Waco, Texas – A Texas man is facing a felony charge after investigators say he left a 1-month-old baby alone on the front porch of the child’s mother’s home, despite knowing she was not there and despite chilly afternoon temperatures. Police say doorbell-camera footage shows the moment he walked away.
Incident Overview
According to police documents, Merquez Bershawn James, 35, is accused of abandoning the infant on Nov. 28 at a home in the 200 block of North Lakeview Drive. Officers were dispatched around 2 p.m. after the child’s mother reported that James had called her earlier to say he planned to drop the baby off. She told him repeatedly that she was not home, but officers say he left the infant on the porch anyway.
Investigators noted that the baby was left strapped in a car seat without supervision, and the mother immediately contacted authorities when she learned James had not taken the child back.
What Police Found
When officers arrived, they reviewed doorbell-camera footage that reportedly captured James placing the car seat on the porch and walking away. The footage confirmed the mother’s account of what happened.
Police say the infant remained outside for more than 30 minutes in temperatures around 61 degrees, with a “feels-like” temperature of 51 degrees due to wind chill. Officers noted in the arrest report that James did not return during that time.
Calls for Help Ignored, Mother Says
The child’s mother told police she made several attempts to reach James after he dropped the baby off, urging him repeatedly to return to the home and retrieve the child. She alleged that he did not respond to those requests.
The mother was not home at the time and had already made clear to James that leaving the infant at the residence would not be safe. Her immediate call to authorities prompted the welfare check, which confirmed the child was unattended.
Charges and Jail Status
James has been charged with abandoning or endangering a child with no intent to return, a felony that carries a potential maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. He was initially held on a $10,000 bond.
According to the McLennan County Jail, James was booked on Wednesday, but records showed he was no longer in custody as of Friday.
Why This Case Raised Alarms
While the temperature was not below freezing, law enforcement emphasized that any unattended infant faces significant risk when left outdoors, especially for an extended period.
Infants are particularly vulnerable to fluctuating weather conditions, and cases of child endangerment often hinge on exposure, supervision, and disregard for warnings from caregivers. Police said the combination of security footage, ignored calls, and the extended time alone contributed to the seriousness of the charge.
Community Reminder on Child Safety
Authorities often use incidents like this to remind the public that leaving young children unattended — even briefly — can lead to severe legal and safety consequences. Texas law treats child abandonment as a high-risk offense due to the potential for harm.
Anyone who cannot safely care for a newborn or infant is encouraged to seek assistance, notify the other parent responsibly, or coordinate with a safe caretaker to prevent dangerous situations.
Conclusion
The investigation remains ongoing as prosecutors review the evidence and prepare the case. The child was safely recovered, and no injuries were reported. James’ next court date has not yet been announced.
Share your thoughts or experiences related to child safety and community awareness in the comments.
