MICHIGAN CITY, FL – A Detroit mother has been found guilty of felony child abuse and unlawful desertion after leaving her 1-year-old son on Florida’s Daytona Beach, leaving the child in grave danger. Her teenage son alerted authorities, citing disturbing behavior and claiming his mother believed she was possessed by demons.

The teenager reached out to police on Nov. 8, 2023, with alarming claims about his mother, Shamika Mitchell. “She sent my little brother somewhere,” he alleged during a frantic 911 call. “She said with his dad,” he insisted, adding a desperate plea for proof from his mother.

Mitchell, 38, now potentially faces a 35-year prison sentence following her conviction in Volusia County. During her trial, it was revealed that she was recorded on surveillance footage descending a beach access staircase with the toddler in her arms just before midnight, only to return alone minutes later.

The teenager continued to question his mother about the disappearance of his sibling, expressing concern over her recent episodes, the cause of which remains undetermined.

A passerby later stumbled upon the abandoned boy and likely saved his life. Detailed accounts revealed that the child was found in a perilous state, with his hands buried in the sand as waves crashed over him. He was unresponsive and exhibited shallow breathing, prompting immediate medical intervention.

First responders rushed him to Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, where he thankfully made a full recovery.

Following Mitchell’s arrest in December, Florida’s Department of Children and Families placed her five children, ages 1 to 17, into foster care. Their grandmother, Valerie Mitchell, made concerted efforts to gain custody but faced initial hurdles.

After persistent attempts, Valerie was reunited with her grandchildren on Dec. 19, 2023. Reflecting on their return, she described it as an unforgettable Christmas gift, overwhelmed with emotion after the children were placed in her care by a case manager.