Couple Accused of Trying to Sell Baby for Cash and Beer

(DailyVantage.com) – An Arkansas couple is facing serious charges after allegedly attempting to sell their two-month-old baby for $1,000 and a six-pack of beer at a local campground. Darien Urban, 21, and Shalene Ehlers, 20, were arrested on charges of endangering the welfare of a minor and attempting to accept compensation for the relinquishment of their child.

According to an affidavit from the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, the couple tried to make the deal at the Hide Away Campground on September 21. The manager of the campground alerted authorities after hearing that the pair had offered to trade their baby for beer and money. Multiple witnesses confirmed the attempted exchange, and the couple even signed a letter granting custody of the infant to another man, stating that the child could not be returned.

When authorities arrived, the baby was found in poor condition, needing medical attention. A witness reported a strong ammonia and fecal odor coming from the child’s diaper, which had not been changed. Upon changing the diaper, the witness noticed the baby had severe diaper rash, blisters, and swelling, and documented the injuries with photographs. The baby was taken to the hospital for evaluation and is now under the care of the Arkansas Department of Human Services.

In a bizarre twist, it was revealed that Ricky Crawford, a campground resident who had previously offered to take care of the baby for several cans of beer, was involved in the incident. Crawford, who was reportedly intoxicated at the time, said he offered to take the baby out of concern for the child’s well-being after Ehlers had earlier asked another camper for beer. Although his intentions may have been rooted in concern, authorities noted that the child was abandoned with someone who was heavily intoxicated.

The investigation also uncovered cellphone video of the couple signing a contract with another man, identified as Martin, who had planned to pay $1,000 for custody of the child. Martin claimed that Ehlers had explained that “having three dogs and a baby” was not working for them. No money had yet exchanged hands, but Martin was preparing to pay the couple.

Urban has been released on a $50,000 bond, while Ehlers remains in jail on a $30,000 bond. The case has shocked the community, and the baby remains in state custody, receiving the care he needs.

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