Putnam County Woman Jailed After Leaving Teen and Dogs Alone During Vegas Trip

DOWNLOAD IPFS

A woman from Putnam County is facing serious charges after authorities say she left her teenage child and multiple dogs alone at home while she traveled to Las Vegas.

Jessica Copeland, 37, has been arrested and is currently held on a $36,500 bond. She is facing charges of child neglect and tormenting animals following her arrest earlier this week. According to investigators, Copeland allegedly left her teen child unsupervised for a full two weeks while she went on vacation out of state.

Authorities did not disclose the teen’s specific age. Deputies with the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office conducted a welfare check at the residence and discovered that not only was the child left alone, but seven dogs were also found inside the home under concerning conditions. Reports from the scene stated that deputies saw animal waste in several areas of the property.

The timeline suggests the child was left to care for themselves and the animals over an extended period, with no other adult supervision. Law enforcement did not state whether any neighbors or family members were asked to check in during Copeland’s absence.

Copeland appeared in court on Wednesday for her initial hearing. No further details have been shared about the teen’s condition or whether child protective services are involved in the case. Similarly, it remains unclear what steps have been taken to address the care and welfare of the seven dogs found at the residence.

This case has raised alarm over parental responsibility and animal welfare, particularly as summer vacations continue. Authorities have not commented on whether Copeland has legal representation at this stage.

The investigation remains active as deputies continue to gather information surrounding the two-week period the teen and animals were left alone.