Nov. 7, 2026, 8:27 p.m. ET
A South Carolina father was arrested after he allegedly left his 6-year-old daughter sleeping outside a Target in the middle of the night so he could hold his place in line for a new Pokémon trading card release, police said.
John-Michael Dooley, 35, of Johns Island, was arrested Nov. 6, after Charleston police responded to reports of an unattended child at a Target in the city’s West Ashley neighborhood.
Officers arrived around 2:30 a.m. local time and learned that Dooley had been waiting in line with his daughter, alongside numerous other customers anticipating the release of a new Pokémon trading card set, according to Charleston police.
Witnesses told officers that sometime after 1 a.m., Dooley gave his daughter a pillow and blanket before leaving her asleep in line. After about an hour passed without his return, concerned customers contacted police.
When Dooley returned to the store, witnesses identified him to officers, who arrested him. During an interview with detectives, Dooley admitted he had gone home and left his daughter unattended so he could maintain his place in line and purchase the cards, police said.
The girl was unharmed and placed into emergency protective custody with the South Carolina Department of Social Services, authorities said.
What Pokémon cards were being released?
The incident occurred during the release of a new expansion for the Pokémon Trading Card Game, “Mega Evolution – Delta Reign,” which went on sale Nov. 6, NBC News reported.
The Pokémon franchise, which began as a video game in Japan, has grown into a global entertainment brand featuring video games, television shows and collectible trading cards. Players collect cards featuring fictional creatures and use them in games against other players.
Trading card packs start at around $5, according to NBC News.
Police did not specify whether Dooley intended to purchase the cards for himself or his daughter.
What charges does the father face?
Dooley was charged with unlawful conduct toward a child and is being held at the Al Cannon Detention Center, according to the Charleston Police Department.
His bond was set at $40,000, according to Charleston County court records. His initial court appearance is scheduled for Dec. 18.
USA TODAY was unable to identify an attorney representing Dooley.
Reporter Anthony Thompson can be reached at ajthompson@usatodayco.com or on X @athompsonUSAT
Leave a Reply