How Maintenance Records Saved a Shreveport Mom

Defending Against Child Neglect Allegations in Louisiana

📢 Disclaimer: This post is for educational and marketing purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique. If you’re facing child neglect or criminal allegations in Louisiana, consult a licensed attorney immediately.

1. The Story Behind the Headlines

A recent case in Caddo Parish is a wake-up call for every Louisiana parent renting their home.

What happened?

A mother in Shreveportwas charged with felony child neglect after her apartment’s air conditioning broke during a dangerous summer heatwave. Prosecutors claimed she knowingly put her children at risk.

But then the truth came out.

Maintenance records proved she had submitted three service requests in 2025—and the District Attorney dropped the case.

“We were provided proof that Ms. White submitted three service requests in 2025 to her apartment management.”— NewsRadio 710 KEEL, 7/15/25

40-word summary:

Child-neglect charges against a Shreveport mom were dropped after maintenance logs showed she’d repeatedly reported the broken AC. This case highlights how documentation can shut down felony charges and protect parental rights.

2. Why Maintenance Records Matter in Neglect Cases

In Louisiana, being a good parent isn’t just about love—it’s about proof.

🔒 Rebutting Claims of “Willful” Neglect

Under La. R.S. 14:93, the state must prove a caregiver knowingly or recklessly endangered a child.

Written repair requests can defeat that narrative.

⏱️ Establishing a Timeline

Timestamped emails or work orders show you acted quickly. Delays often fall on unresponsive landlords—not on you.

⚖️ Shifting Legal Blame

If property management ignored repeated pleas for help, they may face liability themselves. In some cases, that opens the door to civil action for unsafe living conditions.

3. Smart Steps for Louisiana Parents

Scenario	What To Do	Why It Matters
Broken AC / Unsafe Housing	• Submit written requests (email or portal) • Take dated photos • Save all messages	Creates a clear paper trail
DCFS or Police Visit	• Stay calm • Ask for the reason for the visit • Request a lawyer before answering questions	Preserves your rights and your options
Health Emergency	• Call 911 • Document the call and treatment	Proves you acted in your child’s best interest

4. Defenses to Child Neglect Charges in Louisiana

• No Criminal Intent: If you showed due diligence, the “knowingly” requirement often falls apart.

• Third-Party Blame: Landlord inaction can break the legal link between your conduct and the alleged harm.

• Constitutional Protections: You are not required to consent to warrantless searches or answer questions without an attorney. Period.

5. How JC Law Steps In

At Johnson & Carroll Law, we don’t wait until you’re in court—we work to stop the case before it starts.

🔍 What We Do:

• Early Intervention: We contact the DA’s office and present evidence that protects you—like maintenance logs, health records, and communications.

• Expert Collaboration: We bring in HVAC techs, pediatricians, or social workers when needed to back your case.

• Whole-Person Advocacy: As a female-led firm, we understand the real-world pressure moms and dads face. We bring legal heat without the judgment.

6. Key Takeaways

Document Everything.

Even a blurry photo of your thermostat can be the key to beating serious charges.

Move Fast.

The sooner we get involved, the faster we can shut it down.

Know Your Rights.

You don’t have to speak to investigators without a lawyer. Ever.

If You’re Facing Allegations, Talk to Us.

Being under investigation for child neglect doesn’t make you a bad parent. But what you do next matters.

Call Johnson & Carroll Law at (318) 555‑1234 or schedule a confidential consult.

Because sometimes, the tiniest piece of paper—a maintenance ticket—can keep your family together.