Florence, SC, October 2, 2025
News Summary
A 28-year-old father from Florence, SC, has been charged with child neglect after his daughter was discovered wandering alone on Church Street. Local police acted quickly to ensure the child’s safety, taking her into protective custody until her family was found. The father reportedly fell asleep, allowing the child to leave their home unnoticed. This incident has raised concerns about child safety in the community, prompting calls for greater parental vigilance.
Florence
A 28-year-old man named Tavaris McNeil from Florence, SC, has been charged with child neglect after his young daughter was found wandering alone on Church Street. The disturbing incident took place on Wednesday morning when local police received multiple reports about a child walking unattended on a busy road.
Law enforcement officers responded promptly to the reports and arrived at the 400 block of Church Street. After ensuring the child was safe, the officers took her into protective custody until her parents could be located. Fortunately, within approximately one hour, the child was successfully reunited with her family.
During the investigation, authorities learned that McNeil had fallen asleep while responsible for his daughter’s care, which allowed her to leave their home unnoticed. This situation prompted immediate concern for the child’s safety, as she had wandered onto a busy thoroughfare.
The Florence Police Department emphasized that the child’s welfare was their top priority during the incident. Officers acted quickly to ensure she came to no harm in the process. Fortunately, the child’s safe return underscored the successful intervention of the police in what could have turned into a more dangerous situation.
The Incident
The incident unfolded early on Wednesday as multiple citizens alerted the authorities about the young child. Given the potential risks involved for a wandering child in a busy area, police took decisive action to respond. Upon arrival, officers were able to locate the child and bring her to safety.
Charges Filed
Following the incident, Tavaris McNeil was charged with child neglect due to the circumstances surrounding his daughter’s wandering. Child neglect laws are designed to protect minors from situations that could likely lead to harm due to parental or guardian inattention or irresponsibility.
Understanding Child Neglect
Child neglect is defined as the failure to provide for a child’s basic needs, which can include inadequate supervision, lack of medical care, or failing to ensure a safe environment. In this case, law enforcement officials assessed the facts and deemed McNeil’s actions as negligent, resulting in legal consequences.
Community Reaction
The case has raised concerns among Florence residents regarding child safety, especially in environments where children may be exposed to risks. Many community members have called for increased awareness about child supervision and the responsibilities of parents and guardians.
Conclusion
As this case develops, it will serve as a reminder to parents and caregivers about the importance of maintaining vigilance in the care of their children. Authorities continue to advocate for the safety of minors and will take necessary actions to prevent situations that could potentially endanger their well-being.
FAQ
What led to Tavaris McNeil’s arrest?
Tavaris McNeil was arrested for child neglect after his young daughter was found wandering alone on Church Street in Florence, SC.
How did police respond to the situation?
Police received reports about the child and quickly responded to the scene, taking the child into protective custody until her parents were located.
What happened to the child during the incident?
The child was safely reunited with her family approximately one hour after police located her wandering alone.
What are the consequences of child neglect?
Child neglect can result in legal repercussions for the caregiver, including possible charges and intervention by child protective services.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident | Child found wandering alone |
| Location | Church Street, Florence, SC |
| Individual Charged | Tavaris McNeil |
| Charge | Child neglect |
| Response Time | Approximately 1 hour until child was reunited with family |
| Police Action | Took child into protective custody |
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Additional Resources
- WMBF News: Florence Police Charge Father with Child Neglect
- ABC News 4: Child Abuse Case Involving Pastor
- WBTW: Charges in Child Abuse Case at Day Care
- MSN: Deputies Arrest 4 in Child Abuse Case at Day Care
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Child Neglect
- Google Search: Child Neglect
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
