Kansas City, MO – Authorities in Kansas City, Missouri, are actively searching for Cerria McCoy, a woman charged with endangering a child after her toddler son ingested illegal, life-threatening drugs on multiple occasions. The alarming incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding child safety amidst drug abuse in the community.
McCoy’s son was hospitalized after being found unresponsive with drug residue, prompting police intervention and placing the child in protective custody. This case comes amid troubling revelations of prior hospital visits involving the ingestion of methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, and other narcotics.
The Incident and Police Investigation
On January 2, 2025, Kansas City police responded to a call from the 3900 block of East Linwood Boulevard regarding McCoy, her son, and paramedics. McCoy reported seeing her toddler son holding a burned straw and unknown residue while walking to buy milk. Though she never saw the straw in her son’s mouth, she suspected drug residue was present.
The situation escalated when the child became unresponsive while McCoy was preparing a bath. Paramedics found a burnt straw and a piece of burnt tinfoil where McCoy had been sitting, which raised immediate concerns of drug exposure, according to KSHB.
Officers accompanied McCoy and the child to the hospital, where medical staff noted the child had been previously admitted with methamphetamine in his system. Subsequent medical reviews revealed the child tested positive for fentanyl as well.
History of Child’s Drug Exposure and Protective Custody
Medical records from March 2024 indicate the toddler was admitted after ingesting cocaine, methamphetamines, and fentanyl. On that occasion, McCoy reportedly became upset and attempted to disconnect the child from medical devices and leave the hospital prematurely.
Following that incident, authorities took the child into protective custody. Detectives conducting a home visit in April 2025 found McCoy’s sister present and arranged an interview with McCoy, who reportedly expressed concerns about being arrested.
Community Appeal and How to Provide Information
Law enforcement officials urge anyone with information regarding Cerria McCoy’s whereabouts to contact 911 or the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS. The Greater Kansas City Crime Stoppers also provides avenues for anonymous tips via phone, online submissions, or a mobile app—sometimes offering cash rewards for valuable information.
- The child has been exposed to multiple dangerous substances including fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamines.
- McCoy apparently allowed access to these substances, leading to serious child endangerment charges.
- Police continue to investigate and seek community assistance to ensure the child’s safety and apprehend McCoy.
“This is a tragic case underscoring the critical need for vigilance regarding child welfare and illegal drug exposure,” said a Kansas City police spokesperson. “We encourage anyone who knows anything about this case to come forward.”
Protecting Children from Drug Exposure: A Growing Concern
The repeated hospitalizations and drug exposures faced by this toddler exemplify the dangers children face in environments where illegal drugs are accessible. Experts warn that accidental ingestion of substances like fentanyl and methamphetamine can be fatal even in small amounts.
Authorities and community organizations are encouraged to work together to combat drug-related child endangerment and provide support to affected families.
What You Can Do to Help
- Report suspicious activities or drug use that may put children at risk.
- Utilize anonymous tip lines like the Greater Kansas City Crime Stoppers.
- Stay informed about local crime and child safety through reliable news sources.
What do you think about this case? Have you encountered concerns about child safety in your community? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
