Local woman accused of leaving her infant granddaughter inside hot car

UNION CO., N.C. – A Union County grandmother is accused of leaving her eight-month-old granddaughter inside a hot car. Deputies arrested 50-year-old Dedra McManus earlier Thursday at Animal Services, where they say she came with friends to look at kittens available for adoption.

When she saw deputies approaching the adoption area, she ran back to her vehicle and returned carrying the baby. Deputies reviewed video footage showing the child had been left alone inside the car for 10 minutes in 96 degree weather.

EMS evaluated the infant who appeared to be okay. McManus is charged with child abuse. DSS took custody of the infant.