A New York woman, Delfina Galvez, 26, turned herself in after police released surveillance footage showing her allegedly leaving her newborn baby girl in a Bronx neighborhood.
What Happened?
The incident occurred on the morning of December 29. CCTV footage showed Galvez carrying a green tote bag, which authorities allege contained her newborn... Continue reading here ▶
The baby was discovered outside a private home by a local resident, who quickly took action to ensure the child’s safety.
Resident’s Quick Response
At about 6:00 a.m., Mamadou Hafiz Jallow, a man living in the apartment where the baby was found, received a call from a neighbor while he was attending prayer services at a nearby mosque. Jallow rushed home and brought the baby inside.
Speaking to WABC, Jallow described the baby as being “very nicely wrapped” in blankets inside the tote bag. Concerned for the child’s safety due to the cold weather, he called 911 immediately. “It was too cold to leave the baby outside. I had to bring her in,” he explained.
Jallow also told WPIX that when he found the baby, she was moving her hand and blinking but remained quiet. Thankfully, the newborn was taken to NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi and is expected to recover fully.
The Law and Galvez’s Arrest
Under New York State’s Abandoned Infant Protection Act, parents can legally surrender newborns under 30 days old at safe locations such as hospitals, police stations, or firehouses, provided someone is notified. Unfortunately, Galvez did not follow these guidelines.
Galvez, who lives just a short distance from where the baby was abandoned, turned herself in at the NYPD’s 46th Precinct on December 30. She has been charged with first-degree reckless endangerment, abandonment of a child, and acting in a manner injurious to a child.
What’s Next?
The baby remains in the care of medical professionals and is in good condition. The incident serves as a reminder of the resources available for parents in difficult situations, including safe surrender laws that protect both the child and the parent when properly followed.
Authorities continue to investigate the case while ensuring the baby receives the care and safety she needs.