x
Breaking News
More () »

Man accused of leaving child in backseat of car after running from law enforcement

The man, while fleeing from deputies after a traffic stop, left his child in the moving car.

SUMTER COUNTY, S.C. — A Sumter man is being charged with unlawful conduct towards a child for allegedly abandoning the child and placing the child at risk. 

According to Sumter deputies, Faquanta Benjamin, 21 was the driver of a car when it was stopped by Sumter Deputies Monday night.  

The Sumter County Sheriff's Office said a deputy had spotted the vehicle on Highway 378 just after 10 p.m. and attempted to pull it over. The sheriff's office said the driver instead pulled into a side road, and the passenger and drivers ran, leaving the car to roll into nearby bushes.

Deputies say they found an infant in a car seat in the back of the car. The child was taken from the seat and appeared to be OK, officials said. The sheriff's office contacted the Department of Social Services, and the child was returned to the mom. Deputies later learned the child was supposed to be in the care of a babysitter at the time.

 A warrant has been issued for Benjamin's arrest. 

RELATED: Baby found in backseat after passengers abandon vehicle during Sumter County traffic stop

RELATED: Power outage causes 3 Sumter County schools to dismiss early

Sumter Deputies are asking if you know where Faquanta Benjamin or have information in this case you can call CrimeStoppers at 1-888-CrimeSC. 

Before You Leave, Check This Out