News Summary
Danielle Shada Roberson, a 36-year-old from Aiken, has been arrested for allegedly abandoning her two young daughters at a government office. The incident raised alarm within the community, especially since it was not the first instance of such behavior. Facing serious charges, including unlawful neglect of a child, Roberson could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted. This case has prompted discussions about the resources available for parents in distress under laws meant to prevent child abandonment.
Aiken Woman Charged with Abandoning Children at Government Office
Aiken, South Carolina – In a gripping case that has caught the attention of many in the community, a 36-year-old woman named Danielle Shada Roberson has been arrested for allegedly abandoning her two children at a government office. The incident occurred on January 27, 2025, at the South Carolina Department of Social Services office in Aiken, leaving many to wonder about the circumstances surrounding this concerning event.
The Incident
According to reports from the Wagener Police Department, Roberson is accused of leaving her two daughters, both described as Black females, at the office without any provisions or supplies. The children had been led to believe they were being taken to the home of a family member, but instead, they found themselves left at a government facility, a situation no child should ever have to face.
The matter came to light when Aiken Department of Public Safety Corporal M.R. Blades reported the incident after the children were discovered unattended at the Social Services office. It was later revealed by Detective E.D. Hunter that this wasn’t the first time Roberson had left her little ones in such a manner. In fact, this was the second time she had done so at the same location.
Roberson’s Response
Following the incident, Roberson received a call from an investigator who informed her about the situation involving her children. She agreed to return and pick them up, but unfortunately, she never showed up. When questioned about her actions, Roberson claimed she didn’t believe she could face charges for abandonment. This assertion has raised eyebrows and led many to question what could have motivated such a decision.
Legal Consequences
Roberson now faces two counts of unlawful neglect of a child, a serious felony that could result in significant legal consequences. If convicted, she could face up to 10 years in prison and hefty fines. In the meantime, Aiken County Magistrate Ronald Thornton has set her bond at $5,000 cash or surety, but as of February 18, 2025, no bond has been posted, and Roberson remains in the Aiken County detention center. Currently, there are no further court dates set for her case, leaving the community to wonder how this situation will unfold.
A Glimpse of Support Options
In South Carolina, the heartbreaking reality of this situation highlights the importance of awareness about the resources available for parents in distress. Under Daniel’s Law, parents have the option to surrender a newborn baby at designated locations within 60 days of birth, allowing them to avoid abandonment charges. Since the law was enacted in 2001, there have been 69 babies surrendered in the state, which serves as a reminder that there are alternatives and resources available for those in need.
Community Response
As this case continues to develop, the community is left grappling with feelings of shock and concern. The safety and well-being of children should always be a top priority, and instances like this underline the importance of being vigilant and responsive to signs of potential abuse or neglect. If anyone suspects that a child may be in danger or experiencing abuse, it’s crucial to take action by contacting emergency services or making a non-emergency report through the South Carolina Department of Social Services.
This situation sheds light on broader societal issues and calls for increased support for families facing hardships. Let’s hope for a positive outcome for the children involved and a resolution for Roberson as the legal process unfolds.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Aiken Woman Charged with Abandoning Children
- WMAR: Neglect and Starvation Case
- Fox 5 DC: Parents Arrested in 5-Year-Old’s Death
- Wikipedia: Child Abandonment
- Google Search: Child Welfare Resources
