(DCWatchdog.com) – In the heart of Benton County, Arkansas, a young couple’s despicable attempt to sell their infant for beer and money underscores the moral decay that seems to be permeating our society.
Darien Urban (21) and Shalene Ehlers (20) were arrested for allegedly trying to sell their 2-month-old baby for a six-pack of beer and $1,000 at a campground.
This atrocious act took place at the Hide Away Campground and RV Park near Beaver Lake in the Ozarks.
The Benton County Sheriff’s Office received a call about the incident on September 21.
Upon arrival, police found the baby in extremely poor condition, requiring immediate medical attention. The infant was taken to a local hospital with a full diaper, rash, blisters, swelling, and even dog hair inside the diaper.
Witnesses provided crucial evidence, including a letter and a video, documenting the couple’s intention to surrender their parental rights for $1,000. Urban and Ehlers signed a letter claiming, “I Darien Urban and Shalene Ehlers are signing our rights over to Cody Nathaniel Martin of our baby boy for $1,000 on 09/21/2024.”
The baby was initially handed over to a man named Ricky Crawford in exchange for several cans of beer. Crawford was found heavily intoxicated when questioned by the authorities.
Another man, Cody Nathaniel Martin, was set to finalize the deal with a cash payment. Martin claimed he intended to legalize the agreement on the following Monday.
Urban and Ehlers were charged with endangering the welfare of a minor and attempting to accept consideration for the relinquishment of a minor. Urban was released on a $50,000 bond, while Ehlers remains in custody under the same bond. It is unclear if the couple has secured legal representation.
Witnesses reported that Ehlers frequently asked for beer from other campers and that the couple gave the baby to a man in exchange for alcohol.
One witness filmed the interaction, providing additional evidence that the couple intended to sell their child. It was also noted that Ehlers expressed difficulty managing three dogs and a baby, leading to their sinister decision.
The Arkansas Department of Human Services has taken custody of the baby. In another troubling development, court documents concluded that Urban and Ehlers created a substantial risk of death or serious injury to the child.
According to the affidavit, the couple’s letter included a chilling disclaimer: “After signing this there will be no changing y’all two’s minds and to never contact again.”
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