Parents of 6-Year-Old Driver to Appear in Court

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The Associated Press
Friday, January 9, 2009; Page B05

A Virginia couple arrested after their 6-year-old son crashed the family car while trying to drive himself to school are scheduled to appear in court on child-endangerment charges.

Jaqulyn Waltman and David Dodson are to be arraigned Friday on one count each of felony child endangerment in Northumberland County Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court.

Commonwealth's Attorney R. Michael McKenney said lawyers likely will be appointed for the 26-year-old Waltman and 40-year-old Dodson.

Police say the boy drove a Ford Taurus after missing the bus Monday morning. He made it about 6 miles before crashing into a utility pole. He wasn't seriously injured.

Waltman remains jailed. Dodson was released on a $5,000 bond.

The child and his 4-year-old brother are in protective custody.