North Port, Florida – A couple has been arrested for child neglect after allegedly leaving a juvenile on the side of Interstate 75 with bags containing firearms, ammunition, and cash. The suspects are identifies as Bradley Leon Guerrero Santos, 36, and Roseanella Mendola Borja, 35.
Alleged Abandonment Incident
The incident occurred on October 1, shortly before 6 p.m., when police received 911 calls about a suspicious male walking along the highway shoulder.
Officers located the boy, whose age and relationship to the suspects are redacted. He initially hesitated to explain the situation but later described that when he arrived home from school, the couple was frantically packing bags.
According to the boy, Santos and Borja said they were going to “Guam or Idaho,” then drove off in a Toyota 4Runner. When the boy resisted leaving, the couple allegedly pulled over, handed him two bags containing pistols, ammunition, and cash, and told him to “take care of the house” before driving away.
Police Investigation
Officers noted the home was in disarray, wide open, and appeared abandoned in a hurry. Multiple calls to the suspects went unanswered.
Detectives later located Santos and Borja at a home in Wauchula, about 60 miles northeast of North Port, over four hours later. The affidavit, obtained by Law&Crime, did not clarify why the couple left so abruptly.
Charges and Court Dates
Santos faces child neglect and allowing a minor to possess a firearm charges, while Borja is charged with child neglect.
Both suspects are currently held in the Sarasota County Jail on a $50,000 bond. Their next court appearance is scheduled for October 31.
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