Recently, our office indicted a young mother for the very disturbing and violent murder of her six week old newborn. Her unwanted newborn was brutally beaten and left in a garbage can.
Sadly, many adults would have loved the opportunity to adopt such a baby. There are parents of unwanted newborns that do not realize Ohio has a “Safe Havens for Newborns” law. This law provides for complete immunity if a parent of a newborn leaves the baby with employees at a hospital, fire or police station. If the baby is unhurt and hasn’t been neglected, dropping the baby off will result in no legal consequences.
When a parent cannot care for a baby, leaving the newborn at a “Safe Haven” is the right choice. The baby’s well-being should be the first priority. A parent dropping a baby off isn’t required to provide any information, including their name.
Protecting a baby is a basic instinct and a moral commitment we all share. There is no good reason not to act in the best interest of a newborn, no matter how difficult the decision.
We need to get the word out . . . a parent cannot get prosecuted or punished if they deliver their baby unharmed to a “Safe Haven”. A variety of agencies, such as your local Children Services Board or Department of Jobs and Family Services can provide information regarding “Safe Haven” law, or call (800) 755-4769.
While this particular innocent baby is now in heaven, let’s make sure other newborns end up in the arms of adults who desire to love and protect such precious gifts. We all need to get the word out about “Safe Havens” . . . maybe the next nightmarish hell on earth doesn’t have to happen.
-Robin Piper - Butler County Prosecutor |
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