David Hogarth, the Seminole County man who was being investigated for child neglect after his arrest on charges of operating a marijuana grow house, said Friday he wants to see his daughter while he is out of jail on bond.

The child, dubbed Baby Penelope, is currently in the care of the Florida Department of Children and Families. Concerns about her health brought investigators to Hogarth's home in May.

When investigators demanded Hogarth and the child's mother, Jessica McCreery, take Penelope to a doctor, McCreery left the state with the then-7-month-old baby, prompting a nationwide search.

Since then, DCF officials said Hogarth has tested positive twice for THC, the active ingredient of cannabis.

The judge said she will make a decision in seven days.


Photos of baby Penelope (pictured with her mother, Jessica McCreery, caused DCF to concern for the baby's health in May 2015.


Jessica McCreery and baby Penelope in s photo taken out of state on May 14, 2015, to show authorities the two were alive and well. (Mark O'Mara)


The most recently released photo of baby Penelope, dated June 9, 2015. (O'Mara Law Group)