Mother arrested for falsely reporting son’s kidnapping in Louisiana

Incident Overview

In a shocking turn of events, a 24-year-old woman from Louisiana, Artasia Viges, has been arrested after allegedly fabricating a story about her young son being kidnapped. The incident occurred in Eunice, Louisiana, where Viges reported to the authorities that her son had been taken by individuals in an older model truck while she was changing a flat tire on the roadside. However, the reality of the situation was far different from her claims.

The Truth Unfolds

Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered the child alone in the parking lot of Heinen Medical Clinic, suffering from abrasions on his knees. According to the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office, the boy revealed a startling account: his mother had allegedly “run him over” and left him unattended on the side of the road. This stark contrast between the mother’s report and the child’s testimony prompted juvenile detectives to investigate further.

Negligence and Consequences

As investigators delved deeper, they uncovered the unsettling truth. Viges had not only left her son unattended but had also allowed him to exit the vehicle before it had come to a complete stop, resulting in his injuries. The sheriff’s office described the situation as a bizarre reaction to a tantrum, highlighting the lack of proper restraint for the child during the incident. Viges is now facing serious charges, including cruelty to juveniles, child desertion, and false swearing, with a bond set at $200,000.

Community Reaction

This incident has sparked outrage within the local community, raising questions about parental responsibility and the safety of children in similar situations. Many are calling for stricter measures to ensure that children are properly secured in vehicles and that parents are held accountable for their actions. The sheriff’s office has emphasized the importance of child safety, urging parents to remain vigilant and responsible at all times.