A North Carolina grandmother faces misdemeanor child abuse charges after allegedly leaving her 8-month-old granddaughter alone in a car with the engine off on a 96-degree day, parked directly between two sheriff’s patrol vehicles. The incident, which occurred outside the Union County Animal Services building in Monroe, took a bizarre turn after Dedra McManus, 50, was arrested: she reportedly asked officers if she could still receive free kittens from the shelter.
Background
The event unfolded on Sept. 3 at the county animal services facility in Monroe, a city located approximately 25 miles southeast of Charlotte. According to the Union County Sheriff's Office, McManus had traveled to the location to view kittens available for adoption during a 'Clear the Shelter' event. She was accompanied by friends when she allegedly left the infant in the vehicle. Surveillance footage reviewed by investigators on the scene confirmed the child had been left unattended in the hot car for approximately 10 minutes. The situation escalated when McManus spotted three deputies approaching the adoption area; the sheriff's office stated she ran back to her vehicle so quickly that she dropped her Apple Watch in the process. She then returned inside the building carrying the baby.
The Charges
The Union County Sheriff's Office has charged McManus with misdemeanor child abuse. The charge stems from the alleged neglect of leaving an infant in a hazardous environment, specifically a vehicle without air conditioning in extreme heat. The car was positioned between two fully marked Union County Sheriff's Office vehicles, a detail highlighted in the press release as indicative of the setting. Paramedics evaluated the infant at the scene and determined the child 'appeared to be okay.' Following the medical assessment, the child was placed in the custody of welfare agents. McManus was transported to the Detention Center and later posted a $3,000 bond, securing her release.
Key Takeaways
- Dedra McManus, 50, is charged with misdemeanor child abuse by the Union County Sheriff's Office.
- The incident occurred on a 96-degree day with the infant left in a car for approximately 10 minutes.
- The vehicle was parked between two fully marked sheriff's patrol cars at the Animal Services building.
- McManus allegedly dropped her Apple Watch while running back to the car upon seeing deputies.
- After her arrest, McManus inquired about receiving free kittens, which was declined by officers.
- The infant was evaluated by paramedics and placed in the custody of welfare agents.
- McManus posted a $3,000 bond and was released from detention.
What's Next
McManus is now free pending trial after posting bond. The case remains in the early stages of the legal process, with the misdemeanor child abuse charge awaiting further judicial proceedings. Investigators have already reviewed surveillance footage, which is expected to serve as primary evidence in the case. The outcome of McManus's custody status regarding the infant will likely be determined by family court proceedings, separate from the criminal charge.