A woman in Oklahoma left her 16-month-old medically compromised child alone in a car for over five hours while she was inside a casino gambling. The incident took place at the Hard Rock Hotel And Casino Tulsa, where security guards found the child in the locked car with the engine running. The police had to forcefully open the car to rescue the infant, who was then taken to a local hospital due to being on a feeding tube.
The woman, Dacie Yeager, arrived at the casino at 9:30 a.m. and only returned to the car at 3 p.m. when the police were already there. Initially, Yeager claimed that the child was left alone for about 20 minutes, but surveillance footage revealed that it was actually over five hours. She was arrested and charged with child neglect, and her case is currently pending in the local court.
The body camera footage from the police officer showed the interchange between Yeager and the officer, where she mentioned she was trying to find the child’s dad and that she had been gambling at the casino. The child was taken into custody by child welfare staff, and the police chief, Ronnie Benight, condemned Yeager’s actions, emphasizing the importance of seeking help when facing difficulties instead of endangering children.
Benight highlighted the risks involved in leaving a child unattended in a car, such as theft, mechanical issues, or extreme weather conditions. The temperature on the day of the incident was 78 degrees in Catoosa. The police chief expressed his concern for the child’s well-being and criticized Yeager’s irresponsible behavior, especially considering the child’s medical condition.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring the safety and welfare of children, even in seemingly harmless situations. It is crucial for parents and caregivers to prioritize the needs of children and seek assistance when necessary, rather than putting them at risk. The authorities have taken appropriate measures to address the situation, but it also raises awareness about the potential consequences of neglecting the well-being of vulnerable individuals.
