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Couple Accused Of Leaving Child In Hot Car Appears In Court

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- A local couple was in court Friday to face charges for leaving a baby in a car.

The officer who arrested Terri Hymes told the court he found a 2-year-old boy slumped over and unresponsive in a car seat in a vehicle with the windows rolled up on an 80 degree night.

He also claimed that Hymes came outside of bar and was allegedly highly-intoxicated when she tried to get into her car and leave.

Her relatives attended the hearing.

"She loves her kid, and it's not the way everybody's making it seem. She's a good mom, and she made a mistake, and she shouldn't have to pay for it and she still shouldn't be in jail," said Kim Ford, Hymes' aunt.

"We know she made a huge mistake and as a family, you know… she is allowed to have her day in court," added Josie Bryant, Hymes' aunt.

Hymes was held over for trial on charges of felony child endangerment, disorderly conduct and public drunkenness.

Archie Howard, a man who was with Hymes that night, was also held over for trial on misdemeanor child endangerment and disorderly conduct.

The judge continued Hymes' bond at $100,000.

Hymes' family is angry, saying they have not been allowed to see her since she's been in jail and they say she has mental health issues.

"We want her to get the help and support that she needs; and we as a family, we're here. I mean, throwing her under the bus is not going to help us help her as she moves forward," said Bryant.

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