Waco, Texas – Authorities arrested 26-year-old Ashley Marie Bailey last week after she allegedly left her baby outside the father’s apartment, notifying him via text message and daring him to contact authorities. Bailey faces one count of abandoning or endangering a child without intent to return, a third-degree felony under Texas law, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a maximum $10,000 fine.
Details of the Incident
According to the Waco Police Department, the incident occurred at approximately 2:05 a.m. on August 20 at the University Terrace Apartments in the 1100 block of Speight Avenue, about 100 miles south of Dallas. The baby was reportedly left outside the father’s apartment, strapped into a car seat.
The father reportedly received a text message from Bailey stating, “come and get your baby…[she] is at the door. Bye. Talk to you tomorrow.” Additional messages allegedly challenged him to report the situation to Child Protective Services (CPS), including one that read, “IDC. Call CPS on me. Get your kid, bro.”
Police noted that the father did not see the initial text for over 40 minutes, during which the baby was unattended outside.
As per KWTX, officers later located Bailey at her residence in the 700 block of Eagles Nest Drive around 3 a.m., where she was taken into custody and transported to the McLennan County Jail. She was later released on bond.
Legal Implications
Bailey is charged with abandoning or endangering a child without intent to return, a serious offense under Texas law. Investigators have not disclosed her relationship to the child, and it remains unclear when she is scheduled to appear in court.
Community Concern
The incident has raised concerns about child safety and parental responsibility in Waco. Law enforcement officials stress that abandoning a child, even briefly, poses serious risks and is treated as a significant criminal offense.
Next Steps
Authorities continue their investigation to determine all circumstances surrounding the case. They encourage anyone with additional information to contact the Waco Police Department.
What are your thoughts on this case? Share your opinion in the comments below—do you think the authorities handled it appropriately, or should stricter measures be taken to protect children in situations like this?
