A North Port woman accused of severely neglecting her two children is scheduled to stand trial starting October 26. Lisa Rambo, 47, faces charges of child abuse, child neglect, and aggravated assault of a police officer. The trial is expected to take about five days, including jury selection, according to court records.
The case dates back to February 2025, when a neighbor took custody of Rambo’s children after finding them locked out of their home. Officers described the children as cold, hungry, and barefoot. When North Port police responded, they say Rambo racked a firearm near the door and told them, “I’ve got something for you,” prompting officers to retreat. Investigators later learned the children had been eating leaves, drinking rainwater, and could not state their own birthdays or spell their names. A relative told detectives Rambo had a history of leaving the children in others’ care and drinking heavily.
The trial will likely bring difficult testimony and renewed attention to how child welfare cases move through the system here in Sarasota County. It is also a reminder of the role neighbors can play in spotting trouble early. If you suspect a child is in danger, Florida’s abuse hotline is available at 1-800-96-ABUSE.
What do you think this case says about how we look out for kids in our community? Let us know in the comments.
