A 23-month-old baby in Washington County, Indiana, has tested positive for methamphetamine, and the mother has been arrested. The incident has shocked the local community, and officials say it’s a serious reminder of how dangerous drug exposure can be, especially for children.
According to the Washington County Sheriff’s Department, the case came to light on May 15 when deputies were called to a home near Salem, Indiana. The Department of Child Services (DCS) had received a report that a child in the home might have been exposed to drugs. Authorities immediately started an investigation to ensure the child’s safety.
When police reached the home, they found a young child who was not acting normally. The mother, 33-year-old Amanda Heavrin, was inside the residence with the child. Officers said the home was in poor condition and not suitable for a child. The situation raised even more concerns when police saw drug-related items lying around the house.
Officials decided to carry out a drug test on the baby. The child was taken to Norton Children’s Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky, for medical examination. The results confirmed everyone’s fears—methamphetamine was found in the child’s system. This discovery led to a quick arrest.
Amanda Heavrin was taken into custody and is now facing multiple charges, including neglect of a dependent resulting in bodily injury. She is being held at the Washington County Jail and is expected to appear in court soon. Authorities say the charges could carry severe penalties, especially because a young child was directly affected.
The case has disturbed many residents, as it highlights the ongoing problem of drug addiction and how it can impact innocent lives. Law enforcement officers said it’s one of the more heartbreaking cases they’ve handled this year. Detectives also confirmed that methamphetamine is one of the most commonly abused drugs in Indiana and has been a serious issue in rural areas.
Child welfare workers are continuing to monitor the situation. The Department of Child Services has taken custody of the child and is now working to ensure the baby receives the medical care and protection needed going forward. Officials said the child will likely be placed in a safe foster environment while the case proceeds in court.
Investigators are also looking into whether others in the household were involved or if this was an isolated incident. So far, no other arrests have been made, but the investigation is still ongoing. Police are collecting evidence from the home and may file additional charges depending on what they find.
Community leaders and healthcare professionals are using this incident as a wake-up call. They’re urging parents and caregivers to understand the risks of having drugs around children. Even small amounts of drug residue on surfaces can be harmful if a child touches them or accidentally ingests them.
This is not the first time drug exposure has led to criminal charges in the state. Over the past few years, Indiana has seen an increase in cases where children have tested positive for meth, heroin, or fentanyl. Authorities say addiction is a public health issue, but when it endangers children, it also becomes a criminal matter.
Police are also reminding the public that if anyone suspects a child is being exposed to dangerous conditions, they should report it immediately. Tips can be shared with local police departments or through the Indiana Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-800-800-5556. Every report could save a life, officials say.
For now, the focus remains on the child’s recovery. Doctors say the baby is in stable condition and is being monitored closely. Medical experts explain that meth exposure in children can lead to serious problems, including developmental delays, behavioral issues, and organ damage. It’s not yet clear how much of the drug the child was exposed to or how long the exposure lasted.
Amanda Heavrin’s case will now move through the legal system. A court date has not yet been announced, but officials say they will be pursuing the case seriously. Local prosecutors have emphasized that crimes involving harm to children will not be taken lightly.
The Sheriff’s Office said it hopes this case helps raise awareness about the dangers of drug use in households with children. They also thanked DCS workers, hospital staff, and officers for their quick response, which likely helped prevent the situation from becoming even worse.
As the investigation continues, the community has come together to support the child. Local churches and nonprofits are offering to help with clothing, toys, and emotional care as the baby adjusts to a new, safer life.
This incident is a tragic reminder that drug abuse does not just affect the user—it can have life-threatening consequences for the most vulnerable members of our society. Authorities hope this case encourages more people to seek help for addiction before it puts others in harm’s way.
