Louisiana woman charged after leaving her child on roadway, falsely reporting kidnapping: police

A shocking incident unfolded in Louisiana last week when a young mother, Artasia Viges, 24, falsely reported the kidnapping of her son. The events unfolded in Eunice, near U.S. 190 and Industrial Road, where Viges claimed that individuals in an older model truck had taken her son while she was changing a flat tire.

Authorities were quick to respond to Viges’ distress call, only to discover that the little boy was found alone in the parking lot of Heinen Medical Clinic with abrasions to his knees. The child, whose age was not disclosed, informed the police that his mother had “run him over” and left him on the side of the road. He was promptly taken to a hospital for treatment.

Juvenile detectives from the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office were called in to investigate the conflicting statements between the child and his mother. During a subsequent interview, Viges admitted to fabricating the kidnapping story. The truth was that she had left her son unattended on a major roadway and allowed him to wander off into the night.

According to the sheriff’s office, the incident stemmed from a disagreement between Viges and her son, which escalated when the child threw a tantrum. As Viges pulled over, her son jumped out of the car before it came to a stop, resulting in the injuries to his knees. It was noted that the child was not properly restrained in the vehicle.

Viges confessed that she did not make any effort to chase after her son and eventually lost sight of him. As a result of her actions, Viges now faces charges of cruelty to juveniles, child desertion, and false swearing for purpose of violating public health or safety. She is currently being held in St. Landry Parish Jail on a $200,000 bond.

This disturbing incident serves as a reminder of the importance of child safety and proper supervision. It also highlights the consequences of making false reports to law enforcement. The well-being of children should always be a top priority, and parents must ensure their safety at all times.