Mother of three charged for neglecting children

A 34-year-old mother of three yesterday appeared before a Chaguanas magistrate accused of willfully neglecting her children. Their mother, Janelle Peters pleaded not guilty to three charges of willfully neglecting each child when she appeared before Magistrate Gillian David-Scotland yesterday. David-Scotland then released Peters on a $10,000 bail bond.

Hours before her court appearance, her children, four-year-old Joela Alton, three-year-old Joel and two-year-old Jayden were rescued by police officers at their Edward Street, Flemming Drive, Longdenville, Chaguanas home. According to the facts in the case, around 5 pm on Tuesday, officers were summoned to the family’s home by concerned neighbours.

The children were said to be found wandering around the house and looked malnourished. The simple house made of wood and metal sheets did not have a pipe borne water supply or electricity. It was lit by a kerosene lamp. The children were taken to the Chaguanas Health Facility where they were examined by doctors and were fed.

Peters, who was not at home at the time, was later informed by neighbours of the police’s visit. She surrendered to police late on Tuesday night. Following the rescue of the children, Senior Supt Deodath Doolarchan of the Central Division contacted Minister of the People Dr Glenn Ramadharsingh who made arrangements for the children to be placed in the temporary custody of social workers.

The charges were laid by PC Ramoutar and WPC Ramoutar of the Cunupia Police Station. The mother will reappear in court on August 15.