My Husband abandoned myself & my Toddler for 7 days last week. How do I protect myself?

My Husband "abandoned" myself & my Toddler for 7 days last week. He took my car to play Poker, said he would be back the next night and then turned his phone off for the remaining 5 days. He knew I had no money, transportation or necessities. I even ran out of diapers. He came home this morning then left again a few hours later to drive all the way back to Commerce Casino in LA from where we live in San Diego, CA. His reason he has to leave us and leave us with nothing to play Poker is because he cannot pay the bills. (I know, I know... He has a gambling problem - more severe than I ever imagined - and he REALLY thinks it is his only hope for financial recovery) I am finally ready to divorce him and have mailed in my dissolution papers. Once I receive them back I am going to follow through. I'm not sure how - it's going to be so hard but I know I have to. In the meantime, I would really appreciate any advice on what I should do regarding his abandonment. Should I be reporting this to the police or the court? I REALLY don't want to cause more strife between us (I don't know this man anymore and I know it's in my best interest to play it cool and not complain or threaten his gambling), however I DO want to be sure I do everything to my advantage to ensure I rightfully get the Custody priviledges and financial support I deserve. Thanks in advance & God Bless