An Arkansas couple has been arrested for allegedly trying to sell their two-month-old baby in exchange for a six-pack of beer and a $1,000 cashier’s check, according to local authorities.
The Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) was called on Saturday, September 21, after the manager of the Hide Away Campground reported that fiancés Darien Urban and Shalene Ehlers were attempting to trade their infant for cash and alcohol. Witnesses confirmed that the couple had written a letter, granting custody of the baby to Cody Martin in exchange for the money, according to the affidavit filed by Detective Wes Grube.
The agreement, signed by both Urban and Ehlers, contained a disturbing note stating, “there will be no changing y’all two’s minds and to never contact again.”
When BCSO Deputy C. Skaggs arrived, it was clear that the baby needed medical attention. The infant was transported to Children’s Hospital for evaluation. Urban and Ehlers were not present at the scene when the authorities arrived.
Court documents reveal that Ricky Crawford, a resident at the campground, had earlier offered to take the baby for the night in exchange for several cans of beer. The parents agreed and later signed a document in the presence of Cody Martin, promising to hand over their baby for $1,000, which they were told would be paid the following Monday.
During an interview with Detective Grube, Crawford was reportedly intoxicated, slurring his words, and struggling to maintain balance. He admitted to taking the baby and delivering the child to Martin. Urban later claimed the baby was with Martin, referring to the arrangement as an “adoption.”
Witness Felicia Ayers reported that the baby was in poor condition, with a strong ammonia smell and a dirty diaper. After changing the baby, she discovered severe diaper rash, swelling, and blisters, documenting the injuries with photographs.
Martin told investigators that while he drafted the agreement for Urban and Ehlers to sign, no money had been exchanged yet, but he had promised a $1,000 cashier’s check. The payment was never delivered.
Urban was released on a $5,000 bond on Tuesday, September 24, while Ehlers remains in custody at the Benton County Jail with a $30,000 bail. Both have been appointed public defenders, and no court date has been set.
Urban’s criminal history includes felony theft and domestic battery charges, while Ehlers was previously arrested for shoplifting.
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