Child Abuse Investigation Ends in Arrest

(Central City, NE) - On Saturday, August 24th at approximately 1:30 pm a Merrick County Deputy was detailed to the Merrick County Fairgrounds to investigate an infant being left unattended in a vehicle. Upon the deputy's arrival it was determined that a 3-month-old infant had been left in a pickup with the engine off and the windows only partially ajar for a substantial amount of time.  The infant was discovered after a citizen heard the infant crying and began to systematically search the surrounding cars. The citizen was also assisted in the recovery and care of the infant by additional citizens on the grounds. 

The mother, Cara Dugan, 40 years old, of Kearney, was contacted inside of a building riding a horse. She was placed under arrest and transported to the Merrick County Jail. The infant was taken to a local hospital by law enforcement for a wellness check, where the infant was evaluated and it was determined the infant did not sustain injury as a result of this incident. The outside temperature was recorded at 89-90 degrees Fahrenheit. The child was placed in the care and custody of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. Ms. Dugan was lodged in jail on one count of Child Abuse, a class 3a Felony.