Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott is requesting the community’s assistance in identifying an abandoned child’s mother.

On Monday, September 26, 2011 just after 6:00 AM Richland County Sheriff’s deputies were called by a concerned citizen that a baby had been abandoned at 1800 Long Creek Drive (Enclave Apartments). The newborn baby boy was found wrapped in a blanket and was transported to Palmetto Richland Hospital where he is in good condition.

SheriffLott reminds citizens that may be facing hardship or difficulties coping with parenthood that there is an “Infant Safe Haven” law that has been enacted as an incentive for mothers in crisis to safely relinquish their babies to designated locations where the babies are protected and provided with medical care until a permanent home is found. The parent of agent can remain anonymous and shielded from prosecution for abandonment or neglect in exchange for surrendering the baby to a safe haven. Safe Haven locations are for infants up to thirty days old or younger and may be relinquished to law enforcement agencies, churches, fire stations, and hospitals.

Sheriff Lott is asking that anyone with information or the identity of the mother should call, email or text your anonymous tip to:  Crimestoppers at 1-888-crimesc, or text “TIPSC plus your message” to CRIMES (274637).  Your tip could earn you a cash reward of up to $1000.