“Take Her with You. Give Me $20, You Can Have Her” Florida Mother Arrested for Trying to Sell Daughter
(WFLA)
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In a shocking incident, a Florida mother was arrested on Tuesday after allegedly attempting to sell her 10-year-old daughter for $20, according to authorities. She also purportedly offered the child for sex in exchange for $5, as reported by deputies.
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office revealed that the unsettling events came to light when a kindergarten teacher, who was dropping off food at a local homeless shelter, encountered the 32-year-old mother. The mother reportedly approached the teacher and made the disturbing proposition: “Take her with you. Give me $20, you can have her.”
Further investigation uncovered another disturbing claim. A man informed investigators that the mother had “offered her daughter for sex for $5.” However, this individual did not immediately report the incident to the police. He only disclosed the information after being questioned by authorities.
A press release from the sheriff’s office detailed the dire condition of the young girl when she was found. “The 10-year-old was crying, hungry, and looked like she had not bathed in days,” the statement said, An expert told WJXT.
The mother was subsequently arrested on charges of child abuse and attempting to sell or surrender a minor for money or property. Following her arrest, the girl was taken to a hospital, where medical professionals found her to be “severely lethargic.”
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office emphasized that the 10-year-old is now in a safe environment. To protect the child’s identity, authorities have chosen not to release the mother’s name.
This incident has raised significant concerns about child welfare and the circumstances leading to such extreme actions. Community members and organizations are calling for increased support and intervention for vulnerable families to prevent such tragic situations.
The case continues to be a poignant reminder of the severe impact of poverty and instability on families. It also underscores the importance of vigilant community members and authorities in identifying and responding to signs of child abuse and neglect.
Authorities are urging anyone who witnesses or suspects child abuse to report it immediately to ensure the safety and well-being of the children involved. This case highlights the critical role that teachers, neighbors, and community members play in safeguarding vulnerable children.
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office remains committed to investigating and prosecuting cases of child abuse to the fullest extent of the law, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable and that victims receive the care and protection they desperately need.
