Miami Beach, FL – A Florida mother was recently arrested after her two young children were found living alone in squalor at her condominium on Collins Avenue in Miami Beach. Authorities say the children, ages 5 and 9, were left unsupervised while the residence was in extremely poor condition.
Children Left Alone in Condo
According to Miami-Dade County Police and court records, 34-year-old Miriam Shvetz faces two counts of child neglect with no great harm. Police were called to the condominium on Thursday after the children’s ex-husband dropped them off and discovered that their mother was not home.
The ex-husband told authorities that Shvetz had not informed him she would be absent, and the children themselves confirmed she was away when he dropped them off, according to WPLG News.
Filthy Conditions Reported by Officers
Upon arrival, police found the condominium in alarming conditions. Officers noted a strong odor of rotting food and urine, dirty walls and floors, and a kitchen littered with old food and unwashed dishes. One toilet was clogged and full of waste, and feces were scattered across the bathroom floor, creating a hazardous environment for the children.
Officers also reported that a child was observed crying and speaking to their mother via video call, highlighting the children’s distress.
Custody Dispute and School Enrollment Issues
Law enforcement noted that Shvetz and her ex-husband have been engaged in a custody dispute since 2023, following their divorce filing in 2022. Police say this was not the first incident at the home relating to the custody dispute.
The children had not been enrolled in school, according to the ex-husband, though the couple’s 7-year-old child is enrolled. Authorities said the father has been taking steps to enroll the 5- and 9-year-old children in school to ensure their welfare.
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
Shvetz was arrested on Thursday and later released from the Miami-Dade County Jail after posting bond. Her arraignment is scheduled for September 19, and she faces serious charges for child neglect.
What measures can parents and communities take to prevent children from being left in unsafe conditions? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
