Hinesville PD: Missing child identified, caregiver arrested

HINESVILLE, Ga. (WSAV) – The Hinesville Police Department (HPD) has confirmed the identity of a child found wandering near Welborn Street.

HPD shared in a Facebook post on Tuesday that a juvenile, who appeared to be around 4 or 5 years old, was found wandering in the 300 block of Welborn St.

The child was identified by a user who called the police. The juvenile was then reunited with his family.

HPD says that during the investigation, officers discovered that the caregiver (of no relation) who was entrusted with watching the child, was extremely intoxicated and had passed out. This allowed the child to leave the residence.

The caregiver, now identified as Samantha Wilson, has been arrested and is now facing criminal charges.

HPD extended its thanks to those who assisted in the case.