FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. (WSVN) – A Florida couple was arrested after deputies discovered their toddler left unattended in an unlocked, operating car exterior a neighborhood bar whereas they had been inside consuming, in keeping with authorities.
Flagler County Sheriff’s Workplace deputies responded to a tip round 10 p.m., Friday, and found an toddler sleeping in a automobile seat that was improperly secured within the again seat.
The automobile was unlocked, the keys had been within the ignition and the engine was operating, officers stated.
Whereas deputies had been assessing the kid, 28-year-old Clarisse Finnegan exited the bar and recognized herself because the car’s proprietor. She reportedly advised deputies her husband, 60-year-old Norman Finnegan Jr., was contained in the bar. He was quickly escorted out and detained for questioning.
Witnesses stated they noticed a person, later recognized as Norman, briefly verify on the car earlier than returning inside. Each Clarisse and Norman gave conflicting accounts of how lengthy she had been within the bar, however witnesses confirmed each had been consuming, in keeping with the FCSO.
“These two won’t ever obtain dad and mom of the yr award with this conduct,” stated Sheriff Rick Staly. “It’s by no means acceptable to depart an toddler alone inside a operating car—particularly whereas inside a bar consuming. This sort of recklessness might have resulted in tragedy. I wish to thank the involved citizen who reported this incident and our deputies who acted shortly to guard this harmless youngster.”
Norman and Clarisse Finnegan had been arrested and charged with felony youngster neglect with out nice bodily hurt, a third-degree felony. Norman was launched on a $2,500 bond, whereas Clarisse was launched on her personal recognizance.
The Florida Division of Youngsters and Households can be investigating.
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