BENTONVILLE, AR – Authorities arrested a young couple in Arkansas after an alleged attempt to trade their 2-month-old baby for a $1,000 cashier’s check and a six-pack of beer. The incident came to light following a report from a campground manager, prompting an investigation by the Benton County Sheriff’s Department.
Darien Urban, 21, and Shalene Ehlers, 20, were detained on September 21, accused of writing a letter granting custody of their infant to Cody Martin in exchange for monetary compensation. The letter, reportedly signed by both parents, explicitly instructed that there should be no further contact, according to an affidavit cited by local reports.
Emergency services were called to the scene, discovering that the infant required medical attention. The baby was subsequently transported to a local hospital for evaluation and is now under the care of the Arkansas Department of Human Services.
Eyewitnesses substantiated the attempted transaction, and law enforcement obtained video evidence showing Urban and Ehlers signing the document with Martin. Another witness revealed that a heavily intoxicated individual, Ricky Crawford, had earlier taken the baby from the couple in exchange for beer and later handed the infant over to Martin.
One bystander recounted to deputies that the baby emitted a strong odor of ammonia and feces. Upon changing the diaper, they discovered that the baby had severe diaper rash along with blisters and swelling. Photographs were taken to document the infant’s condition.
Martin disclosed to detectives that he initially conversed with Ehlers about the stress of managing both three dogs and a baby, which led to the discussions about relinquishing custody. He admitted drafting the agreement but emphasized that no money had changed hands at that time. The couple was promised a $1,000 cashier’s check, which they never received.
Both Urban and Ehlers face felony charges for endangering the welfare of a minor and attempting to negotiate the relinquishment of a minor for adoption. Urban has been released on a $5,000 bond, whereas Ehlers remains in custody with bail set at $30,000.