Orlando Father Arrested After Autistic Child Found Naked on I-4

UPDATE: An Orlando father, Jeremy Jaron Rouse, was arrested on October 16, 2023, after his autistic child was discovered alone and naked on an I-4 ramp, igniting outrage and concern over child safety. The shocking incident unfolded around 11 p.m. when police responded to reports of an unattended child near State Road 436.

Authorities reported that a passerby spotted the child running naked down the on-ramp and swiftly intervened, bringing the child to safety. Officers then placed the child, who was later identified as nonverbal and likely autistic, in their patrol car. The child’s age and gender remain undisclosed as the investigation continues.

Why This Matters: The alarming circumstances surrounding this case raise critical questions about parental responsibility and child welfare. Rouse, 36, admitted to police that he chose to prioritize his Uber Eats delivery over searching for his missing child, fearing damage to his driver rating. This revelation has sparked outrage among community members and child welfare advocates.

According to the police report, Rouse’s partner, who was delivering food with him, fell asleep around 9:30 p.m.. When she awoke at 11:30 p.m., the child was missing from the car. Rouse claimed he thought the child was sleeping while he made deliveries. During the investigation, the mother confirmed her child was with police after checking with a dispatcher.

Rouse’s decision to continue making deliveries instead of immediately searching for his child is being scrutinized. He later told officers he didn’t accompany the mother to retrieve the child because he feared arrest, stating he preferred to be apprehended later, according to the arrest report. He has since been charged with child abuse without great bodily harm and has pleaded not guilty. Rouse has been released on bond.

Authorities are also considering charges against the mother for perjury after inconsistencies arose in her statements during the investigation. Officers spent nearly one hour with the child before the mother arrived to reclaim her. The police have yet to determine how the child exited the vehicle.

As this urgent case develops, community members and officials are calling for a thorough investigation into the actions of both parents. The police department has recommended that the mother face similar charges, highlighting the serious implications of this incident on child safety.

Next Steps: The court proceedings will continue as Rouse prepares to defend himself against the charges. The community is urged to stay informed as updates emerge regarding the welfare of the child and the legal ramifications for the parents involved.