Florida Mom Leaves Kids Alone in Uber for Hours, Arrested

Emily Sabogal faces charges of child neglect and unlawful child desertion after allegedly abandoning her children in an Uber for over 2 hours.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A 32-year-old Florida woman named Emily Sabogal has been charged with child neglect and unlawful child desertion after allegedly leaving her two children alone in an Uber for over 2 hours while she walked around town. The Uber driver called police after Sabogal got out of the car and did not return, forcing officers to search for the children. Sabogal was later found and arrested, but could not explain her actions.

Why it matters

This incident raises serious concerns about child safety and parental responsibility. Leaving young children unattended in a vehicle for an extended period of time puts them at significant risk and is considered a form of child neglect. The case also highlights the challenges facing single parents who may be struggling with mental health or substance abuse issues.

The details

According to police, Sabogal picked up her two children from karate class and ordered an Uber. While in the Uber, Sabogal allegedly kept repeating in Spanish "he thinks I'm stupid" before grabbing the driver's phone and canceling the ride. She then gave the driver $10 and asked him to stop, got out of the car, and walked away, leaving her children alone in the vehicle. The Uber driver waited for over 2 hours, trying to reach Sabogal, before finally calling the police. Officers found the children to be in good health but thirsty and hungry. They provided the kids with food and water while searching for Sabogal, who was eventually located walking near a McDonald's over 2 miles away.

  • Around 11 PM on Friday, police responded to a report of two unattended children in an Uber.
  • Sabogal allegedly left her children in the Uber for over 2 hours.

The players

Emily Sabogal

A 32-year-old Florida woman who was arrested and charged with child neglect and unlawful child desertion for allegedly leaving her two children alone in an Uber for over 2 hours.

Uber Driver

The Uber driver who picked up Sabogal and her two children, waited for over 2 hours for Sabogal to return, and eventually called the police when she did not.

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What they’re saying

“You just left your kids with an Uber. We were all over town looking for you... You left your kids for two hours.”

— Police Officer (WPLG)

“My kids are everything to me.”

— Emily Sabogal (WPLG)

What’s next

Sabogal has posted bond and been released from jail. The children were released to a family member. The case is ongoing, and it remains to be seen if Sabogal will face additional legal consequences for her actions.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the serious risks and consequences of child neglect, even in seemingly isolated incidents. It underscores the need for greater support and resources for struggling parents to ensure the safety and well-being of children.