Grandmother faces criminal charges for leaving grandson at Corbin McDonald’s

Police say this four-year-old child was left at the McDonald’s in Corbin on Cumberland Falls Hwy. Thursday afternoon. His grandmother is facing criminal charges following an investigation into the incident.

A Whitley County grandmother who has legal custody of her 4-year-old grandson has been charged with endangering the welfare of a minor after he was found wandering around the McDonald’s on Cumberland Falls Hwy.

Joanne Lowe 62, reportedly told police that when she left the restaurant, she believed the child was with his aunt, while the aunt believed the child was with Lowe.

“They left in the same car,” said Corbin Police Major Rob Jones of the two adults.
Jones said the child wandered around the restaurant for about 10 to 15 minutes before someone noticed he appeared to be lost and

“He was even walking around the parking lot without a coat,” Jones said

Corbin Police were called to the scene about 4 p.m. The boy identified himself as, “Kevin.” However, officers were unable to understand his last name.

Police took Kevin back to the station and sent out pictures to the media and posted it on the city’s Facebook page, asking anyone who knew the child to call.

“He played ball and got on the computer and watched Netflix,” Jones said.

About 7:30, Jones said a woman identifying herself as Kevin’s aunt contacted police and identified him.

Lowe was cited to court on the misdemeanor charge, which carries a potential sentence of up to one year in jail.

Jones said the child has been placed in the temporary custody of other family members. The state is investigating to determine he will remain in Lowe’s custody.