A troubling case in Florida has raised serious concerns about child safety after a mother allegedly left her children unattended for hours in a rideshare vehicle.
Mother Faces New Child Neglect Charges
A 32-year-old woman, Emily Sabogal, is now facing additional legal trouble after police say she left her children alone in an Uber for more than two hours.
According to authorities in Sunrise, Florida, she is charged with two counts of child neglect and unlawful child desertion. Prosecutors added the new charge during a recent court hearing.
Children Left in Uber for Hours
The incident reportedly happened in February when an Uber driver contacted police after waiting for Sabogal to return. She had asked the driver to stop the car and told him she would be back shortly, but never returned.
The children remained inside the vehicle with the driver for over two hours before he called 911. Officers later confirmed that the children were physically unharmed but were hungry and thirsty.
Police Locate Mother Miles Away
Officers eventually found Sabogal walking more than two miles away near a McDonald’s. According to police, she was unable to clearly explain why she left her children or how she ended up there.
Authorities also noted signs that she may have been under the influence of alcohol, including slurred speech and the smell of alcohol.
Earlier Behaviour Raises Concerns
Investigators said Sabogal had been at a restaurant earlier that evening where she reportedly consumed multiple alcoholic drinks while her children were unsupervised.
Police believe her actions put the children at risk by leaving them with a stranger for an extended period.
Father Speaks Out
The children’s father has expressed strong concern and frustration over the situation. He stated that he is now caring for the children and wants legal action to be taken.
He also suggested that this was not the first time Sabogal had behaved in a concerning way, adding that he believes she needs help.
Legal Process Underway
Sabogal has been arrested and later released on bond. She has been formally arraigned on the new charge, and her next court date is scheduled for July 31.
The case is still ongoing as authorities continue to review the circumstances.
