Loaded handgun found in child's bag at day care

CAMDEN, N.J. (WPVI) -- Police say they've arrested the father of an 11-month-old girl after a day care worker found a loaded handgun in the child's bag.

It happened at El Centro Day Care Center in Camden Tuesday morning.

Employees there were horrified when they opened up one their client's diaper bags to find a 9mm gun loaded with hollow point bullets.

"That is a weapon for maximum damage. It's a stolen 9mm, in was stolen from Philadelphia back in 2009," said Chief Scott Thomson, Camden County Police Department.

Investigators say the weapon was found shortly after the infant girl was dropped off at the daycare by her mother and her father 25-year-old Rakeem Williams.

Authorities were quickly notified. Police went to Williams' home and he reportedly admitted that the gun was his and he was arrested.

The suspect does have a criminal past, including a felony drug dealing conviction.

Under New Jersey law, the felony prohibits Williams from even legally owning a firearm.

Legal issues aside though, Camden Thomson says this was an incredibly irresponsible and potentially dangerous decision.

"It kind of defies logic. One would think that even if you were legally carrying a firearm, the last place you would want it is anyplace that is in close proximity to a child particularly and infant," said Chief Thomson.

Action News went to the Williams family home in Lindenwold, but no one answered the door.

Neighbors say this story is simply unbelievable.

"We don't have those problems here and to hear this happen with a child 11-months old is very disturbing," said Michelle Owens.

"I have grandkids that I bring around and to know that this is in my block is very scary," said Kenneth Sterling.

Williams was taken into custody with bail set at $50,000. The child's mother is not facing charges.

As for the infant, she was put in the custody of the state.