Babies, a newborn and a 1-year-old, were found in distressing conditions when neighbors heard their crying and called 911 after they were left unattended for 14 hours by their parent, who went out to drlnk; charges filed

Indiana – Indiana woman was arrested on multiple felony charges after allegedly Ieaving her chiIdren unattended for 14 hours. The children, a 1-week-old newborn and a 1-year-old baby, were found in distressing conditions that prompted immediate medical attention. 

The situation began early in the morning when local police were called to the scene of a car accident. A vehicle had crashed into a utility pole, and when officers arrived, they discovered the 32-year-old mother, later identified as Santra, behind the wheel. She appeared to be intoxicated, with slurred speech and an unsteady gait. After further questioning, she initially denied having any children with her. Police later learned that the car seat in her vehicle was a clue to the presence of her children at home.

She was transported to the hospital for evaluation due to her apparent intoxication. After she was cleared, she was taken to the County jail. It wasn’t until later that the gravity of her actions became clear, leading to more serious criminal charges.

Around 2:30 p.m., police received an alarming report from neighbors who heard the sound of babies crying from the woman’s home. Officers responded and forced their way inside the residence. What they found was disturbing. Both children were left alone in their home, and the conditions were alarming. The newborn was in a crib, covered in f-ces, with signs of severe malnutrition and dehydration. The baby’s hands, feet, and mouth were discolored, showing symptoms of cyanosis, which indicated a lack of oxygen. The toddler was found in similar conditions, though in slightly better shape.

The children were immediately taken to the local hospital for medical care. The infant required a feeding tube due to malnutrition and was admitted for further care. The toddler was also examined but did not require immediate hospitalization. Both were rushed to hospital and though the older girl was healthy, the baby had to be fed through a feeding tube on account of concerns for her well being.

During her interviews with police, she admitted to leaving the children at home while she went to a local bar. She told officers that she had consumed a several beers before heading out. She stated that she left the children alone around midnight, intending to return after spending some time at the bar. However, she did not return until 14 hours later, leaving the children without food, water, or care.

Officers also discovered several open cans of beer in the home, and a small dog was found confined to a cage without food or water. The woman was charged with several serious offenses, including neglect of a dependent resulting in serious bodily injury, neglect of a dependent by abandonment, and obstruction of justice. She was also charged with two counts of neglect of a dependent.

She is currently being held at the county jail on a bond of $42,500. The investigation revealed disturbing details about her lack of responsibility and disregard for the safety of her children. Local authorities emphasized that while this was a tragic situation, the swift actions of neighbors and law enforcement likely saved the children from further harm.

The incident has raised questions about the importance of responsible parenting and the dangers of neglect, particularly when young children are involved. The authorities have expressed gratitude for the prompt response from neighbors, who noticed something was wrong and alerted the police, ultimately leading to the children’s rescue.