Philadelphia Father Sentenced For Leaving Kids In Car While He Gambled

DOYLESTOWN, Pa. (CBS) - Another father has appeared before a judge in Bucks County and admitted that he left his children in his car while he was gambling inside Parx Casino in Bensalem.

Tan Truong, 38, of Northeast Philadelphia, pleaded guilty to endangering the welfare of children and was sentenced to two years' probation, ordered to undergo parenting classes, and perform 25 hours of community service.  He was also banned from the gambling hall during those two years.

Authorities say Truong left his six-year-old and eight-year-old daughters inside a minivan while he belatedly celebrated his birthday late last year.

"He certainly expressed remorse as to the decision, and indicated that he wouldn't do it again -- but he didn't really give an explanation," said Bucks County prosecutor Blake Jackman after the hearing.

Jackman says Truong left the girls in the car for about 30 minutes, around 1:00 AM.  Police went inside the casino to look for him and eventually tracked him down, with the casino's help, through his player's card.

Reported by Brad Segall, KYW Newsradio 1060.