Couple Accused of Trying To Sell Baby for Beer, $1,000

Couple Accused of Trying To Sell Baby for Beer, $1,000

An Arkansas couple faces serious charges after allegedly attempting to sell their baby for beer and cash at a campground.

At a Glance

  • Darien Urban (21) and Shalene Ehlers (20) are accused of trying to sell their 2-month-old baby for $1,000 and beer.
  • The incident reportedly occurred at Beaver Lake Hide-A-Way Campground in Arkansas on September 21.
  • The couple faces charges of endangering the welfare of a minor and attempting to accept consideration for relinquishment of a minor.
  • The baby was found in poor condition with severe diaper rash, blisters, and swelling.
  • The child is now in the care of the Arkansas Department of Human Services.

Shocking Allegations Emerge at Arkansas Campground

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office responded to a disturbing 911 call from the owner of Beaver Lake Hide-A-Way Campground on September 21. The call revealed that a young couple, Darien Tyler Urban (21) and Shalene Ehlers (20), had allegedly attempted to sell their two-month-old baby for a six-pack of beer and $1,000.

Upon arrival, authorities found the infant at the campground and immediately transferred the child to a hospital for evaluation. The biological parents were not present at the scene when law enforcement arrived.

Disturbing Details Emerge

Witnesses at the campground reported alarming details about the baby’s condition. One camper stated that the infant had a strong ammonia and fecal odor, along with severe diaper rash, blisters, and swelling. Another witness noted the presence of dog hair inside the baby’s diaper, raising further concerns about the child’s care.

During the investigation, police discovered a “contract” signed by Urban, Ehlers, and a would-be buyer named Cody Martin. The document, captured on video, indicated the sale of the baby for $1,000. The contract stated:

“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.”

Complex Circumstances Surrounding the Incident

The situation became more convoluted as additional details emerged. Ricky Crawford, another man at the campground, claimed he initiated the sale out of concern for the baby’s welfare. He allegedly offered several cans of beer in exchange for the child. Crawford and Martin then allegedly signed the document and proposed $1,000 for the baby.

Ehlers reportedly told authorities that they wanted to give the child up for adoption, stating “it was not working having three dogs and a baby.” She had also been observed frequently asking for beer from other campers.

Legal Consequences and Current Status

Urban and Ehlers now face charges of endangering the welfare of a minor and attempting to accept consideration for relinquishment of a minor. The Benton County Sheriff’s Office believes the couple created a substantial risk of death or serious physical injury by abandoning their child with an intoxicated male and someone they did not know.

The couple was initially taken into custody with a $50,000 bail. Urban has since been released on a $5,000 bond, while Ehlers remains in custody on a $30,000 bail. Public defenders have been appointed for both, but no court date has been set yet.

The baby is now under the care of the Arkansas Department of Human Services to preserve their safety and well-being as the legal process unfolds.

Sources

  1. Arkansas couple tried to sell baby for a 6-pack of beer and $1,000 at campground, police say
  2. Young Couple Allegedly Tried To Sell Baby For Six Pack Of Beer And Cash

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