Mom gets probation after leaving children alone in Detroit casino garage

DETROIT (WJBK) - A woman received probation Monday for leaving her two infants in the car in a parking structure while gambling at a Detroit casino.

Clelie Choute, 27, was sentenced to two years of probation, gambling addicts anonymous, parenting classes, fines and a ban from casinos. She was originally charged with two counts of second-degree child abuse for leaving her children unattended in the MGM Grand Casino parking structure.

Mother charged for leaving infants in Detroit casino garage

After receiving a call around 11:55 p.m. Aug. 19, casino security found a 2-year-old boy and a 6-month-old girl in a vehicle. Detroit police rescued the children and arrested Choute, who was found inside the casino. The children were released to their father.

Before learning her sentence, Choute told 36th District Court Judge Roberta Archer she had been diagnosed with post-partum depression after giving birth to her first child.

"I sought out treatment (and) continued that treatment. When I got pregnant with my daughter, a lot of things changed in my life, including my separation as well as some health issues and just the weight of life," she said. "I did not see the signs that were around as far as being depressed."

Archer said while she understands there were deeper issues in the case than just child neglect, Choute must remember there are no do-overs in parenting.

"Often times it gets in the way of our social lives. And it's difficult, but it is the best job and it is such a blessing," she said.

Choute's takeaway:

"Make better choices and focus on my children, although I've always focused on my children but I also want to make sure that the decisions that I make reflect upon their future," she said.

Watch the sentencing on FOX 2 News Now: