JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO, Texas –
In the summer, a car interior can heat up to 170 degrees Fahrenheit in less than 30 minutes.
It is never a good idea to leave a child alone in a car for any amount of time and it is against the law in Texas and Joint Base San Antonio.
On JBSA, a civilian or active duty member who has left a child, under 7 years of age, alone in a car for more than 5 minutes may find themselves under federal prosecution or Uniform Code of Military Justice action.
This is the case even if the child suffered no injury at all. The Judge Advocate Magistrate Division may seek prosecution under Texas Penal Code, Section 22.10 for civilians who leave their children unattended.
A conviction under this section can lead to a maximum fine of $5,000, 30 days confinement and/or 5 years of probation.
Should a child be injured as a result of a violation of this section, the crime may become child endangerment.
Child endangerment is a felony. A felony conviction may result in even harsher penalties. Active duty members could face similar charges and be held accountable by their command or under a court martial proceeding. Don’t risk your freedom or career over such a foolish act.
Everyone has a role to play in keeping children safe. Every 10 days in the United States of America, a child dies from heatstroke. A split-second decision to leave a child alone in a car can lead to devastating consequences.
Contact 502nd Security Forces Squadron Police Services at 210-221-3737 for more information.