An Arizona couple faces child abuse charges after allegedly leading their two young children on a prolonged walk in 108-degree heat while appearing intoxicated. Ryan and May Mullin were walking their 2- and 4-year-old children in Glendale around 6 p.m. on Sunday, according to KBTX.
Witnesses reported seeing the family walking for approximately three hours after attending an Arizona Cardinals practice at State Farm Stadium. A concerned driver alerted Glendale Police after observing Ryan Mullin fall over one of his children and attempt to cross a road separately from his family. The witness offered the family a ride, but Ryan Mullin allegedly became agitated, punching the vehicle and injuring his face.
Law enforcement reported that May Mullin appeared intoxicated and may have been vomiting. A police officer later observed Ryan Mullin attempting to cross the street with one of his children, ignoring commands to stop and refusing to release the child's wrist. He eventually let go after the officer indicated he would use force.
Officers noted that both parents exhibited slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, and the smell of alcohol. May Mullin told authorities that the children had consumed two bottles of water, but police found one bottle to be half full. The couple was subsequently booked on child abuse charges. Neither Ryan nor May Mullin could be reached for comment.