A Kentucky mother has been arrested after authorities accused her of abandoning her young children at another person’s home without permission, leading to a dangerous situation where a toddler reportedly wandered into the street and nearly got hit by a car.
The disturbing case happened in Richmond, Kentucky, and investigators say the children were left alone for hours while their mother allegedly attempted to obtain illegal drugs.
Kentucky Mother Arrested on Child Abuse Charges
Authorities identified the mother as Crystal Neal, 40.
According to jail records, Neal is currently being held at the Madison County Detention Center without bond.
She faces multiple serious charges, including first-degree criminal abuse involving a child under 12 years old and abandonment of a minor.
Reports state she is facing four counts of each charge connected to the incident involving her children.
The case has shocked many people due to the ages of the children and the dangerous circumstances police say they faced while left unattended.
Children Allegedly Left at Stranger’s Home
According to investigators, the incident happened on Saturday in Richmond, a city located southeast of Lexington, Kentucky.
Police say Neal’s 11-year-old child was visiting a friend’s house when Neal allegedly dropped off her three younger children there as well.
The children were reportedly ages 6, 5, and 2.
Authorities claim Neal told the people at the home she was leaving briefly to get McDonald’s for the children.
However, the homeowner later contacted police after becoming confused and concerned because Neal allegedly never asked permission to leave the younger children there or explained how long she would be gone.
Investigators say the children were left without proper supervision while Neal remained away from the home for several hours.
Toddler Nearly Hit by Car While Searching for Mother
According to police reports, the situation became even more dangerous when the 2-year-old child reportedly wandered into the street searching for Neal.
Authorities say the toddler was nearly struck by a passing vehicle.
Police officers responded to the home and attempted multiple times to contact Neal by phone but reportedly received no answer.
Investigators also stated that the 11-year-old child repeatedly tried calling their mother without success.
According to reports, approximately 30 minutes after officers arrived at the scene, Neal finally returned to the residence.
By that point, police said nearly three hours had passed since she allegedly dropped off the younger children.
Mother Allegedly Told Police She Was Looking for Drugs
During the investigation, officers reportedly interviewed Neal and examined her phone.
Authorities claim Neal admitted she had been trying to obtain illegal drugs while away from the children.
Police also interviewed the children involved in the case.
According to reports, the children told investigators they were unsure whether their mother planned to return for them.
One of the children reportedly told Neal, “You left us, mom,” after finally seeing her return.
The emotional statement has drawn strong reactions online as many people expressed concern for the children’s wellbeing.
Court Hearing Scheduled
Authorities confirmed Neal is expected to appear in court on May 20 for a preliminary hearing related to the charges.
The case remains under investigation.
