Charleston police announced Friday that a 35‑year‑old father was taken into custody after abandoning his six‑year‑old daughter in a line outside a Target store in the West Ashley area. The incident occurred early Saturday morning, around 2:30 a.m., when officers responded to a report of an unattended child.
Details of the arrest
According to a police news release, officers arrived at the Target location and found the young girl alone, sitting on a pillow and blanket she had been given by her father. The father, identified as John‑Michael Dooley of Johns Island, had left the child to hold his place in line for the highly anticipated release of the Pokémon Trading Card Game expansion “Mega Evolution — Delta Reign.”
Dooley reportedly returned to the store after about an hour, at which point witnesses identified him and police took him into custody. He admitted to leaving his daughter unattended so he could keep his spot in line.
Police response and charges
The Charleston Police Department charged Dooley with unlawful conduct toward a child. He is being held at the Al Cannon Detention Center. The child was unharmed and was placed in emergency protective custody with the South Carolina Department of Social Services.
Police emphasized that the safety of children is a top priority and urged parents to never leave minors unattended, even for short periods. “Our officers acted quickly to protect a vulnerable child,” the department said in the release.
Community reaction
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with dozens of customers gathered overnight to secure a spot for the new card set, which typically sells for around $5 per pack. While the excitement over the release is understandable, community members expressed concern that the situation could have escalated without prompt police intervention.
Local officials reminded residents that public safety resources are limited and that law‑enforcement must prioritize serious threats. They encouraged anyone who observes a child left alone in a public place to contact authorities immediately.
What’s next?
Dooley remains in detention pending a court appearance. The South Carolina Department of Social Services will determine the appropriate long‑term care plan for the child. The incident serves as a reminder that parental responsibility outweighs any desire to secure a limited‑edition product.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
