Coral Springs, FL - A 35-year-old South Florida mother has been arrested on child neglect charges after leaving her three children unattended in their apartment for nearly 35 hours.
Daverta Jenkins, of Coral Springs, faces charges of child neglect after allegedly leaving her three children, aged 12, 6, and 3, unattended to go out out to drink, use marijuana, and cocaine.
Coral Springs Police reported that Jenkins departed her residence on December 30, heading to various bars after visiting a man's house.
Concern grew when her 12-year-old daughter made multiple attempts to contact her, expressing worries about food and basic needs for her and her siblings.
The child eventually sought help from a neighbor when her mother did not return.
Upon being located, Jenkins admitted to her actions, expressing a desire for a brief break from motherhood.
Subsequent drug testing revealed the presence of marijuana and cocaine in her system.
Prosecutors highlighted a previous incident in 2008 where Jenkins had a child permanently removed from her care.
The three children have been taken into the custody of Child Protective Services, awaiting potential placement with family members.
Jenkins was released from jail after posting a $15,000 bond and faces strict conditions set by Broward Circuit Judge Chris Brown.