my sister came because >> Right. >> I called her too cuz she stayed here. I'm like she the oldest. She was like "My mom's going crazy like she's going crazy again." So she come in. She start yelling and stuff and we just all like >> Was there a break in between when your brother and okay. >> She wasn't nothing but like right there. She was just right there. >> Whenever you called her then them two got into it. >> [clears throat] >> Okay. What happened with the cake? >> With the cake I really don't know but I think she picked it up and threw it. But I know she picked up a hot pot off the stove and hit us with it. >> Were you here the whole time? >> The whole time. >> The whole time. Okay. >> Okay, so we in we all in the room. I'm doing her lashes but he trying to sit on the bed. I don't know if he went downstairs to get something to eat or what but first he come she come up after him and grab something. I get [clears throat] I didn't know what it was cuz I'm like girl sit down and be your lashes. >> No, tell >> I don't she got him and she grabbed him and she was bite he's screaming. I'm really like what was you screaming for? AND I COME OUT AND SHE biting him like >> She saw him. >> And she's like biting him. I'm like "A lady let him go." >> And she and he's screaming and she's biting him and I'm like, "Somebody call the police." I grab the phone, but they was like they already called them. And so I'm like, "Okay." And so we come down and she's trying to with the broom. She hit him once or twice, but now she's trying to like poke him with like him like in the stomach with it. She grab them two. Like I don't know how she got both of them, but she grabbed she got her like this and her she digging her in her eye like really digging everywhere. If she can't dig in eye like that's how she got all that. And she digging her eye like she's trying to dig it out. That's why I'm like, "What are you doing to her eye?" I don't got scared and all cuz why are you digging in her eye? Are you trying to pull it out? And I'm like, "Let her go. Let her go. Let her go." And so I'm like I'm going to call the police. And she's like, "You stupid [ __ ] You stupid bitch." I'm like, "Okay." And she did she grab a hot pot off the stove and the stove still on. She done grab a hot pot off the stove stove I was starting hitting her with it. I'm like, "What are you doing?" And she with the pot. I guess she don't got somehow he got on the floor, but he got up real fast. She don't got them again. She got them like this like hitting her. I'm like, "What is going on?" Yes. Both of them at the same time. And y'all hurt her back too. They really didn't they really was just like trying to push her like they was and they was pushing. Like this. Yes. Like this how we was. Yes. They she started Do you live here too or do you live somewhere else? Okay. I came to do her lashes okay for her birthday tomorrow. And she don't stay there. She this been a three-day process. She don't stay there. Before like a week ago I never seen her before. Yeah. So that's why I'm like, "Where she came from? Why she at y'all house?" And everyday is something crazy. Are you able to take the kids? Okay. Because I'm arrest her and uh just so they aren't by I know y'all are old enough to take care everyone together probably old enough to but just so an adults has them. Okay. I'm coming in real quick. Uh-huh. These details suggested the situation had gone beyond a typical family disagreement and required a legal [music] response to ensure the children's well-being. >> What? Put your arm. >> Yeah, that's what I tried to do. >> Okay. Well, you're going to be placed under arrest. >> For what? >> For battery. >> For what? I mean, what are you going to charge me with? What are you doing? >> I will explain that to you in a second, but >> Okay, wait a minute. >> No, we ain't going to walk away. >> Yeah, I'm going to deserve this. I mean, you using the battery I got to get my money. As you know, you have this on you. >> Okay, work. Do y'all need to handcuff you to the front? >> I don't know how I'm going to get these hands on like how do you somebody lunging at you? You got the right to defend yourself. This is the thing. >> I'm being nice. Put your hands >> This is why I asked you to come up. >> I will. Put your hands like this. >> She's trying to get a hit. That's what looks like. They wanted both of us in there and I know damn well that's all me. I'm going to get up. Ow, sir. Let me get my car too and that's what the [ __ ] probably started. Bring your car with you. They can lift our I'm going to go to jail for stealing. See her rooting up this god damn house. Now, are you going to arrest the kids? >> I'll explain that to you in a second. >> Okay. You get to get that car out of your purse. >> Card out of where? >> Uh, there's a debit card in it. Yeah, there you go. And that's how I know her to go to jail for stealing. >> Go this way. >> Come here. >> No. Get away from them. Have a seat. >> I love you. I won't press charges when we do make it to court. That's how I still I don't want to press charges now. Why Why ain't doing anything? >> Have a seat. >> I'm sitting down. >> All the way in. >> I don't want to press charges on them. And that's >> Okay, that's fine. But, I need you to go all the way in. >> Wait, can you explain You said you were going to explain to me what happened. What What are they going to do? >> Okay, based off what they told me and what you told me, you're under arrest for battery, family violence, and simple battery. >> What What's battery? >> No, they're both misdemeanors. >> Why I got two charges and that's how I stupid I was. >> Because one has and one doesn't. >> What are you charging me with? Who's getting charged on me? >> No one's getting charged with anything besides you. >> it is? >> Okay, I'm not going to tell you again. Have a seat. >> Who did you call the police on us? >> All the way >> over here. Do you know that? Did you call somebody over here to make it? >> Okay, I will if you sit all the way in. >> I don't care about that. >> That's how stupid they was. The same She's going to get [ __ ] up. So, don't I was in the wrong like with cooking a cake. I forgot the instant noodles up there in the closet. >> Well, you never told me anything about that stuff, so >> I told you I was cooking a cake when it all like occurred. I started to leave on you. He said I would have dropped the damn charger. Little ass dumb [ __ ] She want to act so bad some of the inner gang and that's all the [ __ ] business. I said I'm in the [ __ ] gang war. That's all the [ __ ] that he is. That's how I know he is. And I ain't even in no goddamn gang and that's what I said. That's what >> The mother was charged with battery, simple battery, [music] and to a child. In states such as Georgia, Florida, and then Michigan, she could face [music] potential penalties ranging from 5 to 12 years in prison. At the same time, her behavior also reflected signs of emotional strain. This [music] highlights the importance of mental health support and seeking help early so personal pressures do not turn into risks for the family. There are moments in life when a single [music] thoughtless decision can change many lives. >> What is that? What do that even mean? Watching what y'all was doing and you all y'all going to be here acting like I'm ignorant. Okay. >> On February 22nd, 2024, [music] officers responded to a situation on a highway after a mother left a public disagreement with her two children in the car. Two other vehicles were reported to have followed them for several miles. According to reports, those vehicles drove in a way that restricted movement, [music] followed too closely, and made physical contact creating a highly unsafe situation for the children inside. >> How y'all doing? >> Good. >> Y'all run out of gas? >> Yes, we trying to make sure this the right gas though before we put it in the car. >> She not answering the phone. >> What's y'all names? >> Nia. >> Mine's Lakiria. >> Uh-huh. So, what's going on? >> She got no gas. >> What else is going on? >> What's supposed to be going on? >> That's what I'd like to know. >> What? What? Why you asking us that? What? >> Y'all got into it with some other female? >> I just pulled up over here. >> Literally. And I'm in the car. >> I just came from my house to get that gas for Oh my, is it a regular gas in this Is it regular gas in this in this can or is it cuz I'm trying to help her cuz she ran out of gas. I just went >> Okay, what's supposed to be going on cuz why else would you What's all over your shirt? This car ran out of gas? >> No, this >> This car? >> Yeah, her. >> Okay. All right, do me a favor. What was your name? Lakira? >> Yeah. >> Miyara, you're Lakira. This This step over here. This step slide away from the car. You have your IDs on you? >> Mhm. >> What's this supposed What is going on for real? >> Ran out of gas we doing some Instacart. And all of this. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> Okay. >> Well, hold on, fella. >> Let me see if it's water. It smell like gas. >> Of course, it's a gas can. >> Where did you get that from? >> It's my house. Yeah, she got me. I was Instacarting. >> Does this say a stolen bus, right? >> Oh, god. Yeah, I'm here. I'm good. >> No, not you guys. >> Oh, no. No, ECAT bus is getting stolen? That's what it's That's what y'all saying. >> I'm looking for transfer. She got hit. The front like part of her car is got smudged all over it. Like a car contactor. >> You with me? Can I ask y'all a question? What is y'all doing to this car? We in the blind right now. >> Well, y'all you guys will be in the light here in just a minute when we figure out what we're doing. Yeah, as soon as he gets here with we're going to talk about it. The other deputy. Y'all don't find it strange that just out of the blue I stopped with y'all y'all just y'all just happen to run out of gas right here? Do you have the groceries with you? Yeah, you might want to go ahead do a return. You probably ain't going to make it there. As soon as he gets here we'll explain it to you. >> At the same time officers collected [music] statements from the mother and witnesses to better understand the sequence of events. >> So so this is from the back of the red car? It's not that I don't think it was it was that messed up. But that that's the front of that car. But you said the back of the car. Oh, with the front of her car. Okay, he didn't get your name. >> Good night. >> Is that your last name or first name? And so the silver you in the back >> It wasn't silver, it was like navy blue. >> So it wasn't a a gray Chevy Malibu? >> It was a navy blue Chevy Malibu. >> Grayish blue. It's like uh it's rusty, it's kind of old. >> It's old? >> Yeah, not old old, but it looked rusty like >> You know what the car looks like too? >> Yeah, which one? Both of them? >> Yeah. >> It's a >> You want to go look at the these two cars that were involved with? >> I mean I would go with you. >> You're going to be in the you're going to be in the car. >> Oh, okay. Yeah. >> So I'm just going to drive by and just let me know those are the two cars. All right. I'll be right back. Okay? All right. I had to take this [ __ ] Sorry. Can you see out your window? >> Oh, yes, sir. Yes, we are. >> That's both the cars? >> Yep. >> Okay. All right. >> All right. All right. >> And everything you swore and affirmed is the truth? >> Nothing but the truth. >> Notably, two women connected to the situation [music] said they were not aware of what had happened. However, visible marks on the vehicles were consistent with the information gathered. >> Uh either you guys have any weapons on you, anything illegal? >> Uh-uh. >> Okay. >> What you saying? >> Let's slide this purse off. Go ahead and put your hands behind your back. Get off the phone. >> Okay, I'm I'm going to have to call you back cuz they're going to I guess they're going to take us to jail. This this >> Okay, get get off the phone. >> This the man with the car. He wants to talk to y'all. >> Okay. >> All right. I'll leave him on the phone for just a minute. I'll come back and talk to him. All right. What look, if we could play dumb or we could have talked or we could have talked about what was happening. So instead of playing we're playing dumb about it we're just going to go go this route. >> No, what happened like explain. >> You just ended up here out of gas just Instacart and that's it. So >> Of course. >> You said of course. So we'll go a different route. Y'all going to go to jail. Both of you aggravated battery. >> Aggravated battery? >> Yeah, we got a whole group of people watching what y'all was doing and you all y'all going to be here acting like I'm I'm ignorant. >> Sir, when I tell you we didn't do anything like I didn't do nothing like I promise you I don't know. >> Look this is a whole lot more than you just happen to run out of gas Instacart. Y'all feeling me? >> No way it's more than that sir. >> Look listen. Y'all feeling me for this whole bunch of nothing. >> No can I call >> Not right now you can't call nobody. >> Like I wouldn't be playing dumb if I knew what y'all was talking about. I don't know what you're talking about. >> Okay, well I guess we'll explain what We're going read you rights. We're going to read you rights to you. Listen can do you listen? Listen. I'm going to read you your rights. Shut up for a minute. We're going to read you your rights to you and then if you want to have a conversation about what happened then then we'll have a conversation about what happened. >> I'm listening though cuz I don't got time for this. I have a a son. >> And who is this is this the owner of the car? >> Yes I don't know if he's still >> Hello. Hello. >> Okay. >> Hello. Yeah, this is Sergeant Siler with the Sheriff's Office. >> Hey there. Yeah, hey I just want to say if you do decide that do what you do do you mind just pulling the car over cuz I don't want it to get impounded. I I >> Hello the phone. >> Did you get you was able to >> He dialed the phone as we was talking. >> What did he say? >> Do you mind? Click. Just slide your feet in. >> Where y'all going to have this conversation? >> Where you You're going to talk right now? >> No. >> The two women were charged with three felony counts of aggravated Under Florida law, they could face penalties of up to 15 years in prison for the three charges. This incident is a reminder that on the road, especially when children are present, staying calm and focused on [music] safety must always come first. Disagreements can be left behind, but when emotions take control, the [music] effects can last far longer. Iowa reveals an important lesson. Sometimes challenges in caring for children can be linked to an adult's health or stress. >> She's going to jail. She's having a psychiatric episode. She's She's bipolar. >> On April 15th, 2023, in Des Moines, Iowa, police received a call about a woman outside in the rain with several young children. When officers arrived, they found the situation challenging and worked carefully to ensure everyone's safety. >> Did you guys call it in? Okay. >> I don't know what's going >> They're inside. Okay. Who are you? Oh, that's her. Okay. Okay. Okay. Thank you. Hi. Des Moines police. What's going on today? What's going on with you today? Can you tell me your name? >> Megan. >> Megan? Why are you sitting on the ground, Megan? Where are you coming from, Megan? You don't know? Okay. Have you had anything to drink today, Megan? >> Yes. >> Yes? A lot? Like what? How did you get here? Did you Is this your car? Yeah? Were you driving your car? >> No. >> Not today? >> Yes. >> How'd your car get here then? That was today? >> Yeah. >> Did you just drive your car here? If you didn't drive your car, how'd you get your car here? Okay, we're going to go walk to my car. I'll help you up. Come on. Okay, we're going to stand up now. Come on, Megan. Let's stand up. Come on. We'll get you out of the rain. You got to stand up for me. I don't know what I'm promising. You got to get up. Okay. We're going to walk to my car. We're walking to my car, okay? Okay, Megan, take a seat for me. Slide your legs in. >> Fortunately, neighbors stepped in to help. They quickly brought the children to a dry place to keep them safe from the rain. >> Did any of you guys see her driving the car? >> I did. I was just filling gas over here when I turned around, she was on the ground and the kids were standing outside and then they came over and then the store rep came over and took the kids inside. >> Okay. >> And then I walked over here and she was on the ground and that's how I seen her. >> All right. I appreciate it. Thank you. >> anything I can do to help out? >> No, I think you're good. I appreciate you stopping by though. >> Hey guys. What are you eating? >> [laughter] >> What is that, SpongeBob? >> Heck yeah, it is. >> All right, boy. All right, guys. These are our friends, right? >> And you saw us first. >> I know you saw us first, too. >> You can be just like us. See, it looks just like mine. Whoa. Does it have a name? >> Yeah, it's >> It's Mouse? >> Yeah. >> I like that name. Yes, we are. Police officer. Yep. >> My dad always did >> Yeah? Where's your dad at? >> I'm going to say my mom was here. Yeah, he was leaving. He told us. Yeah, yeah. He's trying to find our mom. >> He's trying to find your mom? Do you guys live with your dad or your mom? >> I live with >> You live with Do you live together? >> No, but these are our cousins. So, that was their mom that was down. >> Who Who's mom is that out there? >> That is their mom. >> And not your aunt? >> Megan. Yeah, that's our aunt. >> Megan's aunt. Okay. >> So, our parents are uh somewhere far away and they're going to a wedding. >> Okay. >> And my mom was trying to contact with our aunt but she was like having But something happened. That's not how she is. >> Look, she's got the alien on her >> She was >> Look, she's got the alien on her knee. >> Who does? >> Um my mom. >> She does? How she get the alien on her knee? >> Cuz when her fell down. >> She fell down? >> Yeah, she just collapsed on the floor. >> When did she fall? >> She just like came out of the car and then collapsed on the uh >> What were you guys doing before you came to here? >> We were trying to drive to a hotel but she was acting really weird. She was trying to contact my uncle. >> Gotcha. >> But she couldn't because she didn't She was like speaking weird. >> What hotel were you guys going to? >> I forget but >> Does it have a pool? >> Yeah. >> Outside. You can go outside and inside. >> And inside? >> Yeah, and that's outside. >> It's too cold outside. It's raining. >> Oh, and there's a hot pool for you only going to >> Police worked with the mother and tried to contact a trusted family member who could care for the children temporarily. All right, Megan. So, here's the deal. Obviously, you're extremely intoxicated, right? >> Mhm. >> Right? Who are those kids to you? Are they your kids? Yes? Okay. Do you live with anybody else? >> Yes. >> Who? >> My husband. >> Your husband? Has your husband been drinking today? >> Yes. >> He has been? >> Yeah, a lot. >> Do you have any other family close? Megan, you got to talk to me. Do you have any other family close? >> No. >> No? Do you have any good friends? >> Yes. >> Do you have good friends? >> Yes. >> Do they live close? >> Yes. >> Anyone that you would trust watching your kids? >> Um my Yes? Okay. Who's that? Britney? Okay. Are we able to call Britney? Do you know her number by heart? You do? Okay. I'm going to call Britney, okay? What's Britney's phone number? You said you know it by heart, right? Oh, you don't know it by heart. Okay. Where's your phone? Can I look in your car for your phone? Okay. Can you find Britney in your phone? Your dad was calling you. Does he live close? Okay. Let's call Britney. >> [screaming] >> Does she live close? He does? Okay. Hi, this is Officer Dykstra with the Des Moines Police Department. Who's this? Hello, is anybody there? All right, I'm going to try to call your dad, okay? Hello, this is Jim? Hi, Jim. This is Officer Dykstra with the Des Moines Police. I am. I can. Are you Are you Megan's dad? Okay. Do you live in Des Moines? Okay. Can you come to the Quick Trip at East 30th and University, please? Yes, she's okay. I just need someone to come take the kids, okay? How far How far away are you? You're extremely intoxicated, right? And what have What have you been drinking today? Like hard alcohol? Yeah. You're under arrest for public intoxication, okay? Yes. Would you like to submit to a preliminary breath test? Is that a no? Okay. >> Soon after, the children's grandfather arrived. He immediately comforted them to help them feel safe in an unfamiliar situation. >> Hey, how old are you guys? >> I'm 4 and 1/2. >> I'm 4 and 1/2, too. >> Okay, I'm 7. I'm 7. >> 7, 4 and 1/2. And how old are you? >> I'm 4 and 1/2. 3. >> So, your grandpa's coming to get you guys, okay? >> Okay. >> Whose grandpa's coming? >> I don't I think it's their grandpa, but they know us. >> We're going to the hotel. >> You're going to a hotel, okay. >> Yeah, I don't know. I think we have to cancel it cuz we're supposed to go to him and Megan. >> Yeah, we're going to go get your mom some help when you go with your grandma. >> Hi, Jim. >> Yes. >> So, she was found outside of her car, just absolutely hammered. >> Let me see. The kids to the girls are probably in the >> Okay, they're not in there right now. They're inside. So, I'm just going to explain it to you then we'll go inside and get the kids. She was outside. She said that she wasn't driving the car or anything like that. So, I'm not really able to prove that she was driving the car this time. So, she's not being charged with OWI, but she's getting charged with public intoxication and four counts of child Okay. Does that make sense why that would happen? Okay. Okay. She's in the back. She's going to be going with us today. But, I'll take you inside and you can go get the kids, okay? >> Okay. >> Hey, kids. >> outside and just sit in the car just to make sure >> Hi, guys. >> Is there a 26? >> When your dad gets here, you can have whatever you want. >> Where are the kids going? >> I think >> The address. Like, I assume your place, right? For now. >> The family shared that the mother had been struggling with ongoing mental health challenges. This highlights that psychological support is important not only for the individual, but also for the well-being of children in the family. >> Sir, if you'll do me one last favor and just park her car here and I'll let them know and I'll let them know if you just want to have someone come get her or something. >> Yeah, their house is actually just two blocks away. >> Okay. >> She's going to jail. She's having a psychiatric episode. She's She's bipolar. She's not taking her medicine and I think she when she does that sometimes she get she drinks. >> I mean, that's not illegal, which is >> What's that? >> You can't force her to take medicine. >> No, I know, but I mean, she's she needs psychiatric care for sure. >> Well, we'll make sure to tell the jail that when we get there. >> We'll be the ones me and him will be >> How are the kids? Did you find them? >> Yeah, they're okay. They're just in the car. >> She was outside the car, so they can't charge her with OWI. >> I mean, we don't want to I mean, we don't want to >> She just finally got >> She is getting charged with four counts of child >> Yeah, I figured that. >> Public intox. >> Yeah, she she we thought for a long time that she had a drinking problem. We finally got the medical care that she needed and they diagnosed her with bipolar and she's been absolutely fine since that It like 4 months ago. The last few days she's been acting a little weird and I thought maybe she stopped taking her medicine. >> Based on the kids statements as well, I mean they said she was sounding funny, walking funny. >> And I I was trying to figure out where she was and get to them. >> And whose dad are you? >> The two It's still at Sun the curly hair girl Pearl and Jack are my niece and nephew. >> Okay. >> And their parents are in Minnesota right now. I'm watching them. >> what they had said. They said you guys are going to some hotel. >> Yeah, we were going to go swim at Sun Sun Creek Inn in Urbandale where her cousin >> works there. >> Do you want to take Jack and Pearl home? >> Yeah, where's my mom? >> She's with the kids. She doesn't have boosters in her car. >> Pearl and Jack are in my >> Yeah. >> Pearl and Jack's stuff's here. >> Okay. >> Your children are here. I'll take them home. Come get me. >> Do you want my information to get a statement or anything? >> Do you need dad's information? >> talking to her while I was going on. >> I might as well grab it. >> Yeah, I'm just so I have that. I appreciate all your help, okay? You're good to get out of here. >> And she's definitely having a medical emergency. She's bipolar. She stopped taking her medication. If she knows that it all goes crazy. >> I'll note that in the report, okay? >> Okay. But I mean she's going to need medical help in addition to the jail. >> the jail staff has nurses on staff that will look at her. >> Thank you, officer. Appreciate >> Thank you. >> Even with support, the mother still faced legal responsibilities. However, authorities considered her current mental state rather than focusing solely on >> All right, we're going to have to have you step out, okay? You're going to have to step out. We're going to have to search you and then we're going to take you in a wagon, okay? >> Faster we do this, faster we can get there, okay? It's going to be warmer. >> Hey, no. I'll help you out. I love you, baby. You'll be okay. >> Oh, it's so cold. >> Hey, baby. You're going to be okay. Hey, you got to keep moving. Here you go. Now, step out and face towards the wet face towards car for me, okay? >> All right, hey. Oh god. >> Sorry. >> You don't have anything in your pockets, do you? All right. I've got it. So, go ahead and put your hands behind your back for me, okay? Okay, hey. Let's go this way. Okay, let's go out this door. Did that officer offer you a PBT? >> No. >> What? >> Nothing. >> He didn't offer you a PBT? >> Nothing. >> Okay. >> Pain, sir. Damn it. scary. >> Go ahead and step up, okay? >> I'll see. >> Watch your head. >> [laughter] >> Come on, you got to get in here. Come on. You're okay. Just slide forward on your knees. >> Like Jamie. >> All right, here. What time you step out? >> You want me to go in with her and her? >> Yep. >> All right. >> Come on. Come here, come here. I got her. You got her? Okay. All right. We're going to scoot this way, okay? >> Hey. What's going on? What's going on? Why did you fall down like that? >> Because >> Are you okay? >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> Medics will transport her now. >> What? >> Medics will transport her now. >> Okay. Got the medics here to come get you, okay? Let's slide you out of here. >> We're here to help you, okay? >> Okay. >> Okay. What's your name? >> Megan. >> The mother was charged with public intoxication and four counts [music] of child endangerment. Under Iowa law, she could face four to eight years in prison and a $6,000 fine. This case is a reminder when mental health support is lacking, children can be most affected. Strengthening parents' well-being and family connections is key to keeping children safe. >> Okay, so who was supposed to be looking after him? >> Me. That's me. >> Okay. >> He just had been like 20 minutes ago. >> In fact, the boy spent some time with police before his mother arrived. On April 1st, 2024, Elyria police in Ohio received an emergency call about a 2-year-old boy walking unsupervised. Officers quickly arrived, comforted him, and ensured his safety. The situation was challenging because he was too young to provide his name or any family information. >> All right. >> What car is that? That's cool. He was next to the mail box. And he was on the officer's side like in my window like this. So I got out >> He was looking at the car. >> No, he wasn't in the car. >> No, but he was like looking at the >> was looking at the car. >> Okay. >> So I was like, "Oh, no." And then he like was crying a little bit. So I got out and he like gave me a hug and everything. I said, "Where's your mom? Where do you want to go?" >> you live down here? Do you live down here? Do down here? >> Yeah, that's my >> Yeah, that's right there. >> Okay. Do you recognize this? >> I have actually never seen him before. >> He tried to come in our house. Like, I was like, "Where do you live? Where do you stay?" And he was pointing across the street. Walked him across and then he like pointed in and she was like opening the door just kind of peeking out. He tried to walk in, but I haven't seen anybody. >> my kid. I don't even recognize anybody." >> Hey, buddy. >> And that first >> Hi. >> Is he totally non-verbal? >> He speaks. >> Okay. >> something, but we can't make out what he's saying. >> I'm saying he's two or three. >> I'm right in the blue house like >> Do you want to check the >> She's here. >> And I'm right there at 134. >> And he's pointing over here. >> I've never seen him She's never seen him on the >> Do you know your name? >> Do you know Do you know your name? >> outside of my car. He was like >> No. >> He would say something, but we can't make out >> Do you want to grab their info? >> Just sit down here. >> I tried. I'm kind of just standing on it. >> I'm just going to run through these >> Yeah, you >> calls to see if we have anything. Officers went around the neighborhood with a child, knocking on doors to find his family, but no one seemed to know him. >> Have you seen him before? >> I mean, yes. I said it's a lot of kids over here. So, he looks familiar. >> Okay. Okay. I'm having dispatch Okay. all six of these streets just to see if there's ever been a call before. Is this your house, buddy? Hey, man. Can I borrow you for a second? If you don't mind cuz you're young. Do you live down here? >> No, I live on 10th Avenue. >> Do you live down here? Do you recognize this one? >> No. >> No. >> Okay. All right. Thanks, man. I appreciate it. What? >> We don't know. >> We don't know. >> We're trying to figure IT OUT. >> KNOW. SHE KNOW WHO HE IS? >> I DON'T KNOW WHO >> NO. >> OKAY. She's evil. >> Oh, really? >> Yeah. >> What's that? >> I mean >> What did you say? >> Okay, so her >> 142 >> You live right here? Okay, so I thought that's I thought it was one of y'all kids. Okay. That's why I thought he was down there. I didn't I didn't I don't know. >> He kept saying >> That's why I told him I'm like, "He got a little boy, but that ain't him." >> So, you know my son is >> Hey dear, I know you're you usually know like everything that's going on. So, I'm like >> He knows his baby. She knows she's home. He's seen him. >> Cuz you you helped us last time we were down here, so >> No. >> Yeah, I got a house full of stuff since Easter. I've never seen this little boy. >> That might make sense, actually. >> Is it over here somewhere? >> Hodge. >> Possibly. >> Hopefully. >> How How long was he with you guys? This one. >> Well, I think he might be confused with the >> come on. Let's go try down here. Just stop here for a second and see if he starts if he barks himself. You recognize any of this? Here? >> Oh, copy. >> Which one? >> Can you show us? Can you show us? Cuz we're trying to He's all on We're trying to find it. Can you show us? >> Yeah, he's been like walking around pointing at every door. So, if you know him, we'd really appreciate it. >> Do you recognize him? >> I think he was staying at 103. >> Here, one second, buddy. >> I think he's staying at 103. >> This is 103. >> Yes, this is 103. >> I'm in 105. >> 105. Okay. >> All right, we're going to go to the next one. >> Really? >> There's supposed to be a car for them. >> Surprisingly, even long-time residents in the area [music] had never seen the boy before. >> Cuz he knocked at the door. I thought that was her something, you know. >> Okay. All right. Well, we appreciate it. >> Let's try 113 then, since that comes back. >> No. >> I think that's his mom's car, but I'm not sure if that's the same in that car with them. >> This white one? >> Yes, this one. >> Okay. >> I think it's the same. >> 1.11 RD >> Hey, buddy. Do you know this? >> 224 >> That would explain why you're looking in the car. Hello. Hey, buddy. Is this yours? This one? >> It's 301 Clinton Avenue. >> Do you know whose this is? No. >> I have not seen him before. I have not seen him >> All right. Okay. Do you know I know a lot of people down here have kids. Do you know anyone that this might come to to mind as to who he might belong to? >> Honestly, >> cuz I know I don't see a lot of cars here day to day. It's like a lot of people >> There's not been a lot of cars here. Most of the people with cars kind of moved through, but there is Yeah, the girl that I know with kids, her car isn't here though, so >> 238 00 I have left. >> All right. Thank you. >> I'm sorry. >> No, you're totally fine. Come on, buddy. >> With no leads, officers took a photo of the boy and shared it on social media to ask for the public's help. Cooperation between police and the community helped keep him safe. >> And we have two options. It's not super cold, so we don't have to take him back right away, but let's snap a picture of him. Let's send that to uh to Mike Walker and then he can give that to Lee. Um just call Mike. Be like, I'm going to send you a picture. See if we can get that up on Facebook. I'll walk this cuz it's not like raining or anything. >> You want to take him back to the cruiser or what? >> Yeah, take him back to the cruiser. Call Mike. Let him know what we have. I'm going to go walk around just to see if anyone else is walking looking for their kids. Um Let me grab a picture of him just so I can show other people. >> I can send you mine. >> So yeah, just send it to Mike. Okay. Just start getting the process rolling for we're that on social media. Put him in a car. >> 8982 And uh I'll uh I'll talk to people. Do you know who this boy is by chance, ma'am? Ma'am? Okay. >> Have you ever seen him before? >> If I've if I've ever seen him, he's probably been in the front or somewhere. But >> So, we have a >> No. >> Okay. >> child >> Okay. >> age between the ages of 4 >> So, he was down there looking in a lady's car. But we don't know if Yeah, we don't know if he was We're just kind of going around, but he keeps going up to like every door like he was sleeping here, but everybody's saying they don't recognize him. >> Yeah. >> Back to the station? >> Back to the station and >> Okay. >> leave a unit canvassing. I can canvas. You want to take back? Or I can take back, but he's going to start uploading to social media. >> Yeah, I can I can take the kiddo back if you want to do that. >> Do you have all your notes and stuff? >> Yeah, I got it. I got there from here. Yeah. Come on, buddy. Let's go back. All right, come on, buddy. >> He was taken to the station while officers continued trying to identify his family. Shortly after, his mother arrived. >> They found her? >> Yeah. >> Are you mom? >> Yes. >> Where do you stay? What's your son's name? >> Joshua. >> Can you call him, ma'am? Is there anyone else at the house? Or is it just you? >> Yes, his dad's there right now. >> Okay, so who was supposed to be looking after him? >> Me. That's me. He He just It had been like 20 minutes ago. I usually leave my screen doors locked because he opens my door and go out. This is the second time he's done it. And I called him, he was at the park. This was what? Yes, day before yesterday. He just started doing this. I don't I don't play that. My My kids don't come outside at all play with other kids. They're always in the house. That's probably why to he's always in the house. He needs to get out. >> What's your name? >> Divisha, d e v >> What's your last name? >> Yes. I got four kids too. I don't It's not just him. >> All right man, so we're going to do we have him at our station. All right, so I'm just going to take you back and then we'll we'll talk about everything there, okay? >> Okay. >> All right, so you want to hop in the back of mine? We'll get you going. >> let my baby's father know first? >> Yeah, I'll drive you I can drive you over there and yeah, we'll get it handled there, all right? You want to get on the passenger side we'll get on the passenger side. >> The mother was later taken to the station to reunite with her child. Additional context about the family situation and her role in caring for the child was shared. >> All righty. Going down on the second street. You already talked to Sergeant Walker about some of the resources that are available. So this card has the QR code and you can follow there is there's numerous different resources that you can go. I just want to talk to you about what happened. This isn't an interrogation or anything. I just want to have a friendly conversation kind of about what happened what may have led up to this. This isn't going to be used against you or anything like that. Do you have any other children in the home? >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Three other kids. I have a 6-year-old, a 4-year-old, a 3-year-old, and a 9-month-old. >> Same father? >> Yes. >> Okay. For all four? >> Yes. >> Okay. This is he in the home with you? >> He's there sometimes. I usually don't have these problems like he didn't baby for yesterday. That was the first time it ever happened to me. But I'm starting to think that like they're in the house so much >> Mhm. >> he wants to probably get out and you know what I'm saying? >> I I get what you're saying. My sergeant mentioned he was doing stuff with his ears when you were talking to him and you said that your other son does that. >> Yeah, my other son does do that but >> Which which other one is doing it? >> The the oldest. >> The oldest. >> Yeah, but I don't think it's more of a It's like when they get in trouble. >> It's not like I yell all the time cuz I don't yell all the time, but they know they're about to get in trouble so like they get like that certain type of way. >> It's not a all the time thing, it's sometimes. You don't You don't do it all the time. I would say my oldest do it more than him. >> Did Sergeant Walker talk to you about autism and all of that? >> Yeah. >> Okay. Is the cuz obviously he's two so he should >> three on the 14th. >> So he's almost three and he's not talking. >> I don't know if it's just because they're they're in the house all the time and they don't be around much. You know what I'm saying? If they were around kids they would know a little bit more or >> So So we have him who's obviously not talking. >> Like he talk He talks. >> Okay. >> He He really talks. >> just around other people then? >> It's probably around other people. Like he talks more than any of my other kids ever did at his age. Like he says full sentences. >> Okay. >> She said she had been under pressure caring for several young children. Police suggested family support programs to ensure the child's safety and healthy development. >> That card that we had for you like I said you go on there it's going to pull up a whole list of resources that you can point in the direction for kids that might have the It It's First off, the list on there for the the resources goes everything from people who are homeless to everything that we deal with. But you will find a subsection that deals with kids who go through this kind of stuff. Something that you might want to look into is our department offers a program called Project Lifesaver should he go missing again. If he is diagnosed autistic or any other special need, they do offer a program where they put a GPS tracker on him because if he is demonstrating the ability this young to be able to escape a house, you turn your back one second and then You know what I'm saying? If something happened because this was an hour it took us to find them or to find you or he was out. Yeah. >> That's See, that's what I'm saying. Time just be flying and I just don't You know what I'm saying? When you got three other kids and you got so much going on, you got to do this, do that. I'm helping my son with his homework. He's homeschooled. >> So, is is everybody in the house homeschooled or do >> No, he's just homeschooled. The other one's not schooled. Yeah, he'll be in school next year. >> Who's homeschooled? >> My oldest. >> The 6-year Is he's the only one that's 6 year old? >> Yes, that's homeschooled. Yes, cuz that's school period. >> Nobody else helps you with managing all of the kids and is the father in the picture or >> He's He's He's He's in there. Like, you know, he's there. >> Does he Does he help with the schooling and all of that and watching the kids? About how many days a week would you say? >> Two or three like three days. >> Three days a week? Is that like a full day or like a part of a day or >> Part of the day. >> How many hours would you say? >> Probably five hours or something. >> Five to six hours? >> I guess he's working. So. >> Okay. Is he paying child support or do you guys just like kind of co-parent? >> Yeah, co-parent. >> Okay. Did you talk to my partner about what happened today or >> No, I didn't. >> If you want to talk about it, we can talk about it. >> I do. >> Okay. The mother explained how the child had wandered off. So, basically, we just want to talk about what happened and if I have any questions, we can go from there. >> Okay, so I don't know. How long was How long How long was he You said he was gone for like an hour? >> He was gone about an hour. >> So, like was he like You said he had [music] to be So, somebody must have caught like got him right when he went outside. Cuz that's the only way. >> So, the witness The witness brought to our attention that someone called cuz he was looking in the window of cars across the street. Like, he was looking for something. So, he kept pointing back towards the east and kept saying go that way, but we ended up on Hodge and then like he was kind of by like where the mailboxes were. We walked towards Hodge and then came back down and eventually got to the point where we're like, we don't know. And your neighbor said that it like wasn't they didn't recognize him. >> The lady on the end who was really worried and called us all the time, she didn't recognize him. I figured if Okay, so your kids are pretty much they're kind of introverted. Okay. >> I don't I don't want to seem like a a bad but I don't want my my children seeing the wrong stuff. You know what I'm saying? They be cussing and you know, I don't want my kids introduced to that type of stuff. So so I try to keep them away but I still feel like I should, you know, I do like in the summertime take them to parks and stuff like that but as far as them just going outside and playing with the kids like I don't really trust them. >> He is smart. He is smart. I will say that. So if I had to phrase this in a politically correct term for my you don't want your kids going outside to keep them away from the social life of Will. Is that fair? >> Yes, just Will. Okay. >> I'm trying to like read between the lines of what you're saying but I'm trying to phrase it in the in a way I just want to make sure you're in agreement with that. >> Yeah. >> Um so that would make sense why they don't see Will outside anymore. Obviously we did try knocking on your door. I think we tried knocking on your door. >> What? My door? >> I'm 100% sure cuz I did come back. Obviously they did find you eventually. Did they find you by knocking on it? >> No, when I I was on the phone WITH THE POLICE AND I WAS JUST WALKING AND I SEEN people and they were like, "Are you looking for a little boy?" I'm like, "Yeah." >> So you noticed he was gone. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Okay. Okay. >> I'm not I'm new to this stuff. This stuff don't happen to >> There's There's some paperwork. I got some paperwork. That's pretty much all I have. Let me I'm going to talk to my boss. We'll see if we can get you out of here and get you back home. >> She still had to be accountable for the situation. Family services were involved to review the circumstances [music] and she would have the opportunity to share her perspective. The process focused on providing support rather than punishment, reflecting the humane approach of the US system. >> All right. Divasia, understand that you are going to be cited today for endangering children. Now, before you freak out about it, you have your day in court. You can explain what happened, that you were busy, preoccupied with your other kids. I am going to listen before you get upset. I am going to put everything in there about how he could possibly be on the spectrum and that we don't know, which would work in your benefit. >> Like, so not fair. Like, it's not fair cuz I'm not It's like >> Hey, sweetie. And and like you told me, too, you went out trying to find him. You tried to >> I called. I called. I was on the phone with him. >> Just just understand from our side, it was an hour. We were starting to put his picture online. We had a lot of steps moving to try and find you because we couldn't. This is not >> [clears throat] >> the end of the world. At the end of the day, we are here to assist you. This is a simple go to court, make your case. They're going to read our report. Okay? We do have to contact CPS anytime a child goes missing and we >> [snorts] >> we reunite him with the family. That's why I was asking you the questions about homework. I don't see any issues as of right now with what you told me. But, they're probably going to come out and just want to talk to you and say, "Hey, what's going on?" All the same questions I asked, but probably a little bit more detailed. Okay? Getting discharged, it is like not the end of the world. You have court on Wednesday. It's going to be at 2:00 p.m. >> a car. I have a car, but it's not even working right now. I have work shifts. I I don't even have any help. >> so what I'll do >> Like, what transportation? >> So, what I'll do And that's why I said that's why you're not going to jail. I'm giving you this. What I will do is I will write down Do you want me to write down the phone number to the court? You can call them and say, "I have to show up Wednesday, but I don't have a ride. This is what I got charged with. How can we work together?" They might not know what you're talking about immediately because the court won't have our copy of this until tomorrow morning. So, maybe wait until tomorrow morning. So, like I said, they won't have a copy of this until it goes over tomorrow and it gets reviewed. But, as of right now, your court date is on Wednesday the 3rd at 10:00 a.m. at the court. The address is listed right here. It's the one right across the street from where we were. Okay? If you don't think you can make it, call tomorrow morning. Call them. They always work with people. Okay? Officer Hackney is going to take you home. Okay? He's going to take the kiddo home. You guys can go together. Do you have any questions for me on what you can expect going forward? I know a lot of parents think because something happens and we have to do our job and we're stuck between a rock and a hard place. But, they think this is the end of the world. They think someone's going to come take their kids. Like I said, I talked to you about his home life. He's going for it. The other kids are going to school. You're doing your job. You're feeding them. They have beds. That's all going in here. See an issue coming of this, but they do have to follow up just because we've had an incident. Do you have any questions for me of what you can expect going forward? >> No, I've been through uh this before when my oldest was a couple months old. So. >> Okay. >> I mean, I know how it goes. >> Okay. And again, that's not saying you're a bad person. I honestly think in this situation, I mean, with him being able to show that he can push a chair. I will put that. I'll be like, we were talking about home life and he pushed the chair up to the door. I mean, it's on my camera that he has that capability to do that. If you're saying by he's two and he's dressing himself every day, that shows a high degree of intelligence. Okay? So, but Officer Hackney, if you wouldn't mind giving her a ride back home, make sure she takes this with her and if she's got any questions, just answer them. >> Awesome. That was forward. Okay. >> The mother was charged with endangering children. [music] Under Ohio law, if convicted, she could face up to 1 year in jail and a $5,000 fine. The case is a reminder that parents should seek support from the community to create a safe environment for children to grow. >> This stuff was inside of these bags, but the bags were right here and the bottles were right here. Maybe you believe it. >> room. >> It was right there in that chair. >> Unexpected challenges unfold. On December 7th, 2024, authorities in West Virginia received a report about concerns regarding unsafe living conditions at a motel with an infant also present in the room. Officers quickly arrived to the scene and knocked on the door. When they requested identification, the situation became unclear and required further clarification. >> Yeah, where's >> All right, it's right here. I have some stuff here. >> All right, I need everybody inside this room to produce identification. >> It's right there. I left the stuff right there. >> Does anybody have any firearms inside of here? >> No. >> Do you have anything with your name on it at all? Credit card, debit card, social security card? >> Our social security card and stuff is in my daughter's safe cuz she loses it on a regular basis. She can tell you all the information off of it, I'm sure. >> Where's the Where's the safe at? >> I'll tell you I don't know the number right now, but I know what like >> 7th Street in Fairmont. >> Okay. >> My daughter's at our grandma grandma's house. >> Okay. What's your first name? >> Jenna. >> Jenna? All right, hold on just a second. Let me run all you guys' information, okay? Who's in the truck? >> I don't know. >> Is it your Who's in it? >> No, it's my daughter's friend. >> All right, everybody's got to stay inside. Everybody's got to stay inside. You hear me? Everybody's got to stay inside. Did you say you were driving? >> No. >> Okay. So, I'll say you're suspended. >> No, I'm driving. >> Okay. >> No, you asked who was in the truck and I I'm just saying she's in the truck, but she I wasn't even thinking that Gretchen were >> in the truck, >> But the joint was in the truck. >> You got your ID on you? You don't have any physical identification on you? >> I got you know I got arrested a couple months back and never got them back. >> At Mud Fest in >> Yeah, at Mud Fest. >> Raleigh County. >> You don't have anything at all with your name on it? >> Oh yeah, I got it. I got it. >> Okay. >> I got my hunting and fishing license. >> Okay, yeah, that'll work. >> So I was like I might have your >> That was just kind of my driver's license. >> Yeah, no. Any other form of ID is okay. >> The fact that they said there was an argument that's what's insane. >> Yeah, that's what they called us for. >> I think he was being noisy, you know? >> No, I was pretty loud. >> Yeah, he was just carrying on with the baby and whatnot, but >> That's what they called us for. >> [music] >> Are you where you working? >> I'm dropping him off to my neighbor to watch him while I'm at work. >> Thanks, sir. >> Is there any way I can take her to work? >> No, not right now. >> Can I come back later? >> Well, everyone has to stay here. You're all detained. >> For what? >> For a felony. >> Not me. I'm cool with this [ __ ] >> Yeah, you have you're in possession of controlled substance schedule one. >> Okay. All right, yeah, I get that. >> I don't intend on arresting anybody over >> Right. >> Let me just say that. >> I don't even >> Right, I get it. >> Yeah. >> It's how it is. I got West Virginia ain't legal yet. >> Yeah, no. Yeah, unless you get a medical card. >> And literally I just need to pay the $150. They'll frame me for the medical card. I I have a history with them that's really sad. I have cancer. >> Mhm. >> I have a bad heart. I just need to go pay the $150 to get the card. That's all I got to do. >> According to West Virginia state code, if you can prove financial hardship, the the fee is waived. We're done. >> Oh, you just told me some knowledge I didn't even know. >> All you have to do is prove financial hardship. Do you follow any of the dispensaries on Facebook? >> Not really. >> Get on Facebook, like all the dispensaries. And they'll every now and then they'll do like sign up events. And when they do a sign up event, you you go in person and they'll do it. pop up on her. If you go when they do it in person, they usually have a counselor there on the spot that'll approve you right then. All you got to do is show them your income. And if it's zero, you show them zero. >> I have one now because I guess I can get more I've worked since I was 12 13 years old and I'm 51 years old. So I'll get like $500 a month. >> How old is he? >> He's 9 months. >> 9 months? >> This is the first time I've seen him in like 3 months. He's my best baby in the world. >> He seems chill. >> He never does nothing. >> He seems like a good boy. >> I love his little boy. >> Nancy, if you just want to watch him for a second, I'll talk to this guy. >> Okay. >> Who's the room registered to? >> Me. >> It's registered to you? >> Yes. >> I'm going to close this door that way the baby's not getting cold. This can work two ways here, okay? Option number one, you guys give us consent to search. >> Officers inspected the room and observed everybody on unsanitary conditions. >> Clear the room and I get a search warrant. >> You got warrants for you. >> You got two. You got two. Uh I would prefer not to have to put you guys all in handcuffs and do that. As long as there's no hard g- I'm not going to charge you. >> What's the >> I don't know nothing about it. >> Okay. Are you fine with that? >> One through straight now. One is through Whitehall. I heard that. >> Yeah, one's through Whitehall and one's through the state. Yeah, the other one's through the state. So you just want to give us consent? >> Yeah. >> Okay. Does anybody have anything else inside this room that I need to be aware of before we conduct a search? No? Sir? >> [snorts] >> Okay. Okay. >> Yeah, he left a day ago. >> Yeah, I haven't even been here. My dad doesn't have a bank card. I have tore up the room. >> What I'm going to do all right. Yeah, I would appreciate that. Have you? What the what branch were you in, partner? >> What do you mean, branch? >> Military? >> No, that's my brother. >> Oh, okay. So so you're wearing colors, so You have anything on you, partner? Okay. You got anything in your pockets, partner? It's right there, bro. Okay, I appreciate you. Is that a wallet back there? >> Yeah, the wallet is. >> Okay, yeah, if you just want to take that out of your pocket. I'll try and make this as fast as I can that way you guys can get get out of here. >> Look, I'm a school figure out what we find. He will be fine. >> All right, you got anything else on you, partner? >> I'm everything I get, I'm putting right there. >> I have it. Just the head stuff I puked in the trash can. >> Okay. >> And there's dog [ __ ] in that bag over here. >> There you go. >> There you go. >> Can we just step outside? Can I put him in the truck? >> You absolutely can. If you guys all want to sit in the truck, I don't care. That way you're not in the way. Okay. >> I'm going to at least put him in the truck. >> Are you on parole right now? >> Me? >> Yeah. >> In Virginia, I'm here for baby. >> Okay. For fines? >> Yeah, that's what it's for. >> You can go put the baby in the truck and you guys can hang out in the truck if you want. >> Okay, can I start the truck? >> Yeah, absolutely. You can go outside if you want to. You just can't leave, okay? >> Well, that's the diaper bag and stuff I just brought in to me, literally. >> Just brought it in, huh? >> told him there's a bag over there that's got dog [ __ ] in it and the trash can I puked in, so. >> Chronic thing, or? >> Well, I have a bunch of stomach issues, but I have a bad heart and >> That probably don't help your heart. >> I'm just going to I'll get stuff out. >> I don't want that. >> Okay. Okay, so then after everyone in the room was questioned for further investigation. Turn around, put your hands behind your back. I'm going to bring you back here, okay? You can >> Well, >> Going to have you take a seat here against the against the wall here. You're all under arrest. >> Am I getting arrested, too? >> All of you. >> Am I being arrested for nothing? >> That's a knife. >> Yeah, I just got it. >> That's what you're talking about. >> I'll sit over there. >> I don't know if I can >> Or stand over there, whichever one you prefer. >> I don't think I can get down there. You stay with the baby. >> Yeah, what is going on? >> You're all detained, ain't nobody leaving. >> I just told them it's mine. And you all know that. >> Oh, no, partner, you're all going. >> And my daughter doesn't know what my daughter doesn't know what I do. She knows I get high, she don't know. >> You ain't just getting high with that. >> I just bought two ounces. I just got $5,000 cash. I can tell you I just dropped money out of my >> So, where's the rest of it? >> That's what I I bought a few days ago and I've been getting high. >> You didn't smoke an ounce in a day, dude. You didn't smoke an ounce in a day. >> an ounce gone. It's been 3 days, 4 days. I've been here for 3 or 4 days. >> Individually wrapped. >> And I snorted it. >> Brother, a deeper assessment uncovered serious issues. Showing that the child had been left in an environment that posed serious risks. >> dude. 1 2 3 4. Packaged ready for sale. >> That's disgusting. I know he does have like He's like terminal and cancer. So, he says he's been throwing up like crazy, too. >> He threw up in the stomach there. >> Oh, that's interesting. All of this was laying right here. So, we haven't searched at all. >> I seen a container in there. Looks like it was a body in there. >> I would say it's the girl that Gino arrested because he let her go to the bathroom. So. >> Yeah, there's container laying there. >> Yeah, I'd say she dumped it. This room's disgusting. It stinks in here. >> It does, babe. >> Hey. He told me I've been throwing up in the trash can. Watch out. Look at all that mess. >> Yep. >> Oh, what is this brush? >> Oh, my goodness. >> Huh? What do you know? >> Yeah, you want to take a picture of this? >> I'll just hold it. >> That's why he didn't want me to get in that trash can. >> You did it. >> Oh, yeah, bud. >> Yeah, it was in the trash can. >> That's it. >> Huh? Baggy. Yeah, you don't >> Try and collect as much as we can. >> I'm going to get my >> Whatever that's bag. So, he's up here selling to these people is what he was doing. We just walked in on it. That's a decent little bit that was in the bottom of that thing, huh? >> Mhm. >> Plus, there's some in that lid. Papa Gino's going to be happy with this one. Look at that. That's what we got out of that trash bag. >> Yeah. >> This thing is negative 45 g. >> It's nice. Pain he can sniff on or something. >> That's funny. He said he bought it like this. These are all the baggies that match that. >> Yeah. >> All right. This is going to be a good one right here, I think. Just watch out for needles and [ __ ] >> There's two. And then all the rubber things in there. >> Who would have guessed? All right, here we go. You ever seen that? >> No. >> The holy grail. >> [laughter] >> It's like a decorative piece. >> It kind of looks like it, don't it? Broken pipe. I'm a proud redneck head. >> Almost laying on baby bottle. >> Yeah. Wait, was it really? >> Yes. That bottle I didn't I didn't place that there. >> So, these bottles were next to these bags that contained >> rented the room and was in charge of the child. Though all adults shared responsibility for the situation. >> The bags were right here and the bottles were right here. >> I'm just saying I've breastfed two kids. >> My formula never looked like that. >> What is that? >> That's the milk chocolate milk. >> The bag that was right next to the bottle had the milk in >> Not to mention all that. >> Oh, and all this. Maybe he was in this room. >> Maybe it was right there in that chair. Yeah. Feel like we've got felony all day. >> Australia just did that to me the other day. >> What? Didn't charge it? Or did you? >> Didn't charge it. >> Okay, I'm charging it. >> And then I couldn't figure out how to get into the station. >> Oh, that's why you >> I was dumb for like two seconds. >> That's why you texted >> new person watching me. She's like, "Do you not ever come here?" I was like, "Yeah, I come here. I don't know what's happening." >> I'm going to go ask her what's in this. >> Yeah, go for it. Surprise, [ __ ] it's a pipe. Deborah King in here with her pipe. >> I probably got to arrest me, too, cuz I'll punch out his face. >> What she say it was? >> say. I don't know. What do you mean you don't know? >> it how feisty you get. >> Oh, no, you guys did it. You guys did it when you dumped everything out. >> We did that? >> Yeah, apparently. >> We mixed it up and everything? >> I guess so. It's magic. >> Kinkle, are you thirsty? >> Yeah, I I'll get a little hungry. I haven't had lunch yet. >> There's mold on the side of that. >> No, there's not. >> That's what that is. I promise you. >> go get my phone. I'm taking picture of that mold in the baby bottle. >> The mother faced charges of conspiracy to commit a drug-related crime, conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute a controlled [music] substance, child and possession of a controlled substance with intent to traffic. Other adults were also held accountable. Some were already on probation in Virginia, while others had active warrants from Whitehall. What do you think is the best way to protect children who are living in unsafe environments, while also helping families learn and improve? Not every story has clear black and white lines. Some situations leave gray areas and unanswered questions. What remains undeniable, however, is that when children are in uncertain or potentially unsafe environments, staying silent can sometimes allow problems to continue longer. If you find our content meaningful, please share to help spread a positive message, and don't forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications to keep following our journey. See you again tomorrow. >> [music] [music]