Disabled woman abandoned without cellphone, walker overnight in Largo park; caretaker arrested

In Largo, Florida, Teresa Baldwin, 58, was arrested for allegedly abandoning a disabled woman in her care at a park overnight. According to the arrest affidavit from the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, Baldwin left the woman alone at Largo Central Park on Tuesday, October 17, 2023.

The disabled woman was discovered by a passerby the following morning, who noticed she was alone without her cellphone or walker. The report states that the passerby contacted law enforcement after seeing the woman, who was reportedly in distress.

Baldwin was the legal caregiver for the woman, who has not been named in the reports. The incident raises serious questions about caregiver responsibility and the treatment of vulnerable individuals in Florida.

Baldwin was charged with neglect of a disabled adult, a third-degree felony, as a result of her actions. She was booked into the Pinellas County Jail, where her bond was set at $10,000. The Largo case highlights ongoing concerns about the safety and well-being of disabled individuals who may rely on caregivers for support and protection.

Authorities urge the community to report any similar situations, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding those who are unable to care for themselves. This shocking incident serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by disabled individuals and the crucial role caregivers play in their lives.

As this case unfolds, it underscores the need for vigilance and accountability in caregiving roles within the state of Florida. According to WFLA Tampa Bay, further details are expected to emerge as the investigation continues, and Baldwin awaits her court appearance.