Florida mother accused of chaining daughter, 13, to fence in summer heat

Florida mother has been charged after allegedly chaining her 13-year-old daughter to a fence outside a relative's home in Hialeah and leaving her in the summer heat without food, water or shade, police said.

Authorities arrested 34-year-old Yashira Marie Maldonado following the July 11 incident. She has since been released on bond and ordered to have no contact with her daughter while the case proceeds.

Police allege girl was left chained outside

According to investigators, Maldonado drove her daughter to the girl's great-grandmother's home, wrapped a metal chain around the child's waist and secured it to a fence before leaving.

Police said the girl was left with a backpack containing clothing and medication but had no access to food, drinking water or shade.

Ring camera captured incident

Investigators said Ring doorbell footage showed Maldonado arriving at the property shortly before 9 a.m. and leaving after allegedly chaining the girl to the fence.

Police said the child's father contacted authorities after learning about the incident, prompting officers to respond and rescue the teenager.

Mother allegedly admitted actions

Court documents state Maldonado told officers she knew her actions were wrong and said she needed a break from caring for her daughter.

Investigators also said a relative received a text message from Maldonado shortly after the incident stating she had lost her job.

Child abuse investigation continues

Maldonado faces child abuse and child neglect charges.

Authorities have not disclosed the girl's current condition or identified who is caring for her while the criminal case continues.