Autistic and deaf boy reunited with parents in Tampa

From: Tampa Bay's 10 - St. Petersburg,FL,USA - Sept 6, 2007

By: Alexandra Hackett

Tampa, Florida - Just after 6 am Thursday morning, Cory Dabes was reunited with his mother and caretakers.

Authorities say the 14-year-old lives in a residential care facility on Colby Lane. He was found around 2:30 this morning walking by himself about a mile away in the middle of Fowler Avenue near 22nd Street.

Because of his condition, Cory has no communication skills. He was unable to tell authorities his name or address. Tampa Police and Hillsborough County Sheriff's Deputies went door to door for hours, trying to find out where he lived.

His caretakers noticed he was missing and called 911. Cory's mom Jo Ann tells Tampa Bay's 10 News she doesn't blame anyone for the situation. She says Cory has a tendency to sneak out when no one is watching. Somehow he figured out how to unlock the door.

Police say the facility is licensed and cares for Cory and another child. At this point ,they say, no charges will be filed.

Alexandra Hackett, Tampa Bay's 10 News © 2007