The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
A West Virginia woman was charged after investigators said she left a 5-year-old child unattended while she allegedly attempted to steal a vehicle.
According to the authorities, the investigation began after the owner of a vehicle called to report that a woman had allegedly gotten inside the vehicle and tried to take it. The caller reportedly told investigators that the woman appeared disoriented, had trouble standing upright, and seemed unsteady.
Before the authorities arrived, the woman had reportedly left the area and walked about a mile toward a nearby gas station. Investigators later located her and asked for her identity. According to the authorities, she denied being the person they were looking for, but they were able to confirm who she was.
As the investigation continued, the authorities learned that a young child who had been in the woman’s care had reportedly been left alone outside an apartment complex. Investigators said the child had no adult supervision and was near an area with heavy vehicle traffic. A neighbor reportedly told the authorities that the alleged victim was upset and searching for his mother.
A relative later arrived and took custody of the child. The family member also informed investigators that the 5-year-old is on the autism spectrum.
The authorities determined that the child had allegedly been left unattended during the time the woman attempted to take the vehicle and then walked away from the area. Following the investigation, the woman was arrested and charged with child neglect. She was booked into jail, where bond was set at $25,000.
No injuries were reported in connection with the incident. The child was safely released to a family member.
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.