A Florida father is facing child neglect charges after allegedly abandoning his 10-year-old daughter on the side of a busy highway in the middle of the night. Hector Serrano, 30, was charged with leaving his frightened daughter on the side of U.S. Route 192 in Kissimmee around 12:30 a.m. Monday, according to a Florida police report. WESH-TV News.
Authorities report that Serrano had a dispute with the girl’s grandparents before kicking her out of the car. “Something bad could have happened to the girl,” Osceola County Sheriff Marco Lopez told the outlet. “Anyone could have kidnapped her. She could have become a victim of human trafficking.”
“Keep in mind that this area is about 21 minutes from grandma’s house,” Lopez added. “Wolves exist, predators exist. Throwing a 10-year-old girl into an area like that, no matter what time of the morning or day, is a reckless and irresponsible act.”
A witness told officers that Serrano threw the girl’s toys and clothes at her before speeding off, leaving her alone in the dark. “Even witnesses say she was scared, distraught, crying, confused,” Lopez said. “I would have been too if someone had kicked me out at that age.” Officers quickly located Serrano after the incident and arrested him. He now faces child neglect charges as the Department of Children and Families gets involved.
The incident has sparked outrage and concern in the local community. Many residents expressed shock and anger at the father’s actions. “I can’t believe someone would do this to their own daughter,” said one neighbor. “It’s heartbreaking and scary to think what could have happened to that little girl.”
Child welfare advocates have also weighed in, emphasizing the dangers and long-term psychological impact of such traumatic experiences on children. “Abandoning a child in this way can lead to serious emotional and mental health problems,” said Dr. Laura Johnson, a child psychologist. “It’s critical for children to feel safe and secure, especially from those who are supposed to care for and protect them.”
In the wake of this incident, local authorities are reminding parents and guardians of the importance of responsible child care and the legal consequences of abandonment. Sheriff Lopez stressed that there are resources and support systems available for families in crisis.
“If you are going through a difficult time, please reach out for help. There are many organizations and services that can provide assistance. No child should have to endure something like this,” she said. While the investigation continues, the community hopes for a swift and fair resolution to ensure the safety and well-being of the girl involved. Serrano remains in custody and her court hearing date is pending.