Who:
Pinellas County Sheriff's Office
Investigative Operations Bureau
-Crimes Against Children Unit
Patrol Operations Bureau

Christopher Lee Clark (Arrested)
DOB: 03/26/1970
Address: 6533 29^th Way North, St. Petersburg
Arrested for child neglect.

Victim is a 3-year-old female who is known to the suspect. Per Florida Statute 119.071 (2)(h)1, no further details will be released that would tend to identify the victim.

What:
Detectives assigned to the Crimes Against Children Unit have arrested a St. Petersburg man for child neglect after a three-year-old girl who was in his care and custody obtained synthetic marijuana (spice) and ingested it.

When:
Detectives began investigating the case on Sunday, January 10, 2016.

Where:
The incident occurred in a private residence in St. Petersburg.

Why/How:
According to investigators, the suspect, identified as 45-year-old Christopher Lee Clark, obtained synthetic marijuana (street spice) and had it in his pocket. At some point during the evening of Saturday, January 9, 2016, the child, a three-year-old girl, took the spice from the suspect’s pocket and ate it.  The exact quantity is unknown at this time.

Detectives say through the night the victim began getting progressively ill. She vomited overnight and by the morning of Sunday, January 10, 2016 was lethargic and unresponsive.

Clark called 9-1-1 late morning on Sunday, January 10, 2016. The child was transported by ambulance to All Children’s Hospital for treatment of life-threatening injuries.

Crimes Against Children detectives were summoned and began their investigation.

Detectives say the suspect admitted he purchased the spice. He further admitted he had knowledge that the child had ingested the spice. Additionally, the investigation revealed that Clark had smoked spice on at least two occasions while the child was in his care and custody.

Clark was arrested for child neglect and transported to the Pinellas County Jail without further incident.

Detectives say the child is expected to survive.

The investigation continues.