Charleston, S.C. – A Charleston man was taken into custody Friday after police discovered his six‑year‑old daughter asleep in a line outside a Target store. The incident occurred in the West Ashley neighborhood around 2:30 a.m., when officers responded to a report of an unattended child.
Details of the arrest
According to a Charleston Police Department news release, officers found the young girl alone on the sidewalk. The father, identified as 35‑year‑old John‑Michael Dooley of Johns Island, had reportedly left her with a pillow and blanket before stepping away to keep his place in line for the highly anticipated Pokémon Trading Card Game expansion “Mega Evolution – Delta Reign.”
Dooley returned to the store after about an hour, at which point witnesses recognized him and alerted police. He admitted to leaving his daughter unattended so he could maintain his spot in the line.
Police response and charges
The child was unharmed and was placed in emergency protective custody with the South Carolina Department of Social Services. Dooley was charged with unlawful conduct toward a child and is being held at the Al Cannon Detention Center. He could not be reached for comment at the time of the release.
Context of the Pokémon card release
The Pokémon Trading Card Game, a long‑standing franchise that began as a video game in Japan, regularly draws crowds of collectors and fans. The “Mega Evolution – Delta Reign” set, which launched Friday, sells in packs starting at about $5 each. Customers often line up overnight to secure the newest cards, a practice that has become common for popular releases.
While the police release did not specify whether Dooley intended to purchase the cards for himself or his daughter, the incident underscores the risks of leaving children unattended in public spaces, even for short periods.
Community reaction
Witnesses expressed concern for the child’s safety and frustration that a parent would prioritize a hobby over a child’s well‑being. Local residents emphasized the importance of parental responsibility, especially in crowded public settings.
The Charleston Police Department reminded the public that leaving a minor unattended can result in criminal charges and that officers are prepared to intervene when safety concerns arise.
Legal implications
Unlawful conduct toward a child is a misdemeanor in South Carolina, carrying potential penalties that may include fines, probation, or jail time, depending on the circumstances and prior record. The case will proceed through the local court system, and the child’s welfare will remain the primary focus of social services.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident and encourage anyone with additional information to contact the Charleston Police Department.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
