An American couple from Arkansas has been arrested for allegedly attempting to sell their two-month-old baby to a man at a campground in exchange for $1,000 and a six-pack of beer. according to Fox News.
Darien Urban, 21, and Shalene Ehlers, 20, face felony charges of endangering the welfare of a minor and attempting to accept compensation for relinquishment of a minor, according to the Benton County Sheriff’s Office.
On September 21, the sheriff’s office received a report from the manager of the Hide Away Campground, who claimed the couple had tried to give their baby away in exchange for a six-pack of beer, later increasing their demand to $1,000. According to an affidavit, multiple witnesses witnessed the incident.
Urban and Ehlers reportedly signed a letter relinquishing custody of their child to another man, Cody Nathaniel Martin. The letter said: “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.”
A cellphone video of the couple signing the contract was reportedly obtained by investigators. Witnesses also reported that a heavily intoxicated resident of the campground, Ricky Crawford, had earlier offered to take the baby for the night in exchange for several cans of beer. He later handed the baby to Martin, after Urban and Ehlers agreed to the exchange.
The affidavit revealed that when a deputy arrived at the scene, the child was found to be in poor condition, requiring medical attention. Emergency services transported the infant to the hospital, where he was evaluated for signs of neglect. Witnesses reported a strong smell of ammonia and faeces emanating from the baby, who had a dirty diaper, severe diaper rash, blisters, and swelling.
Martin told deputies that while no money had been exchanged at the time, he planned to bring the couple a $1,000 cheque on September 23. The couple said they intended to “legalise” the agreement on the following Monday.
Urban was released on a $50,000 bond, while Ehlers remains in custody on a $30,000 bail. The child is now under the care of the Arkansas Department of Human Services.