NORTHPORT, FL – A Northport couple is facing serious charges after allegedly abandoning a teenager along a highway. The incident unfolded last week when police received a call about a suspicious person walking with bags along I-75.
Authorities discovered the individual was a 16-year-old boy who had been left eight miles from his home. Court documents reveal the teen returned from school to find two adult family members, later identified as 35-year-old Rosinella Bora and 36-year-old Bradley Santos, hurriedly packing duffle bags. They informed the teen of an impromptu trip to either Idaho or Guam.
The couple, with the teen and an 8-year-old in the car, embarked north on I-75. Shortly into the journey, they reportedly pulled over and left the teenager on the roadside, handing him his bags before driving off.
Upon examining the bags, officers discovered loaded weapons, heightening their concerns. Investigators noted that Santos instructed the boy to “take care of the house” before departing. When officers attempted to return the teen to his residence, they found both the garage and front doors wide open.
Efforts to contact Bora and Santos were initially unsuccessful as they refused calls from authorities. Hours later, their vehicle was located in Wauchula, approximately an hour and a half away. Both were subsequently arrested and are now facing charges of child neglect.
Police have confirmed that the children involved are now safe and with other family members. Bora and Santos have been detained as the investigation continues.