An Ashland City couple found themselves in jail after an alleged nap at a gas station pump with a 9-month-old child in the back seat of the car led to drug and domestic violence charges.
On August 25 at a local Circle K, the authorities were notified after it was discovered that a vehicle had been parked at a gas pump for about an hour and a half with a child in the backseat. When they got there, officers reportedly discovered a 21-year-old driver and a 22-year-old passenger slumped over in the front seats with a toddler in the back.
According to reports, when officers woke the pair, both appeared confused and disoriented. They refused a request to search the vehicle, but officers allegedly noticed a narcotic smoking device in plain view. A deeper search of the car reportedly revealed drug paraphernalia, including items that tested positive for fentanyl, along with heroin, ecstasy, and marijuana. The couple allegedly admitted to using heroin before arriving at the gas station.
As a result, the child was taken into the care of the Department of Children’s Services. During the arrest, the woman claimed to be a victim of domestic violence and reportedly told the police that the man had been physically abusive to her earlier that day. The officers documented visible injuries, including bruising and a burn mark.
Both were taken into custody and booked into the Cheatham County Jail. They are each facing preliminary charges of child abuse/endangerment/neglect of a child under eight years old. The man is facing several additional charges including domestic assault, possession of unlawful drug paraphernalia, possession of Schedule 1 drugs, and three counts of simple possession. Court dates have been set for both suspects, with one appearing in September and the other in November.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a criminal offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.