Police confirm no criminal case opened against woman spotted feeding toddler alcohol on CCTV

Police have confirmed that no criminal case has been opened against a mother who was spotted feeding her toddler alcohol on CCTV.

The video, captured on the U-Watch neighbourhood watch system, shows the woman sitting along the Main Road in Woodstock, offering the child a sip from a bottle.

Woodstock ward councillor Yusuf Mohammed praised the city’s neighbourhood safety officers for tracking the woman down.

He said the incident is a painful reminder of how substance abuse tears families apart.
 
"If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help. The city's social development team offers confidential support before tragedy strikes. Let's keep working together to protect our children and strengthen our community."

The toddler is now in the care of the Department of Social Development, which is tasked with investigating.

"Generally, when a child is removed, this is confirmed by the Children’s Court, and a social worker conducts a child protection investigation, presents findings to the court, who then decides on the further placement of the child,” said department spokesperson Monique Mortlock-Malgas.

Article by Camray Clarke.