Arkansas couple accused of trying to sell baby for beer and money

An Arkansas couple was arrested after allegedly trying to sell their 2-month-old baby for a six-pack of beer and a $1,000 cashier's check, court documents say.

Darien Urban, 21, and Shalene Ehlers, 20, the baby's parents, were arrested Sept. 21 after the manager of a campground in Benton County contacted the local sheriff's department to report an incident involving the couple, the reported CBS affiliate WREG.

The person said the couple wrote a letter giving custody of their baby to Cody Martin in exchange for money. The letter signed by Urban and Ehlers included a disclaimer that said, “There will be no change in your mind and you will never make contact again,” WREG reported, citing an affidavit.

Responders determined the baby needed medical attention and called emergency medical services, who took the child to a local hospital for evaluation. The child is currently in the custody of the Arkansas Department of Human Services.

According to the affidavit, several witnesses confirmed the adoption attempt. An officer also reportedly obtained cell phone video of Urban and Ehlers signing the contract with the man attempting to purchase the baby.

Witnesses reported that a campground resident, identified in the affidavit as Ricky Crawford, had visited Urban and Ehlers earlier in the day and offered to take the baby for the night in exchange for several cans of beer, WREG reported.

Crawford, who appeared heavily intoxicated, confirmed that he had taken the baby from the couple and taken it to Martin.

Another witness told authorities they smelled a strong odor of ammonia and feces coming from the baby, who was wearing a dirty diaper. She told officers that after changing the baby's diaper, she saw severe diaper rash, blisters and swelling, which she documented with photos.

According to the affidavit, also obtained by Law & Crime, Martin told investigators that he spoke with Ehlers about the reason for the possible adoption and she said, “Having three dogs and a baby didn't work out.” .”

Court documents say Martin told investigators that he drafted the agreement for Urban and Ehlers to sign, but clarified that no money was exchanged at the time. He said he would get a cashier's check for $1,000. The couple never received this payment.

The couple was arrested and charged with endangering the welfare of a minor and attempting to negotiate the release of a minor for adoption.

Urban was released on $5,000 bail on September 24, while Ehlers remains in custody on $30,000 bail.