Albuquerque, NM – A man and woman were arrested on child abuse charges after investigators discovered drug-use evidence inside the bedroom of their infant child, according to court documents.
Welfare Check Leads to Discovery
On Sept. 10, Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office deputies and investigators from the New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD) conducted a welfare check at the home of Melody Abrams and Anthony Garcia after receiving an anonymous tip.
Authorities said they discovered drug paraphernalia in close proximity to the child. Following a search warrant, officers found additional items in the infant’s bedroom, including burnt foil, glass pipes, used and unused syringes, smoking straws, and lighters, all within reach of the child.
Other Hazards Found
Investigators also noted several weapons inside the residence that were not properly stored, including tools, knives, machetes, and hatchets, raising further concerns for the infant’s safety.
Admission and Arrest
According to documents reviewed by KOAT, Anthony Garcia admitted that he and Abrams were drug addicts who use fentanyl.
Both were arrested and booked into the Metropolitan Detention Center. They face charges of child abuse and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Community Concern
The case has raised alarms about child safety in drug-affected homes, with authorities stressing the importance of reporting suspected abuse or neglect.
Do you think child welfare checks should be stricter in cases involving drug abuse? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
