Richland County, May 25th, 2024 – While on patrol, Richland County Sheriff Deputy Vanhouten was flagged down by a concerned citizen who reported that a small child and a dog had been left alone in a car in the Kroger parking lot on Ashland Rd. Deputy Vanhouten promptly arrived at the scene and located the vehicle, finding a child in a car seat and a dog inside. The car’s windows were all up, except for the driver’s window, which was partially open.
Given the outside temperature of 80 degrees, the interior of the car could have reached dangerously high temperatures. Deputy Vanhouten immediately opened the door to allow fresh air into the vehicle. Lt. Berry arrived soon after to assist, staying with the child while Deputy Vanhouten searched for the parents.
A short time later, a woman approached the vehicle, identifying herself as the child’s mother. She stated she was with her fiancé, Wadee Alsayyah who owned the vehicle. Both individuals were apologetic and did not appear to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Fortunately, the child was unharmed, thanks to the quick actions of the concerned citizen and Deputy Vanhouten.
The mother, identified as Dezzi Decziraigh Peters, was cited for Simple Assault – Endangering Children, due to the risk posed to the child’s health and safety. She was informed of her mandatory court date and advised of the potential dangers of leaving a child unattended in a vehicle, especially in high temperatures. Richland County Child Services was also notified of the incident.
This incident highlights the importance of community vigilance and swift law enforcement response in preventing potential tragedies.
See this article by CBS News on car temps.
🤬 I just don’t understand how people “forget” they shouldn’t leave a living BREATHING child and a dog in a vehicle in any weather