A Wisconsin mother has been released on bail following her arrest for allegedly forcing her 12-year-old son to walk nearly two miles along a busy highway after an argument in the car. Flor Escalante was apprehended at a Sylvan Learning Center, the intended destination for her son before their disagreement over his academic performance escalated. Escalante is facing charges of felony child abandonment and a misdemeanor for child neglect, which were filed on November 7.
The dispute culminated when Escalante pulled over on the shoulder of the I-94 highway, instructed her son to exit the vehicle, and directed him to walk the remaining distance to the tutoring center. Reports from local Milwaukee Fox affiliate WITI detailed police scanner audio that captured several calls from concerned motorists who spotted a young boy, estimated to be between 10 and 12 years old, crying on the highway’s shoulder.
By the time law enforcement arrived, night had fallen and rush hour traffic was in full swing. The temperature had dipped to around 50 degrees, and the boy was not appropriately dressed for the weather conditions. He also did not have a mobile phone to call for assistance.
The boy informed the police that he was en route to the Sylvan Learning Center, where his mother was supposedly waiting. Upon delivering the boy to the center, the police arrested Escalante and transported her to the Waukesha County Sheriff’s Department for questioning.
In the criminal complaint, Escalante reportedly told the police that her son failed to appreciate her efforts, including working multiple jobs and assisting him with his schoolwork. She justified her actions by stating that she wanted him to understand the concept of labor. Escalante also claimed that when she left her son on the highway, the traffic was moving slowly. She attempted to locate him later but was unsuccessful. However, she chose not to contact law enforcement as she assumed they would return him to her.
The complaint further noted that while Escalante appeared distressed about the situation, she seemed oblivious to the potential danger and negligence of her actions. She was subsequently released on a $500 bail. WITI reported that the child is currently staying with other family members while Escalante seeks the help she needs.