In a disturbing disclosure, a couple from Arkansas is facing allegations of trying to exchange their newborn son for alcohol and money, sparking significant concerns regarding the well-being of the child.
Darien Urban, 21, and Shalene Ehlers, 20, allegedly offered to exchange their infant for a six-pack of beer at a nearby campground. The unsettling situation came to light when a concerned individual used the manager’s office phone to inform authorities, claiming that the parents “tried to give up the baby for a six-pack of beer and then wanted $1,000 for the baby,” according to court filings.
Potential legal consequences
The couple may be subjected to imprisonment and legal charges for endangering the well-being of a minor and attempting to receive compensation in exchange for giving up a minor.
Urban and Ehlers have reportedly signed a contract that effectively gives up their parental rights, according to authorities.
Darien Urban and Shalene Ehlers supposedly signed a contract on 09/21/2024, relinquishing their rights to their baby boy [redacted] for a sum of $1,000.
Authorities have also obtained cell phone footage that shows Urban and Ehlers signing the contract with the individual who allegedly intended to purchase the baby. It is important to note that after signing the contract, there will be no possibility of changing their minds or contacting each other again.
Additional disturbing details
According to legal filings, Ehlers reportedly approached another couple at the campground, asking for beer.
A man named Ricky Crawford is currently being investigated for allegedly exchanging beer with a couple in return for taking their baby overnight. This incident has sparked significant concerns over the safety of the child involved.
According to the affidavit, Crawford asked Urban and Ehlers if he could take the baby overnight. In return, he gave them several cans of beer. Urban and Ehlers agreed to the arrangement and handed over the baby, along with a diaper bag.
Afterwards, he brought the baby to Martin at another camper located in the campground. Following that, Ehlers and Urban arrived at the same camper and engaged in a conversation with Martin and Crawford before proceeding to sign the letter.
Investigation insights
According to court documents, a detective stated that both Urban and Ehler put their minor child at risk of death or serious physical injury by leaving them with an intoxicated male and later with an unfamiliar person.
This alarming incident highlights the importance of remaining vigilant and safeguarding vulnerable children. The ongoing investigation aims to ensure that justice is served in response to the alleged endangerment of the infant.
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