(WNY News Now) – Jamestown, NY – A 40-year-old resident of Jamestown, faces charges of endangering the welfare of a child after police responded to reports of her allegedly living in a tent with a juvenile behind a residence on the east side of Jamestown.

On May 6, 2024, at 5:46 pm, officers from the 2nd platoon were dispatched to an address on the east side of Jamestown following reports of a female allegedly living in a tent with a child. Upon investigation, it was revealed that Debra M. Montenaro had been residing in a tent without adequate provisions, including food, water, or suitable living conditions, with a juvenile victim for an extended period.

Montenaro was subsequently taken into custody without further incident and transported to the Jamestown City Jail. She is currently held pending arraignment at the Jamestown City Court.

Fortunately, the child involved in the incident was found uninjured and has been entrusted to a family member’s care.

The charges against Montenaro, which include endangering the welfare of a child, highlight the seriousness of the situation.