A Virginia mother named Karyann Parkinson is challenging a criminal charge and her inclusion in the state’s child abuse and neglect registry. This follows an incident where her 5-year-old son, Sam, was stopped by security while walking alone in their gated community.
Sam was on a familiar path near a pond, collecting goose feathers, when a security guard found him and brought him home. Following this, police and Child Protective Services intervened. Although Parkinson, who was eight months pregnant at the time, had her six-month jail sentence suspended, the charge remains.
Karyann Parkinson and several of her children are shown in a family photo provided to the news outlet.
Parkinson was convicted of contributing to the delinquency of a minor, a first-degree misdemeanor. Additionally, she was placed on Virginia’s Child Abuse and Neglect Central Registry for seven years.
Clarifying the Incident
Parkinson shared her experience on “Fox & Friends Weekend,” expressing that she understands why people might be shocked hearing a child was alone near a pond. However, she wanted to clarify the situation that day. She explained that her son was on a path he knows well in their neighborhood and emphasized that there was no reckless parenting involved.
Long-Lasting Consequences
One of Parkinson’s main concerns is the lengthy duration of her inclusion on the Child Protective Services registry. This restriction will prevent her from volunteering in her son’s classroom until he reaches sixth grade.
Parkinson asserted people should not parent from a place of fear. She emphasized the need to avoid overreacting due to imaginary threats.
Reassuring Her Son
Sam was “pretty shaken up” after the situation but has since adjusted. Parkinson reassured him that he did nothing wrong. He still asks for permission for everyday activities, questioning whether he can ride his bike to swim practice or to the tennis courts.
Parkinson noted that the incident is now just a minor concern for Sam, not significantly affecting his life.
Max Bacall is an associate editor for Fox News Digital, with a focus on media, culture, and comedy.