A young couple from Arkansas has been taken into custody after reportedly attempting to sell their two-month-old infant in exchange for alcohol and money. Court documents reveal that Darien Urban (21), and Shalene Ehlers (20), were arrested on September 21st after a troubling incident was reported by a campground manager in Benton County.
How the Incident Unfolded
The manager reached out to local authorities, informing them of a disturbing situation involving Urban and Ehlers. Allegedly, the couple had drafted a written agreement, offering custody of their infant to a man named Cody Martin in exchange for a six-pack of beer and a $1,000 cashier’s check. According to WREG, the document, signed by both parents, included a statement prohibiting any further contact between the parties after the exchange.
Medical Concerns and Immediate Action
When law enforcement arrived on the scene, they quickly realized the baby was in need of medical care. Emergency medical personnel were called, and the infant was taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation. Fortunately, the child is now under the protection of the Arkansas Department of Human Services and is receiving the necessary care.
Witness Accounts Confirm the Incident
Multiple witnesses came forward to validate the attempted custody transfer, as noted in the court affidavit. A deputy also secured cellphone footage that allegedly showed Urban and Ehlers signing the contract with Martin, who had reportedly expressed interest in adopting the baby.
A campground resident named Ricky Crawford was also implicated in the incident. Witnesses say he had visited the couple earlier that day, offering to take the baby for a night in exchange for several cans of beer. Crawford, described as highly intoxicated, later admitted to transporting the baby to Martin.
Disturbing Conditions Surrounding the Baby’s Care
One of the witnesses reported that the baby was in poor condition, with a strong ammonia odor indicating neglect. The witness noticed the baby had a severely soiled diaper, and upon changing it, discovered diaper rash, blisters, and swelling. The severe neglect was documented through photographs, which were later provided to authorities.
Motivation Behind the Attempted Sale
During the investigation, Cody Martin told detectives that Ehlers had expressed frustration over managing both a baby and their three dogs. This prompted her decision to consider giving up the child. While Martin drafted the agreement, he clarified that no money had yet exchanged hands, though he had promised a $1,000 cashier’s check.
Legal Repercussions for the Parents
Following their arrest, Urban and Ehlers were charged with felony counts of endangering the welfare of a minor and attempting to negotiate the relinquishment of a minor for adoption. Urban was released on bail set at $5,000, while Ehlers remains in custody with bail set at $30,000.
This tragic case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of child welfare and the devastating consequences when parents are unable or unwilling to care for their children. The infant, now in protective custody, has been removed from a dangerous environment, and justice is being sought through the legal system.
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