JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A Jacksonville woman, who works as a student transportation monitor, is facing child neglect and theft charges after police say she left a child locked inside a hot car while shoplifting at a Publix supermarket on the city’s Northside. 

Police arrested Destiny James, 27, on Aug. 21 after responding to a Publix parking lot, where they found a child inside a Honda Pilot that was not running. James was identified as a student transportation monitor in her arrest report. 

According to an arrest report, the child was sweating and breathing rapidly as outdoor temperatures reached 91 degrees. James’s relationship to the child could not be confirmed by police.

Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department crews pulled the child out of the SUV around 10:37 a.m. The child appeared distressed but improved quickly once outside and was medically cleared.

Surveillance footage shows James entered the Publix at about 10:09 a.m. Investigators say she spent more than 30 minutes in the store with a cart full of merchandise before pushing it out past all registers.

Police say she loaded the trunk with $234 worth of stolen groceries before realizing the child was no longer in the vehicle.

Officers searched James’ vehicle with her consent and recovered the stolen items.

The arrest report says James told first responders she had only been inside a few minutes, though police note her timeline changed multiple times. Investigators also said she was apologetic.

James was taken into custody and later released on bond. She is awaiting her next court appearance.

Local parent and grandparent Linda Coleman said the incident is a reminder that leaving a child in a vehicle is never safe.

“I don’t think they should ever be left in the car for any amount of time because you never know what’s going to happen while you leave, and it’s just totally irresponsible,” Coleman said. “I just can’t imagine how people leave a child. I wouldn’t even leave an animal in the car.”

Under section 768.139, Florida Statutes, bystanders may legally intervene if they see a child or pet trapped in a hot vehicle. To qualify for immunity from vehicle damage, they must:

• Confirm the vehicle is locked and no other way exists to remove the child or animal.

• Have a reasonable belief that entry is necessary because of imminent danger.

• Call 911 before or immediately after entering the vehicle.

• Use only the force necessary to enter.

• Stay with the child or animal until first responders arrive.

Officials urge anyone who finds a child locked in a hot car to call 911 immediately.