Couple accused of trying to sell baby for money and beer at Benton County campground

Sep 25, 2024 at 12:26 AM

Heartbreaking Betrayal: Parents Accused of Attempting to Sell Infant for Beer and Cash

In a shocking turn of events, two individuals have been arrested in Benton County, Arkansas, for allegedly trying to sell their 2-month-old baby in exchange for a six-pack of beer and $1,000. The disturbing case has sparked outrage and raised concerns about the welfare of the infant, who is now in the care of the Arkansas Department of Human Services.

Unthinkable Bargain: Parents Accused of Trying to Sell Infant for Alcohol and Money

Shocking Allegations: Couple Charged with Endangering Welfare of Minor and Attempted Adoption Consideration

According to the probable cause report, Darien Urban, 21, and Shalene Ehlers, 20, the parents of the 2-month-old baby, were arrested by the Benton County Sheriff's Office. They are facing charges of endangering the welfare of a minor and attempting to commit consideration for relinquishing a minor for adoption. The prosecutor has stated that the infant is now under the care of the Arkansas Department of Human Services, ensuring the child's safety and well-being.

Campground Chaos: Witnesses Claim Parents Tried to Sell Baby for Beer and Cash

The incident unfolded at the Hide-A-Way campground in Benton County, where a person contacted the authorities, reporting that the parents of a 2-month-old baby were attempting to sell the child for a six-pack of beer and a cashier's check for $1,000. The caller also expressed concerns about the baby's need for medical attention.

Disturbing Evidence: Letter and Cellphone Video Implicate Parents in Attempted Sale

When deputies arrived at the campground, the parents were not present, and the baby was immediately taken to a hospital for evaluation. According to the affidavit, witnesses provided investigators with a letter that stated the parents' intention to sign over their rights to the child. Additionally, a witness had cellphone video footage of the couple signing the letter, further corroborating the allegations.

Conflicting Accounts: Parents Claim Baby Was "Adopted" by Another Person

Witnesses reported that the baby had been given to someone at the campground in exchange for beer, and later, the infant was passed off to another person for money, although the payment was never actually made. When interviewed, Urban and Ehlers stated that the baby was with the person who had "adopted" it, further complicating the investigation.

Grave Concerns: Authorities Prioritize Infant's Welfare Amid Disturbing Allegations

The case has raised serious concerns about the well-being of the 2-month-old baby, who was allegedly subjected to a heartbreaking attempt at being sold for a mere six-pack of beer and a small sum of cash. The authorities have taken swift action to ensure the child's safety and have placed the infant in the care of the Arkansas Department of Human Services, where the child will receive the necessary support and protection.

Ongoing Investigation: Authorities Seek Justice and Answers in Disturbing Case

The Benton County Sheriff's Office and the prosecutor's office are continuing their investigation into this disturbing case. They are working to uncover the full extent of the alleged crimes and to ensure that the appropriate legal actions are taken to hold the accused individuals accountable for their actions. The well-being of the infant remains the top priority, and the authorities are committed to providing the necessary resources and support to ensure the child's safety and well-being.