And we put charges against you for smoking in front of a 2-year-old. >> I'm currently pending charges for a battery. >> Against her? >> Yes, sir. >> How many seconds prior or and or minutes did you know for your girl back there to have the pills on her? >> I'm sitting here in my daughter's life for one. >> Little town >> Three. >> Little town police. >> Hey, you okay? >> Yeah. >> We selling drugs. I don't care. This is all I want is food. >> Some people become parents but never stop putting their addictions first, leaving their kids to pay the price. But what happens when officers step in and save kids from their nightmare parents? >> We got a call. People going in the car. >> Okay, Ashley, if you you can come back here and get him. I'm assuming we're seeing smoking inside of a vehicle with the kid in the car. >> It would be really different if you didn't have a baby in the backseat. >> These were the moments when cops saved kids [music] from nightmare parents. Starting with the case of two women and a 2-year-old girl who were pulled over on a routine traffic stop. However, [music] when the cops started to check the car and talk to them, a disturbing scenario started to unfold. >> What type of pills you have in there? Is that a prescription there? >> Well, we can smell it a mile away and as we get up closer to your car, you put it out right beside us. You have a infant in your car. Do you understand that? I've seen a lot of the smoking in front of a 2-year-old with the windows up? Stupid. >> I'm so sorry. Oh, my god. I ruined her life. >> On February 25th, 2024, officers pulled over a vehicle after it failed to use a turn signal. Inside were two women and a young child and at first, the interaction [music] seemed completely ordinary. But something caught the officers' attention and what started as a minor traffic stop was about to become something much more serious. >> Hey, hey, good evening. >> Hey. >> Yeah, you you're good. You go ahead. Have a nice day. I'm Stephanie McDade, Hamilton County Sheriff's Office. I'm in the state of Iowa. Being audio and video recorded. I'm well, thank you. The reason why I stopped you is to say you should use your turn signal coming in but when you made your left hand change, you forgot to use your turn signal there. >> Okay. >> Okay. Where have you come from tonight? >> You been working or >> Uh no, we were coming to get dinner. >> And I with uh young >> Uh yes, that's This is my friend and that's my daughter. That's her friend. >> Is this your vehicle? >> Yeah. >> Yeah, do you have your registration as well? >> What box? >> What type of pills do you have in there? Is that prescription there? >> Uh yeah, those are hers. >> Uh okay. Hey, we'll grab that in a moment. If you guys just don't mind stepping out of the vehicle a moment. >> hadn't even been at the scene for long before they had had enough to act. The suspicious smell was strong and the signs inside the car were hard to ignore. But what troubled the officer the most was the child sitting in the back seat [music] completely exposed to all of it. >> Give everything in the car for me. Thank you. Is this your kid? >> No, that's hers. >> Okay. Keep your hands out of pockets. Step back here for me. >> Can I get I will explain everything. Do you have anything on you that's going to harm me or yourself? >> No. >> Do you mind me patting you down for anything? >> Yeah, go for it. >> Do you have any weapons or anything like that? >> No. >> Just come back in front of my vehicle for me. >> My daughter I don't want to go too far. >> No, no, no, just stand there. >> I'll stay right here. I just want to make sure she's okay. >> I'm going to make sure I'm going to pat down, okay? Just make sure. All right, I appreciate it. >> I have some keys in my pocket. >> Yeah, that's that's fine. Just hang out there for a second, okay? Pay attention to me, okay? Just going to read your Miranda warning, okay? Do you understand these rights? >> Pay attention. >> Do you have the right to remain silent? You want to answer any questions? Okay, good. Put her in handcuffs. You two. >> Wait. What? >> Hands behind your back. Who can come pick up your kid? >> I have my cousin coming. >> Okay. >> Why why are we being arrested? >> We'll tell you. So, you're I get it. It's legal in almost all the states. We're not out here being the police, but we can smell it a mile away and as we get up closer to your car, you put it out right beside us. You have a infant in your car. Do you understand that? How stupid can you be? >> You're right. >> That is insane. >> You're right. >> The amount of disappointment in you right now is through the roof for me right now. Including you that you let her do it or if you were doing it yourself. What do you think a judge or a jury was going to think about How old are you? >> 29. >> 29. How do you feel about a judge or a jury and we put charges against you for smoking in front of a 2-year-old? >> You're right. >> How do you think they're going to feel about that? >> Not well. >> Can I call my >> No, you can't call anyone. Stop talking. I'm talking. This is insanity. 10 years of being a cop, I have never seen a two-year-old in the back of a car and her parents are smoking with her. Insane. Who can come pick up your kid? >> I just spoke to my boyfriend and he said he'll come. He's not available. >> Where do they live? >> In Anderson. >> The mother's claims of concern for her two-year-old daughter did little to move the police. As far as the officer was concerned, her actions had already spoken louder than any words she could offer. >> Is something you do every day? >> No, sir. I don't typically smoke around her. >> Were you smoking in front of her, huh? >> No. >> I've seen a lot of the smoking in front of a two-year-old with the windows up. Stupid. You're in the handcuffs. You don't seem upset. >> I'm very upset, sir. I >> can't even do my job right because her parent can't come get her. How am I supposed to search your car when there's a two-year-old in the in the back of the car? >> I'm sorry. I need to call. I need to call. >> This is your phone? >> Yes, sir. >> Yeah, and who Okay, we're going to organize someone to come pick her up, okay? >> Jessica? >> What? >> Is John home? >> I really need you to come get her. I'm going to jail. >> How far? >> I would say probably 30 to 35 minutes. >> Okay. You guys have a protective order? >> Yeah, it's complicated, sir. >> Are you guys a couple or what? >> Not currently. I'm currently pending charges for a battery. >> Against her? >> Yes, sir. >> Who's the protected party? >> She is. >> How old is your daughter? >> She's two. I love you. Mommy's so sorry. >> Honestly, God, I think this is going to be the worst punishment you can get other than a What I mean, whatever the judge gives you, that's whatever, but I want the next half hour to be absolutely hell for you knowing that you're I I Well, that's where I wanted it. I'm being honest with you. You're standing It's like a It's like a movie. You're standing out in the rain, handcuffed due to your actions. >> I'm so sorry. Oh, my god. I ruined her life. I thought I [ __ ] up when I got the battery charged. I really [ __ ] up now. She doesn't deserve this [ __ ] She didn't ask to be here. >> Is this your first kid? >> It's my only kid. >> As if exposing her daughter to illegal substances wasn't enough, it turned out the mother had an additional legal problem on her hands. Then, facing the very real possibility of going to jail, her biggest worry had suddenly become the child she had just finished putting at risk. >> I'm going to jail for a long time, sir. >> No, you're not. You'll probably be out by the end of the night. >> I violated a protective order, sir. >> Well, Madison County's not going to know that until a week from now. >> And then I'm going to jail again? >> If they revoke your bond. >> I know it was a home bond. I was on the wire. >> Okay. If they revoke your PTR. >> She's not going to get punished for breaking a protective order, right? >> There's no Indiana laws that she broke. >> I didn't think so. I was trying to make sure. I don't want her to get in trouble for that. >> The protection order's been served, so they're not supposed to be hanging out. >> So, they shouldn't be protected parties. They should be protected too. >> So, she was the respondent. >> Respondent in that. Okay, I see. >> Violating order. >> Yes, so it'll be invasion of privacy. >> Invasion of privacy plus plus whatever you got the car >> Yeah, and that. Okay. >> How did you find the adjustment from having no kids to having a kid? Was it tough? >> Yeah, it was not easy. Thankfully, I was living with my sister at the time, so she helped me. Yeah, a little bit. We moved out when she was 4 months old though. It was a lot to handle by myself, to be honest. I wouldn't change a single thing. I'm so sorry, baby. I love you. Sir, you my daughter's about to leave my sight. I don't think you understand that that doesn't happen unless I work. I am stressed. >> The officer wasn't just building a case. He was also giving the mother a chance to do the right thing. Whether she would take it was another question. >> Is there anything illegal in this car? >> Yes, sir. >> Like I told you from the beginning, I was pretty pissed off at you. I've calmed down, okay? >> Yes, sir. >> The first thing that we need you to do is understand that you made a mistake, right? >> Yes, sir. >> So, you already did that part. >> I've already done that thing. I don't want to ruin her life. >> No, no, you didn't ruin anyone's life. So, let me tell you this. You're on the right track, and honesty goes a long way with us, okay? Now's the time to tell me what's illegal inside this car cuz I am not going to waste his time and I'm not going to waste my time. What's illegal inside the car? >> Sir, I'm so scared. I'm going to go to jail. >> I'll tell you right now. We're typing up that report tonight. What's going to look better, okay? I just want you to do this. I just want you to picture it. We're typing up that report tonight and Elizabeth, do you go by Liz or Elizabeth? >> Liz. >> Liz said there was nothing illegal in the car, okay? Just picture that. I take my K9 out of the out of the back of my car. As soon as you get done saying that and I put it inside that car and he finds What's going to look better? That scenario or Liz said she made a mistake. Liz tells me where I'm going to find it. >> I know you're going to find it. >> Okay, so go ahead. >> There is in the car. >> Okay. >> And there is in the car. >> Where's the drugs at? >> I cannot attest to that. >> Where would it they have been at? >> On Justice of the Peace in last I was aware. >> Okay. Well, let me tell you this. Where were you guys coming from tonight? >> We came from Anderson. >> You were coming from Anderson? What way did you take to get here? >> 32. >> I took I think it was State Road 38 or something and then up 900 West and 32. When you caught us, we were circling back around to get >> You know I've been talking to her. >> Yes, sir. >> Do you want to keep that story? >> Was that the way we came from the >> I'm just asking you a simple question. I've been doing this for a long time. I've been absent from your conversation for probably what, 10, 15 minutes investigating. Is that the story you want to keep? I'll give you a minute and 30 seconds to decide if that's the story you want to keep and then we'll go from there. But once again, you got to start somewhere. And if you haven't been a very honest person or a very good Oh, hold on, please. I'm not calling you not honest. I'm just putting this into your head in the relationship with us stopping you. >> Mhm. >> How many seconds prior or and or minutes did you know for your girl back there to have the pills on her? To your knowledge, she still has them on her or did you watch her put her in her pant pocket? >> No, she was carrying them in carrying them driving the car. I'm not aware. >> Okay. >> I don't know what >> Okay. >> officer said. >> Focus. >> I didn't ask her like hold it for me or anything like that. That's not what's happening. >> Okay. We're off to a good start. I like that for you. Didn't didn't it feel good to just be honest? >> Yeah. I'm typically an honest person. I was scared when you guys pulled us >> I know you are. >> I'm already in trouble. Me and Justice have a protective order. I was already >> But hey, I'll tell you what. Tonight is the last night you [ __ ] around [music] with >> You're >> or pills or anything tonight. >> Let it be tonight. >> I was already thinking about quitting and it >> This is what you needed because you weren't going to quit without us. >> You're right. You're absolutely right, sir. >> Your your your life is spiraling. >> You're right. It is downhill fast. >> Yep. >> And I'm watching it do it. >> You feel better? You feel good? I know you're not feeling like good mentally. >> No. >> But it's a start. That I know people always say it's legal. It's legal here. It's legal there. But what was the first drug you ever did in your life? >> Meth. >> Okay. >> Sir, I don't typically do heroin. >> I understand. >> I don't want to punish her with the warrant. They're not all mine. >> Okay. But you didn't see her throw them or anything like that before the stop? >> I don't think so, sir. I really don't know where they would be. Um there is a grinder in the car, too. >> What about the big old >> I don't remember where it was put out. When we spotted you, we had switched hands. She said she wasn't smoking. She wanted to put it out. >> Okay. So, did you put it out or did she put it out? >> She put it out. I believe maybe somewhere in the car. >> Okay. And now, correct me if I'm wrong. Remind you, my car is always recording 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. I want you to realize you're doing the right thing tonight, okay? Hang tight with him. Hopefully, this is one of these cars that are your >> I don't feel like I'm doing the right thing, sir. >> You are. You are. Look at your daughter when you're talking about this. You're doing the right thing. >> If Liz had at least tried to appear regretful, Justice took a completely different approach. Caught in a lie almost immediately, she still chose to stick to her story even as the officer made it clear he had seen exactly what she had done with his own eyes. >> I'm on my 10th year of being a law enforcement officer. Seven of them I did narcotics. I know that there's something else on you. I want to make something very clear here. I gave you that one opportunity, remember? Where would the be at? I'll tell you what, I'm going to do something that's kind of unorthodox in policing. I'm going to give you a minute to a minute 30 seconds to get your story straight. Underneath her seat, the driver seat. What are they in? >> They're in my front pocket. >> Well, she's saying it's on your person. >> It's not on my person. It's in my front pocket. >> You can search me. >> Where was the last place you saw them? You just dropped them between the seat. I saw you do it. >> Yeah, you did. I >> No, I didn't. >> I saw you drop them between the seat. >> I swear it. No, I didn't. You can you can have it. I don't know. >> No, we're I am going to look. Okay? Okay. So, kind of one thing that we do, like we don't really play around a whole lot here. You know what he's doing right now? He's typing a search warrant for your person. We're done playing games. >> I don't have them. >> Okay. >> I dropped them on the edge of my edge of my seat. >> The edge of her seat? >> On the driver seat. She dropped them. I dropped them. >> So, if you didn't drop anything, what was that weird hand movement you did right before? >> You showed me hand motion moves. What brought me the eyes? >> So, you got two, she's got two. Where's your two? >> In the bag that she has medicine in there. >> And if we request charges on you tonight and you go to jail and they're on your person, do you realize that's a level five felony? >> Yes. >> Okay. Nothing? >> No. >> Okay. That was just a very odd hand movement I thought. I thought second. >> I mean, yes. I'm >> Give us her story. I I I Right there. >> But, I've already I've already read you your hurdle and you said no, you don't want me to. >> I mean, I don't want to be accused of something I don't You know what I mean? Like >> But, there's not going to be a difference, right? Like if I search you right now and find something versus getting a search warrant and doing a more in-depth search. >> I'm going to need a female officer to search me. >> I mean, you've already talked to me about you you've had a problem with painkillers, okay? And I've been around people who use tools, okay? You're I I get that you're saying that you have the flu, perhaps. But people who start getting into drugs start getting weekly, they get start sickly, especially when they start getting into assaults. >> My purse was two years old, it was full. I had knives in the car that were probably what I had in >> Mhm. So, show me on his driver's seat where it would be at. Show right there for me. >> She was in the passenger seat, tucked in somewhere in the seat. >> Which seat? Like where at? You just pointed. Here? >> Or uh >> Here? >> Or like that. Okay, so like back behind here somewhere, but on that side. >> So, here? >> Like somewhere in there. >> I'm not going to find anything on your side. Will you guys split the difference this evening? >> Yes. >> This is a long 20 minutes. Are we sure they're coming? >> I don't know. You have to ask her. >> Justice's walls were starting to come down. For the first time, she seemed to be genuinely reflecting on what had led her to that moment. And part of that meant pointing the finger at Justice. >> I'm so sorry, babe. >> I know you won't, mama. But make sure you get a big hug and kiss before we go anywhere. Might be a little wet, though. >> Does she have clothes? >> No, my sister had a cute little nightie on. >> But she's just wearing that until she gets home. >> She got a coat in there. Two actual coats, they're the jacket. >> I'm not irresponsible. No, no, I'm not on this thing. >> Obviously, I'm irresponsible, but not typically. I'm sitting here up my daughter's life, for one. Promised it wouldn't be anything like psychedelics, and now I'm worse. I was the only person in my family There's eight of us. There's six kids, two My mom and dad My dad's passed, whatever. But eight of us, and I was the only one that had him in jail until December. >> Until Okay. >> I just keep doing it. I just keep making it being worse, and I know the universe is like telling me to stay away from this girl, but she's like the love of my life, and it's [ __ ] stupid. >> This one? >> Yes. Now I'm going to go to jail for [ __ ] three months just for violating protective order. >> Well, you know, with these stuff, they can be dropped, all right, in court, so you have to be patient. >> Yeah, but >> But >> If March was so far away. >> Not now. Do you have another court date for March? >> April. >> So, you're like a month and a half away. Well, that's long, especially if he's the love of your lives. >> Yeah, I think this may have done us in now, especially since I don't know what she said to that cop. Hey, baby. I'm so sorry. >> Man, I should have just left that [ __ ] girl alone. I should have known better. >> So, under the Miranda, you understand your rights, right? >> Yeah. >> Okay, you want to answer any other questions? >> What you got for me? >> Is that a yes or a no? >> Yes, sir. >> Yes, okay. So, you know there's a protection order between you two? >> Yes, sir. >> Where you're the respondent? >> Yes, sir. >> Do you have the paperwork there? >> Yes, sir. >> And did you know you violated that order? >> Yes, sir. >> Being with her tonight, you know you're not to be around her? >> Yes, sir. >> The moment the officer revealed what her justice had said, something shifted in Liz, and her apparent remorse was replaced by desperation. >> She is saying that you tucked her in the seat. >> Sir, I did not even have them on my possession. They're in the first cigarette pack as far as I'm aware. Like, I They weren't mine. >> Do you understand? One second. >> Please, do you understand? >> Well, no. Hold on. Don't talk. Don't talk. One second. This is probably going to be one of the most important steps in the case to prove who these are. >> I thought >> So, wherever we find these, she's saying it's in your seat, you're saying it's in the cigarette pack. >> Sir, I >> So, it's going to be very important to where we find these. Cuz if wherever we find them, and whoever's story >> She said I put them in the driver's seat. >> Yes, that's what she said. >> They're not even mine. >> She is saying that >> I'm not worried about whose is whose. >> Investigation. >> Listen, I did not put them in the driver's seat. I haven't had them on my person. I have them I had them in a cigarette. She's on me saying >> Okay. >> That's all I'm aware of. I told you before I could not attest to their location. I sincerely mean that. I >> Okay. >> have no idea what they're They're in the pack. I don't know where because I am not the one that had them. >> Okay. >> I know where my grinder is. >> Where's that? >> It's in a Crown Royal bag in the glove box, but that I only knew where that was because she he opened it and he started the other registration for you. >> A grinder's not illegal in the state of Indiana. >> No, I know. I'm just saying um I I know where the I don't know if it's in that bag or not. I I didn't have it. She rolled up and left. >> We're going to wait for one more guy to get here. He's going to stay with you and then we're going to get the car rolling. I'm just saying, if I find them in your seat, it's they're yours but according to the state of Indiana. >> So, you got them on tape, I guess. >> Okay. So, you didn't Once again, you didn't see her do anything prior to that? >> No, I don't know where they are. I She had it. >> Okay. >> Oh my god. Oh my They're not even lying. What the >> The car search confirmed everything the officers had suspected from the beginning. Those women had put a child in a repulsive condition. But when the situation seemed settled, Justice made it significantly worse for herself by admitting something. >> This is what I saw right off the rip. >> I saw that guy. >> Okay. So, just use that one and then once you take that out, pour out the drink on the sidewalk. Just make sure there's nothing else in there. Nope. I'm good. >> Passenger side? >> Yeah. >> Where did you find that? Tucked in here? >> Okay. >> Passenger side passenger side there. Let me pull this forward. >> We're doing good work. Okay, this is a It's here. If you do more There's an idea. Is that a girl? >> I don't know. It appears to be. >> Okay. Hey, Elizabeth, just want to listen to me for a second. >> Yes, sir. >> I'm just saying if no one told you, okay, at this stage you are under arrest for possession of a controlled substance, possession of I don't obstructing >> obstructing >> Yeah, invasion of privacy. Put out that man the cuffs. So, do you understand what you're being charged with? >> Not the obstructing too much, the invasion of privacy, yes. >> Okay. We'll explain that in a moment. We'll explain that in a moment, okay? So, if no one told you, okay, at this stage you are under arrest for possession of a controlled substance, possession of I don't and that's, okay. Yeah, two-year-old in the back of the vehicle. Do you understand what I'm saying? She's going to jail, though. >> Yeah, I have a a question about the obstruction. >> No worries. I'm charging you vehicle? >> Because someone thought it'd be a bright idea to try to destroy evidence. Which is called how it is. We found a uh uh inside of your fountain pop. That's >> That wasn't my fountain pop. It's theirs. >> Okay. >> It That was not my fountain >> We'll let the judge and the jury and the prosecutors decide that, okay? I will say this, you do have this going for you. It's one solid charge at this point. So, like you'll have like stat obstruction same level as basically everything else, okay? A prosecutor or a judge or a defense attorney or something like that can use that as a bargaining tool. But as of right now, I think we have enough for obstruction. If they don't decide to charge you with that, it's ultimately it's not up to us. >> All of it is a misdemeanor. >> So, you have a level six felony and then some misdemeanors to tack on. But like I said, it's not the end of the world. These charges, I promise you, are not the end of the world for you. >> From your experience >> Uh-huh. >> will I do jail time? >> Will you do jail time? So, this is a uh majority of your crimes are a victimless crime. We do have the victim of your daughter tonight. I can't say for certain, but I I don't think you have a huge criminal record. >> At the Elkhart County Jail, we have X-ray machines, body scanners. Everybody goes through them, okay? So, listen to me. If you have something on you and you just We're trying to hopefully to get away with it, it's going to eventually be found, whether it be in your pockets or something like inside you or anything like that. If you tell us now, yeah, you're probably going to get a catch charge for possession of something. But if you don't tell us about it and you go through an X-ray machine and it's picked up in the jail, then you're going to get charged with trafficking it into a incarceration area, like a prison or jail, and you're going to get an even worse charge. So, is there anything on your body that you want to tell us about now? >> No, I just No, I don't. >> It might be a bowl, but that's >> A bowl? A bowl like a a pipe? >> Yes. >> Where is it? Don't reach for it. Don't reach for it. >> I don't know. >> So, it's somewhere on you, though? >> I think there might be. >> Okay. Well, thank you for telling Is there anything other than the bowl? Because like I said, if you bring that into jail, >> No. >> you're going to catch a even worse charge. >> No. [music] >> No? >> I think it might I don't I don't remember. I don't >> Turn your head and face the vehicle for me. >> What can I do? Hello, you want to tell us? Hey, here's the deal. I'm done [ __ ] around with you. I'm going to let him take you to jail. I'm going to let you go through the body scanner. I'm going to let you get a level five felony. Take her. If there's anything illegal on your person, we've given you plenty of opportunity. >> anything on me. >> You said you had a bowl. >> Oh, I thought I did. >> Okay, we're done. >> In the end, Elizabeth was charged with violating a protective order, possession of a controlled substance without a prescription, possession of a prohibited substance, and neglect. [music] Justice was charged with neglect, possession of a controlled substance without a prescription, and possession of a prohibited [music] substance. Next case, a woman's silence after missing calls was enough to send her friend into a panic. But when officers made it through her door, they found something harder to process. A young child right beside his unconscious mother. >> Be a parent, be an adult, take care of your kid. And that's not the way to do it. >> Where is the little green container that was on that dresser next to the rolled up money with the powder? >> I just got rid of everything. >> So, where is it currently? >> I don't really have anything on me. >> On January 2nd, 2024, officers responded to a man worried about a friend he had been speaking with on the phone. He explained that she sounded weak, and when he attempted to call her back, she no longer responded. He told police that the woman had a history of illegal substance use and a health condition. When officers arrived and made their way inside, they found exactly what the friend had been afraid of. >> Hey, can you see it to the garage from here? >> Yeah, there's nothing. >> So, she has another vehicle registered here? >> Yeah, there's no car in there. >> Black Honda. >> There's nothing. She's using it for like storage and [ __ ] >> Yeah, so she might not even be home. >> Yeah, true. >> Hey, you ready? >> Yeah. >> Middletown place, anyone here? Middletown police. Hello. Middletown police. Uh, we got kid here. Hello. Yeah. Middletown police. Middletown police. Hey, you okay? >> Yeah. >> Okay. What's going on? >> Hi. >> Hi. >> Hi, it's the police. >> Hi. Why? >> Well, we've been knocking like crazy. >> Why? >> Because your friend Joseph was calling you and you kind of fell out on him. >> Barely able to answer the police questions, the mother wanted the officers to believe she had simply woken up from a nap. For the officers, given the state she was in, it was hard to think it was just that. >> How can you just kind of leaning against the bed like that? Are you okay? >> Yeah. >> Do you remember talking to him? >> Yes. >> What happened? >> Nothing. It's just nothing seriously, nothing. >> Okay, he was just concerned, that's all. >> Yeah. >> Yeah, seriously, it's nothing. >> Cuz like your dogs are barking like crazy and we've been knocking like crazy. You didn't hear us at all? >> No. >> Is that him? >> Yeah. >> Okay, talk to him for a sec. >> Hi, yes, hi. There's cops in my house right now, dude. >> I know, he he was worried. >> I fell asleep. Yes, dude, I'm fine. >> What >> Come on, I'm fine. Can we get out of this room, please? >> What what's the story with the neighbor friend? Is he there? >> Joe, I'm fine. I promise you, I'm fine, dude. Dude, I really passed out. You know I had I barely slept. I feel like Did you guys break into my dorm? >> No, everything's unlocked. Your back door is unlocked. >> Dude, I promise you guys, like I'm completely fine. I literally I took a I went to bed. >> Like a prescribed >> Yes, I promise. I swear to God. >> is what's this over here? >> There's nothing over here. >> So, when's the last time you used? >> Months. Like literally like literally like So, I had a surgery. I I have a I have doctor like it's been years, dude. >> Yeah. >> Like years years and years and years and years. >> According to the mother, she had been under a lot of stress because of the child's father, but as far as the police were concerned, there could be another reason why she was acting so erratically. >> The hell with his father. That's all it is. It's stress. >> father the one that you're talking to currently or not? >> No. >> That's just so that we all know. Do you know? >> It's literally I'm just so stressed. I promise you. >> What happened here when I knocked on the door? >> Yeah. >> Please stop. Got you. Or >> I know. >> I'll not be with you any longer. >> I know. I literally just hired I I know. >> That? You're hiring whatever? >> I know. >> That's unbelievable behavior here. >> I know. >> Be a parent. Be an adult. Take care of your kid. That's not the way to do it. We understand each other? >> Yes. >> Okay. I'm sorry, what's your name? When's the last time you used? >> Honestly, it's been it's literally been years since I like used. >> What did we see on the counter there or your bureau? >> Honestly, ketamine. >> I I mean, you're not a veterinarian, so that's something that you shouldn't be using around your kid. >> You asked me, I answered. >> Did you use it tonight? >> No. Listen to the words that are coming out of my mouth. No. >> Mhm. Then what's it doing up there? I guess that's what I'm asking. >> My kid's father. You guys >> So >> You're never going to You're not going to >> And and again, so your kid's father has nothing to do with why that was on the counter. >> No, my kid's father actually does have everything to do with >> My my sergeant has a lot of stress. I have a lot of stress. A lot of people have a lot of stress. >> I know. I've got I promise you. You have my word. You come in in and out as often as you want. I have nobody. My mom literally this last year. It's just me. And he's all I got. And I'm trying to leave here. I'm trying to move to Florida. I'm trying to literally be a youth. >> Do you have family down in Florida? >> Yeah. I am trying to restart my life. My ex is making it very difficult. >> We'll also go over this with you guys. >> It's just that's it. This is all I have. >> Uh, is that ex-boyfriend, ex-husband? >> Ex-fiancé. >> Okay. >> My kid is all he's everything. And I'm just trying to restart that. That's all I have. It's my July 26th, 2013. That's the last time I used it. That's it. >> What year? >> 2013. >> 2013? 11 years ago? So, that's been sitting on your dresser >> for a while. >> No, it's my kid's father. >> Okay. Is Is that his? Do you want to Do you want to sit down? >> No, I'm just >> We're trying to help, that's all. >> Yes. But, [ __ ] chaos that he brought is just it's a lot. I'm just trying to cut ties with him. The house is in his name. You guys have been here before for it. He won't change his address, so I can't change his locks. >> Well, we've been here >> Even though he's >> as well. >> Yeah, after surgery that was not after surgery. >> We add all these things up, and it's not surprising that we're we're thinking something different. >> You know that. I I I can I can only give you my word. That's all I can do. I can only look you dead in the face and tell you >> Have you taken any kind of program, anything like that? >> Yes. >> How long ago? >> It I'm I'm active Yes, like currently. Yes. >> You're taking Suboxone the way you should? >> Yes. >> It was impossible to ignore the illegal substances around the house, but still the mother was trying to confront the police. >> I'm begging for just one person give me just one chance, please. >> It sounds like a lot of people have, and we still see ketamine on your dresser. >> No, that's >> Allegedly it's from 11 years ago. >> No, that's >> So, it's going to be 9 years. I'm asking you a question, is it not yours? >> No. >> Whose is it, then? >> Listen, dude, I am using Yes. I still work there. I have to go to work. I just got this job 2 weeks ago and that's all they care about is laying in that bed. Please, can I just go to bed? >> So, [clears throat] as soon as you answer a few questions, which are pretty simple questions. I'm not trying to trick >> It's not It was not mine. >> So, then whose is it? >> My ex's. I've answered that like 10 times. >> So, was he Was he >> Yes, he was here earlier. Like I said, I can't change the locks because I rent it all. He doesn't [clears throat] have as many addresses as he wants. I got an attorney. I already hired him. My appointment is 4:00 tomorrow. I am begging you. I have nobody and nothing and all I want is for me to have a chance where he has a >> So, where does Where does your ex live? >> Not here. >> I understand that. >> Berlin. >> You're saying that's his. He was using it here recently. Yeah, I mean, is he an addict as well? So, an addict of his own that's someone else's. >> No, that's the He lives in Just debris. >> that you're seeing. So, where's the little green container? >> That was a a fish. >> Where's the little green container >> kids' fish. >> Where's the little green container that was on that dresser next to the rolled up money with the powder? >> I just got rid of everything. >> So, where is it currently? >> I don't really talk to him. >> The officers weren't asking for much, just someone who could come and take care of the woman's child while they sorted out the situation, but even that simple request seemed to be [music] too much for the mother to answer clearly. >> I'll try and help you get out of this as fast as possible, but you're not leaving this much for us. >> How Tell me how to do that. >> That's in the past. >> You asked me. >> There's a different There's a different There's a different world right now. So, >> the You want the green bag? >> you want to call someone, I'm sorry. Listen, here's the deal. >> Listen to me. >> No, no, no. You You got to listen to me. Everything's on body cam, so we know what was in there, what we saw, okay? >> You're asking me to give you a bag, right? >> please. >> But I'm not understanding what not working. No, I'm not. I just I'm just just not registering. Please. >> call someone to watch your child? >> Yes, I can. >> Can you do that now, please? >> please just do me do me a solid, please? >> When you call them, we can talk to them if you want. >> Please, do me one favor. >> We can't answer that until we know what it is. >> Nobody has. Give me a chance. Just give me a chance. Just say what you want and I'll do it. >> Okay, call your brother. >> I just need this to go away. >> Call your brother. That's step one. >> This has to go away. >> You're either calling your brother or we're going to call DCF and then they're going to come and get your child. So, those are the two options. And either one of them could be a phone call. >> This has to go away. >> If you want, we can talk to him. Okay, you work with us, we'll work with you, okay? >> If you the green bag, you were going to what? >> At least it'd be something like, "Hey, I'm sorry. I'm whatever." But I mean, you're you're obviously you're hiding it for a reason. You're not hiding it for your ex, right? >> No, you're >> Where does Where does Joe live? >> I need you to come here cuz the cops are here for allegedly narcotics. >> We can talk to them when they >> This is not no. >> Okay. Well, we're going to talk to them when they get here. >> This is not a joke. Sure, what's my bond? >> Don't know yet. The more you cooperate, the more we can work with you. >> I have done nothing but cooperate with you guys. >> Is someone coming over now? >> Yes. >> Who's coming? >> I just said my brother. >> Where is he coming from? >> It's going to take him like 25 minutes. >> Okay. You're [snorts] not not answering questions. >> Rocky Hill. >> Thank you. >> It's coming from Rocky Hill. >> Thank you. What's his name? >> Kevin. >> Thank you. >> Suddenly, [music] the same mother who had struggled to answer a simple question was finding plenty of words to avoid leaving the apartment with the police. For someone so concerned about her child's safety, as she herself claimed, she was making their job of securing him as difficult as possible. >> You don't know what you're talking about. >> I'm not going to get that now. >> Right now. >> How old too? >> Two. >> You've got to be kidding me. I have no problem with you. This is a joke. He's kidding him for a joke, T. You have to be with yourselves. You guys are so backwards. I've been telling you guys this. You're so backwards, man. They told you when I took my I told you I took my >> The sooner we start this, the sooner we get you back here. >> I know. I'm trying, man. >> Just pay attention to that. >> No, I would never. I just want him to be okay. Okay. >> I hope that my brother thinks texted me. >> Okay. We're We're good. We're good. Just put him down, please. >> It's sir, could you have a little sympathy for me being upset, man? >> I do have sympathy. I'm also a parent. >> Then you just don't get it. >> I guess not. >> I guess not. I guess not. Can you figure out we're going to to an Alanon meeting then? Sir, I wanted call my neighbors. >> I I don't need to call anybody. >> They're cops. Ask them. They see me with my son. They're not. Please don't look at me like that. Like it's not It's disgusting. It's despicable. It's literally despicable what you're doing. Excuse me, so I can put this in there. >> Please just put this stuff there. So we can get >> in my purse. What's the difference? >> That's all we have to do. >> No, it's not. Can't even get these off. >> Okay. That's That's okay. That's okay. >> Can I kiss him? >> Yes, go right ahead. Go right ahead. >> Thank you. >> Okay, Elsa. You got to hang up the phone. You got to work with us. >> Why? They're not like combative or anything. They're just putting him in the car. >> that's not the way it works. >> Is this for real right now? >> She in the phone with her brother or No, Joe. The one that called us initially. >> So she's getting her information and >> No, her information's already made. She's good. >> Okay, so that's all good. >> I just Somebody's standing by until Captain gets here. >> Can we just wait until he gets here? Please, for his sake. I'm fine. >> So, let me talk to Kevin and we'll decide. >> He said he's on his way. Joe's also on his way. So it's whoever It's really whoever gets here first. >> Where's Joe coming from? >> Easton. >> That's further away than Rocky Hill. >> But he is he was on his way first, to be fair. Joe, how far away are you? 8 minutes. >> Okay. >> 8 minutes, please. Not for my sake, for his. I don't care if it takes me longer. >> This whole thing has the child in mind. Right now, it's all about the child and what's in his best interest. What's What's your son's name? >> [snorts] >> Throughout the whole time, the mother stayed on her phone, making it seem as if she were talking with someone, but the police knew better. At the same time, she was trying to play the victim card on the table. >> We're letting you stay here until someone shows up. That is not something we have to do. >> You know what? I apologize for that, but to hear you say my son's name and the position I'm in right now >> I was just asking what his name was. >> extremely irritating. It's upsetting. So, I'm sorry. >> Okay. >> I'm only his. That's it. >> I understand that. >> That is his. I am only his. >> Okay. Now, I understand that. >> Like, what he's dad put us through the past two years, you can't make up. >> I have no idea. No. >> No, from here to Costa Rica, that's not a joke. You literally can't make up. I can't tell you like the level. I had both my AirPods in. I wouldn't have heard you guys, no matter what. >> Have you been dealing with court at all between you and >> I'm taking him to court. >> I don't think before that. Or is it Is this something you just started? >> Just started. >> Okay. >> No, they said they they don't know where my mom is. They don't know where she is. They can't go open on the streets. >> That's a good thing. That would That would be a That would be in your favor. >> I'm never going to be able to take him to Florida, dude. Hard case, dude. >> Is that your friend you're still on the phone with? Is she Is he almost here? All right, thank you. >> There was nothing left in this house. There's nothing there. I don't care about party cam, nothing. There was a fish in a rock. >> So, it's very temporary. So, that I just >> I don't want to wake I did not have sunlight here. >> This is what I'm telling you. The sooner we get get you down there, the sooner we can >> It's four minutes. >> I'm not even I'm saying when we're going back and forth, back and forth, back and forth, we probably could have gotten you back here already. So, we're going to I'm going to get you down there. >> hell that you could have gotten me back here in an hour. >> It's pretty quick. >> Yeah, it's pretty quick. The process. >> May I look for a I'm sorry. >> Where Where is it typically? >> I'll tell you. >> Right there? Okay. >> Yep. >> This is where I'm cooperating. >> Please send in wine. >> I don't know. I'm pissed that I'm here, too, dude. >> I hear you. You have family in Florida? Okay. >> My mom is a dispatcher. I got nobody here. >> I'm sorry to hear that. >> speaking and it's hard for me to go. >> After some time, Joe had now shown up in person. But after listening to the police, he got nervous about what was going to happen with the mother. >> How's it going, guys? >> Hey, thank thank you for coming. >> Yes, Joe. >> Okay. >> I'm sorry. I I was just worried something happened. I didn't >> Listen, hey. >> I didn't mean to call the police for help. >> Your concern is Your concern is valid. She was headfirst, still standing on the bed before I like reached over and patted her eyes like I thought she was So, we want to make this go as seamless like right now. So, once you get in there, we just want her to come out so we can do what we got to do without any >> I'm okay to get out. >> Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. >> Uh so, I think the brother might be coming, too. We asked her to call someone so she can call the brother, but he was coming, too. >> I'm sorry. >> No, no, there's nothing to be sorry about. >> I'm sorry. I'm sorry. Well, I'm glad you're all right. I'd rather have you like you're crying and mad at me than you're not be here. Don't worry. I got money. I'll get a lawyer everything. Don't worry. We'll get the best lawyer you can get. >> [clears throat] >> I really am I'm sorry. >> Do you want Let me grab my license. >> Okay, yeah, yeah. >> I'll get you your license. >> Appreciate you coming. >> Yeah, I tried to get here as quick as I could. Keep you guys safe, and so it took me a minute. >> I was going say, you made it pretty quick in these days. >> Did the speed limit the whole time. >> Where are you going? >> My God, why are you so big, baby? >> Do you have anything in your pockets or anything? >> phone, that's it. >> Okay, just the phone. All right, obviously you're going to leave the Yeah, get your last puff out. >> At the last possible moment, Kevin arrived. And while his account of the ex-fiancée added a new layer to the story, the officer still had a woman who had been found unconscious next to a 2-year-old. >> I'm sorry. You're the brother? >> Oh, yeah. >> All right, I'm talking to your ex. So, I don't know how she felt, you know, we got her. >> Not really, but I don't know what happened. >> All right, thank you for coming. We came here for well-being check. Couldn't make contact with her outside, went around the back, the back door was unlocked. Based on the history here and what you were saying, do you know do you know Joe? >> Unless this is your face, the the cars aren't lining up. So. >> All right. So, we went inside, we found her and I guess it's the son's room and she was kind of like standing up by the bed, but like falling face first onto the bed. We weren't sure what happened. >> We found some >> there. If all goes well, I will probably leave her. >> If all goes well. >> Okay. We're just trying to get her cooperation and we want to make sure the child was okay. So, I just want to give you a heads-up. We're trying to make this go seamless. The child's still sleeping. I like to keep him sleeping. She's upset, she's up and down and we're trying to do this as gracefully as possible. >> I I appreciate that. >> There's two other officers in there. Joe came and I didn't even know he was coming, so. >> I'm not sure who Joe is. Like I said, until I see him. >> Okay, well, it's up to, you know, >> But >> family's good. >> For me >> My plan is I'm just going to put him in the car seat and drive him back to my house. >> Okay. Are you familiar with what her I know she had some medical issues going on and >> I am. My knowledge, everything's been fine. >> She says her ex was here. She says the stuff was her ex's, but >> So, her ex, Justin, the whole reason that they are not getting married anymore and he's no longer here is because of his abuse. So, he had moved out. I used to work with Justin and the garage was all of our work stuff. I was going through it just after they were splitting up. I found a a bunch of stuff in there that I had taken and thrown away. So, what she's saying is probably very true, but again, I don't know cuz she does have a history. >> Yeah, we saw that, too. We're not sure and but it was in the kids' room. The kids there. >> It was in his room. >> Who If that's his room it was in the same room the kid was in. >> the left. >> On the hallway to the right. >> Oh, so >> I'm not sure if he >> So, he's been sleeping in in her room. >> All right. Well, she's getting handcuffed right now. We waited till someone got here. >> So, Joe, he's a >> Do you know him? >> Well, not really, but he's an old-time friend from back in Stevens. >> Okay. I think the brother's going to take the child if that's okay with him. >> Oh, okay. Yeah, that might be okay. >> Yeah. >> Okay, whatever she wants. >> In the end, the woman was arrested and charged with possession of illegal substances. Next, officers approached a parked car where a couple had made no effort to hide what they were doing. But when officers went to check the vehicle, [music] they found a 15-month-old baby in an alarming alarming condition. >> You can't smoke with a kid in the car. >> Okay. I don't really know the law, honestly. >> Oh, come on. You can get him, just hang out right here, okay? >> Okay. You don't make it look so bad. I'll stand. >> Well, technically it is. >> On August 27th, 2023, officers approached a parked car after receiving a report of a couple smoking inside the vehicle with a baby in the backseat. When the officers began talking to them, the woman was up front about exactly what they had been doing. >> All right, actually I >> Hey. >> Sergeant Hogan with the Mississippi Highway Patrol. >> What's going on? >> Nothing. >> Well, we got a call people doing stuff in the car with a baby. I know you've been I know you're smoking >> I mean, we've been sitting out here all day. It's the law. why would just come out here. >> What was perhaps most striking wasn't what the officers found in the car. It was how unbothered Ashley was about all of it. That situation wasn't a moment of weakness or a one-time mistake. By her own admission, it was just a normal part of her day. >> You got anything on you 65 bucks? >> You can't smoke with a kid in the car. >> Okay. I don't really know the law, honestly. >> Oh, come on. That's what >> Not with Not with Not with >> You got a dog? Well, can you smoke cigarettes or >> two? >> Yeah. >> I didn't know that. >> Yeah. >> I didn't know that, honestly. That's >> Yes. You got your little purse there. Just Just be honest with >> No, I don't. >> You don't? >> I don't. [music] Now, you can look. >> Okay. Do you have any at all on you? >> I don't. [music] >> Okay. Any Anywhere else in the car besides that? Did you already smoke it all? >> Yes. There's nothing else in there. You can search her. >> How old your kid? >> 15 years old. >> 15? Okay. >> But you said you got a call. >> What? >> Call two people doing >> Two people doing drugs? >> Yeah, in the car with a baby. And gave this address. >> I don't know who that is. >> Okay. >> I mean, that's random. I mean, that we sit out here in this car all the time. >> [music] >> Like we're out here all the time. My grandma can even tell you. Like we sit out here in the snow. That's what I used to cook down >> Crush with that one? The what? Okay. Anything in here? >> No. >> That's where you stored it? >> No. >> [music] >> That's where I keep my roaches at. >> Got you. Okay. Here. How are you? Ashley, if you You can come back here and get him. >> I don't know where he >> You You can get him. Just hang out right here, okay? >> Okay. >> Anything in here? >> No. >> This was in her I know. thing here. And she said that's what they used to crush up the meth. Hey, Ashley. Y'all crushing on this, too? >> That's what I crushed on. >> Okay. Is it enough to feel testing my thing? And it was in here? >> Ashley's tone changed the moment the police mentioned CPS, insisting her child had never been in any danger. >> I think uh I think uh you know what I mean? >> Huh? >> That's what I think you know what I mean? >> Okay. All right. But I I I will be honest with you and I will tell you that uh report will be sent to CPS about this. Okay? >> He was with me the whole time he was with me. >> Well, >> He was in there when I was smoking pot. I I honestly didn't know nothing about >> Well, I mean that's bad enough, but >> know anything about that. He wasn't around none of that. >> Okay. >> And the way he honestly >> we we still we still have to send a report to CPS. And I don't know what they'll do with that. Okay? >> So, like report you mean as in what? >> A report will be sent to CPS. >> All right. What would it >> And then whether they follow with it that that's up to them. >> What would it say? >> Huh? >> What would it say? >> What? The report? >> yeah. >> Um basically what we did, what we saw. >> found? >> Yep. And what we found. Yep. >> I mean my grandma can even vouch like we literally just went in and got him. We didn't even go in the girl's room. >> Well, we we've been sitting We were standing out here for good 10 minutes. >> That's yeah. >> Being taken in for questioning was clearly something Ashley didn't want to do. But for someone who had just admitted to smoking next to a 15-month-old, the argument that she needed to be home taking care of her children was a difficult one to make. >> My grandma has custody of my daughter. >> Okay. But but little one right there's >> I smoke pot. >> I got >> [music] >> Mhm. >> I did. I just did. >> Oh, okay. >> Yep. All All So, neither one of you going to jail tonight. All right? All right. So, can your grandma watch the little one and you come and talk to Detective Reynolds? >> I want I want to separate y'all. That way you don't have to >> You can separate us right here. I'm going to go put the little >> But it's got to be formal. You see what I'm saying? >> No. Talk about what I have to put the little one to bed. >> No, I don't know. I mean, I mean, like I said, you you can you can tell her whatever you want to. It it's up to you. Just [clears throat] tell her that. >> Can Can y'all take [music] one of us first and the other one stay here with him? >> I'm going to leave it up to him. >> Okay. Or can I talk to him with him if I walk down there? I mean, he already said it'd be like 30 minutes. So, I mean, I don't mind. She can stay here for my grandma cuz she's already got the super old stuff. >> I mean, it's not going to be a long time. Did you get all your evidence? >> [music] >> Yeah. >> Don't make it like it's a crime scene. >> Well, technically it is. It is a crime scene. >> I mean, it's a Technically, yeah, it's a crime scene, but I don't want to go to jail. So, if he like's not going to plant the yard, is it like drinking a beer in the yard? >> Yep. [music] Can't do it. You can only smoke in your house. >> And you can get like a DUI in public. >> No. Oh, yeah. >> Seriously? >> Mhm. Yep. You can get DUI smoking >> What? >> Mhm. The worst the The people I've had the worst field sobriety tests were high on >> Space. >> Yep. No, I'm serious. It's not as harmless as what people think. >> I mean, it depends on who you You get it by, yeah. >> The father's answers at the station revealed more than he probably intended. It was becoming clear that this wasn't a couple who had made an isolated bad decision. >> So, we got a call facing you guys. I'm assuming we're seeing um smoking inside of a vehicle with the kid in the car. >> Okay. >> It is what it is at this point. What happened happened. Do you know where it came from? >> Uh the honest truth, it's one of our girls that she always goes to and I believe it's the girl paired dollar store here by Green Lawn. And I know a couple of other people who've been >> go to her. >> I don't remember anything about >> So she she sells it out [clears throat] at the dollar store? >> Well, the thing is cuz she don't want her boyfriend, which I believe his name is Brandon, or one of that name. She don't want him knowing that she's doing it and selling it or whatever. >> Do you know how much you sell how much do y'all get at a time? >> Uh it's normally just a little 20 bag, which ain't much at all. >> Do you know how much they buy for? >> Uh she normally buys like 20 30 bags, but almost probably every day. >> Do you buy it all? >> No. >> No. You just smoke whatever she has. Okay. >> I have gave her money just to borrow it. And yeah, and I'll be doing it with her and man, so I can't say much to you. >> If you're not on probation, if you're not and you want to do some work, you can do that. >> I might literally be the one sets them up. >> So So basically how it works just between me and you, if you know people and you know, they reach out to you say, "Hey, do you want to announce for whatever?" >> Right. >> You text one of us and and you you basically plan the whole thing out where where you want to meet, what you want to get. We provide you with whatever you need. >> Yes, [clears throat] yeah. >> Yeah. >> Don't mess with people like that. >> Right. If you want to do it, we can set you up, get you with the right people and then basically these these charges can go away. >> Yeah, I need that. I don't want to mess anybody's life up like that. >> Uh but the but the people >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> It's horrible. It's ruining a lot of people. >> Right. >> I've seen a lot of my friends just completely go downhill and lose everything because of it. >> Right. >> She's under me to the point where like I just can't stay with her. Like I just want to completely leave her, honestly. >> Right. >> Man, I'm doing it for my baby and I don't know. I just can't do it on my own, neither. >> This wasn't the couple's first run-in with the police over illegal substances, but what made this time dangerous from all the others was the 15-month-old who had been sitting in that backseat. >> How many times have you been caught? Like recently. >> No, I haven't. >> With? >> Nothing. >> Jacob didn't get you a couple weeks ago? >> He got me with some scales. >> Chris White didn't get you? >> He got Jared. >> Okay. So, he got you scales? >> I've been caught driving more than anything. >> Right. But he got you scales? >> More than yeah. >> Cuz they want you to go to jail tonight. >> Well, am I going? >> I guess. You said you were going to work and you haven't worked. >> haven't heard from nobody. That's not my [clears throat] fault. They want me to go to jail tonight, huh? >> They want both of you to go to jail, be honest with me. >> You telling me that? >> No. >> Who said? >> Task Force. >> Who's in charge? Who's in charge tonight? >> Me. >> Who's in charge? >> Of what? >> Y'all. >> Who is this? Like the supervisor? Darren? >> Yeah. >> Darren? >> Why do you leave everything up to you then? >> Huh? >> Why do you leave everything >> He's in part of Task Force. >> All right. So, who's your boss on the Task Force then? >> My direct boss? >> Who wants to go Who wants me to go to jail? Whoever wants me to go to jail, that's who I want to talk to. >> Do you want Do you want to talk to him? >> Who is it? >> I don't >> No, you going to tell me who it is first. >> I just told you who it was. >> Lord? >> Yeah. >> Oh. >> Who do you get it from? >> From Britney Bayer. >> Britney Bayer? Where do you pick up from? >> Cousin. >> You don't go to the Dollar Store? >> Yeah. How do you know? >> I just got to know. >> So, you already know her? She's already in the radar? >> I don't know. >> She's already in the radar then? >> I just know where you get it. >> Yeah, cuz he's there. He ain't going to lie for you. He's nervous as I already know it. And he's going to tell the beans and tell you he used to be lying. >> How much she buy today? >> Like 20, maybe. >> I got a half gram. >> No, not even that. Like 20, 30 dollars worth. I know she gets it by the eight balls. >> Where does she get it from? >> I don't know. I know some lady named Angie, but I don't know last name. None of that. And she works at Dollar General, too. >> It's a popular place. >> Honestly, like this isn't the first time you've heard about it? Out there? >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Really? >> Yeah. Are you on probation? >> No. >> Here's what he got you with. Whatever Chris got you with. >> He didn't get me with what he got you. >> Or got Jared. >> Okay. >> got me for driving. >> Right. Jacob's got two scales. >> I thought it was. >> He said it wasn't. >> it was. Whatever. >> Now, I got you. >> With what? I don't even know what's mine. Supposedly. >> So, the little I guess it's a cigarette pack. The clear stuff comes off of it. Yeah. >> It's got residue on there. >> Mhm. So, [clears throat] that's possession. >> You got to send it off, right? >> No. >> I'm just asking. >> No, I can go out here and I can run a field test on it. It comes back. >> Okay. >> You can go to jail. >> All right. I don't know. I don't want to. >> It would [snorts] be really different if you didn't have a baby in the backseat. >> But he don't have nothing >> I'm not saying you smoked it with them in the car. >> Yeah, but >> Okay. >> Nothing else. Nothing else. >> I'm just saying it it don't look good. >> I know it don't look good. I'll give you that. >> Right. >> In the end, Ashley was charged with possession of schedule one substances, endangerment or cruelty, and [music] reckless care of a child. Next, a group of people was caught inside a motel room buying illegal substances, but when the police realized there was a baby with them, the situation got far more tense. >> Best baby in the world. He don't cry. >> He seems chill. >> He never does nothing. >> I'd secure the room and I'd get a search warrant. >> He's got warrants for you. >> For what? >> Drugs. >> Are you on parole right now? >> In me? >> Yeah. >> In Virginia, I'm on probation. >> You got four bags here, dude. 1 2 3 4. Packaged ready for sale. >> On September 7th, 2024, officers responded to a report of guests smoking and fighting inside a motel room. What they found there was a group of adults doing their best to appear as though nothing was out of the ordinary, but in the middle of it all there was a 9-month-old baby. >> Yeah, Brenda. >> Hi. >> I got to come in the room for a minute. We've uh had complaints that there was smoking in here. >> Yeah, where's >> I smoke and I have some here. That's my lighter. It's right there. >> All right, I need everybody inside this room to produce identification. >> It's right there. I was going >> Does anybody have any firearms inside of here? >> No. >> Everyone in the group started to act cooperative and friendly as if a police visit to their motel room was the most natural thing in the world, but the officers weren't convinced and they were only just getting started. >> What's your first name? >> Jenna. >> Jenna, J E N N A? >> Yeah. >> All right, hold on just a second. Let me run all your guys' information, okay? Who's in the truck? >> I don't know. >> Is it not Is it your Who's in it? >> Guys, my daughter's friend. She >> Yeah, I'm about to go to work. Let me have your lighter so I can go. >> All right, so everybody's got to stay inside. Everybody's got to stay inside. You hear me? Everybody's got to stay inside. Did you say you were driving? >> No. >> Okay. So, you're suspended. >> No, I'm driving. >> Okay. >> No, you asked who's in the truck and I I'm just saying she's in the truck, but she I wasn't even thinking that >> I know they're suspended. >> Drayton are in the truck. >> But the boys are in the truck. You got your ID on you? >> 1214 >> You don't have any physical identification on you? >> I got arrested a couple months back and never got them back. >> Yeah, that's what they called us for. >> I didn't think anybody was even being noisy, you know. >> No, I was pretty loud. That's what they called us for. >> I don't know. >> Are you Where do you work at? >> KFC. >> When the officers announced they would start a search, the apparent calm the group had been holding on to started to crack. >> Can we wait and take her work? >> No. No, not right now. >> They ain't come back yet? >> Well, everyone has to stay here. You're all detained. >> For what? For a [ __ ] >> Yeah, you have you're in possession and controlled substance schedule one. >> Well, okay. All right, yeah, I get that. >> I don't intend on arresting anybody ever. >> Right. >> just say that. Um >> I don't even >> Right, I get it. >> Yeah. >> West Virginia ain't legalized it yet. >> No, not yet. Unless you get a medical card. >> I and literally I I just need to have $150. They just approved me for the medical card. I I have They just approved me for this building cuz I have cancer. I have a bad heart. I just need to go pay the $150 and get the card. That's all I got to >> According to West Virginia state code, if you can prove financial hardship, the the fee's waived. >> No. For a >> That's some knowledge I didn't even know. >> All you have to do is prove financial hardship. >> How old is he? >> I don't know. He's He's 9 months. >> 9 months? >> This is the first time I've seen him in about 3 months. >> He seems chill. >> No, he never does nothing. >> [laughter] >> He seems like a good boy. Who's the room registered to? >> Me. >> It's registered to you? >> Yes. >> Okay. I'm going to close the store that way the baby's not getting cold. So, listen, this can work two ways here, okay? Way number one, you guys give us consent to search the room uh and all the items inside. Way number two, everybody goes in handcuffs. You all get transported. I secure the room and I get a search warrant. >> You got warrants for you. >> You got two. >> Huh? >> You got two. >> You got one for the state. >> Uh I would prefer not to have to put you guys all in handcuffs and do that. Um as long as there's no I'm not going to charge you. >> What's the >> I don't even know about >> Okay. Are you fine with that? >> We'll go to search now. >> Look, hot pants. >> One arm through Whitehall, I heard that. >> Yeah, one through Whitehall and one through the state. >> Yeah. >> Yeah, the other one through the state. Um, so you just want to give us consent? >> Yeah. >> Okay. Does anybody have anything else inside this room that I need to be aware of before we conduct a search? Sir? >> [snorts] >> Okay. Okay. >> Yeah, he got a little bit. >> Yeah, I haven't even been here. My dad doesn't have a bank card, so >> Yeah. >> I have to run through the room. >> What I'm going to do all right. Yeah, yeah, if you don't mind, I'd appreciate that. You got anything on you, partner? >> No. >> Okay. You got anything in your pockets, partner? Okay. If you don't mind, start up and stand up. Okay, I appreciate you. Is that a wallet back there? >> Yeah, I be holding it. >> Okay. Yeah, if you just want to take that out of your pocket for me. I'll try and make this as fast as I can, that way you guys can get Get out of here. >> He will be fine. He will be fine. >> All right, you got anything else on you, partner? >> No, everything I get, I'm putting right there. >> Leave it to room 135. >> Just a heads up, I pooped in the trash can. >> Okay. There you go. Are you on parole right now? >> You mean? >> Yeah. >> In Virginia, I'm on parole violation. >> Okay. >> It didn't take long for the search to turn up what the officers had suspected, but what started as a straightforward case of illegal substance use was quickly becoming something much bigger. >> What's the diaper bag and stuff they just brought in, didn't we? Literally. >> Just brought it in, huh? >> I just told him there's a bag over there that's got dog poop in it and the trash can I pooped in it, so >> Chronic thing or >> Well, I have a bunch of stomach issues, but I have a bad heart and >> That probably don't help your heart. >> Back in >> I was going to here. >> I'll get started. >> I don't want that. Okay. >> Hook them all. Strip and change on your back. You can bring you back here, okay? You're all under arrest. >> 10-50, I'm ready for that mile. >> getting arrested, too? >> All of you. >> I have a knife. >> What I think is a knife? >> That's a knife? >> Yeah, I just got it. >> That is a knife. >> That's what you saw. >> I've seen it over there. >> Oh, my god. I don't know if I can go there. >> Or stand over there, whichever one you prefer. >> I don't think I can get down there. >> Okay. You stay with the baby. >> Yeah, what is going on, though? >> Yeah, you're all You're all detained. Ain't nobody leaving. >> I just bought an eighth of mine. And you all know that. >> Oh, no, partner. You're all going. >> And my daughter doesn't know when my daughter doesn't know what I did. She knows I get high. She don't know. >> But, you ain't just getting high with that. >> I just bought an ounce. I just got $5,000 cash. I can tell you about drug money out of there. >> So, where's the rest of it? >> That's what I I bought it a few days ago and I've been getting high. >> You didn't smoke an ounce in a day, dude. >> Huh? >> You didn't smoke an ounce in a day. >> ounce gone. >> All right, and it's been 3 days. 4 days. I've been here for 3 4 days. >> Individually, but >> And I snorted it. >> Brother, I You ain't >> What thing is this in the back? Should be a big bag. >> You got You got >> bag I carried around in my pocket. >> You got four bags here, dude. 1 2 3 4. Package ready for sale. So. >> What the officers were uncovering as they moved through that room painted a picture of an environment that was deeply troubling on its own, let alone for a 9-month-old who had no way of escaping it. >> That's disgusting. I know he does have like He's like terminal on cancer. So. He says he's been throwing up like crazy, too. >> Throwing up in the stomach all day. >> All that venture say. All of this was laying right here. So, we haven't searched at all. >> I seen a container [clears throat] in there. Looks like it might be >> I would say it's the girl that Gino arrested because he let her go to the bathroom. So. >> Yeah, there's container right there. >> Yeah, I'd say she dumped it. This room's disgusting. It stinks in here. >> It does, babe. >> Hey. He told me I've been throwing up in the trash can. Watch out. Look at all that mess. >> Yep. >> Oh, what a surprise. >> Oh, man. It's in there. >> Huh, what do you know? >> Yeah, you want to take a picture of this? I'll just hold it. >> That's why he didn't want me to get in that trash can. >> It is. >> Oh, yeah, bud. >> What's in your trash can? >> That's it. >> Um baggy fail. >> Try and collect as much as we can. I'll let me go grab an evidence bag. So, he's up here selling to those people is what he was doing. We just walked in on it. >> Yeah. >> That was a decent little bit that was in the bottom of that thing, huh? >> Mhm. >> Plus, there's some in that lid. Papa Gino's going to be happy with this one. Look at that. It's what we got out of that trash bag. >> Yeah. >> This thing's -45 g. That's funny. He said he bought it like this. These are all the baggies that match that. >> Yeah. >> Liar. This is going to be a good one out here, I think. Just watch out for needles and [ __ ] >> There's two of them little rubber things in here. >> What a surprise, right? Who would have guessed? All right, here we go. You ever seen that? >> No. >> The holy grail. >> [laughter] >> It's like a decorative piece. >> It kind of looks like it, don't it? Broken pipe. I'm a proud redneck head. >> I was laying on the baby changing table. >> Yeah. Wait, was it really? >> Yeah. That bottle I didn't I didn't place that there. It's been laying there. >> So, these bottles were here. >> Okay. >> These bags that contained all these paraphernalia were right beside the bottles. >> Okay, hold on one second. I'm just going to FaceTime the on-call supervisor. >> This stuff was inside of these bags, but the bags were right here and the bottles were right here. >> I'm just saying, I raised two kids. I bought formula and it never looked like that. What is that? >> That's I'm not sure if I can put that on the bag. >> The bag that was right next to the bottle had the in it. >> Not to mention all that. >> Oh, and all this. Here. >> Maybe it was in this room. >> Baby was right there in that chair. >> It was on me. >> Yeah. >> I'm going to go ask her what's in this. >> Yeah, go for it. Surprise me pipe. >> Are you guys going to arrest me too cuz I punched him in the face? >> What did she say it was? >> She just said, "I don't know." What do you mean you don't know? >> I love it how feisty you get. >> Oh, no. You guys did it. You guys did it when you dumped everything out. >> We did that? >> Yeah, apparently. >> We mixed it up and everything? >> I guess so. It's magic. >> Kankl, were you thirsty? >> Yeah, I was getting a little hungry. I haven't had lunch yet. >> There's mold on the side of it. >> No, there's not. >> is. That's what that is. I promise you. >> go get my phone. I'm taking a picture of that mold in the baby bottle. Nasty >> In the end, the mother of the baby was charged with conspiracy to commit an illegal substance offense, conspiracy [music] to deliver a controlled substance, and possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance. In this next case, officers responded to what seemed like a routine welfare check on a parked vehicle, only to find two adults completely incapacitated by illegal substances and children left in a situation that no one should ever have to witness. >> There's in the car. Her pupils are really constricted and she's cold. So, I don't know if they've been doing something else or what. >> getting charged with children. First of all, you're getting charged with possession of the pipe cuz it was right next to you. Kids are bawling in the backseat. The inside of that van is a thousand degrees. They're both sweaty and you guys are passed out. >> On June 6th, 2022, police in Monroe, Ohio responded to what began as a simple welfare check on a parked vehicle after a couple was seen unconscious inside. The vehicle had reportedly been involved in similar incidents for years, but what officers soon discovered revealed the couple's deeper instability, exposing the serious danger faced by the children who depended on them. >> There are two occupants in here, both slumped over. 50 the door. What's going on? All right, what's in your lap right there? Here. Put that on the dashboard. >> What? >> Take that baggy up that's in your lap and put it on the dashboard. Right there in your lap. Put it on the dashboard. That's not the dashboard. Whatever. Get out. >> All right. >> All right, what else do you have on you? >> Nothing. Hey, baby. >> 55, yeah, go ahead and start a squad. They're both at work and speaking now. Do what? Yeah, I would recommend doing that. Here, put your hands up here. Do you have any needles on you that's going to poke me, stick me? She's Hey, she's She's getting the bottle for the Put this up here. Put your hands behind your back for right now. You're being detained, all right? Turn around and lean up against the car. Is this your wallet? Go on back here by the cruiser. >> I want you to get her a bottle. He won't let me get her a bottle. >> You can You can wait a minute. We will in a minute. Yes, you were. It's on your lap. You think I'm stupid? Good. >> All right, come on up. >> Yes. Initially, after receiving a report of a vehicle left parked in the heat, officers became concerned that the couple, identified as 48-year-old Justin E. Simpson Jr. and 29-year-old [music] Stephanie L. Sandley, may have lost consciousness due to the extreme temperatures. However, what had actually left them unresponsive and unable [music] to supervise the children inside the van was their excessive use of illicit substances. >> He had a bag of on his lap when we woke up. It was >> They tossed it in between the seats, so we're going to do some digging to get it out. >> It's still sitting there, too. >> On the side. It's still sitting there, too. >> Where at? >> Right there on the driver's side. On the driver's side. It's still sitting on the plastic. >> Piece of crap. >> It's still sitting on the side. >> You can do the hot digger outside. >> Yeah, we didn't need the eye drops back then, right? Right there, sir. >> Where? >> On the plastic on the right side. >> Why don't you come on over here on this side so you quit I just don't understand why you would back in to somebody's driveway. Pulled up there. This is a house. So, you either had to drive down there and turn around or you pulled up here. However, Cuz they they said they were unconscious. That's why they had to come here. They just have to check you. What's the What are the kids' names? Well, do you know why? Cuz she she was I mean, I'm just telling you. I'm looking at your pupils and stuff like that. So, that's the reason why that's why you're cold. Huh? Well, but but your eyes are constricted. So, that's what happens and probably >> Sir, can you please get her >> Yeah. Where's the Where's the bottle at? >> It should be coming. It's right there beside me. >> All right. Well, we're going to let the medics talk to you while she's in there. And so, you're staying at the Motel 75 right now? So, apparently they were unconscious in their car here. There's in the car. Her pupils are really constricted and she's cold. So, I don't know if they've been doing something else or what. So, they're going to check them. And she's extremely cold and her pupils are pretty constricted. They're Huh? Okay. >> As officers examined the vehicle, a crucial detail emerged. The condition Justin and Stephanie were in suggested they had been in that situation for hours. The extreme [music] heat that day raised even greater concern about the level of dehydration the children might have been facing. Exposed to danger where their lives could have been lost if officers hadn't arrived in time. >> Yeah, you you would never find anything in here. I've got their information already. I guess we can do a whatever and refer it refer it to children services. Huh? Yeah, I know. I say right here. And just give it to him? He's asleep. I'm not going to bother him. Is it just water? How old are these kids? Okay, are they not Huh? Okay, I'm just making sure. Do you both have a medical card? Okay. Just get back there. I don't like you being this close to me while I'm watching him. Go on back there by your husband or boyfriend. I can see the kids, they're fine. You're just making me nervous. Step back there. Well, I don't like people like right up on my up on my space. Did you find it? Sit back here, both of you. Get back here. All the way down here. Here Here's what's going to happen if you keep not listening to me. I want you to go back by the cruiser back here, you two. I'm going to put you both in handcuffs. So, you're in handcuffs, you're going to go in handcuffs. Go back to this car. He's going to search the car. So, you're you have one, too, then. Is that your thing that you dropped down there? >> Yeah. >> Huh? Where was that at? Did you like realize you weren't at somebody's >> I think we should have done it over there. We should have done it over there. Maybe we can do it in the back now. >> What's it You normally do the medical marijuana. >> Uh >> You smoke it? You can't smoke it. >> Well, >> No, you're not allowed to smoke it on medical You have to do a vaporizer. >> vaporizer. >> Yeah, you're not allowed to smoke it. Did you not know that? They should have told you that. >> At this point, the parents' physical state made it evident that the babies could no longer remain in their care. Officers then requested that they identify someone who could take responsibility for the children. >> Who do you have that can come get Hm? >> My friend. >> Do you have her number? >> Yeah. >> Where's your phone? >> In the car. >> Go get it. >> I'll grab it. >> You're both getting charged with the children, first of all. I'm going to send off your paraphernalia. When it comes back, I'm going to hit you with the possession of that. You're getting charged with possession of the pipe cuz it was right next to you. Do you understand Kids are bawling in the backseat. The inside of that van is 1,000°. They're both sweaty. And you guys are passed out. See in that? >> Yeah. >> So, yeah, you're getting charged. Now, I don't think he needs a blanket. It's like very hot in here. Here you go. >> All right. >> Go on back there. >> I'm just sweaty. >> How many phones do you guys have? >> I'm not I'm not trying to keep the phones. I'm not >> I mean, was it on the seat or somewhere else? Okay, I just handed you two phones. All right, we'll walk back there. I'll find it. I don't like you up here again. So, just go back there. Where is it? Oh, here it is. All right, let's walk back here. So, this is yours and this is yours. >> No, mine's still in there. >> we'll go back here and do the phone call, whoever you need to call. I don't know what's going on. Just go back there and do a phone call. I'll keep looking for your phone. Where's that bottle at? Oh, where's your bottle at? What did you do with your bottle? I think it fell when you got out. Let me look for it. This is my last time of telling you to stand back by the car. I'm tired of doing that. The kids are all right, all right? I'll find your phone. That's what I'm looking for. You guys are Hi, baby. Hi. Hi. Hi. Somebody's tired. Somebody's tired. >> As the investigation concluded that the temperature inside the car had exceeded 30° C, Celsius, the extreme filth and foul odor made the children even more distressed, clear evidence of poor conditions. >> Uh let me guess. Um I thought I saw some somewhere. Um so, I think I think she put something when she was reaching around back here. I think she might have put something. I tried to look around. Here you go. >> [screaming] >> But, I mean, we would never find it in here. Do they both need to be changed? Yeah, that one was over here. That one was the really bad one. We probably need to have them run him, the father, if he's coming to get the kids just to make sure that he's not had any cuz we're going to turn in the kids over to him, correct? So, just to make sure he doesn't have anything on on him, like no like charges or anything. >> [crying and screaming] >> 71. >> 10-1. >> IF YOU WOULD uh the registered owner of the father. Can you just run a CCH on him and make sure there's not anything to prevent him from taking charge of the kids? >> 10-4. >> As the investigation progressed with the arrival of the suspect's father, officers could not simply hand over the children. Instead, they needed to assess how he would respond in order to understand the level of safety the children would be in. >> So, we got a call that they were um Well, that's good if there's two of you. Are you both have driver's license? >> Hey, that's your That's my van with your my name. >> Yeah, we got it. >> Then I put it >> Hey, Caleb. We got a call about that I cuz I'm running him. What was that call we had earlier? There was a call cuz I ran your plate earlier about something. >> Okay. >> Yeah, I think so. Or in this van here. >> Oh, I I I I >> 71. >> 10-1. >> The plate that we gave you, did we have a call or something on that earlier? I I just remember running that plate or seeing that. So, um >> I'll check. >> They were passed out here, of course. They're under the influence. There's in the car in a five. The car was freaking hot as can be and the little babies are in there. They um They hasn't been They hasn't um been changed in a while. The diapers, so he's changing the diapers right now. They're probably going to be going to jail. That's why we wanted you to take charge of the kids. So. >> Can we move the van somewhere where you can walk to it where I can get it? >> Oh, yeah. Yeah. Well, um you don't have a driver's license. Okay. Yeah, we can't um Yeah, we'll we'll work on that. >> road around here that I can go or park this one and I'll just take that one? >> Yeah, we can do that. Um Let me think here. What's >> and get this thing. >> Yeah, cuz this is already got the child seats and everything in there. He's going to go park their car down there somewhere and then walk back and just take them in this with the with the child seat. >> As the investigation continued, the parents' actions would lead to serious consequences, including possible restrictions on contact with their children. >> So, was that back there? >> No, they were actually right here. I don't know how that what was going on back there cuz it looks like they backed up and then maybe pulled back out. Cuz there's some tracks here and then they backed here, but then like I said, they were just passed out. It took them a while to It took a while to arouse them. And then um like I said, with the crack and stuff, I mean we're responsible and the conditions and stuff like that. I don't think they have any prior children services cases or anything. So, what they'll do the first time, they'll probably just order some type of parenting and probably do tests on both of them. I mean, she's on the and he's on meth. But, you can't be doing that. >> No, hell no. I'm right >> I didn't even know people were still doing >> Yes. >> [laughter] >> And I'll tell you what, I want to give you a order for a van load of >> I mean, it's expensive, too. I didn't even know anybody had any more. Yeah. >> Yeah. Okay. >> He had a seizure in the car. >> Yeah, but then that you must have had it in your system or something. >> No, I I did the only thing I done was >> Why would they have charged you then? They normally don't charge you. Yeah, but if you have a seizure, medical, they wouldn't charge you. [music] Unless did you get charged with OVI or anything, DUI? >> No. >> Oh, all right. >> that we could have thought of was because he was in a um truck. >> Yeah. >> And >> Oh, no child seat. >> [music] >> Well, no, he was in a booster seat. >> Oh, interesting. >> They said that he was too small for the booster seat. >> Okay, so that's probably the reason why. Yeah. Yeah. She'll go on those, they usually get set up be She's going to go through juvenile court. So, it'll be she'll go to court and then they'll set it at juvenile court. She just need to get a hold of Butler County juvenile court cuz I don't know what it would be. Because it usually they don't they'll set it when she goes to court in [music] the morning cuz she'll probably go to court in the morning. So, just call up there and find out. Just call up Butler County jail. They'll have it. All right, so get him seat belted in and you guys are good to go. >> In the end, Justin E. Simpson Jr. was charged with felony child endangerment and drug possession. Meanwhile, his wife, Stephanie L. Sandley, initially faced misdemeanor charges that remained in place for more than 3 [music] years. However, in 2025, her case was dismissed. Up next, when a report leads officers to a situation involving a mother whose actions raised serious concerns for her infant's safety. >> Allison. >> What? >> How long has it been since you used any drugs? >> Since I used drugs? Over a week. >> It's been over a week? >> Yep. >> You have a stain on your feet. You have pock marks on your tongue. You have several [music] indicators that are consistent with somebody who's recently used narcotics. You're going to be charged with the child and >> On March 7th, 2024, officers in Florida received a 911 call from a mother who had seen her daughter with two men using drugs, but the situation took a darker turn when she raised concerns about her infant grandson possibly being in danger. What was meant to be a simple welfare check would soon uncover far more more anyone expected. >> Sir, Robert, Sarasota Police, you hear me? >> Hi. Hi. >> Hey, did you >> They're gone, I think. I just seen them on the camera running out of my house with garbage bags headed to their car. >> Okay. What's the deal with them? Are >> Well, DCF asked me if I could let her stay there till they found Chelsea a a place to go with the baby. >> Uh-huh. >> And I I said she couldn't go with me anymore, but I said I'll do it. Just tell me cuz the baby's all set. So, I let her stay, and she said, "Fine." Last night, she said she had to go stay at the Salvation Army while I keep the baby because something about her showing she's homeless and they'll put her in one of their housing there. >> Okay. >> The Salvation Army. So, I did it. Well, she promised she'd be home cuz I have to be to work. I have to leave my house at 7:00. She never showed up till 8:30, and she looked like she was messed up. She kept telling me she wasn't. Well, I had to go. >> Okay. >> So, I called DCF, and nobody's responding. I pulled up on my camera to see if she had been outside or not, and sure enough, she had brought two guys in my house through my back door, and they were leaving with garbage bags. Now, she had nothing but the baby's stroller and a and a seat at my house. So, I don't know what they took from my >> Okay. Do you know what kind of a car they were in? >> No, I just know his name's Zach. I don't know what kind of car it is. I've seen the car before. It's a little beat-up car. Silver, but I don't know the name the make. >> Okay, I've got to go. >> Just trying to get in, and she said that >> Can someone let me in please? >> Okay. >> That you guys came and locked the doors. >> I didn't lock the doors. >> Oh. >> I haven't touched the apartment. I haven't been inside. Do you have your ID with you? >> [clears throat] >> I'm why? >> Okay. What's going on this morning? >> I left this morning to go to the Salvation I came back from the Salvation Army >> Mhm. >> and we're getting housing. I just completed felony probation. >> Okay. >> I'm off of all that. >> Okay. >> There's nothing going on. >> Okay. >> Initial contact with the suspect, identified as 33-year-old Chelsea Bowman, was unusual. She spoke in disconnected phrases, raising concern among officers, especially given the potential danger her child [music] may have been exposed to. >> What happened a few minutes ago with you guys when you [clears throat] pulled out of here? >> When I pulled out of here? >> Yes, ma'am. >> In what car? There was two of them cars. A white car? >> Yeah. >> Oh, that's That his name is um >> [clears throat] >> Lavaro Hamilton. Lavaro Hamilton. >> Okay. Which car were you in? >> I was in the black um two-door. >> The black two-door? >> The black Volkswagen. >> Okay. All right. Where is that car now? >> What car? >> The black Volkswagen. >> He just left from Salvation Army. >> He just dropped you off? Okay. Who's this little guy? >> This is my son. >> Okay. What's his name? >> Caleb. >> All right. So, you were over here earlier collecting some property? >> Yeah. >> Okay. What's your last name? >> B O W M A N. >> Are you the one that dropped you off? >> But I I ain't doing nothing illegal or anything. Nothing wrong. My mom wants me to come here. I've been staying with her for the last 2 weeks. >> That's where you were staying? >> Yeah, with the baby Evan. >> And your first name is? >> Chelsea. >> Who was driving the black car that you left with? >> That is um His name is Tim. No. >> No. Ben? >> Ben. >> Ben who? >> Ben Ben. I know I say that and bring him but >> Okay, but you don't know him? >> No, you don't know his last name but >> Okay. How long have you known Ben? >> A month. >> At this point, officers noted that she was constantly searching through her bag claiming she was looking for her phone. But when an officer offered to help, she became defensive, an attitude that further reinforced concerns about her instability. >> So, what did you do this morning? You said you went to Salvation Army? >> I left the Salvation Army and came home. >> Came home together? >> I said yeah. >> Okay. >> And I stayed home with him. >> [clears throat] >> I talked to Aurora and I talked to Ben. Ben said he was coming to drive me. I got to look at my phone to find the >> Do you have a phone number for Ben so I can talk to him, see what's going on? >> Yeah, when I find my phone. >> Okay. Do you mind if I check to see help you find your phone? >> No, I don't mind if you check. >> Okay. >> I won't break any laws. I'm not I I have no >> Chelsea. >> Listen, I know my rights, okay? I have no I have just got off of three PPO's. I'll be damned if I'm going to let an officer go through my stuff. Do you mind? Of course I mind. All y'all have ever done is lock me and take me from my kids. No I'll check my bags where you're not around. You want to wait for me right here? That's fine but I don't >> Chelsea. >> What? >> How long has it been since you used any >> I've been clean for over a week. I get tested three times a week by the state. >> How long has it been since you >> Since I used Over a week. >> It's been over for >> Yep. >> Okay. Can you stick out your tongue? You do. >> I just ate ice cream. >> Can you open up your mouth, stick out your tongue? Okay. All right. >> I'm not using >> Chelsea. >> DCS is >> Chelsea, your speech is slurred. You can't stand on your feet. You have pop marks on your tongue. You have several indicators that are consistent with somebody who's recently used narcotics. How long has it been since you used something? >> I told you Saturday of last week. >> Saturday of last week. >> It was in this context, as Chelsea searched through her bag, that an officer noticed a small plastic bag among her belongings. Inside was a white powder, further reinforcing the suspicion that she had taken high doses of narcotics hours earlier. >> She is I think the medical term is high as right now. Uh I'm going to try and get mom's down in her mom's down in Venice. I'm going to try and get her to come up here. She's either going to jail or she's going to the hospital. I haven't decided which yet. >> Okay. >> But we're going to have to have somebody to take care of his mom's Aiden. >> All right. >> He seems okay now, but it's it's starting to get pretty hot out here. Uh I'm going to make a phone call. If she gives you any problems at all, give me a shout. I'll come back, we'll put her in cuffs. >> Sounds good. >> Yes. >> I'm not in and out of consciousness. I'm tired. I'm taking out of this time. It's time to go in. I don't want to end up in this situation again. I'm going to tell my mom. Y'all can go. I gave you a car violation. Okay, well, I'm going to get an Uber and I'm going to go. >> Okay. And if you have any questions, you can call. Okay? Cuz I want to go ahead and get to my sister so at least I can lay down. And she can help me. Okay? >> Let's go ahead. All right, Chelsea. Hands behind your back. >> I'm going to jail? >> Yep. >> What did I do? You got to call my mom to come get the baby. >> Stand up for me. >> I will. >> Just stand up. >> I do, sir? Sir. What did I do? Tell me. >> Just chill out. >> I didn't do anything. Are you serious right now? My son, you can't leave my son here. My mom has to come and get him. Please. >> We're not leaving >> At this point, Chelsea was escorted to the patrol car. Still unstable, she struggled to remain on her feet. But when questioned about why she was being arrested, she appeared increasingly concerned about what officers might already know. >> Why am I going to jail? Well, my guess is is that you're under some sort of narcotic, right? And you have that's your something cracked, yeah? >> I'm not on any narcotics. >> Sleeping medicine. I take methadone every morning. I have open DCF case. They come and test me. So I'm going to go to jail for that? >> I'm not sure. You're going to have to speak with the other officer, the investigating officer. >> Okay. Okay? >> Yes. He said you're going to jail. >> jail for what? >> He'll explain it to you once he once he comes back. Come on. Signal 10 here is going to be All right, he'll be able to tell you more about it. >> Can I get my phone? >> Yep, everything's going with you. >> No, so I can start calling my bondsman now? >> You >> can't call right now. Once you get booked the jail, you'll be able to call. >> It's going to take a long You're going to turn the call on now? >> Yep, I'm I'm turning it on right now. >> Well, we found some narcotics in your bag. >> What? >> What are those? >> What? >> I don't know. We're going to have to test them unless you know what it is. I don't know. I don't know what he collected from your bag. >> Oh my god, so >> What was in your bag? >> There was Xanax in there. >> Xanax and what else? >> There was Xanax and a powdery substance which were known as MDMA. >> MDMA? >> Yeah, but I don't want to go to jail for that. >> So, why are you carrying that stuff and why are you doing it? >> I'm not doing it. >> So, why do you have it? >> Because they left it in the bag where I got dropped off. That's >> Yeah, but it's it's in your possession. >> I understand that. >> You already know how that works. >> According to the police report, multiple suspicious substances were found inside the bag. When officers asked Chelsea about them, she hesitated to respond. However, identification tests confirmed what officers had already suspected the white powder to be. >> I'm not a good expert and it's going to help me out. >> This was in your like leopard skin purse. It kind of they kind of seem like pills that are mashed up. >> I got I got to see closer. I don't know. Those were Those were blues, so they were >> No, they're white, I think. >> But I am a little bit color blind. They're white. >> were They were white. They were They were just um Xanax, but they were a little more brown. >> Okay. And what the heck are these things? >> Oh, my ear plugs. >> Ear plugs? And what about these? >> Those are my Xanax. >> Xanax? And then this was out in your backpack. >> Does it say it? >> There is. There's powder in it. >> There's powder? >> Well, what was in it? >> I honestly don't remember all of those. >> Okay. >> So, I'm really in charge of the mall now. >> You're going to be charged with the narcotics. Uh, you're going to be charged with the child You can't be impaired while you're in the care of an infant. That's not safe. All right? But I What I'm going to do is try and speed this up a little bit and get you out of here cuz I know you can't be comfortable sitting in the back of the car in this heat. All right? We're going to get going in a minute. >> In the end, Chelsea Bowman was charged with possession of a controlled substance [music] and was held without bond due to conditions that raised serious concerns for the child's well-being.