Woman Arrested After Leaving Kids Home for Cruise
A judge set a $10,000 bond for a woman accused of leaving four children unattended while she took a three-day Bahamas trip.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Child Care
Police arrested a 29-year-old woman at PortMiami after she allegedly left four children alone in a home while departing for a three-day cruise. The group included a 2-month-old infant and a 2-year-old toddler.
Why it matters
The case highlights the severe legal consequences of child neglect and the ongoing safety oversight provided by state child welfare agencies. The Florida Department of Children and Families is currently conducting an investigation into the incident.
A judge set a $10,000 bond for the suspect following her arrest on four counts of child neglect. This figure follows the discovery of four children, including a 2-month-old and a 2-year-old, found left alone in a residence.
The players
Nathalie Belizaire
A 29-year-old woman charged with four counts of child neglect following an arrest at PortMiami.
Florida Department of Children and Families
The state agency currently leading the investigation into the welfare of the four children.
The details
Authorities intervened on Sept. 26 after the father of the youngest child called 911 upon finding the children alone. Officers eventually discovered the siblings hiding in a bathroom at the home. Police later took the suspect into custody at PortMiami on Sept. 28 as she disembarked from a cruise ship. The suspect reportedly intended for their great-grandmother to watch the children during her absence.
Timeline
Sept. 25: The suspect departed for a three-day cruise to the Bahamas.
Sept. 26: Police discovered the unattended children at the home.
Sept. 28: Officers arrested the suspect at PortMiami.
Sept. 29: A judge set bond at $10,000 and the suspect was released.
Beyond the 305
This case is being handled under the legal standards for child neglect established in Florida Statute 827.03. These laws define the threshold for criminal charges when a caregiver fails to provide necessary supervision for minor children.
Residents should remain aware of the legal requirements for child supervision and available state support systems for families. Ongoing investigations by child welfare authorities can lead to further court proceedings regarding family custody and protective services.
The takeaway
Parents and guardians must ensure a reliable, present adult is designated for childcare during any travel. Follow the progress of the Florida Department of Children and Families investigation to understand the final outcomes for the children involved.
Further reading
For more information on family services and child safety resources in the area, visit the Child Care section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by VnExpress International – Latest news, business, travel and analysis from Vietnam.
