A Florida couple is facing charges for allegedly leaving their infant alone inside an unlocked, running vehicle while they drank at a bar, authorities said.
The Flagler County Sheriffs Office received a tip shortly after 10:00 p.m. Friday about a child left unattended in a car outside a bar in Palm Coast. Deputies arrived to find the vehicle with the engine running, keys in the ignition, and an infant sleeping in an improperly secured car seat in the back seat.
Moments later, 28-year-old Clarisse Finnegan exited the bar and approached the vehicle, identifying herself as the cars owner. She informed deputies her husband, 60-year-old Norman Finnegan Jr., was still inside the bar. He was located, escorted outside, and detained for questioning.
Body-worn camera video shared by the sheriff’s office shows a deputy initially suggesting they “smash the windows” to gain entry and ensure the baby was safe, but after trying the door handle they realize the car is unlocked.
A witness told deputies she had arrived around 10:00 p.m. and saw a man exit the bar at 10:15 p.m., glance into the vehicle, and then reenter the bar. During questioning, Clarisse claimed she initially went inside to use the restroom and get money from Norman for baby supplies. She said she returned to check on the infant and then went back inside to see if her husband was ready to leave. However, both she and Norman gave conflicting accounts, and witnesses confirmed both had been drinking inside.
“These two will never receive parents of the year award with this behavior,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “Its never acceptable to leave an infant alone inside a running vehicle — especially while inside a bar drinking. This kind of recklessness could have ended in tragedy. I want to thank the concerned citizen who reported this incident and our deputies who acted quickly to protect this innocent child.”
Clarisse and Norman Finnegan were both arrested and charged with felony child neglect without great bodily harm. Norman was released on a $2,500 bond, while Clarisse was released on her own recognizance. The Florida Department of Children and Families is also investigating.
