Get back. >> Don't do that. >> What is your problem? STOP. >> I DETAINED. >> I know. >> So, shut the up. Police will shut the door. You should like that. >> Modern times [music] offer countless opportunities. Yet, some adults make choices that quietly derail their paths forward. >> I didn't even say I had a couple things like that. Okay. I said that's my bottle. That's what I said. >> Any more involvements with him is just going to lead you in trouble, trouble, and more trouble. >> These seemingly separate stories point to one reality. When adults fail to stay grounded, children are often the ones most affected. This man continues to display concerning patterns of interaction with young users online despite having received multiple prior cautions. >> No one's in any sort of trouble right now or anything. We just got to clarify some stuff. >> On September 18th, [music] 2024, authorities made contact with a man named Brandon O'Hara, who was suspected of [music] repeatedly using social media to engage with underage users. In 2019, he had previously been addressed by authorities in North Carolina for unsuitable activity on Snapchat. However, most reports [music] were later dismissed and he faced only minimal consequences, allowing him to continue [music] his everyday life. By 2021, he became involved in another situation concerning a woman, but that matter also ended without a clear outcome. >> Hey, how you guys doing? Good. >> Good. You guys know of a Brandon? >> Yeah, he do. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Hold on. Honey, can you come outside for me? >> Are you uh How old are you? >> Am I in trouble? >> Is Brandon Is Brandon home? >> Brandon home? >> Can you come out and talk to us real quick? >> Are you 14? Are you from Indiana? >> No. Where are you from? >> Well, we need to speak with Brandon real quick. No one's in trouble or anything right now. >> Is someone missing? >> What's that? >> Someone missing? >> Well, the call we received is that Brandon was going down to South Carolina with a 14year-old and came back and someone wanted you checked on, which I'm assuming is you. >> I'm not familiar yet. >> Okay. Well, regardless, >> 232 family friend, >> a family friend. >> Yeah. Confused. >> We have a 14-year-old female here along with Mr. O'Hara. Can you recont her on county and see what they need from us? >> Okay, I'll rec. >> Can Brandon come to the door? How you doing, Brandon? >> Okay. >> Can you just come to the door so we can talk to you? No one's in any sort of trouble right now or anything. We just got to clarify some stuff. >> Okay. Um >> Yeah. >> Who called? >> Hiron County Sheriff's Office. >> The police would show up at the door. Usually it's my mom or dad. >> Where are you from? >> What's your name? By 2024, [music] the situation had become more serious. Brandon O'Hara, living in Myrtle Beach, [music] remained active on Snapchat. He connected with a 14-year-old girl and claimed to be 17. On June [music] 19th, 2024, he traveled a long distance with the girl from Indiana to [music] South Carolina. This time, agencies in Indiana, South Carolina, and Ohio work together to [music] locate them and begin an investigation. Through a window, officers observed him and the girl inside the same room. [music] As their statements did not match, the case became clearer. >> Like I said, no one no one's in any sort of trouble or anything with the switch. I don't know how they got the information, but apparently they were stating that um >> you drove from old unknown of what the relationship is between you two or anything and they were wanting the welfare of her checked on. >> This happened like well a long time ago. >> Long time ago. >> Like I moved from South Carolina to here. >> What's Amber? >> Okay, here. Please stop over here real quick. Brandon, what's your relationship to her? >> We're just friends. Friends. >> Okay. She just briefly mentioned that you guys are uh friend like family friends. So, we're just trying to clarify exactly what's going on with Hiron County and see exactly what they need from us cuz the only thing really at this point what they said is that they need a welfare check done on her. >> On who? >> Her. >> She's fine. >> And she's from Sunduski. >> Yeah, she's from here. She lives right there. Does her parents know she's over there? >> Yeah. >> Okay. You said she lives right here in this one. >> Okay. Hang tight here. >> The case grew more complex when the parents shared that they had warned their child many times but were not listened to and were met with strong resistance. >> Be with me in a minute, sir. >> Does she live over here? >> Yeah, her mom's here. >> You're her mom? >> Yes. >> Okay. I don't know how we got the information >> or what they want exactly aside from a welfare check, >> right? However, they stated that he drove from Indiana to South Carolina with her, which she's saying happened a long time ago. >> No, he came from South Carolina up to Ohio. >> Up here. >> Okay. And I guess they had met somehow online and his family doesn't have anything to do with him. So, long story short, out of kindness to my heart, I helped him out until he can get a place over there. He's got his own place. They're friends, whatever. He lied about his age when he first came up here and he lied about his age for a long time. And he just recently confessed to me his I don't even said he's in his 20s. He was telling us for a long time that he was 18, which was bad enough. >> You know what I'm saying? So it's just it's a mess it's just a messed up situation. But he has his own place. >> Hey, have him just chill out over there for now. Brandon, can you chill out over there? Have a seat on the stoop. >> So >> I'm going to come over here and talk. So you're aware that your your full body >> 15. Yes, I understand with someone that >> Yes, they hauled off and did anything before I even >> How long have they been? >> They have known each other for like months now >> just through the internet. >> Well, it was before that. It was on the internet and then um he came up here like out of nowhere and then his father came up when he got the apartment a couple weeks ago. His father came up and brought his bed and dresser and some belongings and drove back to South Carolina and said good luck. And um I feel bad for the kid, but it's I know it's rude. >> I have warned her time and time again not to let him go, not to let her go over there, man. And I'm not saying what Amber was doing wrong, but I let her go over there to you know what I'm saying? But he's a wronging man. He She should not be over there with him at all. She's aing kid and I've been trying to tell her this time and time again and she won't listen to me. She's to throw me out tonight because I was She said I was being belligerent >> because of this situation. >> Yeah, because of the situation. >> What's your answer, sir? >> I I would rather not. >> Okay, that's >> I would rather rather not get into it. I love I love I love She's my baby. I just want >> Hang tight here. I'm going to talk to >> I'm not trying to >> I got you. But I mean, your information is vital as well involving this. That's why I'm asking. Let me go talk to my surgeon real quick. The mother stated that she had previously tried to help Brandon, but was met with misleading information. She felt helpless as she watched her child gradually head down the [music] wrong path, unable to intervene. >> We're on the phone with him right now. So, where are you supposed to be at? Let's go over there right now. Go ahead. Show me which apartment you live at. Speaking of, mom, let's go ahead and go on inside and have a conversation. You're mom, correct? >> Yes. >> Okay. Well, I'm Sergeant Hernandez from the Sunduski Police Department. I'm their supervisor. Should we go inside and speak in private? >> Yeah, sure. How we doing? >> All right. All right. About yourselves. >> I'm doing good. >> Sorry about the little bit of mess. >> All right. All right. So, here's where we're at right now. And and this is kind of how I'm coming into this picture now. And bear with me, okay? >> Okay. >> What's your name, ma'am? >> Amber. >> Amber. Amber, you can call me Erie. Okay. Sometimes all this stuff and titles and all that, sometimes they're just good for books and movies. I'll be upfront and honest with you, okay? And I would appreciate it if you're upfront and honest with me, too. So, that way we have a lot of things out in the air because I have a lot of moving parts to this right now. So, how this all started and why why we're over here in the first place is that a Hiron County detective reached out to me and told me that he received information from a sheriff's office all the way out in Green County in Indiana. >> Okay. Now, we're talking to Stateway. >> Okay. >> And again, I don't know the details of their conversation, but they got a tip. she was here with him and during the course of their conversation and the information being passed along to us is that at some point or another she had went all the way down to South Carolina. I'm I'm letting you know what I'm being told, >> okay? >> Because again, there's a lot of moving parts here and I'm just want to lay it all out, okay? That at some point or another, she was with him over all the way down in South Carolina. They came all the way back up here. They were concerned about her welfare. So they contacted us through two different So it's Green County, Indiana contacted the Heron County Sheriff's Office, the Hering County Sheriff's Office contacted us, gave us an address, no apartment, but we were ultimately able to determine where exactly Brandon O'Hara was. And furthermore, in addition to that, the concern that I'm hearing now, and I don't know the conversation that another officer is having with that Heron County detective, is we're not aware of their whereabouts from point A to point B cuz they just don't get anonymous tips or tips for nothing and then pass it up along the chain and now we're here and now we're starting to find out that there is some degree of truth to what we're being told. Because bear with me, I know it sounds real outlandish. We get anonymous complaints or complaints about a lot of things all the time, but we still have a legal obligation to look into them and and to investigate and to address any concerns or allegations that might come up. At this point, I don't know what allegations there are. The only concern that I'm aware of is they were just concerned for your welfare and that you're supposed to be with Brandon and that is it. They haven't told us any other details about what's been going on. So, Amber, can you please fill me in about let's start at step one. So why I'm standing here right now? So I get a better understanding. >> A few months ago, 3 to 4 months maybe him. No, it's been longer than that. Few months probably 3 months. Um somehow they met each other online months be prior. Okay. And somehow he got our she gave him our address. I didn't know this. Okay. He drove all the way up from South Carolina to Ohio by himself. >> Okay. >> And here he is this kid. And SPD did come out here one night cuz they were asking if they wanted me to have him like trespassing or something because he was sleeping out in his car out in the parking lot. Okay. >> Okay. Then he started sleeping in the Walmart parking lot. Then he kept hanging out around here. He had no family, no friends, nothing. So I felt bad and they kept communicating and I was under the granted the age difference, but I wasn't under the impression that he was that much older. that he was lying about his age. And anyway, long story short, I helped him out here so he can get his own place cuz his family didn't come up here. They just like wrote him off. >> Okay. >> And he got his own place here recently. And his father came up like a week or two ago maybe and brought his bed and his dresser and some belongings and stuff and said, "Good luck." And drove back to South Carolina and that was it. And that's where we're at now. >> Okay. with them still being friends even though he just admitted to me the other day that he is not 18 that he's actually in his 20s. So that's where we're at. >> Okay. >> And I specifically told Amber as a parent. >> Mhm. >> I would keep her away from >> But it was hard to be in a jack situation >> as a responsible parent. >> Correct. Um, I'm trying to do something. It's hard when you're a teenager that teenagers want to kind of find out on their own, >> right? >> You know, and I do my best with working and keeping up with her and everything like that. And I'm a single parent and I'm I'm just trying to do the best I can with with what I've got. >> She does. She does. She's an awesome mom. She works. >> I got a job. She starts tomorrow with me. So, I'm hoping with her being around other minors and other peers and stuff like that that she'll help gravitate her more toward her own age group and >> and stuff like that, you know. >> And I apologize. I don't mean to cut you off. Are you a relation to her or her or to date? >> I used to be a girlfriend and she called me she still to this day calls me. >> Okay. All right. >> Cuz he's a he's been a father figure for the past like four years. >> Okay. But you don't but you do not live here. Correct. He stays here from time to time, but he doesn't live here. >> I don't live here, but I stay here. >> Okay. At this point, right now, you guys are just friends, correct? >> Yeah, we're just Okay. The obvious concern is her behavior. Correct. Yeah. >> All right. Well, let's go step outside then. >> No, no, they're just just you. You stay here. >> The priority was to help the girl understand the possible risks while taking firm [music] steps to cut off all contact with Brandon. >> Why he's up here? Okay. Did you know why he's up here? Did he ever Was he feeding any lies or whatever? Then now that we're on the same page, and I'm not going to ask you any questions beyond that, okay? But let's go ahead and use our noodles here and critically think. We have a guy who's 29 years old. He has a warrant for his arrest for doing the same exact thing for taking across state lines, fled the state of South Carolina, fed you some BS story about why he's here. No, that is why he's here is because he has a warrant out of South Carolina for getting into some trouble with minors. So, you are to stay away from them. Mom's been told, too, as well that you're going to stay away from here or from there. you have no business over there. I'm gonna tell him the same thing. All right? And kind of get you in the loop or keep you in the loop. >> Have my stuff over there, though. >> Well, we'll get that. We'll we'll company you while you get your stuff over from there. Okay? So, that way there's no reason for you to be over there. So, that being said, after we leave and we're done here tonight, any more involvements with him is just going to lead you in trouble, trouble, and more trouble. >> Are we on the same page? >> Did the other officers get your information? Yes, I >> did. One of the other officers got spoke with you briefly and got your information, phone number. >> I got my ID, >> right? Go and get your stuff. What is What exactly do you need to get? >> Closing my charger. >> Closing your phone charger. Okay, Amber will be back right over with you. >> Mhm. >> Brandon, you make me sick. >> What? She's just going to go get her charger and her clothes and we'll be out of here. All my stuff is under sucks. >> Is it just a phone charger? >> Okay. >> Is that all you needed? >> Yep. >> Okay. Very well. Let's go ahead and go back over and we'll be over and done with and out of your hair. >> She doesn't want to talk to you. I'll have a colony strangulation as well. >> Okay. So, Officer D is on the phone right now with County Children's Services >> and uh we are going to have a report on file and we're and we're going to look into this further. You have any questions for me? >> No. >> Okay. All right. When I say this, I'm talking to human being to human being, parent to parent. >> No matter what she says, no matter what she does, no matter how much she cries, how much she stomps her feet or throws a tantrum, do not allow her near that young man. >> I know. >> I hear you. >> Have we learned a life lesson today? >> Yes, we did. I learned a lesson just in helping him in general. >> Okay. I'm not going to comment on your life choices about regarding any of this. It's not my place. >> I want simply want you to know that this is very, very serious. and the health and safety of her child was put at risk. And that's all I will say that about that and I'll let you steal on that. Okay. So, here is my business card. And from my business card will be some contact information. I'm working until 6:00 p.m. this evening. And I'm currently the officer in charge. If anything else pops up, please do not reach out or hesitate to contact our department so that way we can address whatever's going on or how we can help you out. In the end, the consequences he initially faced amounted to little more than a warning for future violations, raising concerns about whether the system [music] may unintentionally allow such behavior to repeat. >> Here, here's the facts of life speech. Okay? And I won't get into specifics and I'm not passing judgment, okay? I'm just making some observations. Okay? This is what you do. You contact them, form friendships with them, lull them, woo them, or whatever you do, and you're getting hemmed up and you're getting in trouble. You already have a warrant out of South Carolina because of something like this. Her mom over there. >> Nope. Nope. Doesn't matter. Okay. State of Ohio. That does not matter. And what I'm about to tell you is very important. So please do not interrupt me. It would behoove you to listen to what I'm telling you. Okay. This is what you do. All right. Let's go ahead and cut through. This is what you do. All right. You already got in trouble with it in South Carolina. And fortunately for you, South Carolina will not pick you up right now. Otherwise, if it if they did, then it were up to me. you would be in handcuffs and be at the area county jail on a hold. Okay? So, you're looking out there. In the meantime, per Amber's wishes, you are not to have any contact with her. You're not to have any contact. They don't want anything to do with you. If you go over there, if you attempt to make contact or with Amber, I'm making it abundantly clear to you. They don't want to be contacted. Okay? If you reach out to them, you will face a charge of telecommunications harassment. Furthermore, don't be surprised if they end up getting a CPO against your civil protection order. And then if you go over there, even look at them, you can be placed under arrest for violation of our court order. Okay? I don't know what your future plans are. I don't know what your state of life is, but the fact of the matter is is that moving forward at this point, you were not to have any kind of contact with him. Okay. Are we on the same page with that? >> Yes. >> Okay. You already got his phone number? >> Yep. >> Okay. All right. In the meantime, I would be remiss to not tell you. Let's start thinking very very carefully about how we're moving forward and your life choices moving forward. Okay. You're 29 years old. You have no business with understanding. All right. Free to go. >> By June 2025, Brandon O'Hara's actions were fully [music] addressed in court. At age 30, he was found responsible for multiple charges, including unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, pandering sexual oriented material, and disseminating [music] matter harmful to juveniles. He received a 4-year sentence with 9 months credited for time already served, and was placed under long-term monitoring with a requirement to [music] update his status every 6 months for 25 years. Social media can be a double-edged sword. This case is a powerful reminder of the hidden risks online and the need for [music] active supervision and guidance when children interact with strangers. He once upheld and applied the law. But that night, he sat behind the wheel with a child in the back seat as the vehicle's speed continued to rise. >> Hey, I'm out with uh Deputy Roas. He's got a bottle in the front seat. Appears to be intoxicated. >> What seemed like an ordinary evening turned into another traffic stop for driving well above the posted limit. A child was in the vehicle. And what made this situation unusual? The driver was an offduty officer. >> Driving too fast, buddy. >> Third time. >> Yeah, man. >> Third time. 16 to 45. Yeah, I know. But um I'm just going to lie. I just dropped her off. So, >> standby. You've been drinking, man? >> Uh not like that, but uh dropped off now, but you know. >> All right. You got your driver's license on you? >> Yeah. >> Oh. All right. That's yours, >> huh? That's yours. >> What? >> The the bottle? >> I mean, dog. Yeah. I mean, that that's it's in the car. So, I mean, it's just me and my daughter. I'm going go home. >> All right. Stand by, man. >> Hello. >> How you doing, Sergeant? Hey, I'm out with uh Deputy Roas. He's got a bottle in the front seat. Appears to be intoxicated. eyes are >> all right. I'll get you dressed up. >> All right, buddy. >> Hey, you step out from me, buddy. >> Yeah. All right. >> How you doing, man? How much you have to drink tonight, man? >> Not a lot. All right. >> Not a lot. >> All right. You You can do what? Whatever you got to do. >> I'm just going to have you stand right there. Uh got to wait on SARS to come. And uh yeah, you got any firearms? Anything on you? >> My my sidearm is right there. >> So where are you drinking at? Miami, uh downtown Key West, Broward? I'm asking you a couple questions. I need you to answer that, >> man. I know. Okay. >> I got to I got to ask you these questions like where were you drinking at? Like you say you had a couple drinks. >> I didn't say I had a couple drinks like that. Okay. I said that's my bottle. That's what I said. Okay. >> But when you came out the car, you told me you had a couple drinks. What you said? >> You say you say I'm going be honest with you. I I've been drinking a little bit. >> I'm not going to be dis disinging with you. Okay. >> Yeah. >> So, all right. >> I just drop that Alina off. >> Okay. Then hit with him. >> Yeah. >> Like I said, what we're going to do is since I got him here, we just like we're going to go ahead and get started. We're going to do a signal one investigation. Are you okay with feel my belief that you're under influence? >> Okay. >> All right. So, uh, just let me move my car. He's going to stand with you right here. We're going to just do it. >> If I deem that you are not >> Okay, just stand with him. >> You want to wait for for a sergeant for me or no? >> Yeah, but I have backup so I can go ahead and do the field exercise. When he come, then you'll have it still. >> His professional background did not alter standard procedures. Each step was handled by the book. The question remained, would experience be [music] enough to navigate this moment responsibly? >> I guess this is here. 215. >> Good. Let me just read it to you like you going to stand right there. Stand right here with me. >> All right. You just want to stand by your hand by your side. Right beside each other. >> All right. All right. So, what we're going to do is like I said, we're going to do some body exercises. Just spell my belief that you're under influence. So, the first one we're going to do is like I said, it's called HGN. What I'm going to do is I'm going to check your eyes. I'm just going to ask you a couple questions before we get started. Okay. >> Okay. All right. Are you sick or injured? >> No. All right. But do you have any physical defects? >> No, ma'am. >> All right. Are you diabetic? >> No. Do you wear correct lenses? Uh contacts, anything like that? >> 12:01 when I was 11:20. >> Are you blind? And neither one. >> All right. All right. So, exactly what I'm going to do is like I said, I just want you to follow the tip of my pen. Top of the pen. Scoot over a little bit. Once you follow the tip of the pen with your eyes only, not with your head. >> The first one I'm going to do, I'm going to move it. Hey, just listen to me. First one I'm going to do, just going to see if your eyes equally track. Okay. >> All right. So, at this point in time, like I said, you're going to follow the pin the whole way. Not with your head, only with your eyes. Okay. >> All right. So, we're going to do the next exercise. Okay. What I'm going to have you do is I'm going to have you stand on that line right here. Stand right here, bro. All right. All right. You're going to face this way. Okay. All you going to have both of your feet by your side. You want have your hands by your side. You're going to follow the direction that I tell you to. Okay. I'm going to read it exactly from the paper so you don't mix up. Okay. What I ask you to I want you to put your left foot on the line. I just put your right foot in front of it. Okay. With your heel touching heel to toe. Okay. With your hands by your side. Okay. All right. Bro, you can begin. 1 2 3 4 5 9 1 2 8 All right. So, we're going to move on to the last exercise. Okay. I'm going to have you just stay right there. Okay. Put your feet by your side. All right. Hands by your side. Okay. All right. The last exercise is called the one leg stand. Okay. When I tell you to, I want you to raise one leg approximately 6 in above the ground. Okay. Why are you counting out loud? You want to count 1 1,00 2 1 100 3 100 and so forth. Okay. Until I tell you to stop. Okay. Do you understand these instructions? I do. >> All right. Do you got a phone on your exam? At this time, you may this side. Yeah. At this time, you may begin. >> 1 1000 1 2 1 100 3 1 4 1 100 5 1 6 1 19 All right. >> You said stop. >> Yes. All right. What I'm going to have you do is the next exercise, you're going to step to the vehicle. Okay. Like I just what we have to do. Listen, you're impaired. You're under the influence. You understand that you're an officer yourself. I don't want Listen, I I I hate to have to do this to you, bro. But I I I wish you would have made a better decision tonight, bro. I know that. I need you to step to the car. Come on, buddy. >> Just Okay, >> we're going to figure out what what you're going to do with your daughter, if you want your your your girl to come pick her up or whatever. Like I said, this is something that we >> call my father. >> Okay, let's let's let's get you to the car first. Let's go ahead and get this taken care of. You know the process. Come on now, Ros. Come on, bro. Come on. Come on, man. >> That's fine. Fine. All right. >> Bro, you ain't have nobody to come pick you. >> No, I don't. >> If you would have told me, bro, I would have came and pick you up, bro. >> Seriously. Like, I I'm not >> You sit tight, buddy. >> A sobering irony. Someone once responsible for addressing public safety concerns now found himself on the other side of scrutiny. For the child's safety, the decision was made for his partner to arrive and take the child from the scene. >> Sweetie pie, you all right? You have any milk or anything? Any snacks? You okay? It's okay. Your daddy's okay. What's your name? It's okay. I'm a police officer like your daddy. It's okay. Do you have you have like a want to play on the phone? You like YouTube? >> Yeah. >> I'm sitting there. I'm doing my report and then he comes past me. He like he's going at a high rate of speed. I had to go up like 75 to catch it. So I'm like, "Okay, this car is going too fast." I stop him. I come to the vehicle. Like I'm talking to him and I just Where were you back? You were back where >> I was at 22 inside of the bus. >> Okay. Right there in the media. Okay. I got you. I got you. >> Yeah. I'm saying he's coming past me going fast. He shook my car. That's how that's how I looked up and I was like, okay, I know what car this is. I come up there. I'm like, okay, this is where I feel I know it's come up to the car. I see the bottle in the front seat. He smell his eyes are like I'm just like, >> I got you. >> So that's when I called you cuz I I knew he was like, >> got you. All right. >> Cuz told me that he was driving home and that he was impaired and that what you call it was driving. >> Yeah. Yeah, I remember y'all mentioned at the station earlier. So that was what? So they were coming southbound. >> They was coming southbound, but it was somebody else driving him. It was his >> girlfriend or some [ __ ] I remember they said that. Okay. It was a girl in the car at the time or you were this little girl in the car at the time? You don't know? >> It was him and his daughter in the car. >> No, I'm talking about on southbound, you know. >> Uh I don't know. I know. That's what the CO told. >> I got you. I got you. All right. Give me uh give me a second that we get this figured out if you don't mind. Hey, good good job doing your job. You know, it's not no different. Okay. So, let's go and her first. Let's let's get let's get her taken care of first and then we'll go from there. Hunter. Hunter, what's what's what's the what's what's the what's the girl's friend's name or whatever it is? >> Okay. You have you have her number or No. All right. Uh, again, my my thing's on, but you're not on speaker phone. Uh, what do you think she's still is she still at the house or where they live at or No, you don't even know where she's at. >> Or give Yeah, tell her to tell her to call Roas and stuff that way. I got answer the phone. Okay. Hello. Hey, this is Sergeant Torres, man. How are you? Good. Uh, well, we got uh Roas here. Uh, he's going to go to jail for DUI, but we have your daughter in the car. Um, is there a way you can come get her or no? Have you Have you been drinking as well or No, you're good. Okay. I'm at I'm at the 22, but the problem How long is it going to take you to get to Kajjo Key? >> Uh, I'll I'll I'll sit by here. Thank you. Bye. Can I give her the phone to go on YouTube and all that until she gets up here? >> Who? >> Your little girl. >> Who's picking her up? >> Adelina. Fine. >> Who? I mean, who else is there? >> My parents, but they're sleeping and they're probably me. So >> So do I give her the phone to go play or what do you what do you want to do? >> Um can can I have my wallet and just take the phone with me, too? Um if that's what you I'm I'm sorry I can't hear you right. >> I know. I understand. Like I said, I just want her to go and have something to be occupied with. I I know you want to go with take it with you. So I'm just going to go and I'll take care of her here. Is there like a bottle or formula or anything like that or No, >> no, she she's almost five. Well, she's 4 and a half. She'll be fine. Um, she's going to pick her up. And while waiting, officers conducted a procedural check of the vehicle and discovered an empty beverage container that raised additional concerns. >> Let him go and and and uh and get some someone to get the car out if you want to start going out, but we're going to go and search the general area for other open containers and then there. So we got So we got the bottle right there in plane view. We'll take that as evidence. He asked me to get his wallet and all that. So we'll just go and he said it's the general uh constructive constructive area he could go and reach to. You want to do the driver side to the passenger. Come on this side, Bernie. >> Yeah, he just said in the front. No, I just seen the the shot cup was in the front. You got the the bottle, of course. And uh we'll just take a picture of this stuff. >> You got an evidence bag in your pocket? >> Yeah. You want to grab it? >> Yeah. >> All right. All right. I'll go to C now with that. or you uh you bet cuz y'all been working your tails off today. Hey, I got the I got the in there. Anything else besides the bottle or no? >> That's it. There was this little pocket cup, but it was empty in the back seat. That's it. >> Uh we'll take that. All right. >> Uh you'll take this. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> All right. That that >> I'll take it. >> Yeah. Uh let me know uh if he blows or not. They want they want to know uh and then um that's it. Patience, you know, you know, be you know fighting the bear poking the bear. Do you have you always been professional? Nothing changes and just let me know. All right. Good job. Hey, it is what it is. You do your job. >> Yeah. >> All right. That's it. It's unfortunate, you know. So, all right. B. >> Okay. >> All right. So, they they got your daughter and everything situated. Okay, buddy. >> Is that her? I got two mommies. >> You got two mommies. All right. Ready? >> Ready. >> I already caught him so he's aware he's up. >> Grab her. >> Come here, baby. >> All right. >> I am. >> Let me go. This is the fire station. But this is what I'm going to do. I'm going to go pull it. Park it on the grass right there. >> Okay. >> Okay. Straight. >> Straight. Yep. >> All right. He's got he's got he's low on gas, too. So, make sure y'all keep that in mind. >> Yes, sir. >> You doing that? Okay. >> Thank you. >> All right. Have a better night. >> The offduty deputy was charged with DUI, open container in a vehicle, and child. Under Florida law, [music] he could face up to two years in prison, and $3,000 in fines. No matter the role someone holds, no one is above the rules. And when a child's well-being is involved, every decision carries lasting impact. Amid a tense family [music] dispute, an unexpected sound caused the situation to spiral, leading officers to a reality quite different from the initial report. >> She's got two little kids and YOU'RE GOING TO COME OVER THERE AND SCREAM AND >> I CAN'T GET UP. >> GET GET OUT. >> I CAN'T GET UP. On October 30th, 2025, officers responded [music] to a neighborhood after receiving a call about a concerning sound during a disagreement between a mother and her daughter. They arrived promptly to assess the [music] situation and speak with the mother. >> Yeah, I don't know where exactly this address is. Let's uh let's get right here and figure it out. >> Radio, do you have any history at that address? >> Hey, it's down there. Down there. I have an attract. Looks like there's a student that address. >> Hey, come to me. Come to me. Keep your hands up. Come to me. Okay. Are there gunshots here or were there gunshots here? Come to me. >> Come to me. I need you to come. >> It looks like you have any firearms mom and a 11year-old. >> It was a kid and a mom in yeah she just came home by his car. >> You want to >> She just came home from uh from getting uh gunshots too, man. >> I don't know what that's about, but at the end of the day, she just came home. >> Put your hands up. Put your hands up there. She just came home. >> No, no, no. I'm not getting in the car. I didn't do anything. >> Come to me. Hey, I called you guys. She just came home. She tried to commit suicide. Soon as she came home, she was being disrespected. Yes. >> Okay. Okay. Okay. Okay. Hang tight. Hang tight. >> There was no guns in her house. That is >> Who? Somebody said there were six or seven gunshots. >> Okay. >> I'm telling you what I said. >> Do you have any firearms anymore? I'm going to check your >> Who else is inside? That's it. Is your brother here? >> No, it's a man. This is a woman and a daughter incident. Put your weapons up, sir. Please. Nobody's pointing at me. Might be going on here. There might be gunshots in another house. >> Get to that house. Get to that house. >> We're trying to take We're trying to figure it out. We're trying to figure out what we got to do. >> Okay. Okay. Okay. You don't go inside the house. All right. Hang on. Ma'am, were there gunshots? We got calls of six to seven gunshots. So, that's why we're coming hot and heavy. Okay. Let's Somebody said there were gunshots. So, that's why we're we're doing this the way we are. All right. >> We are. Hold on. You guys know where to put that. He's got nowhere. He's got nowhere to put that right now. I put mine away. >> Search me. >> You can walk in my house with me. >> Okay, just calm down. >> We need a We got an unwieldy kid we need to deal with. >> We got calls for gunshots. >> Why would I flag you guys down? >> I know. We got calls for gunshots. That's why we had these. >> Why would I come out here flagging y'all down? >> You think we show up every house where I'm at? >> Crazy. You know, you know who that was. >> It don't matter. Did you call us? Did you call 911? >> Did you Did you think you heard gunshots? >> I have a camera something. If you can tell me if I'm wrong. Come in if you'd like. >> Okay. I have a rifle with me, so don't be scared. Okay. Okay. >> Yeah. I'll show you there. >> Okay. >> Okay. Are they denying? But >> yeah. What? >> Get back. Give us your [ __ ] problem. >> What is your problem? Stop. DON'T >> DON'T YOU COME OVER HERE. WE'RE INVESTIGATING. >> WE'RE INVESTIGATING. DO NOT INTERFERE LIKE THIS. >> Hold on. Hold on. Hold on. >> Hold on. And I mean I mean it. Hold on. >> You hush them up. >> What is your problem? >> I'm not trying to get anybody in trouble. >> I'm not trying to get anybody in trouble. I'm trying to make sure you're safe. >> Boss is in the house. SHUT UP, GIVER. >> I'M NOT TRYING TO GET anybody in front of me. >> Shut up. >> I'm about to sue you. >> Sue me for what? >> Sue me for what? >> MANHANDLING ME. >> YOU'RE UNDER ARREST, MAN. >> YOU'RE UNDER ARREST, YOU DUMBASS. >> Dumb ass. OH, I LOOK AT >> YOU GOT TWO LITTLE KIDS. >> YOU GOT THAT ON CAMERA. >> SHE'S GOT TWO LITTLE KIDS AND YOU'RE GOING TO COME OVER THERE AND SCREAM AND >> I CAN'T GET UP. >> Get Get a step up. Pick your ass up. >> YEAH, I'LL THROW YOU OUT. I'm going to sue you. >> Cool. Awesome. Cool. Join the club. After reviewing video footage and related information, officers determined that the sound, initially thought to be serious, was simply a garage door closing forcefully during the disagreement. >> No one else is supposed to be in the house. >> I am so sorry. >> No, that's okay. We for a while. >> I We've got a history there. >> Yeah, I know. I was outside and you could just It's very very clear. There you go. So, that's me. Okay. and hear screaming and you'll hear what sounds like shock. >> Wow. Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Yeah. >> Thank you. We'll be back. >> Okay. >> Everybody pumped up. Everybody >> right now. Everybody needs to be detained. >> Why? >> Hold on. Why am I being detained? >> Detained. Just be >> Hey, why am I being detained? Sorry. >> This is my lieutenant. >> Why am I being detained? I committed no shot. Gunshot. There was gunshots. Put your hands behind your back. Sir, do not >> Hey, he No. No. Why am I being the same? And I was searched. I was already searched by that guy over there. >> Hey, sir. There was gunfire. I >> There was no gunfire. >> Okay. >> Yeah. >> I need to be at my I need to be an interviewer. >> Okay. I don't know where you're trying to get. Just clear it up AS BEHIND YOUR BACK RIGHT NOW. STOP. >> Please just cooperate. >> Hey man, I want No, I ain't resisting. I want >> I was being I was being very Stop pulling away. >> I was being very cooperative. Now he went in there and listened to what the they said and I won't be entertained for some force gunshots. >> Why am I being detained? >> You're going to be trying to figure everything out. Okay. >> Why am I being detained? >> We were sleep. >> We got to get back. We got to get back. >> What you mean get back? >> You need to get out of the house. There were gunshots. There's a firearm in the house. >> There ain't no firearm in there. No. Hey, man. >> You seen the video? >> I saw the video. >> So, who was back there? It wasn't. Have you seen the video, sir? You ain't see us on it. >> Mr. D, I didn't see it. >> So, go see the video. SO, YOU HIS LIEUTENANT, CAN YOU GO LOOK at that video? >> Yes. Can you look at it? >> Okay. >> No, go watch the video. I'll go here. >> Ma'am, do you have that uh video? >> I do. >> I'm call. >> Did you hear anything? >> I actually didn't. >> Okay. >> It's right here. >> You can you can go back a little bit. And >> that's what I heard now right there too. >> Yeah. >> Outside. So >> what's what's the closest door to them? >> Yeah. >> The garage door. >> Okay. >> The father then explained the full [music] context describing the tensions that began after his wife brought her child from a previous relationship to live with them. >> So So just like I just said, I came when I came out that door. >> Okay. Let's back it up so we're on the same page. Your wife brought home her daughter in the process. Your stepdaughter on your wife. >> That's what I was told. I didn't see it. She said she said she tried to me. I want the phone back. I said call the police. Said I'm not her. Call the police. So boom. That's when my daughter tried to call the police. >> Okay. >> My daughter tried to call the police. >> This is different than your stepdaughter. You have a daughter and then she >> No, no, no, no. >> I keep saying my daughter cuz No, I can't. >> Okay, that's fine. Okay. It's just one. It's me, my wife, her son, >> and her daughter. >> Her daughter and >> which is our daughter. We share at school. >> Okay. 6 years old. >> It's a 13-year-old boy who's in the house by himself. No guns, no weapons. >> He's the one that came out all upset. >> Yes. No, there's no guns, no weapons. Okay. Now, if she standing with some gunshots, that's neighbor. >> Yeah. We got another call of gunshots and then he just saw video. I don't know. I was talking to him. >> And he's a liar, sir. >> Okay. But we did hear >> now those neighbors, they don't like my wife. I was incarcerated. An incident happened with them with my wife and them that they would had to deal. They had to deal with that [ __ ] before I got home. When I got home, ain't nothing else happened since. >> Okay. >> All right. >> Okay. Cuz we got >> those neighbors are >> Is there a gun in your house? >> I promise you no. If there is, my wife got it. >> You're not aware. Okay. >> Hey, listen. And and my wife is a amazing person. She wouldn't get no gun without me knowing. >> Okay. >> All right. >> All right. I appreciate your cooperation. We're trying to figure out what's going on. >> Look, you need to you need to let that dude is a liar. I can get Junior out that house immediately. >> Okay. >> Ultimately, despite the misunderstanding behind the original call, the mother still [music] faced formal consequences due to a brief loss of composure during the interaction. >> You seen that video? >> I have not. I've been talking to dad or stepdad. >> According to dad, mom was bringing the daughter home from a psychal or something like that. daughter hung on mom cuz she wanted some phone back. What escalated from there? I don't know. He goes there's no gun as far as he knows. So I haven't seen any video. Where's his gun coming into play? >> Listen my rifle. Where was that? >> Uh Myers of Myers Security. Can you throw it coming? >> Absolutely. >> Thank you. That could you play that clip again? That didn't sound like banging to me. >> I was out there, too. Very clear. >> All it's going to take is for us to ask them from permission to go in the house and see if there's any >> any damage in the garage cuz they pulled in and I have our camera out there and I saw them pulling in. I heard them fighting in the car >> before the [clears throat] doors closed. >> Mom and the daughter, right? Who was fight? >> I don't know. I don't know who pulled in. >> No. Wait, who did you hear? >> I heard the mom screaming, I assume. Yeah, I heard Jordan. >> I don't know who was with her. And then the doors close and then I hear that scream and then I hear those that noise and that's when I run in. And I wanted to double check in the cameras to make sure I heard what I heard. >> And [clears throat] that's when I called my husband. >> And it was loud, right? I mean, it wasn't just like banging. >> It wasn't like a banging. It was loud. It was right there in the garage. It was very distinct. It sounded like gunshots. >> Okay. What happened when you and your mom got home? You guys were in the white SUV, right? >> Okay. And I got out and I knew what they heard with gunshots was me banging on the garage. >> How? Where exactly? >> Right there on the garage. And I was banging hard. Like really hard. >> What? What? Like the wall? >> Garage door. >> The door. >> The door. >> The door that's up. >> Yes. >> How are you banging on that? >> Like like this really hard. >> So it was >> down. It was down. The garage The garage door was down. >> It wasn't open like that. >> Okay. >> And me and my mom were in there. And I while she was like while I was moving right like she was chasing me around the car. I started banging and asking for help because I didn't know what else to do. >> Okay. >> But there's no no firearm left. >> So you guys pull in, the garage door shuts. >> Yes. >> You guys start yelling at each other and you start running around the car and you bang on the the garage door super loud. >> How many times? >> Like six seven times. Yeah. >> Okay. I just watched the video. It doesn't say it's going to fire. That sounds like a sumless surgeon. >> Well, what is your name, officer? >> Venus. >> I'll make sure that my lawyer knows. >> That's fine. That's fine. And that was my super That was my supervisor. >> Going to sue the out of you. So, just so you know, for manhandling me, putting me against the wall, for telling not telling me what I was arrested for. I wasn't arrested. >> You don't have to do that right away. You can talk to my supervisor. >> I'm going to sue you personally. >> Okay. I don't You're more than welcome to. That's your right. But >> Oh, and and I'm go and I'm I'll go to your supervisor. I will go as far AS I NEED TO GO. >> That's totally fine. >> It's Jordan. >> This is what I explained in the car. November 11th is the court date. Also, my card, my information is here. This is the reference number. You guys have any questions for this incident? There's She's not facing any other charges anywhere. >> She's getting obstructing official business for barging in with the neighbors. >> Obstruct. >> It's just a minor misdemeanor or a misdemeanor. I'm sorry. It's a misdemeanor. But she was placed she was placed under arrest. I told her she's under arrest. I can't unrest her after putting her in cuffs and putting her in a car. >> Now you're arresting me after you told me I WAS UNDER ARREST. SHE WASN'T BEING TAUGHT. YOU SAID I WASN'T being taught. >> Nothing. Nothing with here. There's no there's no domestic. >> Now I'm being charged. I told you about the obstructing thing. There's no domestic. >> We got you. Okay. >> The mother received a citation for obstructing [music] official business, a misdemeanor. She later entered a not-uilty plea in court. In situations like this, remaining calm, cooperating, and understanding proper procedures can help protect everyone involved and prevent tensions from escalating further. On a cold highway, a mother stepped away from her vehicle, briefly separating from her child, then left the area in distress. What circumstances led to such confusion that her child was left in the care of a stranger? >> You drove your car intoxicated with your child in it, and then when we arrived, you handed your son off and started to run away because you're scared of the cops. >> On January 22nd, 2025, officers responded to a highway situation after reports of a woman appearing overwhelmed. She had stopped her vehicle on the roadway and asked a passer by to help move herself and her young child. Upon realizing that officers were involved, she left the child with the passerby and walked away. Officers on scene reassured the child and gathered statements from witnesses. >> Yeah. Get >> out of the way. >> I think I got it up here. >> Right here for right here off of the sidewalk. You can sit. >> Yeah, you got a buddy. And there's my phone. >> All right. Hey guys. So, what's going on? >> We were driving downtown. We're not filming once, but we just had somebody approach us. >> Okay. She was hanging out into the road. >> She was trying to check. She said she ran down. She doesn't seem to come here anymore. Okay. And he's three. >> He's three. >> And he was closer to the road than her crying. That's what really >> When you say incoherent, do you mean possibly under the influence of alcohol? >> Anything? She can't keep her balance. >> Okay. >> She can't replace. >> Okay. >> Did she say that's her son? Did she say that's her child? >> Mom, is that your mommy? I need a bed from her in a VIP section. >> No, we don't know. He's three. Does he talk? >> She's going to talk because she has kids as well. >> So, she opened up. >> Okay. Get warm in the back of my car. >> Yeah. He was asking to get >> Yeah. Do you want to get warm? >> Come here, buddy. Is that your phone? >> Yeah. I'll put it on on my phone. You're good. >> Here. Can we give that back to her? I'll give you perfumes when we get to my car. Okay. >> Ready? >> All right. >> He did mention >> Yeah. that they were trying to get to his dad's house. >> To his dad's house. >> All right. >> He was sitting closest to the road crying and screaming. >> Yep. She literally jumped. >> I'm assuming that's her car over there. >> In the lane. >> Yeah. >> And that's where I was like, "Wait, there's a child there." >> Yeah. >> What's going on? >> Do you have your license on you? >> Can I just take a picture of it for a witness statement? Come on, buddy. We're going to go to my car. >> I'm this first one right here. >> Hi. What's up, Liam? What's up, buddy? All right. Let's sit in a nice warm car. Is that better? >> Yeah. >> Can you help me get to the doctor's? >> Can I help you get to the doctors? Was that where you were heading? >> Uhhuh. I I was with my daddy. >> You were with your daddy? All right. Just one moment, buddy. I'm going to get you some cartoons. Okay. >> In a moment of poor judgment, the mother placed full trust in someone she did not know while attempting to manage a vehicle problem. >> Kids down there. >> No, I have one child. Who's the kid with? >> The black lady came here to put me in my car. >> So, you know who that is? >> No, I told him here. I was thinking come back up here to make it back down. >> Why did you let your kid go with them? >> They trusted her. >> And you don't you don't know her though. >> No, I don't know her. So, I literally ran here. So, can I go back or what? >> Right now, do you have your ID on there? >> Hey, I'm going to need you to take a breath and relax. Is this the first time? Robert King David. I'm >> Officer Jones, Sarasota Police Department. Okay, do me a favor and have a seat on this curb. So, tell me, have a seat on the curb. >> All right. >> Have a seat on the curb. >> So, talk to us. Why are we out here today? >> I ran out of gas. >> You ran out of gas? >> Maybe you turn. >> And that's your car right there. Right. That's not working for us. >> Okay. >> And then the gentleman got me. He said he was going to get in the gas. >> Okay. >> And that was it. >> And that was it. >> Oh, I saw her. >> Yeah. >> So, why is your Is that your child? >> Yes. When I ran out of gas. >> When you ran out of gas. So, then how'd he get out of the car? >> I carried him. >> Okay. You That's making sense now. So, you went down to the gas station to get gas. >> No, I did. The gas station was somewhere there. I didn't make it to the gas station. I carried him running to go to the gas station. They were nice to black people. I offered help. >> Okay. >> Okay. So, I said, "Okay, well, wait. He's called." >> What's your name, sweetheart? >> What's my name? Audrey. >> Audrey. Spell that for me. >> Yeah. She's not making a whole lot of sense. >> Yeah. So she was like whispering almost like like she lost her voice or something when I first heard talking to her. She seems kind of recovered now. But yeah, this guy here who was with the girl who had the child came over to me first and was like, "Yeah, she down here acting really weird like she's on something is what he said." >> Yeah. So 100%. >> Okay. You all right? Okay. Audrey, when was the last time you used >> Okay. Do you suffer from any mental health conditions? >> No. >> Okay. When was the last time you did use >> any any sort of I didn't say anything specific. just any sort of >> month. Cuz it seems to me that you you might be under the influence of something right now based off of your behavior. Would you like to get checked by an ambulance? >> No. >> Okay. Cuz something isn't something's not right. >> Well, that's how my mother came up. I'm sick because I have a voice. That's fine. I let I wouldn't ask for help. I need help. >> Sure. Sure. So, here's what we're going to do. Okay. You're going to tell me from the moment that your car ran out of fuel right here. It's you and right. >> Okay. Talk me from that point all the way straight through to me being right here. >> Talk me through everything that happened so I can get a full understanding. >> Mhm. >> I grabbed my son and I ran until I met the two people there and then I ran back here cuz he said he got gas and I was going to put gasoline for it. That was it. You can ask her. Ask him. That's it. That is it. Okay, >> she's my witness. I'm getting her information right now. >> What What does she say? >> So, she is saying that when she came up this way, little man was pretty much on the curb where he was walking. Mom jumped out, said that she had no gas, but she said that she grabbed >> child was on the curb. >> Child was in the bike lane, >> right? >> No, with mom. But mom was trying to hitchhike and get someone to get her gas. But she said she was concerned for child because mom was swaying and she believes that mom was incoherent and unable to give complete sentences when she got out with her. She took kid to go get warm in her car. Okay. >> And she just brought me back child. >> Okay. >> She said that they were driving him to dad's house. At least from what she gathered from conversation with him. Kid just told me he's going to the doctor's. >> Okay. >> But he's three. Perfect. Beautiful. >> And uh also when she asked if we're going to call the cops, she looked like she was getting ready to run. And I said, "No, he's got he's got mechanic pants on." >> Records indicated this was not her first encounter with legal issues related to unsafe decision. And this situation was addressed accordingly under the law. >> Audrey, >> you failed to mention the part when you were standing here in the roadway with your child attempting to flag someone down for help. You never mentioned that to me, but the witnesses are. So, talk to me about that. >> Why did you choose to leave that out? >> I'm sorry. I wanted somebody to stop. >> Okay. Hey. Do you have a do you have a phone? >> It's in the car. >> Okay. Does it work? >> Yes. >> So, why wouldn't you call, I don't know, 911 or >> I just felt that I'm in like a corner of the gas station. >> Do you know what temperature it is outside right now? >> 62. >> No, it's 45. Okay. So, would you think that it's reasonable to have you and your child standing on the side of the road in 45°ree weather at dusk where nobody can see you? We I I literally ran with him to the gas station just stopped. >> Audrey, I'm going to ask you one more time. When was the last time you used >> I don't use You've been testing it. I don't use >> Okay. You ever been arrested before? >> Yes. >> For what? >> DUI. >> DUI. >> You had that in your database? >> Okay. When were you arrested for DUI? >> 2021. >> Okay. How much have you had to drink? tonight. >> Tonight? No. >> Audrey, I'm going to give you one chance to be honest with me. And if you are not honest with me, this is not going to go the way that you think it's going to go. So, be honest with me. How much have you had to drink tonight? Andre, how much have you had a drink tonight? The famous two drinks. Do you want one more chance? No. >> To tell me what it is. >> I'm back. I'm not even driving in my car. >> Okay. Do me a favor and stand up. >> Stand up. Stand up. You're just going to be detained right now. I think maybe if I can get you into the warmth of my patrol car might sober you up a little bit and you can help answer some of these questions. Okay. Does that make sense? >> Hello. There we go. >> Mueller, >> you hearing what I'm saying? >> Yes. >> Okay, perfect. >> Well, right now, uh, you're going to be detained for possible child. Go ahead and drop that. >> I didn't observe you in the car. Nobody's observed you in the car, so doing the DUI route might not work out, but child, we'll see. Come walk with me to the back of the car. See, you can barely walk on your own. Are you kidding me? Disatch two. >> Go ahead and have a seat. >> Okay, have a seat. >> Have a seat. It was just a pat down. You're good. Have a seat. Warm up. So, you see how this is concerning to me that you can't even get into the back of the car. >> I don't have my glasses. >> Doesn't require glasses, my friend. >> 13. In contrast, the actions of passing motorists offered a reassuring counterpoint, highlighting community awareness and concern for the child's well-being. >> Actually, how did it So, you guys came out. >> I got to look for my glasses. >> You're good. Um, so when you you parked all the way down there. >> So, where was she? Yeah. Where was she at? >> How did she end up here? Where was Man and then how did little man stay in your possession while mom is all the way down here? >> That's the thing. >> Yeah. is my the mother bear and me went to go on the 12th and we're like I can't do it without turning around. It just doesn't seem right. >> You can see where his candy drops. >> Yep. I see right there on the sidewalk. >> So that's about the vicinity of her standing out and she was almost all the way >> in the bike lane. She was in the bike lane. Little man was where that little white piece of candy is. >> No, she was right here going like this. Yeah. >> And he was like right here crying. He was closer >> and then he saw something else and we all pulled over around the same time. >> Yeah. >> And she was just trying to hitchhike and when you when you approached her, what' you say? >> Ran out of gas. >> Okay. Then how did And I go, "That doesn't look like ran out of gas thinking in my head." And the way she couldn't even talk standing up. >> So then how is it she let you take Liam? Or were you just chilling down there the entire time and she walked back up this way? >> Yeah. She did she tell you to watch him like >> Well, I was trying to make him comfortable cuz he was freaked out and crying. So I showed him my twins. Yeah. And I was like, "Here's my twin toddlers. What's your name?" Trying to make him comfortable. >> Yeah. >> Cuz mine are in the spectrum. >> Yeah. Okay. >> So me and the guy were more interested in making him like, "What's your name?" >> Yeah. >> And cuz I couldn't even understand her. >> Yeah. And um and then all of a sudden she saw the first patrol car show up and I go, "Oh." He goes, "I don't want to get towed." And they go, "Oh, he's probably got guys just to move it. Push it. I can't. We can't push it. We'll leave it to the guys." And then a couple minutes after she just, "Can you watch him?" And whooped it. Okay. And I was like, "Yeah, he wanted to go into my car." And I was like, "I I I want to so you'd be warm, but >> Yeah. No, I get it. Now you're like, I don't want to be kidnapping either." Yeah. Yeah. But Okay. All right. Cool. Thank you. I appreciate it. Thank you again. I'll let Rich know. You say hi. All right. Able to warm up a little bit. >> Where's my son? Where's my son? Your >> son is with us. He's in the other car getting warmed up. Okay. I'm going to read you something. All right. >> You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court attorney. Okay. >> Why am I getting arrested? >> Do you understand each of these rights that I explained to you? >> I'll explain it. But do you understand each of those rights that I explained to you? >> No. When am I getting arrested? >> Okay. I'll read them again. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can it will be used. >> What am I getting arrested for? >> You're detained. And so I'm trying to read your rights. >> Detained is different than arrested. >> Correct. >> So what? What am I being charged? >> What am I being charged for? >> You are detained. You are not under arrest. >> Detains are going to take me away. >> Do you want me to continue reading your rights? >> You want to explain the difference? >> Okay. You have the right to remember. I understand that. Would you like to explain the difference? >> Having each of these rights in mind, do you wish to speak with me? >> Yes. >> Okay, perfect. >> Hold on. >> Sergeant, we're seeing if your mom can come out. Going to jail today for child. All right. you operated a motor vehicle while intoxicated with your child in the back and decided that instead of calling the proper authorities, uh, you would walk down the road with them at dusk in 45°ree weather. Okay, does that make sense? Okay, you're drunk and you put not only your life but your child's life at risk by operating a vehicle like that. You understand? >> Do you understand? >> Yeah, cutting through. >> No. >> What can I help clarify for you? >> Well, here's your ID. >> Yeah, dumbass. It was on the car. >> Okay. >> Okay. What did you want me to have it on my butt cheek? >> No, I did not want that on. >> Bet your wife doesn't want that either. Anything else? >> Well, I was just getting ready to ask you. Do you have any other questions for me? >> Yeah. I need my mom on the freaking phone. >> Well, well, officers are talking to your mom right now. >> All right. Well, then you can close the door when they're done. >> No other questions? >> Cool. Uh, we'll pull you out to do a search on you real quick and then we'll get you down to the job. Concerns continued when the mother did not follow required procedures related to herself in the vehicle. >> All right, Audrey, I need you to step out of the car. >> I DETAINED. >> I I know. >> So, shut the up. >> I have to search you before we go anywhere. >> Then search me. >> I can't do that while you're in. >> All right. Well, no. Don't detain a if you can't search me. >> All right. We'll do this later then. >> Roger. Why are you being complicated? dispatch 2129. >> Audrey, >> what do you need? >> Well, we have to we can search you and you fantastic search, >> but my partner just said you were making that a little bit different. >> My son away from me for >> Yes, I took your son away from you. Yes. If you're going to be mad at anybody, be mad at yourself. This is what your actions led to. >> I would have walked down the road. >> You drove your car intoxicated with your child in it, and then when we arrived, you handed your son off and started to run away because you're scared of the cops. Okay. >> No, >> that's Well, >> no. I literally went to go to the gas station to pick up something. >> Regardless, any Okay, so what? >> Okay, we're done having this conversation. Ready? Go. Hop out. Hop out of the car. Are you going to make this difficult? Okay. Step up. You're acting like a child. >> Yours? >> Yeah, I got you. Just in. >> Yep. We just have to ask if you have anything in inside you on you or anything like that and we find it at the jail versus here. It's a >> I know everything. >> All right. Well, if you know it, then >> nobody care. So, shut the up. >> Where is my son? >> He's in the backseat of my car. >> I know. I don't care what you say. Shut the up. Where's my son? >> I've told you now three times. IT'S IN >> MY MOM. Can I see him? >> No. No. No. You may not. >> Did my mom answer the phone? >> No, she didn't. >> Have a seat in the car. Have a seat in the car. >> What else am I going to do? slide in. Maybe >> do you need a little help? There you go. >> Where the [ __ ] going? Where is my mom? >> I don't know. She's not answering the phone. >> Because she's asleep. >> The state's been notified. If we can't find a parent or I'm sorry, your his father or your mother, the state will take custody of Lean back. >> No. >> There you go. Okay. That's how you want to do it this way. I've got one seat belt on for policy purposes. Okay. Uh, any names for dad or a phone number for him? >> I do not have name or phone number for dad. >> Okay. All right. So, what happened? >> So, [snorts] we got a call for a suspicious incident involving mom and child. >> After being contacted, the grandmother arrived promptly, took the child home safely, and was informed of the situation and the next steps involved. We got a call for a suspicious incident about a woman who was walking in the middle of the median trying to get a four-year-old to come towards her, towards the road, and then pulling him out of the road. So, that's what we got called out for. We get on scene. We meet with mom, but the three-year-old is nowhere to be seen. So, I go canvasing the area and I found a passer by, someone who called in. That mom was in the median with trying to get the child to come to the road. She said that mom and child were walking down the sidewalk. Kid was closer to the road than mom was. She was hitchhiking trying to get gas for her car that she ran out. And the witness said that when the mom saw cops, she said, "Watch my son." And left and booked it from the witness. She does not know the witness. So, she left her three-year-old son with a complete stranger. The stranger didn't take son left uh stayed on scene and waited for officers to arrive. And she told us that the mom is incoherent. We can smell alcohol on her breath and she will be going to jail today for child. Okay. Was mom originally asking the person like for money for gas? Is that how like is that how they started? >> The person pulled over to the side of the road because they were concerned for the child because of how close he was to the roadway. That's why they pulled over and then when they got in contact with mom, mom was like, "I ran out of gas for my car." But she said the way she was talking, the way she was swaying that the witness said that she thought mom was maybe under the influence of something. She didn't quite say alcohol, but she thought she was under the influence of something and that's why she stayed with the mom and the child until mom decided to book it away from the child and stranger to go talk to cops. >> All right. Anybody know does mom have history of alcohol? >> She does have one uh previous DUI arrest. >> The mother was charged with DUI and child. Under Florida law, she could face up to 5 years and 9 months in prison and $6,000 in fines. This incident underscores the importance of clear communication, staying composed, and prioritizing a child's safety above all else during roadside emergencies. Illinois opened with a couple so clear-headed they forgot their own child. >> I guess yesterday we must have been super tired. But >> on June 30th, 2024, Walkegan police received an emergency call. A child had been left in a car overnight. Upon arrival, they found the baby exhausted, crying hard with wet clothes and seats. Authorities immediately began searching for the car's owner to clarify the case. >> I'm going to knock on this the house and see. >> Good morning. Do you know whose vehicle this is parked outside your house? >> No. Is there any other families that stay here? >> No. Okay. All right. We're trying to There's a little girl in the vehicle. We're trying to figure out who who she belongs to. No idea. >> All right. Thank you. >> I can go over there. He's just whole family anti police. Family's anti police. >> Oh, well >> 100%. >> We're taking this child today. >> 100%. >> Sorry, but DCFS has been involved. >> She's probably been out here for a while. Certain >> there. What? >> Could you imagine if they somebody didn't see this? This car is going to heat up. >> Are you okay? You want to stick her? >> Yeah. >> Police immediately split into teams. One rushed straight to the child's grandmother's house after obtaining her contact information. >> All the windows are up, too. But they're all up >> and we know how the kids been out there. >> Yeah, that's why I want to ask for myself. I'm sorry. My cell phone's in. >> I want to see how long they've been. >> I'm sure there's a ring candle somewhere around. >> Yep. There's a ring right across the street. >> Yes. >> Hi. Are you >> Yeah. Okay. Don't go with it. Okay. Okay. something with it. CFS. Okay. to phone ID. >> One woman. >> Who's that in? >> Uh, mother. >> One woman. >> Ottawa, Wisconsin. >> So, they live in that area over there. >> Okay. Do we know where? >> She said north to Msina. She said around North Mina. She doesn't have the address, but she said last she knew of them was they were at six lights yesterday. >> You good here? I'm going to head back to Shepherd in case they come outside. >> Yeah. No, go ahead. We're going to take the kid to the station. >> Yeah. I'm going Well, it's Shepherd's call. I try to jump all I get really pissed off when >> Well, 100%. Especially cuz I know they don't care about the kids too often. But we're taking >> cuz she said she honestly DCFS if we do take her they'll probably want her in full to give protective custody to her. Right. >> We definitely got to involve DCFS and see what they say because this is this could have been theory. >> The other team quickly tracked the mother's whereabouts. >> Mom is not at the house. She lives in this area though. The her mother was there and said she lives in near north of Msina unknown. Curtian is trying to figure it out. So I came back here in case they come outside. >> What about dad? >> They both of them live here. I suppose they both of them live here. They were at Six Flags yesterday. That's the last sent them. >> So I assume that Joshua, which is the brother, out wandering around cuz the DCFS records show her 2019 and her brother a little bit older, 2017. >> Address way up there. >> Well, we already checked. So the address that all that I found DCFS paperwork in there comes to grandmother's house up here. She says that her daughter lives somewhere in this area north of Msina, but she's not entirely certain where. >> I already checked this house. No idea. >> I'm guessing it's this apartment complex. >> Yeah. >> And what's her name supposed to be? >> If she does, I think it's Spanish only. She's five. >> One, when you're ready to make contact, we have everything we need. >> A neighbor [snorts] also unexpectedly ran out to assist them. >> I think they struck a light here. >> About to make We're about to go make contact with it now. >> Hey, ask her when that if she saw when that got parked. >> You know how long how long the truck was here? >> No. >> Did you call? >> No, it's my husband. There's a man live here. >> Yeah. >> Thank you. >> I might be closer. police sounded like something from inside. I don't know if it was the upper level or the lower. >> They've got they got he found mail with her name. >> No, I know. I'm just looking. I'm going to look at the camera and see how long she's been out here cuz grandma's like last I knew we were at six flags yesterday after dinner or last night and no one >> um is grandma going to come for her. I told her she she yes she's good to come. However, depends on what they want to do. They want to take cussy of her DCS after they release her children. Got begging her in case she comes. >> The grandma will come. >> Okay. >> So, she's child's fully buckled in. Yes. >> No way she could have got out of it. After repeated knocks on the door, the father and mother finally appeared. However, they seemed completely unaware that a child had been left in the car. Hey, >> come outside. >> What's your name? >> Sylvester. >> Sylvester, how long you been here? >> How long I've been living here? >> No. How long What time What time did you get home last time? >> I got home last night like around I'd say like around 11. >> 11:00 at night. And you haven't left this house since then, right? >> At all. When >> was the last time you drove your Yukon? >> It's not a Yukon >> or whatever it is. Your SUV. Your black towel. My girlfriend. What? >> When's the last time you drove the the Tahoe? >> Your mom has >> Hey, Enrique. Come here. >> Oh, >> I want to know what they're saying. No, but it's uh it's it's Spanish on the phone. I want to know what's going on. >> Okay. >> Okay. Mom's coming. >> Okay. >> We already tipped him off. I was trying to figure out, but he said he got here at 11:00 last night. What's your daughter name? >> You want to question her some more? >> Yeah. I mean, I just want to know who's driving >> before we do before we do the Wisconsin thing. >> Cuz it's going to depend on who's driving cuz it might be both going or it might be just >> both. We're just probably exhausted from yesterday, right? Six legs. Six legs. Probably exhausted. And I should probably say don't ass. >> So we just kind of asked like if they remember like what anything about this or have they used the vehicle since this morning? 11:00 last night was last time they used the vehicle last night, right? >> Yeah. Well, like you went to the gym. >> He was driving. >> Like no point lying. Here's >> we got at this point. It's just your honesty is what's help is going to go a long way with everything >> and how this goes. You guys got home last night? I just forgot. She was sleeping. I'm assuming you guys have you have more kids, right? >> We have eight. We have eight kids and everybody like we had just had we got home like around almost 12:00 from 6:00. We still passed by and got some food. We got everybody off, but I mean everybody just started getting I got off first and I got some of the kids off and he got off and he got some of the kids off. So, usually we like we work as a team, but I guess yesterday we must have been super tired. But, >> okay. You know, at this point is what is the best thing is that she's good. >> No. >> The other eight kids in that apartment. I kind of think we should just take her and screen her take both cuz if we take both, we got to >> You're right. We got to take care of She's 99 and she's she's coming with us. We'll screen it >> and we'll see what the bosses want to do because we can always come back and hook him up, >> right? >> And [snorts] then once they understood the situation, they casually explained. We have so many kids that we forgot one. >> Hello. >> Hi. >> Hi. Uh, were you told to come down here? >> That's uh >> Okay. Uh, >> grandma was around 12 >> at night. >> Yeah. >> Okay. So, around midnight and you guys just got kids out of the car one at a time. Yeah. >> And left one. >> So you said you had eight kids. All eight fit in that car or no? >> Okay. But that's how they were transported. They all came, you guys got here and just end up leaving one in the car. Correct. >> Yeah. >> All right. >> We have pictures and videos of all night um being there. I also like when we stopped by to get some tacos also recorded that like you know like at the time that you know we did stop at. >> This isn't pertinent but I'm just asking were you guys drinking at all? I'm just trying I'm just trying to figure out why you guys would have left the drinking. We drink, but yesterday we were not drinking at all. We just dedicated our whole day to the kids from the morning to the like to the night time. We have people that were with us too at the flags. >> All right. Then what I'm going to have you do is I'm going to have you step out real quick just to confirm that this is in fact your daughter. I'm going to turn custody over to him. >> So you're good to come over just to want to make sure that this is in fact your child. >> Okay. Well, we're going to leave the child where she is right now. >> Okay. >> She's okay. >> She's okay. >> All right. Do your foot back on the grass, please. >> Hey, just stand right here for right now. >> Yeah. >> Trying to figure out what's going on for us. What What our next step is. Okay. Have you ever had any DCFS involvement before? >> I did. >> What did that entail? What happened with that? >> They closed the globe. >> The case was closed. Okay. >> I did what I had to and they they closed it. So, you know, we've been doing good lately. Like I never thought this has never happened to me. Like never have I ever forgotten one of my kids in the car. >> We're going to work through this. >> I'm going to talk to him real quick. >> With the facts now clear, the officers conferred and prepared for the next steps. >> So she's 99 Wisconsin. >> Yeah. >> Okay. So they got like nine kids though. >> She actually died. >> So the idea is we're going to hook her screen it just for her and then if the sister wants to do him too, we can. They were together last night, but because of the eight kids situation right now. >> Yes. Who's taking custody of the kids? >> Be dad. >> Grandma's here. >> That's why we were trying to figure out how to go. >> I would take both of them down and screen it. Give the kids to grandma if she's capable of taking them both and then say she's going to decide who to take cuz we don't want to go get it and get a warrant from later cuz they're both in the car. They're both responsible kids. So bring them both down. Just tell them listen, they may not charge you, they might do whatever, but we have to bring them both down for investigation. That's it. Okay. And you just try to get all the kids info before we go forward. >> Make sure the grandma just make sure we get information too like what house she lives at and all this stuff. >> Got the grandma's I got her parents like I said while he's gone cuz I'm pretty sure we fought off while we get all the information we can and let you guys >> Oh, she's 28. So she ties my record. This one girl had eight kids at the oaks at 28. Seven different dads though. >> You want to get Does grandma know all the kids? >> She just stopped there. >> So we could probably just hook him and then grandma. So, we're going to owe one both of them. >> Grandma's going to take custody. >> He's going to check. >> Let's take him first. >> Sure. >> Yeah. Let's actually get two people. We get two more. >> They're going to take both of them to the station. >> We're 11:01 and both. You take a dude. >> Yep. >> Okay. >> Right. >> All right. >> And it ended with an arrest despite the mother's cries of I didn't do anything wrong. >> Currently under arrest. Okay. >> Okay. Just relax. >> Wait. Why arrest? Why did I do up for their arrest though? >> I don't know why. We're going to talk about >> Hey, make sure to get him get him some shoes and stuff. Okay. Shoes and a shirt. >> Okay. So, you you know you're being arrested for uh child. Doesn't mean you're going to be charged with it, but it stays attorney. Okay. It happens. But you know, unfortunately, it is what it is. Okay. Come on. Appreciate your query on this, >> man. >> I'm going to get you shoes and a shirt. Okay. >> And you can let them know you're 111 with the female. And to confirm, do you have anything hidden on you at all? Okay. >> Sorry. >> But it didn't stop there. Police continued gathering video and photographic evidence. >> We're going to be bringing both parents down and all eight children turned over to the grandmother. a document that she's fully buckled in. >> Snot on her face from crying all night. >> Yep. I got I got a video. >> Dude, that is awful, bro. >> Do I get >> This bothers me a lot. >> Mhm. Literally, you do your fart. I have body cam video. I took my body cam, put it in there. She's fully buckled in. She has not on her face. You know, you can tell she's been crying for a while. She just documented that airport. >> What's that? >> Her diaper's completely soiled. She's >> She's pee through the seats. How do you give kids back to these type of people, dude? >> Oh, man. Yeah, there was a case before that DCFS gave all eight kids back to this one lady. DCF at one time. >> She's literally in a >> Yeah, I'll take I'll take it. You have a shirt for him. >> This is for her. >> That's her. >> Yeah, this is >> Who's the main on this? >> Uh, shepherd. >> So, her underwear, I told you her underwear is completely soiled. She's peed through the seat. You can document. So, you can see how what state she's in. >> All wet. Seat's all wet. >> Buckled in. And I have on my body. >> Yeah. >> He's supposed to just take all their kids away, too. Every one of them. >> Dude, how do you not notice your four-year-old? Your baby. You should notice your baby. >> And And you know, you got to put her to bed. You know, at some point in the night, you're like, "Well, I'm forgetting to do something." >> I'm guessing they were not in the right state of mind. Yeah. Maybe. Maybe they were a little 56 >> and a halfish. Maybe. >> I don't know how somebody saw. >> That's what I was thinking. I would like >> You had to be >> trying to break into the car. Cuz window windows are tinted, bro. You ain't seen anything. >> I woke up. When I walked up, I could barely see her. >> I don't even know how this is. She probably like trying to get out like smear the window, say help, you know. Doesn't even talk to her. >> Mm-m. >> Complete this child. >> While [snorts] also coordinating with the family and DCFS to ensure the children's safety. >> You guys here already? >> Yeah. >> Okay. They they just didn't give us much information. They just said to meet with you guys and you guys were not here. So, we were >> She was just >> I gave him the details that she was >> slept in the car overnight. That's all you guys did. >> Yeah. So, they just want to make sure she's good to go. >> Our parents are >> Both parents are with us. She's a sister. Grandma should be inside, right? >> Yep. >> Both parents went with you guys. Are you >> taking custody? Grandma's right now right now. >> Grandma is Did she want her transported to the hospital? >> Well, if she's fine then, no. Our concern is that she's she seems okay. I try to give her some water right now cuz I assume she might be dehydrated, but she doesn't want to. That's just cuz she's picky. >> Yeah. Is she acting normal for herself? >> Yeah, she is. >> Well, we can check her on the ambulance. Hi. Thanks, man. >> Yeah. Do >> you want me to If you guys I'll stick around. If you guys want me to ask, I can have the mass appearance if they want her to go check. >> Yeah. I'm not sure what are they under arrest or both of them. >> Maybe we'll talk to grandma and see what grandma wants. But yeah, we can we can check her out in the ambulance and take your vitals. >> If you're sticking around here, I'll get a witness signature from you too if they don't want to go if that's all right. >> Thank you so much. how to help you. >> Thank you. >> I appreciate >> father Selfstra Flores and mother Neil Mendes were arrested and charged with two class A misdemeanors a child and causing circumstances to a child. Under Illinois law, each could face up to two years in jail, fines up to $5,000, [music] and bail set by a judge based on the severity of the case. Leaving the little girl in the car overnight not only her physically, but also planted fear and insecurity, showing her that even family's arms aren't always safe. Florida, where an urgent call pulled police into a situation where alcohol collided head-on with the duty of motherhood. There is a Cadillac driving in all over the road and we're coming up down by Love's Landing. He's going to hit somebody. On October 30th, 2022, Florida police received an emergency report about a Cadillac driver swerving, crossing double lines, and veering out of lane. They quickly pulled the vehicle over, but the woman behind the wheel denied everything. So, you've had not one sip of alcohol? >> No, I actually got off off of work. I'm just tired. So, I'm I'm very surprised if you got calls about me because I just >> 110% without doubt cuz they they gave us directions all the way to you stopping right here. Said he was passing on double yellows, running off the road. >> I have not passed anything 100%. >> All right. Maybe you didn't pass, but they said you were swerving over swerving over the line. >> Running off the road. >> It wasn't no swerving, no running off the world. None of that. I actually let vehicles pass me. That's why I pulled over because it's actually a SUV that was running up on me and so I pulled over to let people go. >> So, how come your speech is so slow, lethargic, it's slurred? I can hear you slurring. >> I am I'm too tired. You can't >> I mean, just shoot me straight if you you're drinking today. >> I'm No, I'm telling you 100%. Like, I just got off work. >> So, do you know where you are right now? >> Oh, yeah. I know. I am on I came from the job always take cuz they have all that construction. >> Mhm. >> Eagleness and take this road all the way back around. >> You know the name of this road though? >> Um Oh no I couldn't tell you. This is Okay. The church is right there on Eagle. So that crosssection is Oh no. It's another road and I take it all the way around and I come back out to 441. Another thing, I see one kiddo was in a seat, but the other one's not in a seat. Actually, it doesn't look like either one of them is in a seat, are they? >> Okay. >> Where's their car seats at? >> Hey, we got the Red Bull. They just got off of work to make sure. >> I got you. Can you hand me your driver's license? >> Yeah. Um, that's got pulled by something like 2 days ago coming from work. So, I know my job is about check out. I have a nursing license. Okay. Oh, God. I just cannot do this. >> All right. >> Like I'm like a few miles down. I need to go on city. The same thing. >> Where is that? >> The ever so >> Just sit tight just for a second. I'll be back up here with you. Okay. >> I'm not You need >> You're okay. >> Just sit tight. Okay. >> More shocking still, in the back were two children, no car seats, no seat belts. Coupled with clear signs of impairment. Officers immediately [music] conducted a DUI test. >> She has two kids in the back seat. Neither one of them have car seats. She sounds like she's slurring just a little bit. >> Well, damn. >> DNF. >> Miss Bowers, who stays at the Nebraska address with you? Can you have one of them head on up here? I'm going to have one of them drive your car. Okay. Cuz I I don't think you're fit to be driving. >> I am. I know. I seem emotional. >> It's not that. You seem intoxicated to me. I'm just going to be honest with you. >> Yeah. >> Can you get one? >> Like I can do a sobriety test. Pretty sure I can pass it. >> Okay. >> Like don't even step back. >> That's I'm sorry. >> You're fine. Step up here to my my push bumper. Okay. Can you just step back for me? >> You're not good. >> Yeah. It's okay. This way. Step towards my car. >> All right. >> Back there towards my car. >> It's just a little easier on the concrete than in the grass. >> Okay. >> Just hang out just for a second. What are you doing? You said you wanted to do a field sobriety test, right? >> Oh, yeah. I was just I didn't know what to expect. So, >> do me a favor. Just back your car right into the curb back there. Almost just out the curve. So, you're facing this way. You know, cars will be going. >> Okay. >> Yeah. >> Okay. You have duct tape. >> I know. I just want Yeah. >> Just block traffic for me, >> please. >> Thank you. >> But when even standing upright was a struggle, how could she possibly pass the test if you don't mind? This knee is bigger than this knee, but we going to work with it. Whenever we ride, I'm ready. >> I'm just going to have her block traffic so we don't have to worry about cars coming through. You know what I been trying to drink Red Bull because I just got off I got off at 2. They caught me off at 245 and it is not even 2:45. >> All right. So, I can tell again talking to you now. You're sluring. So, let me ask you again. Have you had any alcohol? >> Oh, no. >> Okay. >> I'm sorry. >> No, you're okay. And as you can visually see, it's visually visibly bigger than that last one. >> But hey, what whatever y'all determine, I'm cool with it. >> Yeah, we trying to >> I don't It don't matter. >> I'm just trying to get some duct tape out so we can start. >> All right. >> Hang out right there. Don't go anywhere. Just stay right there. >> Oh, >> just stand still. >> Okay. >> Thank you. I just need that back. >> What's the matter? >> What's up? What's up? What's up? >> I don't have insurance. >> Anyway, hospital and we had to pay that bill right in the middle. >> Not yet. We're just going to let you chill out for just a second. >> You know your mama's phone number? Yes, of course. >> We're going to wait on that. >> Of course, I can give you that. >> Do me a favor. >> Pam, >> come stand on this line for me right here. I want you to stand on this line with your heels on the line and stand >> without [snorts] the need for any further checks. The result was crystal clear and the police had no reason left to show tolerance. >> Thank you. >> Yes. >> So, I want to confirm you're willing to do field sobriety for me? >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Yes. Yes. Yes. >> Yep. >> Yep. That's not going to work. >> Go ahead and stand up. We're going to help you stand up. Okay. >> Ready? One, two, three. >> Yep. >> Yeah. I'm sorry. >> You're good. You're good. >> I'm sorry. >> Do me a favor. Place your hands behind your back. >> Yeah. >> All right. At this time, you're being placed under arrest under suspicion of DUI. Okay. I think you've been drinking. Stand up straight. >> Yeah. >> Stand up. >> Yeah. Stand up. What are you doing? >> You've been standing fine this whole time. >> Stand straight up. >> Let go. >> Which one she going in? >> Which is >> that one? 1909. >> Stand up. >> Come on. >> I know. I'm trying to help you. You got to stand [clears throat] up though. >> Come on. >> Hey, don't make this harder. Don't make this harder. >> No, I'm not. >> Stand up. Stand up. >> All right. Have a seat right in here. >> Have a seat right here. >> Okay. >> Turn around. Butt first. >> Okay. >> Butt first. >> Stand up. >> Put your foot in there. >> Put your leg in there. Hey, go stand. Get get in the car. >> Lift your leg. You're >> making this more difficult. >> That's it. Come around. Turn around. But first, >> Crystal, she's going down. >> I got to >> I'm helping you. >> Though intoxicated, [snorts] she was still treated humanely by the police. But that very tolerance only sparked her defiance. >> [screaming] [screaming] [screaming] >> back to lake. Have a 1032. operator out of jail, please. >> Hi, HONEY. [screaming] >> Is Rudolph your daddy? >> Grandpa, do you know what daddy name is? >> It's parents. Hi, this is Deputy Whitehead. Can you hear me? >> Hello. >> Hello. What the [ __ ] How the [ __ ] is you going with >> You're under arrest. >> Glad you guys are safe now. Were you scared? >> You like stuffed animals? >> Yeah. >> All right. Which one? >> The mother was arrested and booked into jail on one count of DUI and two counts of child. Under Florida law, she faces [music] up to 15 years in prison and fines of up to $15,000. However, according to court records, she was released on bail set at $3,000. >> All right. Are you ready to walk? >> I'm ready. >> You okay? >> Oh, I'm very >> All right. I'm going to sit you up. Okay. Can you do that? >> I'm like 250. >> We got a chair for you right here. We got a chair you can sit in. >> I don't know. >> All right. Here's your chair. >> The mother's actions not only injured herself, but also put the children and other road users at risk. Hopefully, she will soon realize her mistake. change and society will strengthen education to prevent similar tragedies. Iowa delivered the final blow, leaving us breathless from start to finish. >> Ma'am, where are you going? >> Hey, ma'am. >> On July 24th, 2023, Howard, a De Moines, Iowa police officer, was on patrol when he spotted a speeding vehicle. He signaled it to stop, and inside was the female driver, McConnell Michaela, calling her mother for help. >> 25 Hi police department 45 mph zone. >> Okay. >> Okay. Driver license. What's your name? How do I spell your first name? >> M A K A Y L A and then it's M C O N E L. >> Sorry. When was that birthday again? >> 2001. Sorry. >> You have insurance for the vehicle? >> Yeah. Well, that's got an expiration date of 2015. So, I'm going to tell it no. >> That's from March 10th, 2023. >> Huh? >> I don't have my mom. >> Okay. Who's the car registered? >> I don't cars registered as insurance. How? >> My mom has all of them. like to be able to see. So, if she can text you a copy of like the the valid insurance, it's got the VIN for this vehicle, policy number, and the date, that's fine. That's all I need for a person for that, right? Who's the car registered to? I guess like there's a lot of people like I guess entitlement car and then like a whole bunch of stuffed out of his house. >> Okay. But what's his what's his last name? >> Mom. Mom. Mom. Mom. I just got pulled over and I need to know the insurance. >> She can send you She All I need is a screenshot with the policy number, >> the VIN number, >> and the effective date. As long as each other. >> Yes. >> I know. >> I know. I just feel confident. She said, "Um, mom, but what's Mike's last name when that >> Give me a second." >> But then when the police were distracted, she sped off, sparking a chase. Ma'am, where you going? Hey, ma'am. Ma'am, ma'am, where are you going? Come back. Come back here. 44. >> Hey, hey, hey. Stop. 44. I got a car leaving my heading southbound on 6th Street. Got a baby in the car. That sounds balancing. What kind of vehicle is it? >> The beef cores. >> When Howard lost track, Garcia and Valentine were sent to Michaela's house. They discovered another car with a child inside. They knocked but received no answer. police department. >> The immediate are now focused on the child crying inside the car. After a phone call, they decided to take the child to a safe place. >> Hey, we were doing a followup for Howard at 7500 Bloomfield trailer 36 on a possible hit and run suspect. We come up to the trailer. There's a vehicle here that is it looks like it's been involved in hit run, but it doesn't match the information that Howard gave. But there is a six-month old baby in the back seat. Vehicle's running. Nobody in the driver's seat. No one's answering at the trailer. Do you want us to go ahead and start DHS out here? >> Have we ran information? Try to make phone calls today that trailer. >> I haven't tried to make any phone calls yet. I did run the RO's information. Comes back to a male. The hit and run driver is supposedly a female. Okay, let's uh let's knock on a couple of the neighbors doors real quick to see if somebody knows this kid or the whereabouts if they we're supposed to have them or not. And then yeah, if we can't get a hold of anybody, then let's we'll start I'll call DHS and start that route if we can't find anybody. But let's try a couple of neighbor doors. Maybe maybe just one next door or something quick. >> Copy. We'll do. You want to start talking to neighbors quick? I'm going to see if I can get a hold of the >> for everybody's guys. This wasn't a hit and run. This lady took off for me with a baby in the backseat from a traffic stop. I need the information for active charges. One of them can change. Do we know who did you have this lady's info then? I'm assuming right? >> I got her name and date of birth. Uh I she gave me a phone number on the traffic stop. I haven't tried to call it yet, but I'll have active charges on her. Hey, buddy. >> Let's uh let's go ahead and knock on door still, but let's uh go ahead and ring so we can start that process. >> Copy. Uh just to clarify, this car seat is not properly seated in here. Was this vehicle involved in an accident? >> Hey, buddy. Hey, he's still caring. >> Not the one I'm looking for. Not the 98 Corolla. I don't know about this black Ultima, though. >> Okay. >> Police dispatch. Police shot 5E. >> Hey, Howard, you still over here? >> It's okay. Hey, it's okay. >> Sure am. >> You want to make your way out here too as well to the trailer? >> Hey, it's okay. >> Just down the street, buddy. >> Sounds good. I'm going to put him in our car cuz it's hot as balls in there. And then uh try to get hold of DHS. >> It's all right. Come on. You're okay. You're okay. >> [crying] >> It's okay. >> Police. Police dispatch. >> It's okay. >> After failing to locate the mother, police contacted DHS and decided to place the child with her grandparents. >> Car's running. It's got damage in the front windshield on the passenger corner. Baby's just chilling in the back seat in the carrier. The push to start car. I don't see the fob anywhere. Yeah, cuz he has the kid in the back seat. >> Funny story. >> I think that's actually old damage. We got called out here on a shot trip a couple weeks ago. Like probably about or realistically about a month ago. >> And somebody mentioned, >> did you turn the fan on? >> I have Lindsay right now trying to get a hold of a phone number for the RORO cuz that's not her car. Um, and then I'm going to call him to see if he's any relation to this kid. And I'm waiting for DHS to give me a call as well. >> Is that your elephant? Is that your elephant? >> All right. So, what's the deal? >> Grandparents are here. Grandparents got a call from daughter saying, "Hey, come pick up my kid." And apparently they knew she wasn't going to be here, >> so they came down. >> Okay. >> I still want to talk to DHS. >> Oh, absolutely. I'm still waiting for them to give me a call. >> I've got no problem with that. >> I have no problem if they go with grandparents, but >> we want to get the sign. At this point, we got DHS involved. I want to get the sign off on them. I'm on the same page. >> So, I'm going to keep trying to get a hold of them. >> They own it. >> Mom said she's part owner in there. >> At the same [music] time, every legal step was carefully discussed by the officers to ensure it was both lawful and fair. >> So, I'm going to clarify on that and find out what we've got. At this point, we've still got good warrants. >> Yeah. If we can go in and left. >> Hi. Oh, is that tickle? >> 141. >> Tickle tickle tickle. Does that tickle? You're a sweet boy, aren't you? >> Run away. >> You're a sweet baby. >> Yes. Hi, this is Officer Valentine with Police Department. Um, okay. So, we had an officer out on a traffic stop with a young lady who had a infant in the car. The infant uh looked to me to be about 2 to 3 months old. She took off and eluded that officer. She gave her name and information to him. Before she did that, we were able to find out where her address was. We went to the address to look for the car. The car she took off in was missing, but there is another car here that is running with no adults around with the baby in the back seat. We've tried making contact with the uh trailer that it's associated with. Nobody's making themselves known. And apparently um the daughter called the child's grandparents um to come get the child knowing that the the mother wasn't going to be here. We didn't know grandparents were involved yet. So we were calling to talk about maybe like a removal or some safekeeping. So now I just want to kind of run it by you on what you think is the best course of action. >> Fortunately, the child was finally back with her grandmother, the one who could give the safety her mother could not. Mom's boyfriend. >> Grandma's boyfriend. >> Grandpa lives here. >> Jerry J R Y. He said that this car showed up within the last guy. The address comes back to every >> So not mom. My grandma's boyfriend lives here. Yes. Not not here. It's in the park. In the park. Okay. Sorry. >> Hey buddy. Hey, buddy. You're so I know. I know. I know. You're going to go see grandma. You're going to go see grandma. You want to go see grandma? Do you like your grandma? Let's go see grandma. Yeah. Let's go see grandma. I You're such a happy boy. >> Let's go see grandma. He's smiling and happy. >> He is a happy baby. >> I have a three-month-old at home. So, >> aren't you little guy? Yes, you are. >> So, DHS has all your information. They'll probably reach out to you to talk to you. Okay. This is She's going to be with childment charges for fleeing with a infant in the back amongst a slew of other things. DHS is going to try and contact her as well and go from there. Okay. >> Okay. >> Do you have any questions with us at this time, Ma'am? >> No. >> I would say if you see her, talk to her, I would tell her to call us and turn herself in to get this thing sorted out as quickly as possible. >> I will. >> Okay. >> I will. See you later, little buddy. >> Thank you. >> Yes, ma'am. >> Sorry. >> No, no need to be sorry. >> A few weeks later, police discovered McConnell Michaela was involved in a car theft [music] and the truth quickly came to light. >> Okay. Did you see if they were like male or female? >> I was in the garage. So, >> okay. >> I heard it's it sounded like it was kind of like giggling. >> Oh my god, bro. 2192. >> Yeah, they pulled up at 108. >> I don't know. They were wearing dark clothes. >> I can't hear you. >> Yeah, they ran from me at uh >> No, I got plates. >> Thank you for calling. Uh, are you guys going to be here for a minute? Okay, I might come and knock on your door to ask you a couple questions. >> Uh, no. They took off before I could get it. We should be good. Um, they said they saw people go up this alley northbound about 10 minutes ago, but we don't really have north >> that ran from here like 5 minutes ago or probably 10 20 minutes ago. It's the one. So, they just ran from us. They must have just hit it. >> Yeah. Yep. >> 136 on two. here. Okay, >> sounds good. Thank you. >> The legal consequences arrived quickly. The mother faced charges of child eluding, interference with official acts, and probation violation. Under Iowa law, she could serve up to 11 years in prison and pay [music] fines exceeding $10,000. Bail would be set by the judge based on the case's severity. That's why parental awareness and responsibility are vital. As thoughtless actions can have long- lasting legal and psychological consequences for children. Amid a series of regrettable choices, there were still moments that highlighted the strength of the community. Pastors by [music] stepped in. Officials worked carefully to clarify the situation and family members arrived in time. Those combined efforts helped [music] keep the situation from becoming more serious. This case reminds us that keeping children safe is not an individual duty, but a shared responsibility. Thank you for staying with us until the end. If you'd like to keep following real stories presented without exaggeration or staging, [music] please subscribe and turn on notifications so you don't miss future content. [music] >> [music]