Facing Charges of Child Endangerment

In his book, Dr. James Dobson wrote, "You will not always be saddled with the responsibility you now hold. Your children will be with you for but a few brief years, and the obligations you now shoulder will be nothing more than dim memories. Enjoy every moment of these days--even the difficult times--and indulge yourself in the satisfaction of having done an essential job right!"

A San Ramon married couple (age 39 and 32) were arrested for leaving two young children at home when they went to Las Vegas to celebrate the new year. They claimed they couldn't find anyone to look after the boys although they did find a dog sitter for their new puppies.

Most of us feel sorry for the kids, especially the 9-year-old who had to take care of himself and his 5-year-old autistic brother. Other sad and alarming details unfolded. The boys' mother died of cancer in 2003. It was the maternal grandmother who called the police. She aired her frustration on camera, "These kids are helpless. (They), like any other kids, or any other human beings, deserve the love, time and affection of a parent."

The couple is facing charges of felony child endangerment which carries a maximum sentence of six years in prison. They might be newlyweds and a working couple who deserved a vacation, but how about their parenting responsibilities? The older boy highlighted the sad situation with these words: "I thought they loved them (the puppies) more than us."

Copyright © 2006 Winnis Chiang, Parenting ABC