SALISBURY, Md. — A local woman is facing multiple charges after deputies discovered four young children left unattended inside a residence on Barwick Drive earlier this week. The investigation began shortly after 8 a.m. Monday, when Wicomico County sheriff’s deputies responded to a call from the 27000 block of Barwick Drive.
A concerned individual reported finding a child, approximately 3 years old, alone at their doorstep. Authorities believe the child had walked roughly 200 yards from a neighboring home. Upon arriving at the suspected residence, deputies located an open side door and attempted to make contact. After announcing their presence and receiving no response, officers entered and discovered three additional children inside: another 3-year-old, a 5-year-old, and an 8-month-old restrained in a car seat.
No supervising adult was found at the scene. A short time later, 54-year-old Jertha Philogene returned to the property. Deputies determined she had allegedly left the children alone while transporting another child to school. She was reportedly gone for approximately one hour. Philogene was arrested and charged with four counts each of neglect of a minor, reckless endangerment, and confining an unattended child. Child Protective Services was notified and responded to the residence to assess the welfare of the children. No further information about the condition of the children has been released. The investigation remains ongoing through the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office. Anyone with additional information may contact the department at 410-548-4891.
Jertha Philogene, of Salisbury, MD (54 Years of Age)
Photo: Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office Facebook Page