SC Father Arrested for Leaving 6-Year-Old Alone in Pokémon Line

South Carolina Father Arrested After Leaving 6-Year-Old Daughter Outside Target Line for Pokémon Cards

A South Carolina father was arrested in the middle of the night after allegedly leaving his 6-year-old daughter sleeping outside a Target so he could maintain his spot in line for a Pokémon trading card release, according to police.

John-Michael Dooley, 35, of Johns Island, was taken into custody on Nov. following a response by Charleston police to a call about an unattended child at a Target located in the West Ashley area of the city. As stated by Charleston police, law enforcement personnel reached the scene at approximately 2:30 a.m. local time, discovering that Dooley had previously queued up with his child alongside a crowd of other buyers waiting for a brand-new Pokémon trading card collection.

Witnesses told responding officers that sometime after 1 a.m., Dooley provided his daughter with a pillow and a blanket before leaving her asleep in line. After about an hour passed without his return, concerned customers contacted police.

Police: Sleeping child left to hold spot in Pokemon line

When Dooley returned to the store, witnesses identified him to officers, who arrested him. Police noted that when questioned by detectives, Dooley acknowledged going back home and leaving his daughter by herself so he could keep his spot in the queue and buy the merchandise.

The Release of ‘Mega Evolution – Delta Reign’

The incident occurred during the release of a new expansion for the Pokémon Trading Card Game, “Mega Evolution – Delta Reign,” which went on sale Nov. 6, NBC News reported. Originating in Japan as a video game, the Pokémon franchise has evolved into a worldwide entertainment property encompassing TV programs, video games, and trading cards meant for collection. Players collect cards featuring fictional creatures and use them in games against other players.

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Trading card packs start at around $5, according to NBC News. Police did not specify whether Dooley intended to purchase the cards for himself or his daughter.

Officials verified that the minor was uninjured and transferred her into emergency protective care handled by the South Carolina Department of Social Services.

Dooley Faces Child Endangerment Charge Ahead of Court Appearance

Dooley was charged with unlawful conduct toward a child. He is being held at the Al Cannon Detention Center, according to the Charleston Police Department. His bond was set at $40,000, according to Charleston County court records.

His initial court appearance is scheduled for Dec. 18. USA TODAY was unable to identify an attorney representing Dooley.