MONESSEN, Pa. — A toddler found crying alone on an exterior deck for up to 90 minutes led to child endangerment and drug charges against a Monessen man, police said.
Jessie Clendenen, of Monessen, faces charges including endangering the welfare of children, reckless endangerment, and drug possession following the April 16 incident on Lenawee Avenue.
Child discovered alone on porch
The case began when a concerned resident arrived at the Monessen Police Department during evening hours to report a small child crying outside a nearby home.
Officers responded to the residence and found the toddler alone on an exterior deck, visibly distressed and crying uncontrollably.
Police knocked on doors and windows but initially received no response. A neighbor also attempted to call the resident, later identified as Clendenen, but was unable to reach him.
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Key Points
• Toddler found alone outside Monessen home for up to 90 minutes
• Jessie Clendenen charged with child endangerment and drug possession
• Westmoreland County Children’s Bureau notified following incident
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Police make contact inside home
Officers eventually made contact with Clendenen inside the residence. After being alerted, he retrieved the child from the deck.
According to police, Clendenen said he and the child had eaten dinner and that he likely fell asleep, leaving the child unsupervised outside for an extended period.
While inside the home, officers reported observing marijuana on a table near the area where the child had been sleeping, leading to an additional drug possession charge.
Child welfare officials notified
Due to the circumstances, Monessen police contacted the Westmoreland County Children’s Bureau to assess the child’s safety and living conditions.
The case raises concerns about supervision and environmental risks, particularly involving very young children left unattended for extended periods.
Case status
Clendenen faces multiple charges and will proceed through the Westmoreland County court system, while child welfare authorities continue their involvement following the incident.