Published: May 01, 2008 09:13 pm         

Mom who danced while baby was in vehicle draws probation

A Crossville mom who police took off the dance floor and placed in jail after receiving complaints that her young child was strapped in a car seat in a vehicle parked outside in temperatures hovering around freezing has entered a guilty plea in the case Thursday.

In addition, last week in Cumberland County General Sessions Court, two counts of domestic assault against the woman were continued until Oct. 23 at which time they will be dismissed if she successfully completes the Teen Challenge program.

Leaha Chantel Richardson, 24, was charged with child abuse/neglect in connection with the Jan. 5 incident that took place in the parking lot of Mr. Edd's, according to police reports. Officers received telephone calls from employees and patrons complaining about a child being left in a locked car outside the bar.

When officers arrived, they found the ten-month-old baby left in the van by itself. They found the mom inside the bar and after summoning her outside and attempting to question her, placed her under arrest.

At least one of the domestic charges stem from a March 31 incident involving family members during which time she was accused of striking a pregnant woman.

In other cases on the docket April 24, the following took place.

•Alvin Fene Lane, 41, charged with possession of a schedule II drug with intent to sell or deliver, pleaded guilty to attempt to deliver a controlled substance and received a three-year suspended sentence to be served on probation, was fined $2,000 and is to pay court costs.

•Daniel P. Sherrill, aggravated burglary, theft more than $1,000 and vandalism less than $500, continued until May 23.

•Kenneth L. Sherrill, on probation because of theft more than $10,000 and theft more than $1,000 charges, was found in violation of his probation because of new charges and was ordered to serve the remainder of his sentence.

•Jeffery L. Tabor, possession of methamphetamine with intent to sell or deliver and two counts each of sale and delivery of more than .5 grams of methamphetamine, continued until May 23.

•Angela Sherrill Smith, aggravated burglary, theft more than $1,000 and vandalism less than $500, continued until May 23.