Parents Arrested After Malnourished Child Found Wandering in Atlanta
The mother and stepfather of a 3-year-old child found wandering alone and malnourished on a doorstep in southeast Atlanta have been arrested and charged with cruelty to children and reckless conduct.
On Wednesday, May 22, Zone 3 officers and investigators with the Atlanta Police Department’s Special Victims Unit took 30-year-old Lakisha Holmes, the child’s mother, into custody at 3271 Beltford Rd SE around 9 a.m. 30-year-old Andre Roundtree, identified as the child’s stepfather, was also arrested. Roundtree reportedly became combative with officers during his arrest and was transported to Grady Detention.
Both Holmes and Roundtree are charged with:
- Cruelty to Children in the Second Degree (Felony)
- Reckless Conduct (Felony)
Holmes was transported to the Fulton County Jail without incident.
The child remains at Hugh Spalding hospital. Investigators are in contact with the Department of Family & Child Services (DFCS) regarding custodial arrangements and the child’s future welfare. The investigation is ongoing.
Previously Released Information: On May 21, 2025, around 10:23 p.m., officers responded to 3271 Belfort Rd SE after a caller reported finding a 3-year-old child wandering on his doorstep. Officers observed that the child appeared to suffer from malnutrition, with minor scratches and lacerations. Grady EMS was requested to the scene and transported the child to Hugh Spalding for medical treatment. Officers canvassed the area and conducted door knocks in an unsuccessful attempt to locate the child’s guardians. The Special Victims Unit also responded to the scene, and DFCS was notified of the child’s location and condition.
