Cops: Md. mom left son, puppy in hot car to shop at mall

BALTIMORE - A Maryland woman was arrested for allegedly leaving her 7-year-old son and puppy in a hot car while she shopped at a mall, reports CBS Baltimore.

Joshalin Evans, 30, allegedly left the boy and the dog in the car for at least 90 minutes at a Gaithersburg mall on July 14, according to the station. Police said the mother - who is out on bond - was more concerned about the welfare of the puppy than her son. She is being charged with three felony counts, including neglect of a minor.

The 7-year-old told officers his mom left water in the car for the dog, but none for him, CBS Baltimore reports. He told police it was not the first time he has been left by his mother in a hot car.

Montgomery County District Court charging documents acquired by the station revealed the boy was found "very sweaty" and "seated in direct sunlight," while the puppy showed "signs of heat exhaustion."

Evans' defense attorney said her client parked her vehicle in the shade with the windows down, but the sun moved was while was inside the mall, CBS Baltimore reports.

Police are urging the public to be attentive.