I hope you'll die. I hope God >> get down over there. >> A family should be the safest place, but when stress, tiredness, and self-centered choices take over, it can become a place of unexpected challenges. >> Point where like I just don't understand why everyone wants to force me to be a parent and not >> Okay. >> No, but like I was just right over here, right? I was just trying to do get him over. >> Today's video shows a series of events where adults struggled to make the right decisions, all unfolding in front of children. This family turned a routine shopping trip into a performance right under the eyes of law. On September 22nd, 2024, Target staff contacted Palm Beach County police after noticing a family behaving unusually with shopping carts and personal bags while adjusting price tags to pay less. Security cameras captured the parents guiding their children on handling items, turning shopping into a full family operation. >> How are you? >> Doing all right. How about you? >> So, I have them >> um I have them on concealment um of cosmetics all this and then they applied false labels here. So, here's the cosmetics and here is the actual price for clothes. And I'll get a ticket switch receipt for you in a sec. You guys have your receipt? >> So, is all of this? >> Yes. >> All the compliments were concealed into their bags and then this they paid for it. I'll check it with the difference. Can you uh bookmark the right? >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> So, I'll print out a receipt for what they actually paid for versus uh the full amount of that's going to be the receipt of what they actually paid for. >> Is there some of the stuff they paid for on these receipts or these are these are all >> So, the longer one, this is all stuff they concealed into their personal bag. even attempt to pay for that. And the smaller one, >> they put a false label on >> it >> on five items for it to come up shorter. >> So, I still got to do the investigation, figure out exactly what's happening. >> Bam. >> Well, that's before. >> That's what I do. Um, >> for one year. >> So, once law enforcement gets involved, whatever they do after is up to them. um all that we weren't going to go to jail. He was just going to ban us for a year. Um here >> he was. >> Yeah, I didn't say the word. I just said September 22nd, 2024. If you guys are seen on target property, that means the entire parking lot excluding the sidewalks. Uh you will be arrested >> for one year. And then on September 22nd, 2025, you guys are free to uh come back to this Target and shop. Um and then you guys are free to shop at any Target anywhere else. But moving forward, um if you guys do commit another like offensive dishonest activity, whether it's even like skip scanning like $15, the same thing will happen and you'll get a second charge added. >> Go to jail. >> It'll be a lot worse cuz it'll be go back. So, kind of moving forward, um, let's please not do this again. She had previously mentioned that she needed to change your baby diapers. So, however you guys want to do it, I don't want to obviously impede the baby just because of all this going on. >> Yeah. >> So, we are going to >> I'm not the investigating deputy. the other guy that just stepped out. So, I have no I have no idea what >> neither one of us can answer basically what we're trying to say. Once we once I make this stop, you guys come back here and then law enforcement gets involved. Whatever happens after, I don't control >> cuz I thought you said that law enforcement wasn't going to get involved. >> Yeah. Like we ran out. You said that would happen, but we just >> came back. >> Well, that was also before I realized was >> He actually didn't take anything. It was just me. >> But you were He was aware of it though. So he's in a conference to his whole if we were to ask him if he had no idea this was going on. >> I really didn't. I was holding the baby the entire time. Watch the camera. >> We have We have you on camera. >> Yeah. >> Right next to her when she was >> putting all the stuff in the bag. >> I did not watch her put anything. I >> mean, if we got to pay everything, I'll pay for it all. Once you pass uh the towers, uh it's past that point or we don't we don't do that. But um the total value of the items reached $760. Once he understood the seriousness, the father voluntarily paid. Still, the officer stepped in to provide the children with a lesson about responsible choices and honesty while shopping. He's the primary one here. So I'm not sure depending on how much I don't know how much what's the value of stuff you guys took. >> That's one of the determining factors. Also you have kids here. So that's another determining factor. It depends on the value of what you guys pass a certain threshold. We have to make an arrest also because you have your kids here. That's another thing that we have to take into consideration as well. >> All right. How'd you guys get here? All right. You drove. Okay. So, this is what's going to happen. All right. You guys committed a crime, so we have to do an arrest. All right. But based on the children being here, what? You have to go to jail. You're going to I'm going to file a warrant. All right. And you're going to have to follow up with the court case. >> I have to go to jail. >> You guys told a felony amount and scheme to defraud is a felony. >> You have two felonies there. We don't have a choice. >> I pay I I can pay for it. You should have paid for it before we got called here. >> I don't even know. >> All right. >> Trespassing trespass. >> It's a felony. Okay. So, >> $760. That's a felony. And then changing the tax scheme to defraud, which is also a felony. That's not just a trespassing. >> I'm getting arrested. >> Yes. >> I'm going to jail. >> Yes. >> All right. Do you want to take off? You want to take off? You're watching stuff. >> I'm I'm doing you guys a huge favor by >> letting you go so we don't have to do >> issues going on. >> Yes. So we don't have to deal with all the kids >> and figuring out how they're going to >> real quick. You're saying >> just step over here for me. You don't have anything crazy in your pockets, right? >> No. My wallet. >> All right. I'm just going to take them out. All right. Just don't reach for anything. I just want >> You want the wallet to go with her? >> Yeah. Yes. >> What's this? >> My keys. >> You want the keys to go with her? >> Yes. >> Okay. >> So, how do I get out of jail? >> You'll see a judge in the morning. >> You'll see a judge in the morning. And you have here >> depending on your phone. >> This is if it's a vape. You can't take the vape. >> Can I take Can I hit my vape real quick? At least not >> No, don't hit your vape in here with us. I don't I don't want >> my last No, don't vape. >> You want to take it? I guess I'll take my phone. >> Yeah, you can keep your phone. You have anything else in your pocket? >> All right. The favor. >> You want to take this wristband off or the bracelet? >> Um, you're being cooperative, so I'm not going to slam. You want to put your hands together like you're praying? That'll make it a little bit easier. All right. I can do the proper >> I can do the proper Thank you. All right. >> Again, I always appreciate you coming down so fast. >> Um, usually once he goes to intake, when it's through the booking, right there at the desk, they'll be able to tell him what it is when he do. It takes probably about an hour and a half prescribed for as well. >> What I have medicine I'm prescribed for. >> Okay. They'll have it at the >> Yeah. Once you tell them see a nurse in the drill. So, once you have the um >> Daddy, you didn't do nothing. >> I should be able to get out tomorrow. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> All right. >> You're free to go. >> Thanks again. I'll probably I'll leave that to you. One second. All right. >> Sounds good. I'll be right here. >> The man was charged with felony grand theft and scheme to defraud, resulting in a one-year suspended sentence. What do you think about this approach? Is it enough to teach a lesson? Share your thoughts in the comments below. When life gets too busy, adults sometimes struggle to fully meet their responsibilities in caring for children. Y >> who did I abandon? >> All of your children. >> I left them with their dad. >> On January 10th, 2025, police conducted a welfare check on a family after reports that a mother had left her three children, including a baby with special care needs, at someone else's doorstep and walked away. Neighbors recognizing the seriousness quickly called 911 to ensure the children receive timely support. >> So what is the circumstances with her dropping off the kiddos here? >> So I haven't spoke with Zia since what? May >> she dropped the kids off at their dad's job. He took them back to her. They did a wellness check. She chased him in traffic. I saw this on video chat. She chased him in traffic with the kid. I don't know if the kids were in the car. >> Yeah. Chase Chased him in traffic, went and got the kids and I'm asleep. He said, "Somebody's banging at your door." >> Yeah. I was sitting in the room and we was just I was She was literally falling asleep and that heard >> like a consistent knocking. Okay. And I was like, "Somebody's knocking at the door." Then we both got up and she went to the window right here and was like she she seen who it was and was like, "You you're not supposed to be here." >> And she's like backing away. Tell your brother to come get the kids. takes off running and backs out. Backs out the entire >> She didn't drive at all. She backed out the entire parking lot and then spent. >> She never went in here. >> Never came in. No. >> Where were the Where were the kids at? >> Sitting on my front porch. >> Right in front of the door. >> Soon as we open the door. >> The bags. They have bags and all three of them in car seat. I called the mom and she said she got to get up at work. She got to >> Okay, we're just going to be so real. >> Yeah. Her auntie is on the phone. Their auntie is on the phone. Their blood auntie is on the phone. But I did call the mom and she's like, "Um, stop calling me with this. If you call the police, good job. I got to get up at work. Got to get up at 4:30 to go to work. >> So, let me get this straight. So, uh cuz I and the kids haven't been here in like a year. However, they have stayed here in the past. My main concern is just I think the kids are safe, right? Like, um obviously, you probably don't want them to be here. >> It's not that I don't want them. I have to look out for myself. >> No, I hear you. I hear you. Did she say anything else about what her plan was? >> No, she said she didn't she literally said >> the kids and >> call your brother and took off running. That's literally it. >> That's crazy. >> Okay. I want to say this now. I want to say this now. >> Can you guys go? >> If she knows her kids are at my house, she may come on. >> I believe they going to come here on April. Guys, >> get on. I don't got no brother's kids. I'm auntie. >> Cuz she's not trying to go to jail behind them. She's not supposed to have any contact with. I will come get them. What's your ETA do you think to get here? >> I am 28 minutes away from >> You're okay until she gets here. I just wanted to cover my own. >> Perfect. Thank you. >> Perfect. You You know what happened? We're at Marosa for a welfare check. >> Officer the dad dropped him off at the grandma's house. She went and got the kids from her. >> Let's remember dad was >> I was on the phone the whole time. >> So, here's the plan. Okay. So, we're gonna call grandma real quick to find more information about the kids. I know auntie's coming to come get them. Um, ultimately, like that's what we care about, the kids safety. We're gonna write a thing up about this and then we're going to forward it to CPS. Okay. >> Okay. I think a CPS call has already been made. >> Okay. Well, there's going to be another one cuz it's uh leaving the kids out here and running away is not cool. Um, thank God you guys allowed them to, you know, get some >> I wasn't going to I wasn't going to leave them outside. >> Um, so I have two windows right here. I could see her out of this window and I opened it and I'm like, I wear glasses. I'm squinting and I hear her say, "Call your brother." I look down and I while the mother and grandmother seemed unaware of the importance of protecting the children, the aunt, >> "Hello, this is Officer Boy with the Federal Police Department. So, uh, we're here with your grandbabies and we're trying to get this all situation, uh, sorted out. Uh, situation is the kids were left at their auntie's house, correct? the youngest one, the one that's um sleeping, the one that has the cleft lip, and they had uh the baby, she has a feeding tube, correct? So, our concern right now is that uh she needs to be fed. When do you know when the last time that she was fed? >> I don't think we need to get CPS to like take kids right now cuz it's just the mom is like tripping out. Like, you can't be doing that. I tried to call her like several times and >> and she's allegedly on her way to Oregon. >> She had That's what she said earlier when we went to Mariposa. I don't mean to interrupt you. I want to make sure that the little the little baby is medically okay. And then how often how often does she need to be fed during uh via the feeding tube? >> Fed on the feeding tube every 3 hours. >> When I hit >> 1:45 coming right up on it. >> Why are you not grabbing the mother's information? >> Oh, my partners are grabbing all that. So, this is my portion of the investigation. >> What are you investigating, sir? that the children was dropped off with their auntie. >> It sounds like your daughter dropped uh the kids off over here and then took off. So, he was supposed to have the kids, then he dropped them off. Your daughter came, picked them up, and then dropped them off over here. Well, so she's not here taking care of her kids right now. So, that is our number one concern. And so, you're not able to come pick up the grandbabies, but you're able to go to work. So, if you're not going to give me your information, I'll let you get ready for work. Uh, and then if another unknown number calls, uh, just know that's the Federal Way Police Department trying to get a hold of you. Okay. We don't know grandma's name. We don't know. >> She's not giving up any information. >> No, ma'am. So, uh, we have fire coming out to check on little one. Uh, to make sure that she Yes. >> baby is okay uh for the feeding tube. Okay. So, that's our number one priority is making sure the kids are okay healthwise and everything like that. Uh, where are the other two kids? Do they need medical attention or anything like that? They're okay. >> Mhm. >> Okay. Z officer Bole with the Federal Way Police Department. Just to let you know, I have my body camera on. What's going on tonight? Uh, are you able to come pick the kids up? Perfect. We need you to come pick the kids up at the auntie's at the auntie's house. Okay. Okay, perfect. Well, you'll see uh multiple police officer cars. Just pull up and we will talk to you outside. And then >> the situation grew more complicated when the father appeared, revealing that the children had previously stayed with the grandmother. >> Okay. Okay. So, grandma refused to give me her name or anything like that, but she was willing to talk on the phone with me. Uh, she was able to get a hold of mom uh is at home and she said that she's willing to come pick the kids up. So, I told her to come pick the kids up as soon as possible and she said she's about 5 10 minutes out. >> Okay, we're going to talk to her. >> Yeah. >> Uh, 100%. I didn't I didn't give her any information over the phone. I just wanted to get her on location. >> Perfect. >> So, I don't know if I'm comfortable with that now. No, after what she did. >> No, grandma's not coming. Is that coming? >> She is, but uh we're going to place under under arrest for child abandonment. So, uh she will not be coming inside. Uh myself and another officer are going to wait out there for her. Um Officer Palmer is going to finish the report statement with you. Okay. >> Brena and her father just arrived on scene. >> Why did she drop these folks off here? >> What's the deal? What's going on? What's up? What did she What did she say to you? What she do? >> She didn't say anything. I got a call from Tamasa saying that my kids are here. >> Yeah. And I left the kids at their grandma's, but she's not even our relative, >> right? >> And like she's like she said, they they have a case. Why she brought them here, I have no idea. Got it. >> We just had a conversation. >> Yeah, we did. Yeah, me and you. Me and >> we just had a conversation. I was waiting for her to get to the house. I was at work. >> She comes to my job. >> Okay. >> Drops the kids off and walks out. I have bags and I have bags, car seats outside of my outside of my building. She just dropped off the kids. >> She just dropped off the kids. Walked out the door. >> Are you guys separated? >> Yes. So, I go to her house. >> Okay. >> I have a key to her house, >> right? >> I >> And then that's where you saw us, right? >> Yes. >> Perfect. >> I'm at the house. I'm like, "Yo, you need to come get the kids." Blas blas. >> I don't know if she was coming, what I went to her mom's house, their grandma's house. >> I left the kids there. >> What did grandma say? >> The grandma I I didn't talk to the grandma. She was there with the kids. >> Okay. So, I'm just trying to figure out how it got to this situation. >> I have no >> Okay, no worries. Um, if I do see her uh mom though, she's going to be placed under arrest. Okay. For abandonment. Um, do you know where she could be right now? >> Police managed to contact the mother but encountered some resistance as she cited being busy and needing personal time to rest. >> This is Officer Veaza. Hey, real quick. Just let you know you're on speaker and my body cam is recording our conversation. Are you aware of that? >> Yeah, that's fine. I don't even care. >> You don't care. Okay. Uh, can you tell me like what what happened? Like what's the deal? Like what? >> Their dad is supposed to have them. And I'm really at the point where like I just don't understand why everyone wants to force me to be a parent and not call their dad. They're supposed to have them. >> Okay. So dad So dad was at work, correct? >> Yes. Dad was at work. That's why he didn't get off until 11. I dropped the kids off right before he got off of work. That's what pissed him off. Instead of waiting till he got off at 11, I dropped him off early. >> So So can you tell me about like why dropped off the kids here at Glen Park Apartments? >> Because that's where he said he was going. >> Who was going? >> So I dropped him off and I told her to call her brother. >> Okay. But like, can you tell me the circumstances around that? Because like I was told here that you just left the kids on the front porch and then you took off. >> I did cuz he said that's where he was going to be. So when she said that he wasn't there, I said, "You're lying." Cuz he said he was here. >> So I left cuz like I said, that's what he said he was going to be. I left my kids back out with where his dad said they were going to be. That's their auntie. So either way, that's your family member. So me sleepy and call your brother to go pick up his kids if he's not here then. Uh >> I'm not about to keep playing these big ass childish games. >> Okay. Yeah. But here's the thing though. like your your kids. You can't just kids outside and knock on the door and then run away. Especially the 10-month-old who like >> run away. She was at the door. The door was open. I didn't just leave them. >> I was talking to her. We had a whole conversation. >> Okay, hang on. Hang on. So, here here's the thing, right? Like, you have custody of the children, correct? >> No, we split the custody. We have 50/50. >> Sure. Sure. But are you going to work or something? Like, what's the deal? >> Yes, I have a job. I I deserve a break. He actually came and got them none of the days that were his. >> Okay, hang on. >> So, I dropped him off on the days that were his. >> Okay, but when they when they when they called you, they they advised me that you were at home after you dropped off the kids. >> Yes, I went back home. I stopped work at 7:00. They've been there for since 3:00. They've been there way longer than that. >> Okay. >> I didn't drop them off until 3:50. Them kids been there for damn near 2 hours before you guys even called my mom. Okay. Okay. And uh what's your ETA here? >> That's 5 minutes. I got to grab gas. Car's going to crown. Has anyone tried to call their dad to come get them? >> Yeah, we'll we'll facilitate that. We we'll we'll try and get that working. But we got to This is like pretty serious, right? I mean, like can't just like drop off your kids at like people's houses. >> Yeah. I just like someone needs to call their dad. Like I just I don't know, man. I'm just so mad. Like this ridiculous to me. If I can't even get up break, I can't even get my days. whating we have. >> All right. Well, just let you know the fire department is here and they're working on feeding your 10-month-old because the feeding tube isn't working. And so, like that's like a whole another issue here that we're trying to we're trying to make sure these kids are taken care of. >> Clamp. >> So, we're like I said, we're trying to make sure these kids are taken care of, right? That's like the whole issue here. Like nobody knows about the whole like feeding thing. Like this is why it's very like alarming that like you would just leave your kids here and leave. Um, so anyways, I I'll talk. >> Officers later persuaded the mother to return to the scene to resolve the situation, though it took time for her to respond calmly. >> We'll go from there. >> So, and they're they're in there trying to dad's trying to get the pump primed and all that stuff. >> She's got like a like a feeding tube thing going on. >> Yeah. Is the clamp a clamp? >> It's not working. Okay, hang on. Put your hands behind your back. Okay. Yeah. >> Why are both of you wrapped? >> You're under arrest for abandonment. >> I'm under arrest for abandonment. Yep. >> Yep. >> Who did I abandon? >> All of your children. Children. >> I left them with their >> No, you didn't. >> Are you kidding me? I left them with their family members and I'm going to jail for abandonment. >> Yep. You're going to go. >> Whoa. Hold the No. Call my mom first. Day shift is taking who? Their dad's here. And you're telling me he can't do the clamp problem? >> Also, uh you're suspended or revoked third degree. So, you're also arrested for uh >> suspended in the third degree. >> Yeah. You're unable to drive. So, >> what the what about my >> You want our left or right side? >> So, who's going to park my foot? >> Let's do Let's do uh let's do uh what's it real quick? >> Oh, what the Okay, >> spread your feet. >> That's fine. >> All right, since you got my mom out tomorrow. I'm not This is crazy. >> You're going to be in jail until Monday. It's the weekend. >> What do you mean Monday? >> It's It's the weekend. >> You have anything? >> There's no court tomorrow. >> Tomorrow's Friday. >> Yeah, >> it's Today is Friday. >> I have work. So, that's why you guys had me come here. Well, dad's here and uh the baby is in dire need to go to the hospital right now. >> What do you mean that? I just fed her. What are you talking about? There is no dying need of nothing. >> That's what the department fire department said. All good. Nothing. >> No, you're lying. I have her feeding things right on my schedule. You guys are lying. No, you guys are not about to be here making it seem like I did didn't feed my >> All right. So, Dad, why don't you hang back with me for a second? Uh we got mom in custody. All right. We don't need any interaction between you two. All right. It's already been a stressful night for you guys. Uh, let's try to limit all that. All right. >> Yo, >> my mom will bail me on like your mom's. You punk ass. >> Hop in the car. Put your feet in there. >> Yeah, it's okay. And I will get my kids back. >> Put your Put your feet in the car, please. >> Let's just limit all this. All right. I appreciate it >> cuz I'm going be >> I know. I know. >> I appreciate you guys. >> That in front of the police. >> I will beat your ass. >> Shut up. Come on. >> Get in the car, please. >> You were doing my hand, you stupid. >> Whoa. What the hell are you doing? Did you just offer her? >> I sure did. >> Okay. Well, now it's a felony. >> That's fine with me. >> Sick. Okay. >> Me for no reason. Going to push me in the car like that? I don't care. You did? >> Yep. >> She's fine. Yep. >> I didn't hit her that hard. I pushed her off of me. I pushed her off of me. >> Like I said, she was being aggressive towards me. >> Nope. Trying to get you in the car. You can't be kicking officer. >> I was getting in the car. She had my cuff. You guys are being ridiculous. >> No, we have supposed to get Yes. And you can see she had my cuts. Like I said, how am I going to get in the car? You have my >> C. Can't cops like that. >> That's fine. She has no reason to be aggressive towards me. I'm not being mean or aggressive towards nobody. So be tortured. You have no reason, like I said, to be aggressive towards you. >> Uh I just kept the family inside uh cuz it things were getting heated. They were kind of amping each other up. So >> you're the right to remain silent. >> Come pick up my car. >> You're the right to remain silent. >> Anything you can >> Hang on. Hang on. Can Let her read her. >> Can I ask a question for us? Your car's getting towed to you last for 2 minutes. >> Your car is getting towed >> to where? >> It's been impounded. >> I don't know >> why they impounded. Have somebody come pick up my >> You're suspended third. So you're not able to drive and you drove here. So now it's getting towed. >> Do you understand your rights? Are you willing to talk to us? Yes or no? >> No, I want to talk with my kid. >> Okay. But do you know your rights though? >> Called me here to get pick up my kids. >> Stop asking questions. Whatever she >> No, I want to talk with my kid. >> Okay. But do you know your rights though? >> Called me here to get pick up my kids. >> Stop asking questions. whatever she >> The father also came under attention as he had previously used similar methods to avoid childcare responsibilities. >> I didn't drop them off by themselves. Like come on, man. I don't think I really neglected these kids. I dropped him off and they sat here and said he wasn't a whole child because you wouldn't lie to say I wasn't here. You weren't there. >> You're under arrest for abandonment third degree and police officers. >> Three other police officers. >> Yep. It's a felony. >> You'll be going to the King County Jail. Oh, good. >> Okay. You can uh start now going over your side of the story. What exactly happened? >> Um well, from the beginning, me and Maurice have four days on, four days off. I have them Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and drop them off. Thursday at daycare and is supposed to pick them up Thursday. These last few weeks, he hasn't been picking them up. So, I told him today I'll be dropping them off. Like, it wasn't a conversation. So, he was like, "Well, I don't get off until 11:00." So, I was like, "Perfect." So, I packed up all my kids' clothes for 5 days with extra outfits. So, he had enough of food. I did everything like I normally do and I dropped them off at his job. But the only difference this time is I dropped them off early. So, he gets mad and he was like, "Well, you need to come back to the house to pick up your kids." I said, "I'm not coming to pick them." So, we get into a verbal exchange argument. He said that he was leaving the kids there at the house. So, I called the police and asked them to go check my house to see if they were there with my kids. My first officer couldn't get up there. They called me back. They asked me if I can come to the house and get to the kids. I said, "Well, I'm on the freeway to Courtland." And I really was. I was leaving Seattle. And I said, "Well, it's going to take me time to get back." So, I stopped the car cuz I was in Lakewood. I stopped and I waited and I waited. I waited. I I just smoked me a blunt. That's how long I waited. The officer calls me back and was like, "Well, uh, we can't get inside your apartment. Um, do you have a family member to call?" I said, "No, I don't have nobody to get to my apartment." He goes back after I tell him my kids is ages. He goes back, he knocks on the door and Maurice is there with the kids. He has the kids. So, I go back on the freeway and I start headed back to Portland. So, when I'm on my way back, my mom starts blowing up my phone. She was like, "Cuz I your kids are at my front door." I said, "What do you mean my kids are at your front door?" She said, "Ma left these kids here with nothing but a jacket on." And I said, "Are you serious?" And she was like, "Yes." So I had to turn all the way back around and my kids are outside. So I said, "Dude, you're playing. I'm going to drop these kids off at your godmark's house." Like, "These are your dates." I go to his godm's house. No one answers the door. So then I go on Snapchat and Facebook. He's over at Tamas's house. So, I go over there and I drop the kids off at Tomasa's house. Yes. I unpacked them out of the car. I put them in front of the door and I knocked at the door and I stood there. First thing Tomasa does, she comes down the stairs. That window that is right there, she opens it. She was like, cuz you can't leave your kids here. I said, I know your brother's here cuz Maurice parked. Okay, let me go back. There's two ways to get to her house. There's the back way you can go where you go around the roundabouts. That's the way that I came. I came around the roundabouts in the back and Reese's car was parked on the side of the street. So I said, "You need to tell your brother to come downstairs and grab his kids." So she was like, "You need to come grab your kids." I said, "Your brother's up there." So then she comes downstairs, she opens up the front door and she's like, "You need to grab your kids." And so I was like, "No, I'm not grabbing you." So the first thing she does, she grabs Ki. So then when she grabs K, I hop in my car and I drive off. Mind you, actually, I didn't drive off. I was actually still in the apartment building. I never left. I was still there. Even when the other officers pulled up and everybody was calling me, I was watching everything. And then how I know, Barice comes outside and goes around the day. I'm literally watching all of this. And then now everyone's calling me saying that I need to come get K. She's having medical problems. But when I drop K off and her medical thing tells you she was eating. It has the time stamps and everything on her last feet. When I dropped her off, she was eating. They're saying that I didn't feed her and it was child. No. And I dropped them off with clothes, shoes, and everything. And I made sure she grabbed >> The mother was charged with child abandonment and assaulting a police officer. Under Washington law, she could face up to 6 years in prison and fines of up to $15,000. Do you think the father in this situation acted responsibly? Share your thoughts in the comments below. They once loved each other deeply, but repeated breaches of trust strained the relationship, leaving the children caught in adult tensions. >> I hate you so much. >> I wish I never met you. You're the worst person in my life. >> On June 6th, 2025, police received a call from a passerby reporting a heated disagreement between the mother and father of several children. The conflict stemmed from personal disagreements and quickly escalated in front of four children at home, prompting the caller to call for help. When they arrived, the situation remained tense. >> Hey, sir. Take me. Take me. I hope you I hope God. >> What's going on? >> Take me, sir. >> For what? >> Because all he does is cheat and lie to me. Take me. >> Go back inside. Go back inside. >> And she lives break. Go inside. Go inside. >> Stop. >> I hope you stop. You >> quit fighting. Stop. >> You lying. >> Stop. >> I hope you die. >> Stop. >> Yeah. Well, you're fighting, so chill out. >> You got my bait. Give me a second. Jesus Christ. >> I don't care. I'm sorry. I've been dealing with this for 10 years. Get that my house here. Stop. God. Please get that my house. Quit yelling. Get that house. >> I will talk to you in a second when you stop yelling. >> Please get that house. >> Take a breath and chill out. >> Please get out of my house. >> Yeah. Take a breath and chill out. >> My landlord would tell you she's not welcome here. Get her out of my house, Dad. I hope you break. I hate you so much. Before I go one more time. >> I wish I never met you. You're the worst person in my life. >> Jeez. I hate you so bad. >> Stop. Stop. >> Pay your own bills. You blind. Pay bill. >> Chill out. When I tell you to go inside, >> chill out. She just came right there. She threw the [ __ ] scooter. >> That's what I'm about to ask you. >> You want to ask me what you see? I called the dispatcher. She just heard her smashing [ __ ] and throwing scooter. >> Yeah. Now she me. >> I need to talk to you about that. Calling y'all. It went through the It said VB three times. I called. >> I don't take chill pill, dude. >> Ain't no chill pill. My kids are in here. >> Okay. You know something? You guys took her for 20 minutes to her champagne. She said she needed to get a minute. >> Not you guys. That was neither of us. >> Same. It's your team. Your whatever the call it. They took her. She called my dad in 20 minutes. Came. >> The two adults were separated to calm things down. The father revealed another source of tension. A necklace which made an already fragile relationship even harder to men. >> Get my window. >> Get your girlfriend out of my house. >> Arrest me. Close right now. >> Quit. >> Okay. What happened? I was literally sitting here. I told you I was making nugget. She called. She said, "Sir, show back up here screaming that the necklace, this is her sister's necklace." She think that that's the necklace on her, but her her brother too got. So she's thinking that's the same necklace. So she's on her face with her daughter in her hand. I got it all on record. She's like, "Give me the give me give me my necklace." I'm like, "Dude, I swear to God, I got receipts for it. I bought it for my own sister." The heart necklace. I literally bought that. The kids were crying. She stepped in. She grabbed the baby because she hit the window first with that scooter and I seen it. So she booms do her again. Get her stuff off my neck. Get her stuff off my neck. I'm like, what are you talking about? It's not your You need to relax. She came to get her kid because you keep calling her kid a dick and stuff. So she came to get her kid, but she don't care about that. So I locked the door. Here's the results. >> So she came back after >> you ask the dispatcher too. Like I was saying, she's like, "Is that her screaming?" She like she heard the crash and she's like, "Oh, don't don't engage." She's like, "Go inside, lock the door." >> What'd she do after she broke the windows? >> She just kept st screaming. >> Well, you said she got physical with you. What happened there? Yeah, she pushed me back cuz I'm shutting the door. So, she pushed me and that's why the scooters start coming to the door. >> She pushed you trying to shut the door and you get the door shut. >> She breaking windows in it, man. This kid the kids are literally right here. I went and I'm like not doing it door and she broke this one first. >> How many kids are inside? >> There's four. Like I don't know what y'all going to have to do, but her mom got custody of the two twins in here. You y'all got to call her mom cuz one, me and her mom don't get along. She obviously hates me now and I'm not doing the police later when she wants to come to the street and her mom called the cops. I had her on record last time this happened saying that they're going to my ass. >> You have a contact number for her mom? >> Yeah, it's it's like um >> Okay, we understand we can't just show up and arrest people for nothing. We're chill now. But when you >> This is okay. So look, let me your situation. She broke the window. Now she came in with the scooter and I knocked out now. What y'all going to say now? >> This is her house. She >> It's mine, too. So if I say you destroy my knock her now, you're going to say that's the messy. He's not domestic. I'm not with that [ __ ] >> You have a child with her. So it's >> But how was it? >> It's still domestic. >> Oh, how understand how it's domestic? >> Cuz you were in a domestic rel. She can come in and she can break all she wants in her own house. And just cuz you're no longer with her doesn't mean you can't punch her. >> What's her mom's number? >> Yep. She broke the window. She fighting the police. All type of shi. I'm finding his number for him. >> How are you? >> Hi. I want to get paperwork served to him. >> Who lives here? >> She's permanently living here. He's been gone for >> I have not been gone. She likes She likes to lie to you. I've not been gone. >> You have been at another house out here. >> I got videos and everything. I've been here normally. You've been able to evade her helping her. I don't give a [ __ ] what you're saying. >> I'm glad you're here because this is your >> Okay, put this down. That's what Shre did. Thank you. She did that. Not a nice try. >> I don't give a what you're saying cuz you're steady helping her out. >> There is >> I don't care. She broke the window and you don't care about that. So there's what? A notice to leave. Duh. She just broke the window. Of course. >> Terminating your lease. >> Good. Tell her that cuz she's the one who did. I don't stay here except for to watch the she did that herself. So stop talking to me and take your for real. She being [ __ ] disrespectful. Shut the and go on. Talk to that car. >> Don't worry about her. Talk to me. What's your phone number? >> She wasn't screaming first of all. She came over to give you a piece of paper. So >> she shows back up still drunk screaming. He's like, "Get out cuz cuz they're going to get the kids and leave." She sees him, comes back, barges her way in, she's drunk, saying she wants a necklace or something and pushes out of the way. He then shuts the door and that's when she throws a scooter through the door with the kids right behind the door. He's saying she pushed him. So domestic that point and then life and wellbeing of Did the witness coopate that? >> I didn't talk to her. Yeah, she's been inside cleaning and he was amped up. The mother remained upset, feeling that the officers were handling her unfairly during this difficult moment. >> This is not her house. She needs to go. I want her out of my house. >> Quit kicking my door. Get her out of my house, please. >> She's not welcome. She's a home invader. >> Quit door. >> Get her out of my house. >> Okay. Quit my door. No, that's not how it works. >> No. No. I'll keep doing it. She >> If you want to get her, if you're taking her for domestic, I can talk to her. Just get her out of here. My sister, those are her sons in there. I want her out of the house. If she's not going to get out of the house, take me to jail. Do whatever you're going to do. Get her out of my house. I want her out of my house, sir. >> He's going to talk to her right now. >> Get her and gone now. >> He's talking to her right now. >> I hate my life. It's all my fault. Whatever. I >> He's talking to her right now. Go to that side. >> Make her leave. I hate you. >> I hope he bro. I hope God him in that house, son. I got twin 2-year-olds and my sister, bro. My sister, he's taking advantage of that, sir. Take a breath. Take a breath. >> He's taking advantage of that, sir. >> Yeah, I get it. It's >> so Why won't you all them out? Take >> Why is she still standing right there, bro? >> First of all, there's kids there. >> She needs to leave. It's my kids, not hers. Tell her to take her kid and go. >> Kids here. >> My kids. That's her fault cuz she's my baby daddy. Oh, well. >> Okay. Well, we're done. >> My baby daddy can both leave. You can call my mom. >> They are leaving. I am calling your mom. Tell him to call my mom and tell her to come get the kids and tell J to never speak to me or my kids again. Bo, >> don't speak to me no more. I hate you. >> I hope you >> We have three different accounts from the father, mother, and a neighbor. Now, it's the father's partner's turn to share insights on the complicated dynamics between the parents and the children while explaining how the events unfolded. >> Hey, miss. Can I talk to you? Were you here in whatever transpired here? Um, I walked down here to get my daughter from her day cuz I came down here originally because she had showed up over there after I talked to that one. >> Where do you live at? >> I live. And who's this gentleman to you? >> My boyfriend. He asked me to come down here and get my get our daughter from him. So, I came down here to get her and she walked back up out of nowhere cuz I'd seen her get in a black car and drive off after she showed up down here. And I called him and told him about it. So, he told me to come and get our daughter. She showed up back. Did >> you share a child with him? >> It's his stepdaughter. It's not biologically not his. She He's been there since >> his boyfriend. It's your child. Yeah. Uh, and so I came down here to get her from him and stuff like that because she's already calling his mom to come get the other kids because she's acting like this. As I'm standing here with her and I'm talking to him, she starts grabbing all my necklaces, talking about how they're hers. They're not hers. He gave this to me. He bought this and gave this to me from his sister. And this is because my my brother passed away a couple years ago and she was trying to grab on them. And I'm backing up telling her stop touching me while I'm pointing my daughter, which is when he started recording cuz she's like, "Stoping her." And then she started throwing stuff at him. So I grabbed the kids and took them all inside and closed the door. And when that happened, she shattered the village. >> What was she throwing at them? >> The tripes and everything that are on the thing. >> Hey Sarge, you want me to call or you call her mom to pick up the two kids? >> All I'm saying is this. I've been taking care of him. They're my sons. >> But without her being in a picture, her mom's going to act up. >> Who has custody? >> Her mom. >> I So we're going to have to contact her because they're her. She has custody of these kids. >> So listen, I'm telling you. I'm trying to tell you the nicest way. She That lady doesn't give a We have begged her on in to help her. She don't care if the kids at arms are broke. She don't care. She cares about the benefits. So the link, the stuff, the voucher she gets, that's all she cares about. Apple and Cash App, even she does. I've taken care of them kids since they was born. And that lady don't care. She's only going to come and oh, she get the kid and then she going to try to figure out how to drop them back off again. So if she's cool and verbally tells you to turn to her mouth, they're they're cool with them. She's not going to tell you that. She going to tell you that and then do some [ __ ] What she going to do? She acting just like her mom to jail. I'm trying to take you to I don't care if you get her out of my house, son. >> Scoot over here. Get out of my house and we're leaving. Get out of my house. >> He's getting them out. Scoot over here. >> I'll lean until she got >> No, you're not. No. >> Stop doing me like that. >> Scoot over. I'm not doing you like anything. >> I hate my life, sir. Make him and that little girl lean and it won't be a problem. I hate you. I hope you >> unfortunately the twin children originally entrusted to the mother by their late sister were ultimately placed with their grandmother who has legal custody. Even the mother has not fully honored her sister's wishes. So he's talking about her mom coming to get the kids. How many kids are we talking about? >> I was in prison. Her sister had two twins. I got out of prison a month later. I got her sister go to rehab and stuff, right? But we are also taking care of the kids cuz her sister's not out here. Okay. She wrote in a note before she passed away. If happens, I would like Sarah, which is her and Greg to take care of the kids. That's what we've been doing. But her mom has custody. She's never done [ __ ] but drop off diapers and wipes and maybe a pizza or something there. >> So, and you live here, right? She's girlfriend, ex-girlfriend. >> No, she's ex like we've been >> She lives here also? >> Yes. >> How long have you been staying here? >> Year and a half since we've been here. >> Have the kids been in your career the whole time? >> They've been in both of ours. >> They essentially live here. >> Yeah. >> And you both have been living here also? >> Yeah. Even when we were in Acres before we moved here. >> So, you live here, she lives here, and both kids have lived here for the entirety of that time. So when you're talking about her mom who currently has custody that they don't stay there, they don't live with her. >> They never have. She doesn't even probably even have a piece of clothing that she can say that. >> Are the kids okay in your care right now? >> Yeah, they are. It's just the fact of you see how she acts. Her mom's 10 times worse. So I don't want her to figure it out and then come here. The door, first of all, the door's not locked. We obviously we can't stay here cuz we're going to have to leave. I mean, it's not secured. I have a pit boy that bites. So I have to figure something that So I have to figure out somewhere to go. They can't go to my mom's. >> But you essentially care for the children. >> Yeah, I do. It's just I just don't want obvious reason she wasn't going to jail until she started resisting him of course. But now if some I go to jail or I I can't watch >> Well, she's going to jail for domestic battery. >> They don't have nobody else. >> They got her for DVD. Domestic battery. >> Is this family? >> No, they're next door. >> Okay. How often does her mom see the kids or have the kids or does she ever? >> She probably comes every once a month. >> Are you wanting her mom to come get the kids? >> I just don't know what the outcome of me having the kids is going to be with her. >> What do you mean by that? She's She's going to freak out and she's going to want her kids because she don't want him to have it. That's what he means. She's It's still going to be an issue. >> Like the last time before stuff escalated, she called her mom and I had the window open and I tried to get it on recording, but her mom was like, "Oh, we can go ahead and kill out of our way." That's why I'm so iffy right now. You see what I'm saying? >> I'm trying to kind of articulate if these kids are always in in your care and custody and them being here with you is just just a normal day that they would be here regardless. >> They live here >> or if her mom should or needs to come get the kids is what I'm trying to get at. Do you have contact information for her mom? >> Yeah. >> Okay. Okay. You I mean you have open communication with her where you can just call her and say, "Hey, you want to come get kids?" >> We're not on talking terms at all. >> One of us will probably reach out to her just let her know what's going on being mom. I don't I don't know what that conversation is going to look like or if she's like, "Okay, that's fine. They can stay with >> anything. Could you do this? Could you take down my mom's information and then her just her number and tell and if you get a hold of which is her mom, let her know like contact his mom and you guys can figure out where the kids at cuz I'm not doing her just pull up. She's going to pull up and act stupid." What's your mom's name? >> My mom is >> We'll try to out. If you have any issues be with kids or otherwise, just call us back and we'll we'll get it figured out. Okay. All right. Thank you. >> He's not going to be safe on my kids. Can you please I can call my mom a number. >> I have your mom's number. I have your mom's number. >> Trust my son. >> I have your mom's number. >> I have your mom's number. I have your mom's number. >> Please call her. >> Take a breath. >> Your mom's being called. We are calling your mom's. Take a breath. You're probably going to see a judge tomorrow morning. >> Y'all already kicked him out of my house. >> He's not staying there. Okay. But we're trying to work on getting your kids somewhere safe. Does 650 sound like your mom's address? >> Okay. Are you going to chill out? Let me talk to you. >> Okay. You got to stay in there, but I'm going to read you this so I can talk to you. Okay. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can't be used against you in a court of law or other proceedings. You have the right to speak with an attorney and have an attorney with you before and during any questioning if you wish. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you free of any cost. You can decide to exercise these rights at any time. You understand these rights verbally? >> Yes, sir. >> Okay. So, what happened today? >> He's been cheating on me for about 9 months now with this girl. You and I was over there with her kid. >> Okay. So, we come out there earlier today and you took off. When you come back, what happened there? There's a scooter through a window of people saying you were pushing him. >> My house. It's my house. I can do what I want to my property, right? >> Yeah, you can. But you can't start pushing. >> I didn't push nobody. I tried to get in my house. I know people saying you pushed them. >> You also threw a scooter through a window with kids behind the house. >> Scooter through the window cuz they wouldn't let me in the house. >> I get that, but there's kids behind the glass. So, I get to your house. >> Behind the house, guys. >> He says that >> you telling me this is going to go in the report, but I need you to talk to me. >> I told you what I did out there. Let me What did he do to you? >> He was screaming if he would let me in the house. He locked me out my house because I caught him cheating me in. >> Did it you? >> No. >> Okay, hop on out for me. All right. >> The mother was charged with domestic battery, battery, and endangering the life or health of a child. Under Illinois law, she could face three to six years in prison. Children learn how to handle conflict from the adults around them. When adults resort to shouting or intense arguing, children may see that as the way to solve problems, a lesson that requires proper guidance to correct. The father did not blame anyone. The mother had to take responsibility, but beyond the legal aspects, what really affects the young children. >> But I didn't want to get him in trouble. That's it. >> That's not for you to turn up. On May 12th, 2024, police received a call about a disagreement between two parents in front of their children. They quickly arrived on the scene and found that the conflict started over being late for a restaurant appointment. >> Chill out. You come over here. >> Turn. >> Sit. You sit down over there for me. >> This is why I told you. >> Sit down over there for me. >> Hey, sit down, man. >> What's going on? >> We're just fighting. Why are you guys fighting in front of your kids? >> Because heation and I was late and he was over there looking at the mall and I thought he just >> True. I wait inside. >> Yeah, he waited at the >> [ __ ] over here. I don't want to [ __ ] hear you guys fight. >> He just booked a reservation and I thought he was running around with he was there. That's it. >> And that's what you guys are fighting for? >> Yeah. >> That's ridiculous. What's your name? X-ray I >> one second A N A >> What is it? >> A I Y A N A >> A I >> Yeah. A I Y A N A. >> What's your last name? >> I didn't. >> So this happened cuz you he booked a reservation and you guys were late. >> He booked a reservation and I thought he was late and well I mean we were both there but it was booked under the wrong name. Reservation for what? >> For Liam L. >> But for what? Like >> for like to eat at the Cheesecake Factory. >> And you got to start fighting over that. >> Yeah. >> That's ridiculous. Sit down right there. >> I'm here for her, but I don't know what's your problem. I just want >> What's your name? >> Amayas. >> Amaya. >> Amayas. >> Amayas. Okay. Nice. What do you usually see? Do you sit on that other one or do you sit on this >> car? >> Is your dad's car? >> That's my tablet. >> What was that? >> My tablet. >> That's your tablet. >> Nice. If you want to use your tablet, you can use your tablet. >> It's Oh, okay. >> What up? >> So, they're I see they're like pushing shoving each other. They're fighting over them being late to a reservation to the Cheesecake Factory. >> Okay. This is very impulsive. >> Um, let me run real quick. >> Like I said, I just let go and they're just right here just pulling the [ __ ] out of each other and little girls watching the whole thing. A little boy. >> Hey, the other baby. Was that baby in the car seat? >> Is there a baby? That's a baby. >> That's a tiny little baby. >> I I didn't see them. They're already parked. What's up, dude? What's your name? >> Amayas. >> Amayas. >> Like your shirt? Amayas? clean. >> This Marlin, >> what's up? >> Marlin. >> What's this guy name? >> Marlin. >> Yeah. >> He's owner. She say >> that they started fighting cuz um they were late to a reservation at Cheesecake Factory. >> Wait, because >> they were late to the Cheesecake Factory. >> Oh, okay. >> And they started fighting. >> But she didn't say who threw the punch. >> Yeah. >> Switch off. We're going to go original witness. see if there's anything >> crazy. >> All right, let's go. >> Both parents showed complex emotions, but they shared a common goal of not causing trouble for each other. However, misunderstandings led to a heated moment. >> You want shoes? >> They're in my car. >> You want me to get them for you? >> No. >> So, what happened? You guys just kept driving and you guys hopped out here or or what happened? >> I was just mad at him cuz we would put on new resolutions and one was there, one wasn't, and then >> So, were you guys done from Cheesecake or what? >> Yeah. >> Okay. How'd you guys get into this parking lot? >> We just drove >> Uh-huh. Do you guys live in this apartment or >> Yeah. >> You guys live here? Then you guys just started pushing each other. Is that it? >> Yeah, we just started arguing like I said about the reservations and it was just over. Nothing major. It was just about the reservations. That's it. >> I mean it became major when you guys started pushing each other. >> Yeah. I mean Yeah. But I mean because we started pushing each other it wasn't because of anything major. It was just over reservations >> that could have been rescheduled. I'm pretty sure. >> Most likely. Yeah. >> I mean, but when you guys have an argument, you guys aren't supposed to push or hit each other. >> No, but I mean I was the aggressor. I think that >> especially in front of kids. Central. >> Cuz this didn't just happen here. It happened down the street, right? >> Cuz that's where we originally got caught to. >> No, it was here >> cuz we got caught from down the street that you guys were trying to pull each other out of the cars and stuff and the kids. >> What were you guys fighting for right here? Cuz you guys were like grabbing at each other's hands, trying to pull away. like reservations. >> No, but like when I pulled up, you guys were like, were you guys just grabbing onto each other's arms or were you guys like pulling trying something away from each other? >> Yes, we were just grabbing under each other's arms. >> And do you live here by yourself with the kids or does he stay here too? >> No, I stay here with my mom. >> What was it? >> I stay here. >> He doesn't live here with you? >> No. >> He hasn't been saying Duly. >> Where's that? It's like 3 hours north. >> Hey was down here visiting or what? >> Get down over there for me. >> Hey, sit down, man. >> What's going on? >> Literally, I told you. >> Hey, man. Just sit down. >> Hey, man. Sit down. Hey, man. Sit down. >> That's not true. I wait inside. >> She took 2 hours to show up. >> Just talk to me, man. All right. Let me know what's going on. All right. So, what's going on? >> I'm trying to take my kids. Uh-huh. >> And we were trying to have a reservation at the mall, but she showed up 2 hours to come get or to come and I left and I came here and she was here >> and she's all mad just cuz I took 2 hours to come get her, but she told me she was over there. >> Uhhuh. >> So, the kids are both of yours and >> Yes. >> Oh, okay. And you were trying to get the kids? >> Yes. >> Okay. That for me, man. All right. >> Okay. So, then what you know what happened afterwards? Why'd you guys end up getting into a physical fight? >> Well, because, you know, she was trying to drive off and I told her she shouldn't be driving. >> And I told her that, you know, I'm not going to let them go anywhere. We're here at the house. We can stay here. But she wants to argue and she wants to fight. But I told her, we can stay here. We don't have to go anywhere. But she's mad at me just because what? I showed up late. >> Mhm. >> But I was the one that was early. I showed up early. The guest cat asked me, "Oh, you want to wait? You want to wait? You want to wait?" And then 2 3 hours later, I [ __ ] said, "Okay, well, all right, then I'll give him the ticket." And I left. >> Yeah. 19. >> So, whose car is this? This yours? >> This mine? Yes. >> Oh, okay. And she was trying to drive off in your car or >> Oh, okay. So, I saw that you were in the car first. >> And she was trying to get in. Yes. >> She was trying to get in. >> Yes. I wasn't going to let her in. >> And she's I don't know. I don't know what's going on with her. I just want her to understand that I'm here for her, but I don't know what's her problem. I just want her to understand that I'm here cuz we're trying to work things out. I just came back. I'm from Goce and I'm just trying to let her know that I'm here for her. That's about it. >> Oh, okay, man. So, who started the, you know, the fighting or whatever, the physical fighting? >> Uh, I want to say both of us, but we were just arguing about like, you know, just the dinner thing. That was about it. >> Mhm. >> Wasn't over the driving or anything cuz she already knew she couldn't drive. I was just letting her know that she couldn't. >> Yeah. All right. All right, man. What's your uh first name? >> B. What's your uh social? >> Uh, excuse me. Are you guys searching the car? Unlike other disputes, the father did not blame or justify himself. He simply acknowledged that both had contributed to the disagreement. >> Searching the card. >> No, we're taking out the baby due to the safety of the baby. >> Okay. Is she in the front? >> Yes. And I buckled in inside the vehicle. >> Hi. Everybody say, >> "What's your kiss name?" >> Mari, how do you spell it? >> Uh, M. Got to get your blanket. Yeah. He was throwing the blanket. >> Look, it's a dollar. for the safety of baby. >> Okay. Is she in the front? >> That's why I told you to put her in the back. >> Your social >> righty, man. Just have a seat for me. All right. Be right back with you. >> What's your uh kid's name? Have a seat. Amari. >> Amari. >> Yes. >> How do you spell it? Uh >> M E R M A R I. What' you get? >> Last name. Same last name or huh? >> Same last name as you. >> All right. Yes, sir. >> Everybody's okay. We're just date of birth. >> Just get over this argument. That was about it. >> Date of birth, man. >> For your kid. Uh, date of birth for your kid. >> Uh, >> that was it. Nobody went anywhere. We were just right here. We just were just getting into an argument over a dinner. That was about it. >> What about your other kid? >> Oh, Amayas. Uh, Amayas is five. He was born on >> K. And how do you spell that first name? >> Uh, M I S A M I U S. >> Ready, man. Sing tight. All right. CC. >> Whatever. So they're I see they're pushing chuging each other. They're fighting over them being late for a reservation. >> I just looked over and they're just right here at each other and little girls watching over. >> Hey baby was that baby in the car seat. >> What's your name? Mine is mine. >> B E L E. >> They started fighting cuz um they're way late to a reservation cheesecake factory because what? >> They were late to the Cheesecake Factory. Oh, okay. They started fighting. >> She didn't say >> switch off with Hector. We're going to go 25 original witness. see if there's anything. >> What's that? >> So, we're waiting on uh verification. The other officer is going to talk to the witness. >> Oh, pretty much. Both of them are pointing to me. They said they both were at the night because they said witnessed. So, trying to get clarification over there, see what happened beforehand over there. >> Yeah. Okay. >> What did you see? Well, I mean, I just saw them talking through the window and then all of a sudden >> I mean they started fighting through the window itself. So, I don't know who started it. >> They're they're pulling at each other over here. >> Yeah. >> She said that she was a primary aggressor. >> That's what she told me. >> 16 females on the street. Grandma going to have to come get the kids cuz grandma's the only one. >> Do she doesn't have none or what? No, he doesn't. >> You just got visitation. That's it. >> You just got visitation, right? That's it. I'm doing nothing wrong. That's about it. >> When it gets physical, it's wrong. >> Yeah, I understand. But I just could not let her drive. That was She was trying to take out my keys while was in the front and the back was in the bucket. I have to do what I have to do. >> Hey, you're cool with me, so I appreciate that. >> Yeah, I know. Like I said, I'm not even trying to have problems with you. >> At first glance, this seemed like a typical family disagreement. However, the mother had prior patterns of similar conflicts lead to the need for accountability. >> All right, sweet. So, we'll get a 16 right over here by the car. They're going to run fields and see if he's good at driving and he'll take the kids. 16 walk. >> Yeah, that's what I'm telling you. We're going to walk her back to her. >> Ready, ma'am? So, you are together in the house. So, we're going to walk you over there to the cars away from your kids. All right. And that's where we're handcuffing. >> But I didn't do anything. I was just trying to be I didn't do anything. >> We'll talk about, you know, kind of explain it to you. Were you here? All right. >> No, but I didn't do anything to him. Like I was just I was just like doing >> All right, man. Well, we'll come over here. We'll talk. Okay. >> I was No, but I was just doing my own aggression towards myself because I didn't want him near me and like I was just >> All righty, ma'am. So, just walk over here to the vehicle. Okay. >> No, but like I was just right over here. I was just trying to do get him away from me. >> Okay. Don't call us. >> No, but I was just trying to get him away from me. That's all. >> Which one's yours? >> William 35. I was concerned. Well, I was just trying to get him against me. I promise. I was just trying to make him >> right over here. Okay. Wait for the kids. >> No, but I just didn't want to get him. >> No, but I just didn't want to get him. >> Put your hand behind your back. Okay. >> I just didn't want to get him. I just didn't want to get him arrested. That's all. No. >> No. Hey. Hey. You're under arrest, ma'am. Don't pull away, man. Arrested. No. Don't pull away. Okay. >> I didn't want to get him arrested. >> Put your hands together. Oh, like don't cause the scene. Okay. >> Behind your back. >> Trying to be cool with you. Okay. We were here at the stop sign. We saw you. You tried to go in through the window and then after that you started him throwing punches. >> But sir, I was I was just only trying to get away because >> Hey, you even admitted to my partner you're the primary aggressor and we saw everything too. Okay. >> I just wasn't trying to. Please. I just didn't want to get him in chocolate. That's all. >> You want to follow him? >> No, I don't. Oh, please. I didn't want to get him in trouble. That's it. And I promise you that's it. That's all that was going on. >> Ma'am, I promise that's all. >> Seriously. Seriously, might as well have a voice. >> Do you have anything on you? Poke me. >> No. >> No. >> But I promise you that was all that was going on. I didn't want to get him in trouble. I just I just wanted him to go home with our kids and that's it. >> Well, he's going to go home with the kids. >> No, but I I promise you I wasn't doing anything. >> And then quick question for you real quick. Why did you give me a different social? >> Because I thought that was my social. I'm not lying. >> All right. With the back side of my hand, I'm going to check your inner thigh. Okay. So, I'm going to have you uh separate your feet from me. Actually, you have an inner pockets cuz I feel on this side. >> She has like >> just my cards. >> Bunch of cards and stuff. >> And he doesn't know. We're going to have him drop him off at drop off your kids and your grandma. All right. They're grandma's. >> But I know he wasn't with me though. >> What do you mean he wasn't with you? >> But he he's not with me. Like we're not boyfriend and girlfriend. >> That's it. >> Baby daddy, right? >> I mean like Yeah, but that's it. Like we tried to get him. >> Even though he's your baby daddy and still call considered DB cuz he's your ex. >> But I didn't want to get him in trouble. That's it. >> That's not for you to determine at this point. It's us. We're the ones pressing charges. my hand. I'm going to check your other >> I mean, I just acted out of aggression. I didn't mean for >> You want to open the door and then I'll walk around. >> I didn't mean for all this to happen. That's it. >> Well, we're at this point now. >> I mean, I didn't mean for all this to happen. That's all. I didn't mean for any of this to happen. And I just I didn't mean for all this to happen. That's it. >> Where are your shoes at? So, I can get them for you. >> I didn't mean for all this to happen. >> Hey, where are your shoes at? At first glance, this seemed like a typical family disagreement. However, the mother had prior patterns of similar conflicts lead to the need for accountability. >> Has she had anything to drink today? >> Uh, I don't think so. I would not. >> Okay. Have you had anything to drink today? >> Just probably bought one. >> Okay. I was at the Cheesecake Factory. >> Okay. >> Yeah, that was about here. >> So, here's what's going to happen. um state law. We w both witnessed a battery and multiple people down the street witnessed this incident. She's going to get booked today. Okay. >> I'm going to check your eyes to make sure you're safe to drive your kids. >> Well, can I just call my uh the kids and if anything I could just leave my car here. >> Okay, >> that's fine cuz you know I understand I shouldn't be driving but I just didn't want her to get in trouble. >> Is it one drink? >> Yeah, it was just one drink. That was it. >> I can look at your eyes and and make that determination. Okay. >> Yes, sir. Just follow my finger with your eyes and your eyes as long as you don't move your head. Yep. >> Let's call mom. >> Uh, she has a number. >> Okay. >> Is she nearby? >> I hope so. I have no idea. I don't really know where she's at. She's the only one that gives me contact and I can't call her unless she let allows me to. >> Okay. Are you bio dad of these kiddos? >> Okay. >> Yeah. But I really do everything what she tells me. If I have to lie to the mother, I will. And that's just the way it is for me because if I don't do what she says, it's worse on me. Like I get the physical. >> I gota My concern is um >> Yeah. Just not >> the neighbors heard yelling about drunk driving as well and she was driving and she is intoxicated and based on the witness interview she had we're going to have to make an arrest here. So we'll get the kids situated. >> Yeah. You know, like I tried to tell her go inside and she wanted to take them and she tried to leave with them and I didn't know what to do besides jump in front of the driver's seat and not let her take them. >> I got you. >> I didn't even want her to get in trouble cuz I cared for her, but I kept telling her I didn't want I didn't want to have trouble like this. I kept telling her, "You're going to get in trouble. You're going to get in trouble." She wouldn't listen. All she cared about was getting in that driver's seat and trying to drive away knowing that it's my ride. and she tried to take off and there was nothing I could do besides get in the front and push her out. That's all I could do. >> I got you cuz mom her mom lives nearby. >> She lives here with them. I just from what I know she lives in she had just got a house in Rio Rancho side. So um that's the only place I can think that's where she's at now. >> Either here or in Rio Rancho. >> Yeah, here or Rio Rancho. >> She said she's on Rio Rancho and I asked her right now. >> Okay. Um he's not good to drive either. I'm not picking them up. >> Okay. So, >> are you willing to have your you got and stuff. Are you willing to have them >> to have photographed and stuff? >> No. No. >> You might just pull out your car so I can at least get on camera. >> You know grandma's phone number? Your mother? >> Every time I try to get the phone number, I can't. You know, the mom does everything and she's the only one that has a number. And from what I believe, I don't even know what she did with my phone. She had my phone this whole time. That's the reason why I couldn't call her. I was looking for them at the mall for about 2 3 hours and I didn't have my cell phone. I was looking for them for a while. I was driving all over. I was looking everywhere. Then I went in 3 hours later at Kitchen Factory and they were there. They were just sitting there and they said that I was late when I waited there for 2 hours. I was just trying to take her out on a dinner and I didn't know what she was doing. She took off for 2 hours and there she was at the factory and I didn't even know she was there. I waited there at the factory 2 hours. She knew that I had a name down. I sat there for 2 hours and they just told me they had to close the table. So I said, "Okay." And I waited. I looked around. I went all over the mall. Then later on, I found them sitting there like 10 minutes later after I left. >> No, man. I know you got kids together, I think. So, I don't know >> what the solution is, but it's You got to figure something out here. I don't know what that answer is, but >> I think I know that answer. >> I think you know the answer. >> Yes, sir. >> I've been dealing with a lot. I >> I live in Dulce. I didn't know what was going on out here. I didn't know what type of trouble she got into out here. I And I just want to be with my kids. I did not know that me for 6 months. And >> I just want to be here for them. >> I think it's my fault for always giving into their mom like I always do. I just care about her too much. I guess >> it's hard, man, when you care about someone to to set that boundary, you know? >> Yeah, but I I don't see myself raising my kids by my own, but it looks like I'm not being left with no choice. >> Well, hang out with these officers. I'm going to see see what's >> A witness shared additional details to help clarify the events. >> How are you? >> Good. >> Sorry, I think. >> Did you guys call about an incident? >> Yes, we did. Can you tell me what you saw? We have them in custody. >> Yeah. Um they were right at this corner and we heard like all this screaming. Um and then we were looking out the window and he was just like banging on the car and he's get out blah blah blah whatever. And then all of a sudden he opens the door, the car was moving forward and he like yanked out a kid maybe six, seven from a I don't know. A kid um kept screaming and yelling and then he yanked her out. She slapped him and then like he got in the car and a jogger, one of our neighbors, went and sat with the kid and he said that she was completely deered and that he was trying to get her out of the car being like, "You're wasted. You're not driving my kids." yada yada yada. And then he said that when she went around, she went around on the far passenger side and then sat in the like the kid's car seat. >> Okay. What? What? >> And then they drove. position did he pull the kid out of where in the car? >> It l Well, I don't know how far, but I mean it looked like it was behind the driver's seat and I couldn't tell. I >> So, he pulled the kid out from behind the driver's seat. Okay. >> I assume so. That's like what door was open. Okay. >> And then pulled her out of the driver's seat. So, she was driving. >> She was driving. Yeah. And then she like slapped him. And then there was just a bunch of neighbors that were kind of coming out from a distance, you know. >> Okay. The mother could be charged with battery against a household member. Under New Mexico law, she could face up to one year in prison and fines ranging from $500 to $1,000. This situation serves as an important reminder when children witness arguments, even minor ones. They can feel stressed or anxious. Resolving conflicts through calm discussion is essential to create a safe and healthy environment for them. But in Florida, the situation is even more alarming. A child had to flee right from their own home. >> I just always have to go back home and I don't like it. >> On January 22nd, 2022, West Palm Beach police got a report that Luna had run away from home. They immediately went to the girl's home to investigate and happened to uncover serious issues within her family. >> Can you tell me a little more of what happened? Cuz I'm just getting here. >> It was actually about 8:15 this morning. >> Okay. >> She got up out of her bed like she just woke up for the day. She was like, "I'm I have to go to the bathroom." I saw her walk into the restroom and then I started changing her sister's diaper. So, I wasn't like paying too much attention. I heard her not in the bathroom anymore. So, I looked and I was like, "Luna, she wasn't in her room." And that's when I heard her by the back door and then I was like, "Luna." And then I walked over to see her and as I was walking over there, she was opening the back door to an emotional processing disorder and she's had it like basically since she was about this size. >> Okay. She's always had a thing with like running away or like hoarding things. >> Where does she usually go to? >> That's where why we're baffled right now because like she always goes to the same places like always. Which is the neighbor's house right here. >> Which one? Which neighbor's house? >> This. Did you tell any officer this? >> We've shown all the offices. Every single one. >> That house right there with the pink tree in the middle. >> Okay. Have you talked to them? >> Well, normally I see the neighbor in the front yard this morning since this happened. >> But I don't think they're home today. I didn't see the truck in the yard of the husband that I know he usually has a truck. >> So, where did you last see her? >> Down here on Flaggler. Like cuz when she ran 29th Street between Flagler and >> you know the baby and stuff. I followed her as far as I could and I saw her. She not this light and she went to like the next street usually comes back around and she'll like hang out in this neighbor's yard in the trees. The one with the 26. While waiting for the mother to open the door, the police happened to talk with a neighbor. From there, an astonishing truth gradually emerged. >> I'm going to check your house again. Is that okay? Are you okay? >> Hi, buddy. You okay if I go take a look for your [ __ ] >> Thanks. >> Actually, >> are you locked out now? >> Abus, did you lock the door, sweetie? >> No, I >> River, you locked the door. Okay. Um, >> I'm going to go take a a walk. Okay. Hi there. I'm looking for a little girl, Luna. I was told she likes to hang out over here. >> She's gone again. >> Have you seen her this morning? >> No, I haven't. >> Well, if you do, can you call 911? >> Yes, ma'am. >> Okay. Where does she Does she usually come right inside your house? No. >> Oh, you did. Okay. Mom said she hangs out here. So, >> no, she don't hang out here. >> Okay. >> That's the first time calling 911 when she came here. >> Did she knock on the door last time or just come in? >> No, she she was right there. I was on the porch. >> So, she was just standing outside. I'm going to just walk. Hi there. >> They let her run around too much. >> All right. Well, we're going to try and find her. We got a lot of people out now. If you see her, call 911. Okay. >> Sure will. Oh my god. >> Okay, hold on. We got her. Uh, if you come east towards point >> probably this one. Excellent. >> Nice job, guys. >> The police also found Luna, but she clearly didn't want to go home. What had frightened her so much? >> You okay, sweetheart? >> What grade are you in, honey? >> Third grade. >> Third grade. >> Such a pretty girl. >> You are. Why were you hiding from us? cuz I just always have to go back home and I don't like it. >> You don't like it at home? Okay. Well, where >> want to be with grandma? >> Where does your grandparents live? >> My grandma lives in Connecticut. Cuz mommy and daddy say she's just mean when she's not and they and they never let us go there. >> How are your mom and dad mean to you? What do they do that's mean? >> They do small amounts of food and do too much and and hard. Here's some water, baby. Drink a little water. Okay. >> They say it's just do it or you won't get your meals. And then they lock me in my room at night and they lock the door. >> Okay. >> You don't like it over there where you live? >> Why not? >> Mommy's always being bossy and telling me to brush my teeth again and again. And they make me do that. And the door is always locked and closed. put me in the shower with my clothes on. >> They put you in the shower with your clothes on? >> Yes. >> I don't know why. >> I don't know why. >> When was the last time you ate? When was the last time you had dinner before? Breakfast? >> I didn't have breakfast. >> You didn't have breakfast today? No. So, the last time you you ate was dinner last night. >> And your belly is still hungry, huh? We're going to get you some food. And how many nuggets do you think you're going to eat? Do you think you can eat like five? >> No, I think she can eat like 10. >> What? How about 15? Could you eat 15 nuggets? >> Yeah, but I But we stop at that. But then you wouldn't be you wouldn't have room for cookies. You got to save room for cookies, you know. >> Can you eat 15 nuggets and a cookie? >> Oh, your belly would have hurt. Well, >> 14 nuggets and a cookie. >> The child's testimony forced the police to search the house. >> I don't know if they already came and talked to you yet. >> No, >> nobody. Yeah, they they already found her. >> Yeah. Where >> they did? Uh down there 36th Street. >> Okay. >> Not too far from here. Down the street. This is automatically like a DCF call. So, under our policy, is it okay if I look through the house real quick? >> What are you looking for? >> No, we just got to look just to make sure everything's okay with the other kids. >> Well, that's what I'm saying. Like, do you need to look to see if they have like a bed? Do you need to specific food? >> That's it. Yeah. >> Okay. >> Regarding the lack of food, the mother gave a series of explanations, but all blamed Luna. >> Luna said she was hungry, so we got an officer going to get her some uh food. >> No, we have food at home. That's a symptom of her disorder. She will lie and say we have not fed her. She will say she's hungry. We have food. And like the thing is she has food allergies. Like she's severely allergic to dairy. Like she cannot eat any kind of goat or cow or like any kind of >> chicken nuggets. >> No, she cannot. She cannot. Absolutely not. She cannot because there are ingredients into them. Like number one, number one, we're vegan. And we're vegan because she is allergic to dairy. And even if we weren't vegan, like those chicken nuggets have milk powder. Okay. >> Like So what does she eat normally? >> Everything. Like literally, we we give her nuggets. They're just like gluten-free vegan nuggets. Like we had like we literally she ran away before she could have her breakfast this morning. We were literally in the middle of making her an oatmeal. >> So, what's up with Elelliana? But like >> I guess she told everybody that she was hungry and like they're trying to give her chicken nuggets or something. >> No, we won't give her chicken nuggets if she's allergic to it. We're not going to do that. >> And like the McDonald's French fries have like literal like milk and like meat powder in them. Wendy's fries are like literally the only thing, but like she doesn't need fries because like she has wholesome food at home. Like >> Luna is allergic to dairy and vegan, so she can't have any type of chicken nuggets or fries. >> Gotcha. She's good with orange juice though. >> With orange juice. Yeah. But like we literally have like she has a smoothie at home with orange juice in it. Like we have like the other officers saw we have like a literal fridge overflowing with food. We have like mashed potatoes already made for dinner. Like we literally have food. >> Well, we've got DCF coming out. That's our protocol with everything going on. If you want to walk back with the officer, >> I would much rather be where I can see her. >> Okay, you can stay here right now. >> Your husband is a chef, right? >> Yeah, exactly. We have food. He's a professional chef. We have food. >> Where does he work? >> He's working right now out of town. That's why this is going on probably. I think she's upset that her dad went out of town. She's This is the first time happening. >> Meanwhile, the father called encouraging Luna to tell the truth to the police. >> I am very old. I'm older than your mom and dad. Bro, would you like eat it, man? on your own. >> Here you go, Luna. >> Jeez, bro. >> I don't know. They just said I can go see Luna, but I can't bring the baby over there. And like they wanted to hold the baby, but I said no. Like, I'm not comfortable anybody holding the baby. >> She just wants to see her real quick. >> Anna, are you okay? Where are your shoes? You weren't wearing shoes. >> Would you like a hug? No, thank you. What's been going on? Do you want to talk to Daddy? Daddy's been on the phone. We've been very worried about you. And Anna, we need to make sure you're safe. Mommy has been very, very worried about you. Can you talk to mommy and explain what's been going on? Baby, you've been missing. It's been more than 3 hours since you ran out. You ran out without having breakfast or even saying good morning to mommy. You just went to the bathroom and went out the back door. Daddy, she can hear you and everybody else can hear you, too. >> Listen, it is time to I don't know what you've told the police, but it is time to tell the truth. Okay? It is time to tell the truth because every time that you've told talk to the police before, you've said something other than the truth. And I don't know what you've said so far, but it is time to tell the truth if you haven't already. Okay. >> Say, I think he's trying to make sure that you're safe because that is >> Mom, can we talk to you for a second over here? Right over here. We're going to just talk to you. >> I don't know what's going on. They're saying you can't talk to her. >> But the truth Luna revealed was if I say I'm hungry, mom will lock me in the room. >> You're not in any trouble, honey. You're not in any trouble. >> I know what will happen if you leave the house. >> What? What happened? >> Mom's just going to lock me in. >> She's going to lock in your room? >> Yes. >> Why will she lock in your room? >> Cuz she doesn't want me to tell people that I'm hungry. >> Okay. >> Shortly after, the police arrested the mother. From that moment, my baby kept echoing as a testament to the mother's love. >> Listen, you're going to be placed under arrest. Okay. Relig >> What? >> No. No. It's my baby. >> Okay. >> My baby. It's my baby. >> Hold on a second, man. The kids. >> My baby. >> The kids are okay. >> My baby. >> Don't scream. Don't scream. That's going to make it worse for them. Okay. >> Don't scream. >> You don't want to upset them. >> My baby. >> Have a seat in the car. >> Please wait until their dad gets here. Please. >> They're okay, ma'am. >> They're my baby. >> Slide Slide your legs in, please. >> My baby. >> Slide your legs in, please. >> No. She needs her They're need They're okay. They're okay. >> They're okay, ma'am. No, she's not okay. >> They're with us. They're okay. >> Meanwhile, Luna continued exposing the truth. She doesn't act like a great mother. >> In the house, she's bossy and and doesn't act like a great mother. >> And I think she just thinks I'm allergic because at grandma's house, grandma feeds us good. And once in a while, she gives us some non-vegan stuff. But I never but none of us ever get sick. She just thinks that because once when I was a baby, I got sick. But I was a baby then. >> My baby. >> All right, we'll bring him up to the station. Thank you. >> Well, all we want is for you to be happy and your brothers and sisters to be happy and for you guys to be taken care of and have food and everything you need. >> The scene grew increasingly chaotic. On one side, the mother was completely uncooperative. On the other, brave Luna continued revealing everything. >> Take a deep breath. I know you're stressed out. Obviously, this is a stressful situation. baby. >> What is it exactly that the baby needs from the house? >> Everything. She's frightened. >> Everything that doesn't answer my question. So, we're either going to go to the station or if there's a specific item, you just mentioned formula. >> Yeah, she doesn't have formula or diapers or anything like >> And you have all that inside the house? Yes. >> And you're willing to allow us to go inside the house and get those things? >> Ma'am, that's a yes or no question. >> Hold the baby. >> Ma'am, listen to what I'm saying. >> Doesn't understand. >> Ma'am, you're willing to allow us to go inside the house and get those items. Well, if we go home quickly, there's food in the fridge and I could bring >> What kind of food is in the fridge? >> I don't know, but I know there's stuff in the fridge. Mommy and daddy get food, but they don't give it to us. They eat it themselves. >> H. >> The investigation continued with the father's testimony. >> Hello, sir. I'm Lieutenant Wigs. How can I help you? >> I'm here to pick up my kids. >> Okay. Your kids are upstairs. They're safe. Everybody's good. We will be the officer that's handling the case will be down shortly to talk to you. >> Okay. >> Let you know what's going on. Okay. So, but it may be a little bit cuz they're in an interview right now. >> Okay. >> Okay. So, I just ask if you could have a little patience with us. >> All right. >> Okay. Once they're done talking with who they need to talk to, they'll come down and talk to you as well. All righty. >> I left early this morning like at 4 4:30 this morning around 8 something. Nikki called me and told me that Luna ran away. She's done before. social worker actually was about to close her. She told me that she was about to close her case on Monday and she had a GPS tracker for us for Kuna because she has a habit of running away. And so, you know, we were betting on that and then this happened. I don't know, you know, what >> Yeah. >> what else happened while I wasn't there, but I know that my daughter has a habit of saying that, you know, she's she's hungry and that she doesn't eat anything, but not you guys in particular, but West Palm Beach Police, DCF has all been to our house. They've seen our fridge. They've gone through our house and see that we have everything our children need. Um, but our children had been in DCF care before when they were 2 years when Elelliana, the one that runs away, she was taken away from us at 2 and 1/2 years old and she was in foster care for 2 years. And so, she's got a lot of emotional things going on that she doesn't know how to deal with and we're still learning how to deal with, too. >> Sorry for the delay. You're just going to have to hang tight for a few. Thanks. The mother was arrested and held on charges of childact. Under Florida law, she could face up to 5 years in prison or probation along with a fine of up to $5,000. West Virginia will show that even in the 21st century, some families treat filth as a lifestyle, leaving their children to grow up in unsafe living conditions. >> What you need to do is tomorrow to call animal control yourself and get rid of all your dogs. Harrison County police received a call reporting children living in unsanitary conditions full of insects and potential hazards. They immediately went to knock on a house door where a man and a woman answered. Strangely, the two appeared extremely wary, refusing to let the officers inside. >> Sheriff's office. >> Oh, there we go. >> All right. >> Don't get excited and close the door. >> Are you Robert? >> Are you Robert? >> Yeah. >> We're with Child Detective Services. Um, my name is Jordan. This is Kristen. Law enforcement's here for our own protection and and and for your protection as well. So, the reason that we're here is we had received um a complaint about the conditions of your home and for the safety of your daughter about some unsanitary living conditions. Is your daughter here tonight? >> Yeah. >> Okay. What's your daughter's name? Isis. Is that right? Isis. Okay. Is Tiffany Bailey home as well? Okay. You want to meet with her? >> We're She's going to need to come out and speak with us as well, but we're also going to need to see the inside of your residence tonight as well because the complaint is pretty serious. Some cockroaches inside. There's some trash burn. Bombed. Yeah. >> Bombed. Okay. But before we can, you know, um, leave tonight. We're going to have to see and walk through to make sure that the conditions are safe for ISIS to remain. >> If it wasn't safe that you decided it wasn't, then what? >> Then we would need to make appropriate arrangements for your daughter. And that could include family members or friends and we can discuss that. But we need to evaluate the safety of your dog. Okay. Grab Tiffany right now. Okay. How many dogs do you have inside the residence? >> I see how bad it is. Just leave the door. Just leave the door open. Leave. Listen. >> I see what it is. I'm not letting you close the door. >> That's fine. We can. I just don't >> I know. I'm not letting it close. >> Don't let the dogs right now. >> The dogs. Go ahead and yell for go and get the dogs. >> All right. >> Are you Tiffany? >> I'm from Dr. Law enforcement is here with us this evening for all protection as well. He's putting on the door. >> I've seen too much. >> Okay. Because your daughter is living here in the conditions and we can see inside the residence. >> I know it's >> all right. You know, we're obviously going to walk through. We're going to take some pictures, you know, and we obviously just from seeing inside the residence, we're going to have to make some alternative measures where your daughter can stay. >> Where is your father or mother? >> Their names. >> Yeah, cuz we need to get that. And if they you can call them. We need to call our supervisor and do like a CPS check really quick. You know, if they've ever had any criminal history, have they ever had any um protective services or anything? Okay. >> I haven't been in there forever, >> but like years ago. >> Has ISIS Does she have a relationship or with them? Okay. Has she been down there? >> We need to go in there. But it would be great if ISIS you go get heris outside. >> Yeah. Can you go grab ISIS for us? He's messing around looking for >> Can you go get ISIS for us right now? >> He's not. Can you go get her? >> Can you go get her? >> Yeah. >> Little Isis was taken outside in a state of panic. >> You can hold her. Come out. Hang out. >> I'm scared. >> You're fine. You're okay. >> Hi. >> Hi. I'm Jordan. >> Come over here with your mom. You can stay with her. >> Stay with me. >> Mom's coming with you. >> Baby, come with me. >> Hello. >> Here. Just come with me, baby. >> Want me to come over to you? >> Here. We'll come down. >> No, it's all right. You're okay. >> Calm down. >> This is my friend Kristen. >> You're going to go down with Peppa and Mama for the night. >> Peppa and Mama? >> Yeah. >> What do you do with Papa and Mama? >> This is the mean dog. >> What is it? >> Something about mean dog. >> Okay. >> Peppa Mama so that the daddy want the house. >> But it's going to take out. >> All right. We do need um a phone number for Clara and >> please call your mom and dad. >> Do you want to just go ahead and have them start this way to get her? >> Call your mom and dad. >> Hey Isis, can you tell me how old you are? >> From a couple people. >> You're eight. That's pretty cool. Can you tell me um what you've been doing this year? Have you been learning anything? >> You're home. I'll text it to you. >> Are you at school? >> Home. >> What have you been doing? >> Bring mom to tell her hurry. Dogs. >> You have dogs? Tell me about your dogs. What are your dogs names? >> Tell them the dog's name. J. >> I have a brown dog. His name is >> You have a brown dog. >> His name is Snickers. >> Snickers. >> I used to have a dog named Snickers, too. >> The mother realizing the purpose of the police and CPS visit kept explaining the reasons for the house's condition. >> We can tell them what happened. What happened with this house? I'll explain to her. >> It's okay. I'm just trying to calm her down cuz she's really scared. I'd rather not talk about the house. We're going to have a conversation about the house once she's calmed down. >> I know. I just want to explain to you how it started. I got really sick and I was in the hospital. I died and I ended up not being able to walk for a long time and he got really caught up with taking care of me and the house got let go for a very long time because of that. So that's what how it all started and how it all happened. >> How long ago was that? >> In 2021, I could lost my legs and couldn't walk until clear in the middle of 2022 and all that and I had to go to like 5 million doctor's appointments. took a very long time to get healthy again. Then all that happened. >> So how long for six minutes was in a coma for >> So how long have you been well? >> I just started got my legs and walking back again towards the end of 2022. Everything just started getting back to normal again and I just started getting back to work and all that. So >> where do you work out? >> I just got a job work and I'm in the middle of working right now. I just had to jump off the computer and run back out here. >> Have you worked? >> I know. But that only exposed a series of even more serious child care issues from schooling, health checkups, and vaccinations to basic necessities. Everything had beened. >> So you weren't able to keep up with the housework? >> It was very messed me up watching her go through that. I already have anxiety issues watching her die. Thought I was going to lose her. By the time that she was able to feel that I felt like she was going to make it, you think that's the moment you'll be able to take a breath. That's when sit down. physological response happened like it was all picked down and I had constant points to where I had to have ambulance come down here so I thought I was having >> does she have to use the restroom >> that's how bad my bathroom >> do you have to use bathroom maybe >> you have to use bathroom >> you guys have what utilities do you guys have here >> got water electricity water electric garbage and all our utilities are on the last time she bathed >> that I bathe she bathed the other day >> she bathed regularly Okay. >> Does she have to use the bathroom? >> Yeah, cuz she's sticking in her room. Is there a reason that she's >> I don't know doing that. >> She don't like those shorts. >> Yeah, she doesn't like the shorts. She hates >> She hates clothes. >> Like we have a hard time keeping clothes on. >> What? Baby. >> Yeah, she doesn't like that. >> Where she go? >> She We homeschool. We do a program once in a month. >> What program you guys use? >> I need my button cuz I can't remember. >> My phone was on the desk of my work. >> Why did we need to clear the house? because we have >> Yeah, you'll come back after I get the house clean. >> Does she have clothes down at her mom and papa's house? >> Yeah, thank you. >> Okay, my house is dirty. >> No, it's not. >> We should go there and if it's not clean or whatever else. >> Does that make sense what the ladies are telling you? >> You guys understand that if the house >> if we get down to Cambria and it's a mess, >> then she can't stay there. >> So, just be honest before we go down there. >> I don't know what their house is like. I haven't been down there in a long time. >> We'll ask them whenever they get here >> because she also has her parent her dad too. >> Who's her dad? >> My dad. Yeah, probably his house conditions. >> Oh, this house is excellent. >> Okay. Does he ever had any CPS history? >> No. >> Who does she have a good relationship with? >> His parents. >> Do you know if they're on their way out here? >> Yeah. >> Who does she see for a pediatrician? >> Pediatrician is um Dr. Herman from >> Is she up to date? Are you talking about >> Is she up to date on visits? Yes. Because well with vaccinations we don't believe in. >> Okay. When was the last time she had a doctor's visit? >> Doctor's visit. >> Ma'am, would you be respectful to the ladies and like not focus on your phone? >> I'm trying to find the homeschooling program. >> Okay. We can worry about this. >> I'm sorry. I just wanted to get the homeschooling information. When was her last doctor's appointment? Do you remember the last day for the last doctor visit? Cuz I cannot remember. >> Was it like a wellchild or was it because she was sick or what? >> The last doctor's visit was at our doctor in um Care. Which was when >> that was last time she was sick was last year. Last year cuz she doesn't get sick all the time. >> She doesn't go to yearly well child checks with her pediatrician. >> No. >> Is there a particular reason other I mean I know you say you don't believe in vaccinations but there's other purposes for the wellchild check. >> She goes to up to my our doctor Randy >> Brandy. Okay. Does she see her regularly? just done >> whenever she has an issue. >> So she she doesn't go yearly like children are supposed to for child >> I understand but children are supposed to go yearly for well child checks. That's why I'm asking. Okay. >> Faced with this reality, the police and CPS had to find a safer place for the children. >> All right. >> Can you call them back and see where they're at? >> How are you guys getting like groceries and that sort of thing? >> His dad. >> They're bringing them in. I order them online >> or I go to the grocery store. Put it in anywhere without >> So you guys not have transportation? >> I don't drive. So you guys don't go anywhere. >> I don't want to go into the house. The kids still here. That's why I'm trying to get away. Oh, that's fine. No, that's >> Do you guys receive benefits through the state of work in here? >> Which kind of benefits? >> Like, do you guys receive um like food stamps? >> Yes, food stamps. I get about myself and you get a medical card through SSI. >> So, do your parents come here? >> Yeah. >> Do they come inside your house? >> No, >> they I just meet outside here. >> Do they ever question as to why that you don't want them in your house? >> No. His dad comes in, but they'll drop outside. >> Your dad When's the last time your dad was in the house? >> I don't even know cuz I ain't always in my work. >> Rough. rough estimate. A month ago, a year ago, >> a month or two >> and he doesn't have a problem with the housing conditions. >> He just doesn't say nothing to me if he does. >> Cuz that's a little concern that your parents are coming here and seeing how their granddaughter is living and not do anything about it. >> You know for sure their house is clean before they go down there and check. >> So, do we need to call out? >> You can ask him. I'm not going to ask. They have to inspect. >> Yeah, I'll ask him. >> I can call my dad if you want me to call my dad. Does he come here? >> Just call your dad. >> No, my dad's not Doesn't My dad doesn't know me. >> Just call your dad. >> But she doesn't really know my dad. She'll freak out. >> Well, if those conditions are not safe, they're not >> Yeah, because if we go to their house and it's not, she won't be staying there is what I'm telling you guys. >> She does have somebody to play with if my dad's clean first. >> We need safety, well-being, mental health, safer safety of your child. >> Single. >> They can't be. >> Why? >> We'll get you. Just have to do something overnight. Yeah. Sorry to play with it. My dad's house. Brand's here. >> Woman's last time. She was at your dad's house. >> It's been a long time. >> What's a long time? >> A long time. >> 6 months. We talking. How many years? >> I can't remember how old she was last time. >> Was Albert even going to entertain the situation? >> Oh, yeah. He loves his granddaughter. >> Can we call him? >> I'll call him. Dad, I have a favor. Can um Isis come and stay with you tonight? >> Would you like us to talk to him? You can put him on speaker phone. I know, but um CPS is here. >> Somebody's coming. >> Can you be transparent with him and tell him it could be a lot longer >> cuz it's not going to just be overnight. >> Realizing the severity, the two immediately made promises. But could those promises be trusted? >> Then she offered you conversation with that when little weird cuz I'm not going to upset her. >> The family members are coming from >> You were still my take my daughter for for a long time. >> My house. >> I think you're going to have bigger problems than us. We have officers here >> for a dirty house. dirty. >> I mean, I can my house will be cleaned overnight, >> but it's not necessarily a dirty house. It is a health risk. It's it's to the point where it's probably criminal. >> I promise you it will not be, >> but it's not the fact of what it will be. It's the fact of what it is current. And it's it's let me finish, please. It's 100% child. That's all there is to it. There's no reason for this. I understand she was sick. I understand you have some mental health issues. I understand that. But she's been for awful way better. She came to stand up for more than maybe a favor. >> She's listening to She's not well. Why can't you still clean your house? >> Hey, ma'am. >> What kind of car are they driving? >> Why can't you clean? >> What kind of car were they driving? >> What causes you to not be able to pick up? the ones I guess were that were called first. >> Have you thought about reaching out to her parents car allowing our child to live in this? >> Yeah. >> Do you have underwear or something that you could you could go in and get for her to put on? >> She had I don't know what she did with her. >> Some shoes underwear, baby. >> It's in the red couch. >> On the red couch. On the red couch. >> How come she doesn't have underwear? because messages do a shortage when we got here. >> I I was in my work room. >> What are your work hours? >> I was working today from 1:00 to 9:45 and then my I set my production hours on Friday. I start at 4:15 p.m. and work till 12:15 a.m. and I'm off on Mondays and Tuesdays. >> Are you going? >> No, I am. When >> you say triple, is that your roadside service technology? >> Yeah. >> No, that's not No, that's not >> Can I have my granddaughter? So, here's what we're going to do, ma'am. Let's talk conversation. >> I don't want to talk in front of your shot of >> When was when was the last time she saw Albert? >> Well, honestly, it's been a long time. >> It was before she my year and a half. Couple years. >> Yeah, it's my my at least over two years. >> Very strange relationship. >> I want to stay home people. They can be so close. >> We should have somebody to play with at Peppa's house. He's got a little boy there. my friend. >> He's never liked me. Kind of makes a string between them two. >> His name is Branson. >> I never disrespect the man though. You know, it's her father, but I never yelled at him or cuss him or anything like that. >> At the same time, the grandparents arrived and gave more information to the police. >> Are you Albert? >> Yeah. >> Hello. >> How are you? >> I'm good. >> I'm Jordan. I talked to you on the phone. >> I'm Kristen. I'm also a CPS worker. >> Okay. >> Probably first thing you're going to need to do is save her. >> Okay. I've got a neighbor if you notice she can >> help me with that. >> Okay. Okay. And I don't know. You probably don't have any clothes at your house. >> I've got clothes for my grandson. They're size sevens and eights. I mean, >> whatever until you can um come into our office and we can get you an Amy's attic and we'll get you some clothes. is paternal grandparents have clothes for ISIS that you think of it might be cleaner than anything inside this house. Like I said, I just think that you want to bring that house into >> I haven't been over years. Baby don't even know. >> And I understand she might not know you, but you're probably the safest and cleanest person. >> Um whatever you take off of her, I would just throw away. I think you need to take her tomorrow to see the doctor cuz I don't think she's been to the doctor for a very long time. Well, I know she named Char. They supposed to be home. >> They don't care, but she needs to be on her. >> The last place they live was like this and >> they had to actually condemn it. But they got me in trouble with the cops for the cops. Cops I had the cops meet there. He was supposed to choke the girl, going to kill the dogs and all kinds of stuff. I had the cops meet me down there. When they got done, they come out. The cops say, "Well, it seems like the problem is you cuz you won't come around." I come around. You've been in that house. >> You don't have any criminal history, do you? you know, look, you're going to have um ISIS um and that you're agreeing that you're not going to allow any unsupervised contact with the parents at this time. >> In a seemingly casual talk, the police accidentally discovered another secret. >> When did she last eat? >> She goes through his friends kind of like I did when I was little where she'll eat a lot over a period of time and then barely eat nothing over a period of time. >> So, when did she last eat >> today? Pizza. It was probably about 2 hours ago. >> You want to leave her out there? >> That's what I was getting. >> Yeah. Just go get her because grandpa's going to get on the road. Come right here. Grandma thought you >> need her hair washed. Stick with the Lord. >> She don't like water on my face. >> Where you going, baby? >> Hey, I'm your grandpa. >> This is Grandpa Albert. >> I'm your grandpa. >> He's got a little boy about your age at your house. It's a boy, right? >> Branson's age. He'll be nine October. >> See, they're about the same age. >> You have a little boy to play with? >> Yeah. Running wild. Got toys and cartoons. Chicken nuggets >> and French fries. >> I didn't eat dinner, so that sounds real good. >> I think Grandpa's speaking your language. >> I know. Grandpa's speaking my language. I might go to grandpa's house. >> We don't have dogs. >> Well, that sounds like fun. Isis, are you ready to go with car? We'll be in contact. Oh jeez. Oh god. I don't think I can pick you up. >> Come here, baby. >> You're way too heavy. >> Thank you very much. >> You guys can get on your way, too. >> Yeah, >> she she drinks water. She likes water. She likes juice. She likes all that stuff. She's not a normal kid. She likes veggies. >> She likes water, too. It's one of those nice kids that don't really like water. They always want pop or something like that. I'll go and check on you. Love you. >> They then went inside to inspect further and were shocked to see a mini landfill filling almost the entire house, blocking the walkways. >> I have no idea. >> You want to put a suit on? >> You guys understand they would like to walk through and witness what's inside. Okay, you guys good with that? >> You can't walk through there. You can't. >> There's absolutely no way you can walk through there. >> Can't walk through. >> You can't walk through just to be honest. >> The whole house. Well, there's a refrigerator that I didn't get from the front of the door. >> You have permission to walk through, but you can't walk through. >> Well, this might not take >> I'm just being honest with you. >> Are they everywhere? >> Yes. >> That's why >> we have a bunch of We have a bunch of bombs. We have a bunch of bombs to bomb the house. We just haven't yet. >> We're going to do it all the same. >> I'm just honest with you. You thought you know what you're walking into. >> Wow. >> Okay. >> All right. I'll start with this. >> Better look. to try to get in the house. He can go to the back door and try to open it. >> What door do you all typically use? >> Well, we go we try we go to the front door easier. >> I think this is really all we need. Oh, Jesus. >> Okay. >> Do we have to go through the whole thing? Seriously, >> I don't think so. I mean, >> I don't really I think this is enough. >> Are you arrested? >> At this point, I'm just getting the warrant. I'm I'm getting charged for [ __ ] char. But I just don't think it's >> here. I'll give Jordan the phone. I don't think we do. I don't think it matters. >> No, they just I mean she Yeah, she's got she's out of the house. That's the most important thing. >> I can charge them. >> Yeah. And all the roofs that's moving. Those dark spots are cockroaches. >> Yep. >> Where do you guys sleep? We have a >> our prosecutor is going to want >> Yes. >> All right. >> Oh my god. >> Even so, the police gently warned them about the risk of losing custody. These ladies will file court custody type court paperwork for child abuse in circuit court in Harrison County. >> Yeah. We're just saying we just want to have a chance to make things right. >> Today's the day. This is your choice in life. >> Well, here's the thing. When it comes to the court system, will you get charged? More than likely, yes, you will. Okay? I'm not going to lie to you. After which, whether what the course wants to do, they can give you put you on some type of path to fix your situation. And if you don't, it could get way worse for you. Or if you do you have improved then they can maybe drop things down to maybe status stuff like that whether but the thing is this is >> very serious our actions from here on out could that >> well I mean dictate >> well definitely you know definitely from here on out you know you might want to just do everything you can if I would recommend first thing clean the house. Yeah, absolutely. >> Cuz chances are there's going to be probably more visits at some point down the down the line. >> Oh, yeah. >> Fix whatever you have to fix in this house. You start doing it now. That should have been done years ago. >> Yeah. >> Well, this this wasn't even here years ago. >> It's been like it since >> 201 about a year after she was >> Okay, listen. When it comes to a house, you let one thing slide and it just it snowballs. It will compound everything. >> And nobody says you have to clean your house spotless from top to bottom every day. a little bit at a time. This is just I don't even know. >> What made it discouraging is the health that we've been dealing with. And on top of that, it ain't so much the cleaning, it's the how bad the road has got bad for us. >> That starts with you guys taking the trash out. I'll be very honest with you. >> Well, I mean, we got them living at >> thousands of ridges. >> We got them when we moved to Oak. >> Correct. Cuz we had a referral when you got Oak for riches as well. >> Not only that, even keeping dogs became an issue. I'm going to recommend um I know you guys really adore your dogs, but this is not fit for them either. I mean, I have to call get a hold of animal control, okay, after seeing this. >> Could I not take them down to my parents? >> Let me think about that. Then your daughter's allowed to be in conditions to where she can go there to visit. >> No, not my parents. >> So, so you want to make your parents live like this? >> No. >> What he's trying to get to you, we can't make you. But what you need to do is tomorrow to call animal control yourself and get rid of all your dogs and all your pets. >> Yeah. >> Quit thinking. Do you believe in shots for your dogs? >> You do believe in shots for dogs. >> Okay. Well, >> there's there's three people you should care about right now. You, you, and your daughter. >> Yeah. >> Forget about everything else that's in there. The dogs really don't matter right now. >> And I'm also going to kind of butt in here. I'm usually pretty. But you guys um had some issues when you moved from one house and they transferred here. You're kind of doing the same thing. If you continue to just like move one piece of property to another house to another house, dogs can like the same thing issue. That's why we also like told Albert like he's going to have to throw away your daughter's clothes. We told told Albert he's going to have to throw away her clothes. Take her to a doctor. She was digging at her skin and she might also be carrying cockroaches in places that she was scratching at, itching cuz cockroaches burrow. There's also some issues like your dogs might be carrying them and might transfer them to your parents house. Carrying them from this house might also take them over to your parents house. We don't want to keep creating issues all around you guys. Cuz at some point, like it's going to come to like a giant's head and cause problems for everyone around you guys. So, you guys really need to think about what's important to you at this point, whether that be your daughter, your dogs, your home, and and make a decision. You guys need to think about that tonight. >> The police continued completing the paperwork before leaving while leaving final instructions as a warning of what they might face in the future. >> If you can't afford to clean this up, >> we'll get it done. No, >> I'm I'm just going to say it's I'm going to go ahead and say it's very unlikely. What you probably need to do is consider getting a different place to live and start clean. I'm just being transparent with you. >> You guys You guys aren't going to clean this house up. >> I don't know what is even salvageable. >> You need to just >> You'd be surprised what I can do clean. >> But you're digging yourself a hole. >> I'm just saying like that makes hard for me. >> What you what you need to do is think about tomorrow. Start a new life tomorrow. Cuz if you don't, you know what the result is? The results, no daughter and and criminal court. It is what it is. >> Yeah. The safety plan just says that you guys have demonstrated that you guys aren't going to go over there try and cause any problems for Albert. You guys are going to abide by the safety plan. You're not going to go over there and try to move in with him or anything at this point. If you guys are going to move, you're going to get in contact with us and let us know where you guys are living. And if you guys do decide to move, we're okay with that. We'll just need to continue with the safety plan, try to move forward and and help you guys. It just says that Elbert's going to supervise and ensure a clean and appropriate residence for ISIS to reside in and will ensure that no unsupervised contact between parent and child at this point. So, do you guys agree that that's kind of what we've talked about here tonight? Do you guys have any questions about that? This plan will be in effect for at least the next 90 days. So, if a court process ensues, it'll probably be longer, but we can also change this to an inhome safety plan if that needs to happen. So, is that Do you guys understand that so far? Okay. So, I just have to have you guys sign this here under caretaker signature. I need both of you guys to sign where that X is. >> Readers Digest version. If you get your life together shorter than 90 days, there's a chance that you could go to court and possibly even get your daughter back. >> Oh, that's always big. >> But if you do nothing, then the other answer is like they just said they they will extend it. >> See, that's why I was asking you that because we love our daughter. >> So then tomorrow you need >> wife. So it's like a question whatever. >> You love her more. I just wanted to know that if we did anything, it would matter. >> Everything you do, >> that's that's all >> from this moment forward. Everything you do is going to matter. You can actually help help. You're going to continue in your future to raise your daughter or the decisions you make are going to make make choices that you're not going to raise your daughter. >> That ball is in both of the parents court right now. These ladies cannot help you if you don't ask for help. If you want advice, you can call and talk to them. They gave you a business card. You can say, "Hey, I've been really cleaning the house." And I'm sure if you're serious about it, they would come out and go, "You know what? did a a really good job. >> The father and mother were charged with child nect. Under West Virginia law, each could face up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $3,000. A filthy, insectinfested orcted environment can directly threaten a child's health and life. Parents must therefore prioritize their children, improve the home, and manage pets to ensure the children's safety. You've just seen what happened in West Virginia. Not every child in a completely safe family. Unfortunately, many face challenges when adults are unprepared, avoiding responsibilities, saying they're too busy, or not knowing how to act. These are all common reasons. Are we as a society being too lenient toward adults? While the impact falls directly on the children. Thank you for watching. 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