Couple allegedly tried to sell their baby for $1,000 and beer

A couple in Rogers, Arkansas, faces serious charges after allegedly trying to sell their two-month-old baby at a campground. According to the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Darien Urban, 21, and Shalene Ehlers, 20, attempted to give away their child in exchange for a six-pack of beer and later for $1,000.

Authorities were alerted when a concerned individual reported that the baby appeared to need medical attention. Emergency services took the infant to a hospital. An affidavit reveals that Ehlers expressed her intent to surrender the baby, citing difficulties managing the child alongside three dogs.

The affidavit reveals that the baby was handed over to a man at the campground who inquired if he could “have the baby overnight” in exchange for a six-pack of beer. The man, appearing “heavily intoxicated” during his conversation with authorities, expressed concern for the baby’s welfare.

Ehlers allegedly told the man and another individual that managing three dogs and a baby was difficult and offered to surrender the baby for $1,000. Authorities later obtained a letter signed by the parents stating, “I, Darien Urban and Shalene Ehlers, are signing our rights over to [redacted] of our baby boy [redacted] for $1,000 on 09/21/2024.”

The couple reportedly signed the letter agreeing to the exchange, which included a disclaimer stating they could not change their minds or make contact afterward. During questioning, they claimed the baby was undergoing an adoption process, but investigators discovered a video of them signing the letter, indicating otherwise.

Witnesses described the baby as having a severe diaper rash and unpleasant odors. Urban and Ehlers were arrested, with bail set at $50,000. Records show Urban has been released, while Ehlers remains in custody as the investigation continues.