A Missouri couple is facing charges after allegedly abandoning their young child at a local courthouse without any proper care or supervision. Authorities say Jeremy Lamp, 36, and Jessica Lamp, 31, left their son without clothes, food, or basic infant care at the Livingston County Courthouse in Chillicothe, Missouri, after the mother tested positive for methamphetamine.
What Led to the Alleged Abandonment?
The couple reportedly arrived at the courthouse the day before for a drug screening as part of a Missouri Department of Social Services investigation into their family situation. According to police reports, Jeremy Lamp’s drug test came back negative, but Jessica Lamp’s test came back positive for methamphetamine.
The investigator from the Children’s Division of the Missouri Department of Social Services explained to the couple that, due to Jessica’s drug test results, a “safety plan” would need to be put in place.
The plan involved either Jessica staying outside the home or the child being placed with a relative. However, Jeremy allegedly rejected these options.
The Parents’ Actions and the Investigation
Despite being informed that the child could not stay with them, Jeremy and Jessica reportedly left the courthouse without their son. They allegedly did so because, according to Jeremy’s statements, the couple believed that the child would be taken away from them by social services anyway.
This claim was made when Jeremy told the police, “They were gonna take him anyway.”
After the incident, the police tracked down the parents at a nearby medical center. Jeremy and Jessica were arrested and charged with child neglect, with each having a history of prior criminal convictions, including assault and driving while intoxicated charges for Jeremy, and child endangerment for Jessica.
Legal Consequences
The couple is now facing child neglect charges for allegedly leaving their son without ensuring his safety or basic needs. They are expected to appear in court for a bond hearing on Monday. The case highlights serious concerns regarding the welfare of children in situations where parental neglect and drug use are involved.
The situation also underscores the importance of child protective services in safeguarding children from potential harm. Investigations like these aim to prevent children from being placed in unsafe environments, ensuring their well-being and future safety.
The actions of Jeremy and Jessica Lamp have led to serious legal consequences. Not only are they facing charges of child neglect, but they also face scrutiny due to their history of prior criminal behavior.
The case sheds light on the critical role that child protective services play in ensuring that children are not left in dangerous or neglectful situations. As the legal process unfolds, the future of their son remains a central concern, highlighting the need for careful consideration of the child’s safety and well-being.
