Melissa Henderson, a single mom of five from Georgia, faces potential jail time for leaving her 14-year-old daughter to babysit her 4-year-old son, Thaddeus, while she worked. When Thaddeus’s daycare closed due to COVID-19, Melissa asked her daughter to help. During the day, Thaddeus slipped outside unnoticed for about 15 minutes before being brought back in. A concerned neighbor called 911, leading to Melissa’s arrest for criminal reckless conduct. Authorities cited potential dangers, like kidnapping or snake bites. If convicted, she could face one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Many believe the punishment is excessive, as Melissa was doing her best in difficult circumstances. The case has sparked widespread debate online.
