Laurel County mother arrested after toddler found outside in freezing temperatures
Jan 22, 2026
LAUREL COUNTY, KY. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – A Laurel County mother is behind bars after her 2-year-old child was found outside in below-freezing temperatures.
According to the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office, a neighbor saw the toddler walk onto their porch wearing only a T-shirt and a diaper.
Deput
ies say the child was brought inside the neighbor’s home to stay warm while they worked to locate the parent.
Investigators determined the child’s mother, Jessica Mills, was under the influence.
Authorities also found a 9-month-old child and a 15-year-old in Mills’ custody at her home.
Officials say social services were contacted to determine where the children will be placed.
Mills is charged with wanton endangerment and is being held at the Laurel County Detention Center.
Categories: Featured, Local News, News
Tags: child endangerment, freezing temperatures, Kentucky crime, Laurel County arrest, Laurel County Sheriff’s Office
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