Jacksonville mother arrested after 4-year-old found wandering alone

A Jacksonville mother was charged with child neglect after police said they found her 4-year-old daughter wandering alone on the Southside of Jacksonville.

Taylor Donato, 23, told police she had been sleeping for seven hours and had no idea her child was outside.

The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office said the girl was found walking a dog along Old Baymeadows Road. around 5 p.m. last Monday.

According to the report, witnesses observed the child suddenly dart out into traffic and cross the road.

Police said one of the witnesses recognized the child from their apartment complex and brought her back to the apartment.

JSO said the witnesses knocked on the door several times, but no one answered.

Donato eventually answered the door when police arrived.

RELATED: DCF investigation leads to 3 child neglect arrests

The report stated Donato was “disoriented” and appeared to have a seizure. She was transported to St. Vincent’s Hospital and released shortly after.

Police said the apartment where the child lived was filthy. The report said there were ants on the floor, sour food on the counters and fridge and trash all over the apartment.

Donato was arrested on suspicion of child neglect. She was released from jail after posting bond.

Action News Jax reached out to the Florida Department of Children and Families to find out how they are getting involved.

Cox Media Group