A Florida mother has been arrested and charged with child neglect after leaving her two young children unattended in an unlocked car parked outside a bar. Jamie Leigh Gunn, 33, was taken into custody and booked in the Brevard County Jail on Sunday, according to West Melbourne Police.
The incident occurred at Annie’s Bar on Minton Road in West Melbourne, Florida, when a police officer conducting a routine business patrol noticed an eight-month-old baby and a two-year-old toddler asleep in the backseat of an SUV. The vehicle doors were unlocked, and the engine was running.
Upon further investigation, it was discovered that Gunn, who is the registered owner of the vehicle, had been inside the bar for at least 20 minutes while her children were left unattended. Police revealed on Facebook that Gunn showed no regard for her children’s welfare and seemed more concerned about the possibility of going to jail when she learned law enforcement was outside with her vehicle.
Gunn was subsequently arrested and booked into jail on a $15,000 bond. She was released the following day. The two children were placed in the care of a family member, and the Department of Children and Families was notified to conduct a follow-up investigation.
According to police records, Gunn has a criminal history that includes contempt of court, forgery, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving with a suspended license.
This incident highlights the importance of responsible parenting and the potential dangers of leaving young children unattended in vehicles. Authorities have urged parents and caregivers to prioritize the safety and well-being of their children at all times.
It is crucial for individuals to understand the legal and moral obligations of caring for their children, as neglectful behavior can have severe consequences. The case of Jamie Leigh Gunn serves as a reminder that the welfare of children should always be a top priority.
