Parents Emerge from Bar to Find Police Rescuing Their Abandoned Baby

What started as a routine welfare check quickly turned into a troubling discovery for the Edgewater Police Department on the night of January 28, 2025. Officers responded to a call about a blue Honda SUV parked outside a local bar, where a crying baby was left unattended in the vehicle. As officers assessed the situation, they encountered the child’s mother, Christina, and her boyfriend, Josh, inside the bar, leading to a tense investigation into the circumstances surrounding the abandoned infant.

Upon arrival, officers found the vehicle turned off in the chilly 56-degree weather, with no parents in sight. As they approached, the cries of a ten-month-old child could be heard from inside. The situation became more complicated when a man, later identified as Josh, rushed out of the bar, claiming to be the owner of the vehicle but not the child’s biological father. He explained that the child’s mother, Christina, was inside the bar, prompting officers to enter the establishment in search of her.

When officers confronted Christina, she insisted that she had only stepped inside momentarily to retrieve her boyfriend. However, through their investigation, officers determined that both Christina and Josh had been inside the bar, leaving the infant unattended in the vehicle. Christina admitted to having a drink while waiting for Josh, contradicting her earlier statements. As tensions rose, officers informed Christina of her rights, explaining that the situation was taking a more serious turn. Both Christina and Josh were placed in handcuffs as officers continued their questioning. While Josh insisted he had told Christina to go home with the child, officers noted that he knew the baby had been left alone outside. The emotional exchange between the couple escalated as Christina pleaded to see her child while Josh lamented the legal consequences they were both facing. Officers worked to ensure the child’s safety while preparing charges related to child neglect. Legal Note:
Leaving a child unattended in a vehicle, particularly in unfavorable weather conditions, poses serious risks and is considered child neglect under Florida law. Law enforcement agencies urge parents and guardians to prioritize child safety and avoid leaving minors alone in vehicles under any circumstances. Individuals guilty of child neglect may face criminal charges, including fines and potential jail time. If you suspect a child is in danger, report it immediately to local authorities to ensure their well-being.