Police report NJ parents left toddler and 8-year-old home alone to go drinking.
A New Jersey couple was arrested on charges of endangering the welfare of their children after reportedly leaving them unattended at home while engaging in nighttime drinking activities over Memorial Day weekend. According to law enforcement officials, Felix Y. Rodriguez, 43, and Lydia Monterrosa, 38, allegedly left their two children, aged 1 and 8, alone in a residence located on the 4900 block of Harbor Beach Boulevard in Brigantine, a city situated just northeast of Atlantic City.
The situation came to the attention of local authorities around 9 p.m. on Sunday, when a concerned citizen notified the Brigantine Police Department about a potential unsafe environment involving children. Upon arrival at the residence, police officers found the young siblings unsupervised, and established that their parents were not present at the time.
Following this discovery, law enforcement officials contacted Rodriguez and Monterrosa, instructing them to return to their home. Upon their arrival, officers observed signs of impairment in both individuals, which they attributed to the consumption of alcoholic beverages. This led to their arrest and subsequent charges of child endangerment.
The couple has since been released but is scheduled to appear before the Atlantic County Superior Court to face the charges. This incident highlights the potential dangers that can arise from leaving young children unsupervised, particularly in scenarios where parental judgment may be compromised by alcohol consumption.
The timing of these events coincides with the influx of visitors to the Jersey Shore, as thousands of tourists descend upon the area to celebrate the unofficial beginning of summer. The Memorial Day weekend typically marks the start of beach season in New Jersey, attracting families and individuals eager to enjoy the coastline.
However, this year’s celebrations in nearby Seaside Heights, approximately 60 miles north of Brigantine, were marred by violence as reports surfaced of at least three stabbings, numerous altercations, and over 70 arrests. This situation underscores the challenges that law enforcement agencies face during peak tourist seasons and raises concerns about safety in crowded public spaces.
As the summer season progresses, residents and visitors alike are urged to remain vigilant and prioritize safety, particularly when it comes to the well-being of children. Local authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as they work to maintain order in the community.
Media News Source reports that the couple’s court proceedings will be followed closely, as similar cases can have significant implications for family dynamics and child welfare in the region.
