Chattanooga Man Arrested for Child Neglect After Police Chase

News Summary

Michael Owens has been arrested in Chattanooga, TN, facing child neglect charges after fleeing from police while leaving a two-year-old child unattended in his car. Authorities were alerted by the child’s mother, leading to a pursuit that raised concerns about child safety. As police searched for Owens, who had a revoked driver’s license and an outstanding theft warrant, he abandoned the vehicle but was later apprehended. This incident highlights serious issues regarding child safety and public responsibility.

Chattanooga Man Faces Child Neglect Charges After Fleeing Police

In a troubling incident that unfolded in Chattanooga, Tennessee, a man named Michael Owens has been arrested on serious child neglect charges. The entire episode highlights some alarming issues regarding child safety and police encounters.

The Sequence of Events

This dramatic series of events started on a Saturday when the child’s mother, Jerrica Hartline, contacted the Chattanooga Police Department (CPD). Hartline expressed her concerns about her son being with Owens, the father figure, who is surprisingly not listed on the child’s birth certificate. She made it clear that she didn’t want her son spending time with him. To help authorities locate Owens, she informed them that he was en route to her apartment complex located on Acer Circle, driving a white Ford Taurus.

Police Action

The police soon discovered that Owens had a revoked driver’s license and an active theft warrant from nearby East Ridge. As they were conducting their checks, they spotted the vehicle matching the description entering the apartment complex. It was clear that there was a child in the backseat, raising immediate alarm bells for the officers on the scene.

A Dangerous Escape

When the CPD ordered Owens to exit the vehicle, he panicked and fled the scene, leaving the two-year-old boy inside the car. This risky decision sent a wave of concern through everyone watching. Thankfully, the child was unharmed, but the situation was incredibly reckless.

The Pursuit

Owens didn’t get far, as he abandoned the vehicle on Latta Street and attempted to hide behind a nearby house. After a brief foot pursuit, police caught up with him and made the arrest. Upon taking him into custody, authorities found a small bag of marijuana tucked into his front pocket, adding another layer to his troubling situation.

Vehicle Violations

The car driven by Owens wasn’t just a hazard because of the child inside; it also had expired registration. All of these factors combined create a troubling portrait of neglect and irresponsibility on Owens’ part. He now faces multiple charges including child neglect, child endangerment, and eluding police, which could lead to significant legal consequences.

A Mother’s Choice

While a mother’s love for her child is unquestionable, Jerrica Hartline has stated that she will not pursue charges against Owens for custodial interference despite the seriousness of the situation. This decision may surprise some, as the events of the day certainly warranted a stronger reaction.

Conclusion

This disturbing incident in Chattanooga sheds light on serious issues regarding child safety and public responsibility. As the legal proceedings move forward, many in the community will undoubtedly be watching closely to see what repercussions will follow for Owens. The whole situation stands as a reminder of the challenges facing families today and the importance of ensuring that children are kept safe at all costs.

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Additional Resources

• News Channel 9
• Wikipedia: Child Neglect
• WDEF News
• Google Search: Chattanooga Child Neglect
• Times Free Press
• Google Scholar: Child Neglect
• Local 3 News
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Child Abuse
• Chattanoogan
• Google News: Chattanooga Child Safety
• News Channel 9