Mother vacationing in Vegas arrested for leaving teen, dogs home alone in Putnam County

Jessica Copeland, 37, is charged with child neglect and animal torment. (WCJB)
Published: Aug. 6, 2025 at 4:19 PM EDT

PALATKA, Fla. (WCJB) - A Putnam County mother is in jail for leaving her child at home as she vacationed in Las Vegas.

Jessica Copeland, 37, is charged with child neglect and animal torment.

Deputies say the teen, whose age was not released, was left home alone for two weeks as Copeland was in Vegas.

Deputies also found seven dogs in the home, observing feces in several parts of the home.

Copeland made a first appearance on Wednesday and is being held on a $36,500 bond.

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