Miami, FL – A Florida mother has been arrested for child neglect after her 9-year-old nonverbal son was found alone for 17 hours, according to police reports. Neighbors discovered the boy unattended outside their gated community, sparking an investigation into his safety and well-being.
How the Child Was Found
Authorities reported that the boy, wearing only a diaper, was spotted by a neighbor jogging on Saturday morning.
“The boy was running barefoot near the road and appeared nonverbal,” police said.
The neighbor attempted to stop him from running toward traffic, recognizing that he may have special needs. The Department of Children and Families was called and took custody of the boy to ensure his safety.
Timeline of Events
- Friday Night (9:35 p.m.): Melissa Marie Luckett, 31, was recorded on a Ring camera leaving her home.
- Friday Night (11:00 p.m.): She last spoke to her father.
- Saturday Morning: The boy was discovered alone outside.
- Saturday Afternoon (3:00 p.m.): Luckett returned home wearing different clothes.
Authorities confirmed that Luckett posted $5,000 bond following her arrest. Her arraignment is scheduled for November 19.
Family Concerns and Unusual Behavior
Luckett’s father told police that he had been expecting a visit from his daughter and grandson in Virginia, but they never arrived. He described the situation as “extremely abnormal” given that mother and son were always “attached at the hip” and rarely apart.
“I feared something serious may have occurred,” he told authorities.
He also planned to fly to Miami to take custody of his grandson and assist with the ongoing investigation.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Police charged Luckett with one count of child neglect with no great harm. The Department of Children and Families continues to monitor the situation to ensure the boy’s welfare. Investigators have redacted Luckett’s statement from public reports.
Safety and Awareness
Experts stress the importance of monitoring children, especially those who are nonverbal or have special needs, to prevent potentially dangerous situations. Authorities advise neighbors and family members to report any unusual circumstances promptly to protect vulnerable children.
Conclusion
The arrest highlights concerns about child neglect and the responsibility of caregivers, especially for children requiring constant supervision. Authorities continue to investigate the incident, and the community is being urged to stay vigilant.
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