Crime
Florida Children Rescued After Holding ‘Help Us’ Sign In Window During Domestic Disturbance
Authorities in Florida say multiple children were rescued from a domestic disturbance last month after placing a handwritten note reading “Help Us” in a window.
The Kissimmee Police Department said officers responded to a reported domestic disturbance on Oct. 26. Family members told officers that they feared for the safety of children inside the residence.
Police used a drone to gather information at the scene, and located the children hiding in a room.
“One child bravely held a handwritten note against the window reading ‘HELP US’,” police said.
Police said the children were able to escape the residence while the suspect, identified as 33-year-old Andre Janard Smithson, was “distracted.”
With assistance from the SWAT and Crisis Negotiation teams, Smithson eventually surrendered to law enforcement.
Smithson was arrested on charges of false imprisonment along with an outstanding active warrant.
“Excellent teamwork by KPD officers and specialized units in bringing this situation to a peaceful resolution,” police said.
