Florida Child Injury Lawyer Blog

The Panama City News Herald Website reported that a school bus and semi truck were involved in an automobile accident. A child suffered a minor head injury. The semi truck driver also suffered injuries.

During the school year, there are a great number of school buses on Florida roads. It is important for school bus drivers to exercise due caution and to drive in a safe manner. For those driving near school buses, slow down and give school buses plenty of space on Florida roadways. It is also especially important to stop when required to allow students to load and unload from the school bus.

The simple activity of riding in a small Jon boat in a pond can at times be very dangerous. This is especially true when there are children involved and no life jackets worn by the children. The News 4 Jax Website reported that police and firefighters searched a pond recently in the Mandarin part of Jacksonville, Florida for a child who fell out of the Jon boat. Actually, three children fell out of the Jon boat but only two were able to make it to safety. A good samaritan tried to find and save the third child but was overcome by his swimming efforts to save the child. The incident happened near the Woodbridge at the Lake Apartments. As part of this investigation, it would be helpful to know the following:

Who owned the boat?

What were the ages of the three children involved in this incident?

Where did the children reside?

What safety precautions were followed by the children?

What safety precautions if any were available to the children?

It is a tragedy any time that a child suffers serious personal injuries or death when the incident could have otherwise have been prevented. Practice safe boating every time and and any time that you are out on a boat.

A fifteen year old boy from Interlachen (Putnam County) Florida was hit by a pickup truck and critically injured while crossing County Road 315 near Mary Wisham Park on his bicycle last Saturday afternoon. At the time of the accident, the boy was trying to cross from the sidewalk on the west side of the road to the entrance of the park on the east side. Apparently the boy crossed the road just as the southbound lane cleared, without checking the northbound lane for oncoming traffic. He was hit by a pickup truck in that lane and sent flying onto the shoulder of the road. The driver of the pickup, sixty two year old Samuel Hancock Jr. of Satsuma, Florida, pulled over immediately to check on the boy. The driver was wearing his seat belt and was not injured. No charges have been filed by police.

Children often have poor safety judgment and awareness when crossing streets. Many accidents and injuries caused by car accidents can be avoided by slower driving, more attentive driving, and safety awareness by both driver and pedestrian or bicyclist. In this case it appears that the driver did nothing wrong, but a bit more caution on his part might have prevented the accident. Drivers should pay close attention to traffic, road conditions, and pedestrians when driving on Florida roadways. Parents need to take the initiative as well, and teach their children proper safety precautions when crossing roads on foot or on a bicycle.

Read more about this car accident at Teen bicyclist hit while crossing county road.

Millions of people visit Disney World every day. With such a large congregation of people including children, there is a concern by many that such a location would be a prime breeding and distribution site for the Swine Flu otherwise known as the H1N1 flu. It is a concern not only for adults, parents, and children visiting the Magic Kingdom but also employees who work there. Disney is taking some steps to try to make Disney World a safer and cleaner place for visitors and workers. Hand sanitizer dispensers have been installed at high traffic locations including the park entrances, hotel lobbies and other locations. The problem is that it is impossible to maintain any theme park in a perfectly clean or sanitary condition. Rides are not wiped down after every passenger and counters are not wiped down every moment. It is good that some steps are taken but visitors can take their own precautions as well by washing their hands throughout the day and carrying their own sanitizers. You can read more about this topic at Disney World and Swine Flu Precautions.

The Florida Times Union reported that a baby recently suffered personal injuries from a space heater fire. Jaxson Spencer Willis was in a stroller that was ignited from kerosene from a space heater. He suffered burns to his legs, arms, back of his head, and his face. Jaxson was initially treated at Shands Jacksonville and then he was airlifted to Shands Gainesville for further treatment. If there is an investigation by the Jacksonville Fire Department and / or the State of Florida Fire Marshal, it will be interesting to know additional details about this incident including the following:

What was the make, model and year of the space heater?

Were there any defects in the space heater?

How did kerosene get on the stroller from the space heater?

Were there problems with the space heater previously?

Who owned the space heater and the house where the incident took place?

Burn injuries to children can be quite devastating and can often times require an extensive amount of medical treatment.

When a child goes missing, the family, neighbors, friends, and the community join together in an effort to locate the child. Luis Martinez, age 2, was a child who went missing. It was reported by Fox News that 400 volunteers were gathered together to search for Luis. Tragically, it is believed that Luis' body was found in an uncovered septic tank. An autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause, manner, and timing of death. Tragic stories like this show the importance of adult supervision as well as proper home maintenance. It was reported that the septic tank had an 11 inch opening which presented a dangerous condition for any child or adult walking or playing in the yard. Children especially toddlers are very curious. Unfortunately, toddlers have poor safety awareness and do not understand when they wonder into a dangerous area or situation. The tragic death of Luis Martinez will certainly have an impact on his family, neighbors, friends, and the community.

In Florida and other States, working parents rely on after school programs including those at the YMCA. It is vital that school and after school programs have checklists and a system in place to insure that children are transported on the correct bus to the correct location. Otherwise, a child may be left unsupervised and be at risk for personal injuries. In Lakeland, Florida, Kaylee Mitchell (age 5) was mistakenly taken to an empty home rather than to her after school program at the YMCA. Fortunately, Kaylee did not suffer any injuries but was certainly was put in a dangerous situation. The school apologized for the mistake. Hopefully, checklists and other safety measures will be followed or revised to make sure that this situation is not repeated as to Kaylee or any other children. You can read more about this story at 5 Year Old Lakeland Girl Transported to Empty Home Rather Than After School Program.

In Florida, there are swimming pools in virtually every neighborhood. Children enjoy swimming and playing in swimming pools. It is vital that swimming pools are properly fenced / gated to keep young children out of the swimming area. Adult supervision should be consistently provided any time that a child is in or near a swimming pool. Two deaths were recently reported. In Marion County (Ocala, Florida), a 10 year old autistic boy (Bernard C. Latimore), who was reported missing from his home, drowned in a neighbor's swimming pool. In a separate unrelated incident, a 3 year old girl drowned in an apartment complex swimming pool. The deaths of these children is certainly a great loss for their families, neighborhood, friends, and the community. It is certainly tragic that an area built for fun (swimming pool) turns into a site of death of a young child. You can read more about these incidents at Two Children Found Dead in Separate Florida Drownings. See Florida Residential Swimming Pool Act is for the protection of children.

In Florida and other States, there are a number of babysitting courses available that help educate responsible children and teens about the responsibilities and duties of a babysitter. A formal babysitting class ranges in length from a one to two day course typically. Children learn about CPR, choking, 911, emergency situations, communication with parents, communication with children, and other tasks. I believe that taking a babysitting course is a responsible step or action by both the babysitter or the babysitter in training as well as the parent of the babysitter. It is a milestone in a way for the babysitter that definitively states that, "I am now older and have responsibilities." When a child / teen completes the babysitting course, praise and recognition should be given. It is also important for parents to have a discussion with the babysitter who completed the training to find out what was learned, what was retained, and what actions / steps will be used by the babysitter when completing a babysitting job. The money and time spent in a babysitting class are certainly well worth it when you consider that the education will benefit both the babysitter and the children supervised by the babysitter. In Jacksonville, Florida, the JCA (Jewish Community Alliance) has an excellent babysitting course that is offered periodically at the JCA located at 8505 San Jose Boulevard, Jacksonville, Florida 32217 - (904) 730-2100.

Fort White man pleads guilty to receiving child porn over the Internet. According to a story posted at the Gainesville Sun website, Kenneth Mathew Tanzosh (age 37) downloaded video to his computer involving pornographic videos of children. Mr. Tanzosh and his computer were tracked by law enforcement authorities through an investigation that began with an investigation by German authorities. Through the investigation, United States agents later raided Tanzosh's home for the computer.

Unfortunately, children continue to be exploited sexually because there is a market out there for pornographic images and videos. People who download the images are guilty of crimes, in part, because these actions help support or promote this industry. You can read more about this story at Fort White Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography Possession Charges.

Good parenting involves consistent care, supervision, and education. A good parent will also show an interest in the child's sports and hobby activities. Sports card collecting is a great hobby for a parent to spend time with a child and interact with a child. Like any other hobby, there is a great deal to learn in sports card collecting. Some read a book or an article or two to get an education in a hobby. Others seek out experts in the field for advice and collecting. In Jacksonville, Florida, Dick and Jane's Sportscards is a great family owned business. The store is located at 1819 Dean Road, Jacksonville, Florida 32216 (904) 725-2316 - www.dickandjanes.com. Whether you are a first time collector or an experienced collector of football cards, baseball cards, or basketball cards, places like Dick and Janes are great locations to share a hobby with your child and to spend quality time pursuing a fun hobby like sports card collecting.

There is a general public awareness of the dangers or perceived dangers of Florida Sex Offenders and Florida Sex Predators; however, many people do not know or understand the difference between these two legal designations or classifications of people with a criminal history. The Palm Beach Post posted a good article that defines each term. This information is also posted the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and other web sites as well.

Children should be able to grow up in a society or community free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. If someone suspect that a child is being harmed, action should be taken to contact the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Florida Department of Children and Families, and / or the local police department or sheriff's office.

WOFL Fox 35 News reported that a staff member with a Florida juvenile justice facility was arrested on charges of child abuse. Juveniles and other staff members were interviewed by the Marion County Sheriff's Office regarding this incident. It was reported that the staff member put a juvenile in a choke hold that resulted in the juvenile becoming unconscious. As with any other type of criminal matter, the accused staff member will be entitled to the services of a criminal defense attorney on this matter whether private or public defender. As part of the criminal investigation and proceedings, the accused staff member will have the opportunity to defend his actions if there is a viable defense or excuse for his conduct. Victims, including those juveniles in detention, have constitutional rights as well and should not be subjected to harm or injury while in detention, jail, or prison.

It is 2009 and, unfortunately, in Naples, Florida and other parts of the world - anti-semitism continues to exist. One would think that the history of the past - most notably - the Holocaust - would be reminders on how horrible hate and discrimination can be for groups of selected minorities including but not limited to Jews. School Officials at North Naples Middle School suspended 10 students after it was determined that these students participated what was called "kick a Jew day". This story was reported at the Florida Times Union Newspaper Website.

Some parents may say that these are just school yard pranks. I believe that the assaults go much deeper than that. A child was singled out for his religious and / or cultural views. This should not happen to any student in the Florida School system. This story, while quite disturbing, can be a good teaching tool for parents and teachers to talk about bullying, anti-semitism, discrimination, and violence.

In Altamonte Springs, Florida, a mother (Brittany Higgs) reported to police that her 3 year old child was kidnapped by a man (Vincent Marchese). Mr. Marchese denies that he kidnapped the child; however, according to a news story reported by the UPI (United Press International), Mr. Marchese fled from the police after being spotted by the police. He crashed his vehicle into a police cruiser, abandoned the child, fled on foot, and then attempted to hide from police.

Mr. Marchese later hid overnight in some bushes in a park in Seminole County, Florida. He was found by a police dog the next morning and arrested. Marchese is an ex-con with felony drug possession and attempted robbery convictions.

Marchese claims that Ms. Higgs never called him to check on her son, or to ask Marchese to return him, saying that he would have brought the boy back if he knew Ms. Higgs was looking for him. He was initially charged with kidnapping, but Altamonte, Florida police have dropped those charges and are now charging him with child neglect along with other charges related to the police chase.

It appears that the police believe Marchese’s story about not kidnapping the child; if he had not run from the police he would still be a free man.

Parents should be extremely careful about their selection of babysitters and caregivers for their children. Whether a child is put in danger by a police chase, an unsupervised bath, hot boiling water in the kitchen, or other situations, it is vital that children are watched by responsible babysitters who focus on the best interest of the child.

Read more about Vincent Marchese’s run from the law at Fla. man abandons toddler, flees on foot.

In Florida and other States, homeowners have a right to bear arms. While there is a right to own gun, there are also responsibilities that go along with gun ownership. In particular, the gun should be stored in a safe and secure location away from the reach or access by young children. Furthermore, gun owners should take all necessary precautions to make sure that the gun is not fired in the home except for instances involving self defense. In South Florida (Cutler Ridge), a 14 year old girl was accidentally shot to death according to a story reported at the The Miami Herald Newspaper Website and the Florida Times Union Newspaper Website. The bullet hit the child in the head. The girl was transported by emergency helicopter to Miami Children's Hospital but rescue efforts were unsuccessful in saving her life.

Police detectives and crime scene specialists will investigate this incident to determine the following matters:

Was the gun registered?
What type of gun was involved in this incident?
Who was the registered owner of the gun?
Why was the gun being handled at the time of the shooting?
What safety devices were available on the gun?
Who last handled the gun prior to the shooting?
What was the child doing prior to the shooting?
Were there witnesses to the incident?

When a child visits a home, it is the responsibility of the homeowner to provide a safe and secure environment for the child. Tragically, incidents like these do happen and will continue to happen in the future. You can read more about this story at South Florida Teen Accidentally Shot in Head in South Florida (Cutler Ridge).

Text messaging is an engaging and somewhat addicting activity. People of all ages are texting day and night even when they are driving. It is well known that texting while driving can and does cause driver distraction. As a result thereof, there have been many automobile accidents reported in Florida and other States caused by text messaging related distracted driving crashes. In Bartow, Florida, Polk County Deputy Sheriffs arrested a man (Stephen Wade Horne) for reckless driving involving serious injuries that were caused to Emmanuel "Manny" Mejia (age 20). Mr. Horne failed to stop for a Florida Refuse garbage truck and, in turn, hit Mr. Mejia. Mr. Mejia was rushed to Lakeland Regional Medical Center for emergency treatment related to these most serious personal injuries.

You can read more about this story at Text Messaging and Driver Distraction - Arrest Made in Bartow Florida - Reckless Driving.

Near Tampa, Florida, cheerleaders were injured in a van accident. While traveling on Interstate 275, the van reportedly blew a rear tire, crashed into a concrete wall, and then flipped over. Numerous Fire Rescue and police vehicles responded to the scene of the accident. The accident caused personal injuries to 13 of the cheerleaders who had just finished competing in Lakeland based cheerleading competition. The cheerleaders were treated at St. Joseph's Hospital and Tampa General Hospital. When investigating or evaluating a crash of this nature, it would be important to know the following:

What was the make, model and year of the van?

What the make, model, year, and number of miles on the tire that blew out?

What kind of maintenance was completed for the van during the 6 months to 1 year prior to the crash?

What person or organization owned the van?

What seatbelts were available for use on the van?

What passengers were wearing seatbelts?

What speed was the van traveling just prior to the tire blowing out?

Fortunately, there were no deaths or serious personal injuries reported regarding this crash. It was certainly a frightening experience for all involved as well as their family members. You can read more about this story at Cheerleading Van Crashes on Interstate 275.

According to a report compiled by the Every Child Matters Education Fund, titled “We can do Better: Child Abuse and Neglect deaths in the U.S.,” Florida ranks third in the US for child deaths caused by abuse or neglect. Texas ranks first and California second. According to the report, 153 children died due to abuse or neglect in the State of Florida. But the report adds that underreporting of these types of incidents may mean that the real number is much higher. According to federal statistics, over ten thousand children died in the US from abuse or neglect between the years 2001 and 2007.

In the report, fatal child abuse encompasses repeated abuse that leads to battered child syndrome, or a single incidence of fatal abuse. Fatal neglect is defined as the child dying from a caregiver’s failure to act, whether that is over a long period of time or in a single incident, such as failing to supervise the child properly. Also included in the report are figures on child poverty in Florida; of the four million children living in Florida in 2007, nearly 700,000 were living in poverty.

It is a shame that Florida has earned this distinction. All children everywhere, no matter what their economic status, deserve to be loved and protected by their parents, their extended families, their schools, and the community at large.

Read the entire report at We Can Do Better.

In Ocala, Florida, a tragic fire caused the death of 4 children and their mother. The fire and deaths were reported in the The Orlando Sentine newspaper website. It was reported that a mobile home caught fire and the roof collapsed. Marion County Fire Rescue found the bodies of the children and the mother. Officials with the Marion County Fire Department and the State of Florida Fire Marshal's office will conduct an investigation as to the cause of the fire. The children were quite young ranging in age from a few months to 5 years old. It is important to investigate the causes of these fires so that action can be taken by others and for others to prevent similar incidents from taking place. The deaths of these children and their mother is a great loss and tragedy for the family, friends, neighbors and the community.

A judge recently imposed a sentence of life in prison to a man accused of shaking his 2 1/2 month old child to death. Ventrel Gammons was the father accused of the crime of first degree murder and aggravated child abuse. The incident, according to prosecutors and investigators, took place at the family home in May 2007. Mr. Gammons' attorney argued that there was no evidence to support that Gammons abused or harmed his child. While it was not detailed in the Florida Times Union article, it would appear that this case involved medical testimony and evidence regarding Shaken Baby Syndrome and the associated head / brain injuries involved in such a case.

Parents, day care providers, child care providers, family members, and babysitters should never ever shake an infant, toddler, or child for disciplinary purposes or play. It is well known that shaking a baby can cause irreversible brain injury and in many cases - wrongful death.

The Orange County, Florida Sheriff’s Office made ten arrests recently, stemming from an investigation into an internet prostitution ring. The investigation took place over several weeks and included individuals in seven Florida counties. One of the alleged prostitutes arrested was a sixteen-year-old girl. She told police that her pimp was holding her five-month-old baby hostage, and that if she did not return to him with the money, he would keep the baby.

Deputies found the baby some time later with the girl’s alleged pimp, in a car in a parking lot at the Wal-Mart on South Kirkman Road in Orlando, Florida. The baby was unharmed; the pimp was arrested. The child has been turned over to the Florida Department of Children and Families, which will determine if the infant should be returned to its mother.

It is sad enough that this young sixteen-year-old girl has become involved in a life of prostitution. But it is sadder still that her infant child has been mixed up in it as well. Children should be cherished and protected, not used as hostages held for ransom. Clearly this young girl is putting her child in harm's way by associating with alleged criminals. It will be interesting to see how the Florida Department of Children handles this matter and what the future holds for the 16 year old and her child.

Find out more about this story at Baby held hostage in prostitution ring.

Shannon Dedrick, the Florida seven-month-old who was reported missing from her home over a week ago, was found alive recently. The girl was found lying hidden in a small box under the bed of her babysitter / step-aunt, Susan Baker. Shannon appeared to be in good health. According to police, Ms. Baker had asked the child’s mother, Crystina Lynn Mercer, to give her permanent custody of the child, and Ms. Mercer handed the girl over to her.

Police became suspicious of Ms. Baker after learning that she and her husband had been arrested in 2000 in connection with the disappearance of their own three-year-old son over twenty years ago in South Carolina. That case has never been solved. Washington County, Florida Sheriff, Bobby Haddock, says that the women conspired to place the child with Ms. Baker, but they do not believe that Ms. Mercer was aware that Ms. Baker had hidden the child in a box under her bed.

According to the local news station, WLTX, Ms. Mercer has been charged with deserting a child, and Ms. Baker has been charged with aggravated child neglect. Both women have been charged with filing a false missing child report, filing a false report of a crime, interference with child custody, and contributing to the dependency of a child. Ms. Baker’s husband was arrested as well, but he has been released; police have not determined if they will charge him with a crime.

If these women had gone through proper channels to legally change custody of Shannon, all the drama and cost of the prolonged search could have been avoided, and the women would not be facing criminal charges. It is unclear why Ms. Mercer would so easily hand over her child to someone else, and why they would not go through regular channels, but more details will likely come out as the investigation continues.

Find out more about Sannon and her ordeal at Shannon Dedrick case: Police say mother gave girl to babysitter, both women charged.

Adoption agencies placing children with Florida parents are reportedly required by the Florida Department of Children and Families to inquire if the potential parents keep guns or ammunition in their home. Recently, a Brevard County, Florida couple hired an attorney after they took exception to being asked that question. The lawyer called a lobbyist for the NRA, who decided to try to change Florida law to restrict adoption agencies from asking about gun ownership.

According to the NRA, gun registration is illegal in Florida, and any documentation about gun ownership by a government agency is basically the same thing as establishing a gun registry. Further, gun rights advocates say that requiring parents to disclose gun ownership is a violation of their privacy rights. Senator Thad Altman, R-Melbourne, is sponsoring a bill to make “unlawful” for an adoption agency to ask about gun ownership. The bill is expected to pass.

Whether the bill passes or not, parental supervision along with the proper storage and locking of guns is a necessary step for gun owners to take to prevent gun related injuries and deaths involving children. The death or injury of a child from an accidental shooting is a great loss, and can be prevented with some basic safety precautions.

Read more about this bill at NRA: Ban adoption agencies from asking about gun ownership.

In Jacksonville, Florida, we are known as the biggest city land mass in the country. The entire county is the city and visa versa. Jacksonville also has bragging rights as the Home of the Florida / Georgia Game, great beaches, great weather, and the Jacksonville Jaguars. Unfortunately, Jacksonville, Florida was recently recognized for something not so great - Jacksonville is the 4th worse city in Florida or pedestrian safety / injuries. The study was released by the Transportation for America. Jacksonville ranked behind Orlando - Kissimmee, Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, and Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach.

Many pedestrian accidents and injuries can be avoided by slower driving, more attentive driving, and safety awareness by both driver and pedestrian. Unfortunately, children are often injured as pedestrians by drivers who are distracted or driving too fast for the road conditions or traffic. Slow down and save a life. You can read more about this study at
Jacksonville, Florida - 4th Deadliest for Pedestrians.

According to a study by the Transportation for America and the Surface Transporation Policy Partnership, Metropolitan Orlando is noted for being the most dangerous area for pedestrians. Orlando is a tourist and business city with wide roads and millions of pedestrians attempting to cross the roads every year. The design of the city, according to some safety advocates, was more geared for the motorist rather than the pedestrians, runners, and / or bicycle riders. In the four county area including Seminole, Orange, Lake and Osceola county, it was reported that there were 115 people hit and killed by by vehicles in 2007 - 2008. Orlando is a great place to live and a great vacation destination city for many; however, it is also dangerous in many of the high traffic areas especially commerce and business areas supporting tourism. Whether you are in Orlando or any other city, be careful any time that you cross a street or are near a heavy traffic area. This is especially important when children are with you or nearby as children often times have poor safety judgment and awareness when crossing streets. You can read more about this study and the dangers of Orlando area traffic at Pedestrians Should Be Careful - Orlando Ranked Worst in the Nation.

In Orange County, Florida, deputies from the Orange County Sheriff's Office are investigating the death of a toddler who was apparently fell out of a first floor window. The incident was reported to 911. Paramedics arrived on the scene and transported the child to Arnold Palmer Children's Hospital. Unfortunately and quite tragically, the child was pronounced dead at the hospital. An autopsy will be performed to determine the cause of death. Investigators and medical examiners will inspect the scene of the accident and compare these findings with the forensic medical findings from the autopsy. The death of a child is a traumatic event for any family and community. You can read more about this story at Child Dies from Reported Fall from Window in Orange County, Florida.

In Valrico, Florida, Tyrone Hamilton Oliver, according to a story reported in the Orlando Sentinel, is facing criminal charges for allegations that Oliver provided grain alcohol and cigarettes to a 14 year old child. This story was reported by the Orlando Sentinel. The teen was taken to Brandon Hospital for treatment related to alcohol poisoning. It was reported that the teen's alcohol level was .267 which is over 3 times the legal limit in Florida of .08. Of course, any amount of alcohol provided to a child would be a crime committed by both the person providing the alcohol and the child consuming the alcohol. The reason for drinking ages is simple. Teens and children have poor safety awareness when it comes to alcohol consumption. You can read more about this story at Florida Man Who Provided Alcohol to Teen Faces Criminal Charges.

In Florida, day care and school field trips can be great fun and adventure for children. At times, these field trips can also create dangerous situations as well. Supervision and checklists are vital when a day care center or school brings children on a field trip. In West Palm Beach, Florida, it was reported by CBS Channel 12 News that a child was left behind on a trip to a zoo. Fortunately, the child did not sustain any injuries. The child was later safely reunited with his mother. I recommend that day care centers maintain an attendance checklist for all children on the field trip. Take attendance when you leave the day care center, at various times at the field trip location, when the bus is loaded, and when the children exit the bus.

The school superintendent from Clay County (Ben Wortham), from Duval County (Ed Pratt-Daniels), and from St. Johns County (Joseph Joyner) recently met to give a message to parents in North Florida. The message simply stated was "Be There:". This message is not intended for parents to be at school 24 / 7 but to "Be There" for their children. The Superintendents believe that it important for parents to spend quality time with their children. Some research shows that children who have parents involved and interested in their school work and lives often times perform better at school as well as generally in life. How can a parent "Be There" for a son or daughter? Here are a few suggestions from me:

Sit down with your child at homework time and offer help or suggestions;

Read to your child;

Read with your child;

Go to soccer games;

Go to soccer practice (not just the games); and

Volunteer in your child's classroom.

"Be There" is a simple idea and concept that can do so much good for a child. You can read more about this program at Superintendents Have Strong Message for Parents.

In Miami, Florida, Michael Brewer, age 15, is currently a patient at the University of Miami / Jackson Memorial Hospital Burn Center. Michael was the unfortunate victim of a crime committed by other teenagers. It was reported that Michael was covered with rubbing alcohol and then set afire by teens who thought that Michael was a "snitch" for reporting that another boy had stolen a bicycle. It was estimated that Michael suffered injuries from second / third degree burns to over 60 % of his body. He needs a ventilator to breathe and a special mattress and care to deal with these serious personal injuries.

This senseless criminal act of setting this child on fire will be dealt with through the Broward County Florida criminal justice system. The teens, who committed this crime, should be sentenced and serve time commensurate with the horrible nature and cowardice actions associated with the crime. You can read more about this story at Florida Teen Struggles with Major Burn Injuries from Criminal Acts of Other Teens.

In Gainesville, Florida, a babysitter (Davana Victoria Symonette - age 19) has been charged and arrested for child abuse. The charges stem from Ms. Symonette shaking a one year old boy that he was babysitting. The mother witnessed the careless and dangerous actions and contacted the police. According to a story posted at the Gainesville Sun newspaper website, Ms. Symonette texted the mother after the incident acknowledging the mother that what Ms. Symonette had done was wrong.

Shaken Baby Syndrome results form a small child being shaken by an adult. It is well known that babies and children will cry. Shaking children can cause serious injuries and deaths. Shaken baby incidents take place because caregivers and babysitters are ignorant of the effects of shaking a child. Yes, babysitting can be frustrating at times, but this frustration is by no means justification for shaking a child or harming a child.

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 62 million people volunteer at least one day a year. Those volunteering to work with the elderly, children or the disabled persons are likely to be screened for “red flags” in their criminal history, such as convictions for drugs, violent crimes, sex crimes and child abuse. The ability to use national criminal history checks to screen out volunteers with certain types of criminal records has been made possible by the National Child Protection Act, signed into law by President Bill Clinton in 1993.

In Florida, a state law requires schools to check volunteers against the sexual predator and offender database. A proposed law would also require youth sports organizations to check the backgrounds of coaches and referees. Some Florida volunteers who have been turned away from positions have hired a lawyer and plan to argue that the background checks violate their rights to privacy.

Checking someone’s background only costs few dollars. That seems like a small price to pay to be able to ensure parents and caregivers that their loved-ones will not be in the care of a person with a known or reported criminal history.

Read more about national laws and policies for criminal background checks on volunteers at Volunteers screened before working with children, elderly.

In Miami, Florida, a high school teacher (Frank Matthew Galatas - age 28) was arrested on allegations that he molested a 14 year old boy. According to a news story posted at the Miami Herald website, Galatas is being accused of molesting / performing oral sex on a 14 year old. Galatas has a profile posted online at Amazon. com where he describes himself as a religious man or "servant of god".

The allegations against Mr. Galatas are most serious. If he did perform the acts alleged by the 14 year old, Mr. Galatas should serve prison time for these acts. Of course, Mr. Galatas will have the right to defend himself against the allegations. It is uncertain what evidence the State Attorney / Police have against Mr. Galatas other than the statements of the 14 year old.

The Roman Polanski case involved an adult (Roman Polanski) and a 13 year old girl. It is interesting that actors and other directors have lobbied or supported Polanski yet these same people probably would not hesitate to imprison Mr. Galatas if Galatas committed these crimes. Does fame or fortune excuse bad or criminal acts? Does the passage of time make a crime any less that the crime is? I do not think so. People who take advantage of children by molesting them should be punished and serve prison time. This applies to any person whether they are a teacher, director, or do any other job in job. A crime is a crime - plain and simple. You can read more about the Galatas story at Southridge High School Teacher Accused of Molesting Student.

Aujia Ivory, age 13, of Apopka, Florida sustained personal injuries when she was hit by a vehicle operated by Paul R. Wills, age 44. Mr. Wills stated that he was not aware that he hit a child but thought he hit a tree branch. According to Mr. Wills, it was only when he got home did he realize that he did not hit a tree branch. The child was transported to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children to get necessary treatment for the automobile / pedestrian accident injuries.

Drivers should pay close attention to traffic, road conditions, and pedestrians especially children when driving on Florida roadways. According to news reports, there was an outstanding warrant from another matter pending against Paul Wills. You can read more about this story at Man Arrested After 13 Year Old Girl Hit by a Car.

Pilar Rodgriguez was four years old when she disappeared while in a babysitter’s care over ten years ago. The babysitter, Melissa Cooper, took the child on a two-week vacation, which was approved by the child’s father, Marco Rodriguez. They failed to return the child after the two weeks were over, and Rodriguez notified the police. When questioned, Ms. Cooper initially reported that the child had met with a tragic accident, then later accused her boyfriend, Keith Wilson, of fatally beating the child. Wilson claims to have no knowledge of what became of the girl.

Pilar has never been found, but Southwest Florida Deputies and the Charlotte County, Florida Sheriff’s Office are still looking for clues in her disappearance. Officials recently performed a search that appeared to be aimed at finding the child’s body, calling in NecroSearch International, an organization that helps law enforcement agencies find hidden graves. The search was performed at the former home of Wilson. Charlotte County, Florida Sherriff, Bill Cameron, has stated that he will not close the case until Pilar is found and those responsible for her disappearance are brought to justice.

The tenacity that Sherriff Cameron is showing in this case is commendable. Parents should be very cautious about who they allow to take care of their children. In this case, just knowing and trusting the babysitter may not have been enough, as the vacation she took Pilar on included her boyfriend as well.

You can read more about the search for Pilar at New search for evidence in missing girl cold case.

Ronkeya Holmes travelled to Florida recently to pick up her three-year-old daughter, Masaraha Ross, from the child’s father, a resident of Winter Haven, Florida. The child was staying with the father while Ms. Holmes attended classes at a Savannah technical college. The father, who is not named, has told police that he met Ms. Holmes in a Haines City, Florida Wal-Mart parking lot to turn over the child. Police have not found any evidence or witnesses to confirm the man’s story.

Ms. Holmes’ car has been discovered by investigators, with her luggage and several children's items on the seats. The FBI is involved in the case, and the woman’s family has taken up the search as well, personally coming to Florida to search for clues. The family members say they will not rest until they find out what happened to Ms. Holmes and little Masaraha.

Parents should always be prepared with an action plan in case their child goes missing. They should have critical information such as a recent photo and the child’s height and weight to give to investigators. This is especially important when a family is travelling, as it may be difficult or impossible to retrieve the information from your home when you are far away. In this case it was made even more difficult, as the mother has disappeared along with her child. Luckily Ms. Holmes’ family was able to take a very active role in the case and has provided the necessary information to aid investigators.

Polk County Crime Stoppers is asking for anyone with knowledge about the missing mother and daughter to call 1-800-226-TIPS.

Follow the story at Search continues for missing mother and child.

Angela Stone’s daughter, Shelby Taylor Hagman, was killed in a drunk driving accident in Hernando County, Florida in 2007. She was riding in a minivan with her grandparents, Larry and Deborah Wynn of Brooksville, Florida, when Christopher Marcone ran a stop sign and crashed into their car. Marcone pleaded guilty to DUI manslaughter and three related charges and is currently serving 13-years in prison.

Angela Stone then filed a civil lawsuit against Marcone for the death of her daughter. She has said that she does not have any hope of collecting a settlement from Marcone, but she is not doing it for the money; the lawsuit is an effort to send a message to would-be drunk and reckless drivers.
A jury of six women awarded Stone the one of the largest verdicts in Hernando County history, and possibly in the state of Florida - $55 Million in compensatory damages and $275 Million in punitive damages. Stone is also suing Kia Motors Corp. and a local auto dealer who sold her grandparents the minivan they were driving on the night of the accident. She claims that a defective seat belt in the Kia minivan also contributed to Shelby’s death.

In Florida, there is no cap on punitive damages in cases involving intoxicated defendants. As this case shows, drunk drivers who kill or harm others face not only legal but financial repercussions. While punitive damages, especially won from an incarcerated person of little means, are rarely paid to plaintiffs, they do make for great headlines. And those headlines can send a strong message to drivers everywhere.

Find out more about this story at Hernando jury awards mother $330 million in drunken-driving death of teen.

In Daytona Beach, Florida, a teen was stabbed at an amphitheater over a fight involving text messages and a girlfriend. As a result of this meeting / fight, the teen, 16 year old Robyn Mary-Ruth Munsch, died. Police charted Raymond North (age 23) with first degree murder and charged Carl Bech and Dallas Mobbs as accessories to this crime according to a story posted at the Orlando Sentinel and Florida Times Union websites. A young person's life was ended short due to senseless violence. News reports did not indicate very many details of the crime; however, it is clear that the senseless death and injuries could have been avoided. Settling matters with fists, knives, and / or guns is not a solution at all. When children have a problem at school or with others, it is vital that children seek advice from their parents, elders, and mentors. The best advice for this situation would have been to stay away from the amphitheater and let time pass over this matter. Neither a girlfriend, insult or pride are worth the loss of a teen's life.

In the Summer of 2009, a Florida snake trapper, Justin Matthews, of Bradenton, Florida, purchased a snake. Then, he staged a trapping of the snake and alerted the police and media. Mr. Matthews wanted to make himself out as a hero by capturing the snake in a drainage pipe near a school or day care center. Mr. Matthews' plans backfired on him when an investigation determined that the snake was actually previously purchased by Matthews and the whole event was staged. The trapping hoax cost the tax payers money and also may have put some children or others at risk if the snake escaped. The police resources as well as the media resources put out by this hoax would have been better used for people who really needed help. Mr. Matthews was recently charged with a felony (misusing the 911 emergency system) and a misdemeanor (maintaining wildlife in an unsafe manner).

Matthews was arrested Wednesday. He was charged with a third-degree felony for allegedly "misusing a 911 emergency system" and a second-degree misdemeanor for maintaining "captive wildlife in an unsafe manner - resulting in threats to the public's safety." You can read more about this story at Snake Trapping Hoax Results in Criminal Charges - Bradenton, Florida.

In Florida, elementary schools are required by the Florida legislation to provide for character education and instruction. While the Florida legislator requires this type of instruction, it did not provide for a specified curriculum for this kind of education. I strongly support life lessons and character education in schools. Having a knowledge of Math, Science, and English is certainly important. It is also vital that children are educated on how to be good people and how to get along with others. Respect, kindness, and forgiveness as well as other character trails are certainly a part of education that a young child should have in elementary school. You can read more about these important programs at Florida Children Taught Character in Schools.

In Florida and other states, police officers and deputy sheriffs have a duty to uphold the law and protect all citizens including children and teenagers. Most law enforcement officers work hard everyday to fulfill this duty to the best of their ability. Unfortunately, there are some law enforcement officers who not only break the law but also go to prison for these crimes. In Marion County (Ocala) Florida, a judge recently sentenced a former deputy sheriff, Gabriel Pizzini, to 15 years of prison for sexual misconduct. Mr. Pizzini denied the charges but a jury / judge determined differently and the judge issued the sentence. Mr. Pizzini was accused of groping a 14 year old girl and then taking a photograph of the girl with her breasts exposed. Part of Mr. Pizzini's defense was that the girl's friend actually took the photo and it was planted as evidence against him.

Mr. Pizzini's prison will be followed by probation which will require Mr. Pizini to register as a sex offender. Most police officers can be trusted. It is unfortunate that all cannot be trusted. You can read more about this story at Former Marion County Deputy Sheriff Sentenced to Prison Term.

The Jacksonville (Florida) Sheriff's Office is investigating the recent drowning death of a child in a retention pond behind an apartment complex. Florida has a law that requires swimming pool owners to have a fence or barrier around the pool. Pursuant to Section 515.29, Florida Statutes, the barrier must be at least 4 feet high from the outside. You can read more about the barrier requirements at the Official Site for the Florida Statutes - Section 515.29. Unfortunately, there is not a similar law in place for retention ponds at apartment complexes. When there is a body of water surrounding a business or apartment complex, Florida law does not require a barrier around every single body of water. Each case or situation would be judged on its own merits. The following questions would apply:

How close was the body of water / retention pond to the apartment complex?

Were children known to play or be in the area near the retention pond?

Have there been other incidents when a child has fallen in, played in, or drowned in the retention pond?

Would the retention pond qualify as an "Attractive Nuisance" to children under Florida law that could, in turn, require the apartment complex to have a barrier around the pond?

The 1 year old who drowned and other children were being watched by his mother when the incident took place. Some how, the child wandered away and into the retention pond. It was reported that a resident of the apartment complex was concerned that there was no a fence around the retention pond.

It is certainly a sad moment in time for the family of this small child and the community when a child this young dies as a result of a preventable incident. You can read more about this story at 1 Year Old Child Dies / Downs in Jacksonville, Florida.

In Florida and other States, there is a problem with school and day care providers leaving young children on buses, vans, and other vehicles. The failure to supervise and make sure that all children have exited the vehicle has resulted, in some instances, serious personal injury and / or death of a child. In Kissimmee (Osceola County), Florida, a school bus driver (Benjamin Gonzalez) and and school aide (Carmen Pacheco) were recently charged and arrested for child neglect regarding an incident where a 3 year old special needs boy was left on a bus for 6 hours. The incident was investigated by the Osceola County Sheriff's Office and the Florida Department of Children and Families. It was reported in the Orlando Sentinel that the child did not appear to suffer any significant injuries; nevertheless, his mother did take him to a hospital for evaluation.

All school and day care bus drivers and aide should take all necessary precautions to make sure that children are properly supervised while on a bus and furthermore should make sure that all children safely exit the bus. Fortunately, this child is alive today, nevertheless, this child was negligently left in a very dangerous situation that could have resulted in tragic consequences. You can read more about this story at School Employees Arrested for Leaving 3 Year Old Special Needs Child Unattended for 6 Hours - Kissimmee, Florida (Osceola County).

In May 2009, a Florida baby was found abandoned in a box on the side of the road in Ocala, Florida. The family that has been caring for her since then will soon be able to legally adopt her. Authorities with the Florida Department of Children and Families have still not been able to identify the child’s birth mother. If the mother had taken advantage of Florida’s Safe Haven law, leaving the baby at an emergency room or fire station, she would not be facing criminal charges. Because she left the baby on the side of the road, she could face prosecution on charges of child abandonment. The birth mother could face many years in jail, if caught. It is unfortunate that this Florida mother was notaware of, or chose not to take advantage of the Safe Haven law. If her child had not been found, the baby would have died without any food, shelter, or care out in the elements. It is fortunate that a loving family is standing by to welcome the child into their home.

Find out more about “Box Baby” by reading Baby Found In Box To Be Adopted.

An Oviedo, Florida high school special education teacher recently resigned from her job. The resignation followed a DUI crash and arrest of a student who was reportedly given alcohol and the use of a vehicle by the teacher. The Orlando Sentinel (Reporter: Willoughby Mariano) wrote an excellent article regarding this incident. It was important for the reporter and Orlando Sentinel to cover this story since it shows that some teachers have extremely poor judgment that, at times, leads to serious consequences. In this case, a teen was in an automobile accident and then arrested due to intoxication. The teen even make threatening comments to police officers upon his arrest. While there were no reported injuries, this kind of incident could have lead to quite tragic consequences if the teen or another person had been serious ly injured or died as a result of this DUI crash. Dylan Ferguson, age 18, was a senior of Oviedo High School, as of the date of the accident. Yes, Dylan is an adult and should have known better. Furthermore, Dylan should be held responsible or accountable for his action. In addition, any person, including teachers and others, should also be accountable or responsible if alcohol was knowingly provided to a person under the age of 21 in the State of Florida. You can read more about this article at Oviedo Teacher Resigns Following DUI Crash and Arrest of Oviedo High School Senior.

The Happyland Learning Academy in Orange County, Florida is changing their cleaning and security measures after being repeatedly vandalized by homeless people living on or near Semoran Boulevard. Owner Marco Infante has installed better locks and added advanced security measures to protect the children who come to his daycare center. He has also spent a good deal of time making sure cigarette butts, beer cans and other garbage are cleaned up before the children arrive each morning. The children’s parents did not seem concerned by the vandalism, saying that they believed the school provides a safe environment. Happyland and other day care centers should take their best efforts to provide for a safe and clean environment for children in the center. It is unfortunate that people unconnected with a day care center would take actions that could affect the safety and welfare of children.

Florida daycare centers are responsible for properly supervising children, including securing the facility and playground so that children are not injured or harmed. Parents who have their children in day care centers should inspect the facility and ask staff what measures are put in place to protect the children from potentially dangerous trash items in the playground or from strangers wandering onto the property.

Find out more about safety at this Florida daycare at Daycare says homeless damaging facility.

The Washington County (Florida) Sheriff’s Office is reporting that 7-month-old Shannon Dedrick of Chipley, Florida disappeared from her home sometime on Saturday October 31st. Rescue workers have joined forces with local volunteers to search for the girl, starting in the area near her home.

It is sad to report that there are many thousands of children reported missing every day. Some wander away while others are abducted. When a child is missing, it is important for the parents to get photographs and other vital information to the police as soon as possible. Time is of the essence when trying to locate a missing child. In this case, the public has already been informed that Shannon is two feet tall and has brown hair and blue eyes. There is also a photo of her posted at the link, below. This information will hopefully help bring in more leads for the police so they can find Shannon quickly.

Officials have not reported much other information on the circumstances of Shannon’s disappearance to the public yet. The Washington County, Florida Sheriff’s office is urging anyone with information to contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-843-5678 (1-800-THE-LOST) or the Washington County Sheriff's Office at 850-638-6111.

Find out more about Shannon’s disappearance and the search effort at Infant Shannon Dedrick Missing from Florida Panhandle Home.

Ivana Linic, age 23, of West Palm Beach, Florida was convicted of starving her 5-month-old son to death. She may be sentenced to as many as fifteen years in prison. Linic claimed that she fed the baby adequately, but the child’s autopsy results showed that he had only gained two pounds in the five months since his birth. The father, who was not named, reportedly told police that Linic was angry about having a baby and had asked him to take care of the child. He did not accept the responsibility, due to his own struggles with substance abuse.

Newborn children are totally reliant on adults to care for them. When the adults are unable to do so, the results are often tragic. Parents who are unprepared or unable to take care of their own children should reach out for help rather than taking it out on their child. You can find out more about Nehemiah Chavis at Florida Mother Convicted of Starving Child to Death.

In Florida and other States, probation offers and state authorities monitored the activities and residences of sex offenders / predators. There are real concerns when a sex offender / predator moves near a school or day care center. Parents and residents are becoming more sophisticated and aware of where sex offenders / predators are living. Some released convicts move into society without ever re-offending. While others are bound to and often times commit crimes against others and children over and over again. Parents are and should be concerned about where sex offenders / predators live. A group of residents in the Orlando area were concerned by the fact that sex offenders / predators lived in or near their neighborhood. As such, some parents have applied for a license to set up or build a day care center. The plan is to get the license approved and then to have law enforcement authorities come in and require sex offenders / predators to move into a different area. Will this plan work? Time will tell. While not attempting to defend sex offenders or predators at all, there is a real issue as follows:

Where should sex offenders / predators reside?

How do residency requirements / restriction laws hold up against home ownership rights and other civil rights of sex offenders / predators?

What is the role of the city, county, state with respect to these issues?

What laws are constitutional as to these issues?

You can read more about the efforts by Florida residents to set up a day care center to drive out sex offenders at Day Care Center Planned for Orlando Area Neighborhood.

According to a story posted at the Florida Times Union Website, Kendrick Jerrald Collins was recently arrested for criminal charges that he fathered a child with a 15 year old girl. Prior to this arrest, Mr. Collins, age 26, was already serving a term of probation for lewd and lascivious battery on a minor. This is the second time that Mr. Collins has impregnated a girl younger than the age of 16. Unfortunately, there are many men like Collins out in the community taking advantage of young girls. Some may argue that these acts involve consensual sex and the State of Florida / Sheriff's Office take cases like this too far. On the other hand, child advocates would argue that young teenage girls are very vulnerable and immature. Furthermore, some child advocates may argue that a 26 year old is not a boyfriend to a 15 year old girl but is a sex predator who should be prosecuted. you can read more about this story at Sex Offender Facing New Charges in Jacksonville, Florida.

A man identifying himself as “Mr. Smith” called Jacksonville, Florida police and reported that he had seen a woman leaving a newborn baby in a trash can at a shopping center on Beach Boulevard. The baby girl, who was still covered with afterbirth when she was found, was taken to a local hospital, where she is in good condition. Jacksonville police are urging anyone who is thinking of abandoning a baby to take advantage of Florida’s safe haven law, which allows people to anonymously leave babies up to seven days old at any fire station or hospital emergency room.

Anyone with information on this case can contact the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office at (904) 630-0500 or First Coast Crime Stoppers at (866) 845-8477 (845-TIPS) to remain anonymous and be eligible for rewards.

Find out more about this child abandonment at Jacksonville police release photo, 911 call connected to discovery of live newborn.