Child-toting cyclist faces abuse charge

LAS CRUCES, N.M. (AP) - Las Cruces police say a bicyclist who was seen haphazardly carrying his 2-year-old daughter as he pedaled across traffic lanes has been charged with negligent child abuse.

Authorities say 21-year-old Peter Leon Rodriguez was spotted Wednesday morning by a Las Cruces police detective.

The detective says Rodriguez was holding the child under one arm while steering the bicycle with one hand. Police say Rodriguez appeared to have difficulty keeping the bicycle balanced as he meandered in and out of traffic lanes.

The child, who was wrapped in a blanket and wore only a soiled diaper, did not appear to be injured.

Rodriguez was booked into the Dona Ana County jail on $10,000 bond.