In a shocking revelation, an Arkansas couple has been accused of attempting to trade their two-month-old son for alcohol and cash, raising serious concerns about child welfare.
Darien Urban, 21, and Shalene Ehlers, 20, allegedly proposed exchanging their baby for a six-pack of beer at a local campground. The alarming situation came to light when a concerned individual used the manager’s office phone to alert authorities, stating that the parents “tried to give up the baby for a six-pack of beer and then wanted $1,000 for the baby,” as detailed in court documents.
Potential legal consequences
The couple could face jail time and charges of endangering the welfare of a minor and attempting to accept consideration for relinquishment of a minor.
Authorities claim Urban and Ehlers signed a contract relinquishing their parental rights.
The contract allegedly read, “I, Darien Urban, and Shalene Ehlers are signing our rights over to Cody Nathaniel Martin of our baby boy [redacted] for $1,000 on 09/21/2024.
“Disclaimer: After signing this there will be no changing yall two’s minds and to never contact again.”
Authorities also report having obtained cell phone footage showing Urban and Ehlers signing the contract with the individual allegedly attempting to purchase the baby.
Additional disturbing details
Ehlers allegedly approached another couple at the campground seeking beer, as reported by legal filings.
Meanwhile, a man named Ricky Crawford is under scrutiny for supposedly offering beer to a couple in exchange for taking their baby overnight, a move that has raised serious safety concerns.
The affidavit read: “He asked if he could have the baby overnight and provided Urban and Ehlers with several cans of beer in exchange. Urban and Ehlers agreed and gave the baby along with a diaper bag to Crawford.”
“He then brought the baby to Martin at another camper at the campground. Ehlers and Urban then came to the same camper and spoke to Martin and Crawford before signing the letter.”
Investigation insights
A detective stated in court documents: “Based on the totality of the investigation, it is believed both Urban and Ehler created a substantial risk of death or serious physical injury by abandoning their minor child initially with an obviously intoxicated male and ultimately with someone they did not know.”
This disturbing incident underscores the need for vigilance and the protection of vulnerable children. The case continues to unfold as authorities seek justice for the alleged endangerment of the infant.