ELLWOOD CITY, Pa.,None — Charges have been filed against an Ellwood City father after his toddler was found wandering the streets in freezing temperatures on Saturday.
Police said the 2-year-old boy got out of his home through a door that wasn't shut properly. He was found wandering down Fifth Street at about 8 a.m. while his father, Joseph Venuto, was sleeping.
The child, police said, was wearing a long-sleeved shirt, sweat pants, socks and women's shoes.
Police said Venuto called the station asking if officers knew where his son was. By that point, the boy had already been found and was being watched at a local business.
"The father didn't contact us until an hour and a half, almost two hours later. Charges will be filed against the father," said Matthew Liberatore, Ellwood City Police.
Police said the child was taken to Shear Beauty Salon by Good Samaritans after he was almost hit by a passing driver.
"Another couple came down in the car and picked the child up and that's how they all came down here. Then we called 911 for the police to come," said Valerie Valentino, salon manager.
The child's mother told Channel 11's Timyka Artist that she's not happy about what happened, but that she also believes her husband made an honest mistake.
"He's 2-years-old, but he's bright. He can open doors and get out, so you have to take extra precautions," said Rebecca Venuto.
Venuto is charged with child endangerment. He was placed on probation and is not allowed to be with his son alone for three months. The child is back in the custody of his parents.
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