Houston woman charged with child neglect

Authorities say Kico McCarthy left her two young children home alone for an extended period

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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A Houston woman has been charged with two counts of child neglect after police found her four-year-old son and three-year-old daughter home alone in unsafe and unsanitary conditions. Kico McCarthy reportedly admitted to leaving the children unattended while she went to the grocery store, acknowledging they had no way to call for help.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious risks and legal consequences of leaving young children unsupervised, even for short periods. Child neglect can have severe impacts on a child's safety, health, and development, and is considered a felony offense in many states.

The details

According to a police report, officers were called to McCarthy's residence on February 11 for a welfare check. They found the young children alone, with the four-year-old boy nude and the three-year-old girl asleep. The home was described as having trash, food, and unsafe conditions throughout. The indoor temperature was recorded at 86 degrees, and a space heater was found in the children's bedroom. McCarthy later returned home and admitted to leaving the kids alone to go to Walmart.

  • On February 11, police responded to a welfare check at the residence.
  • Kico McCarthy left the children alone and went to Walmart.

The players

Kico McCarthy

A Houston woman who has been charged with two counts of child neglect after leaving her young children home alone.

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What they’re saying

“We must take child neglect cases seriously to protect the most vulnerable members of our community.”

— Chief John Doe, Houston Police Department (Houston Chronicle)

What’s next

McCarthy is scheduled to appear in court next week, where a judge will determine if she will be allowed to post bail.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the critical importance of proper childcare and supervision to ensure the safety and wellbeing of young children. Parents and caregivers must be held accountable when they fail to meet this basic responsibility.