Lakesha Deshanna McLeod, of 1601 B King Avenue, Florence, SC was arrested by Investigators with the Florence County Sheriff’s Office on four (4) counts of Unlawful Neglect of a Child on October 28, 2009.  The Investigators allege that McLeod placed her four (4) minor children at unreasonable risk of life, physical or mental health and safety by leaving them alone for days at a time without adequate food, running water or means of communication.  The children have been placed in the care of the South Carolina Department of Social Services. 

Under South Carolina law, Unlawful Neglect of a Child is a felony, with each offense punishable by a fine in the discretion of the court or not more than ten (10) years in prison, or both.  At a bond hearing today following her arrest, McLeod was released on a $20,000.00 ($5000.00 each charge) personal recognizance bond.