A Stone Mountain mother is facing charges after her 3-year-old son was found wandering near a busy street late at night, an incident that has sparked serious concerns regarding child safety and parental judgment. According to a report by FOX 5, the child was found by a couple who were driving along North DeShong Road around 10:30 p.m. on July 2.
The couple, Will Mosley and his wife Michelle, spotted the toddler running towards their vehicle, exclaiming, "Can I get in, please? Can I get in?” Mosley reported to FOX 5. Following the alarming discovery, they learned the boy’s mother, identified by police as 28-year-old Gabrielle Buckley had purportedly abandoned him on a park bench as punishment for misbehavior, her and her boyfriend, Lawrence Dozier-Joubert, were arrested on reckless conduct charges.
Sgt. Collin Flynn of the Gwinnett County Police explained the perilous nature of the situation. "The child could’ve run into the roadway and been hit by a car, or if there was someone out there who could’ve taken the child," he said during a statement obtained by FOX 5. The boy, fortunately, was not harmed despite the dangerous circumstances.
In echoing the sentiments of law enforcement, Mosley stated, "At three years old, you don’t punish them like that,” in an interview with FOX 5. Meanwhile, another report by Atlanta News First offered additional details — stating that the boy had been brought to DeShong Park to "teach him a lesson," which, took a distressing turn when he wandered off into the night.
The arrest warrant issued also names Dozier-Joubert, who along with Buckley could face additional counts as the investigation continues.
