An Arkansas couple, Darien Urban and Shalene Ehlers, were arrested for allegedly attempting to sell their two-month-old baby to another man at a campground for $1,000 and a six-pack of beer. The couple faces felony charges of endangering the welfare of a minor and attempting to accept compensation for relinquishment of a minor. The Benton County Sheriff’s Office received a call about the incident from the manager of the Hide Away Campground, who reported that Urban and Ehlers tried to give up their baby in exchange for money and beer.
The couple signed a letter granting custody of their child before handing the baby over to someone else, including a disclaimer that the child could not be returned. Witnesses at the campground corroborated the attempted adoption, and a deputy arrived at the scene to find the baby in need of medical attention. The child was eventually taken to a hospital for evaluation for signs of neglect and is now in the care of the Arkansas Department of Human Services. Witnesses reported that the baby had severe diaper rash, blisters, swelling, and a strong odor of ammonia and feces when found.
Ricky Crawford, a resident of the campground, had offered to take the baby for the night in exchange for several cans of beer. Crawford, who appeared intoxicated, expressed concern for the child’s well-being and wanted to remove the baby from Urban’s and Ehler’s care for the night, which they agreed to. Martin, the man who was involved in the attempted adoption, planned to provide the couple with a $1,000 check for the baby. Urban and Ehler claimed they were struggling financially, and the mother allegedly said it was difficult to care for a baby along with three dogs.
Urban was released on a $50,000 bond, while Ehlers remained in custody at the Benton County Jail on a $30,000 bail. The couple’s actions have sparked outrage and shock, as they attempted to sell their two-month-old baby for money and alcohol at a campground. The child was found in poor condition and needed medical attention, leading to an investigation by authorities. Witnesses and evidence, including a cellphone video, supported the allegations made against Urban and Ehlers.
This incident raises questions about the safety and well-being of children in vulnerable situations, as well as the morality and ethics of attempting to sell a baby for financial gain. The Arkansas Department of Human Services is now involved in the case, caring for the child who was the subject of the attempted sale by Urban and Ehlers. The couple’s history of financial struggles may have contributed to their decision to try to sell their child, but it does not excuse their actions. The legal process will determine the consequences for Urban and Ehlers, who are facing serious charges related to the endangerment of a minor.
It is crucial for communities and authorities to be vigilant and proactive in preventing child endangerment and exploitation cases like this one. The well-being and safety of children should be the top priority, and incidents like the attempted sale of a baby by Urban and Ehlers should be met with swift legal action and intervention to protect the child involved. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of ensuring that children are safe, cared for, and protected from harm, especially in situations where parents or caregivers are unable to provide the necessary care and support.
