The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
On March 23, the 16-year-old mother of a 1-year-old little girl left her baby under the care of her 17-year-old friend in her Largo residence.
According to reports, the babysitter is a pot smoker, and she reportedly lit up while she was babysitting the child.
The girl reportedly began to record the baby. With what appeared to be a joint in her hand, the woman held it to the baby’s lips. It looked like the tip of the marijuana cigarette brightened, giving the impression that the child inhaled the substance. Afterward, she put the joint against her lips and took a hit, causing the tip to brighten the same way.
Someone called the authorities and alerted them to the possibility of child abuse taking place in the residence.
Deputies from the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office went to the address to look into the claim.
The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Crimes Against Children Unit began working on the case. According to a press release from the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, “detectives were able to obtain the video, which shows Roberts placing the marijuana cigarette in the victim’s mouth.”
When the authorities talked to the woman, she reportedly told them she did not give the baby marijuana. She allegedly changed her story later and told them that she did.
The day after the incident occurred, the babysitter was taken into custody and held at the Pinellas Juvenile Assessment Center. She may face charges of one count of third-degree felony child abuse.
If she is convicted of the charge, the young woman could spend up to five years in prison and be required to pay up to $5,000 in fines.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a domestic violence offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.