A young couple in Arkansas faces serious charges after allegedly attempting to sell their 2-month-old baby for beer and cash at a campground.
At a Glance
- Darien Urban (21) and Shalene Ehlers (20) charged with endangering a minor and attempting to sell their baby
- Couple allegedly offered infant for a six-pack of beer and $1,000 at an Arkansas campground
- Baby found in poor condition, now in custody of Arkansas Department of Human Services
- Incident occurred at Hide Away Campground and RV Park in Rogers, Arkansas
Shocking Allegations Emerge from Arkansas Campground
In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, a young couple from Benton County, Arkansas, stands accused of attempting to sell their infant child for beer and money. Darien Urban, 21, and Shalene Ehlers, 20, were arrested after authorities received reports of their alleged attempt to exchange their 2-month-old baby for a six-pack of beer and $1,000 at the Hide Away Campground and RV Park in Rogers, near Beaver Lake in the Ozarks.
The Benton County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call on September 21, leading to the discovery of the infant in dire need of medical attention. Witnesses at the campground provided both a letter and video evidence showing the parents’ apparent willingness to relinquish their parental rights in exchange for alcohol and cash.
Disturbing Details of the Alleged Transaction
According to court documents, Urban and Ehlers signed a handwritten note stating their intention to give up custody of their child. The affidavit reportedly contained the following statement:
“I, Darien Urban and Shalene Ehlers are signing our rights over to (name of a man) of our baby boy (name redacted) for $1,000 on 09/21/2024,” the affidavit alleged.
The note also included a chilling disclaimer: “After signing this there will be no changing yall two’s minds and to never contact again.” This statement underscores the gravity of the situation and the apparent disregard for the child’s well-being.
Child’s Welfare and Legal Consequences
Upon arrival at the scene, law enforcement found the baby in a severely neglected state. The infant reportedly had a full diaper, rashes, blisters, swelling, and even dog hair inside the diaper, indicating a serious lack of care. The child was immediately taken to a local hospital for evaluation and treatment.
Urban and Ehlers now face serious legal repercussions for their alleged actions. They have been charged with endangering the welfare of a minor and attempting to accept consideration for relinquishment of a minor. These charges reflect the severity of the alleged crime and the potential harm inflicted on the innocent child.
The Arkansas Department of Human Services has taken custody of the baby, ensuring the child’s safety and well-being. Meanwhile, Urban has been released on a $50,000 bond, while Ehlers remains in custody with the same bond amount set.
This shocking incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of child protection and the need for vigilance in our communities. It also raises questions about the circumstances that could lead young parents to consider such a desperate and illegal act, highlighting potential issues of substance abuse, poverty, and lack of support systems for struggling families.
