Arizona Mom Arrested for Child Neglect

(Surprise, Arizona) A 29-year-old local mother, Christina Muniz, was arrested after her 11-year-old son called police and said she was going to California and leaving him and his 6-year-old brother behind.

Reportedly, Muniz told arriving police officers that she was sick of her children and wanted to follow her dream of becoming a stripper in California.

The older boy told investigators that he took care of himself and his little brother. He said their mom spent her money on alcohol and there wasn't very much food in the house.

Responding officers contacted Child Protective Services.

[Sgt. Mark] Ortega said Muniz continued to be verbally abusive to the children in the presence of CPS and police. She reportedly yelled at the children, cursed at them and told them she did not want them.

As the children were being removed by CPS, the older boy attempted to hug his mom and she punched him in the stomach, according to Ortega.

Muniz faces charges of child neglect, aggravated assault, disorderly conduct and possession of drug paraphernalia.

I can't shake the image of a little boy trying to hug his mom and getting rejected. Pretty sad.

Tip: Suidae Empathy