PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — A 23-year-old Portland mother is facing multiple charges of criminal mistreatment and child neglect after her toddler was found wandering the streets in diapers last week while she was reportedly passed out from methamphetamine use.
The incident occurred on July 23 around 7 p.m. in Southeast Portland, near the intersection of 162nd Avenue and Southeast Stark Street. Concerned witnesses called police after spotting a 3-year-old child, alone and dressed only in diapers, roaming the area unsupervised.
Shocking Discovery at Home
Officers followed tips from bystanders to a nearby second-story apartment, where they attempted to make contact by loudly announcing their presence. After receiving no response, officers spotted a woman—later identified as Chloe Alethia Barnes—slumped on a couch inside.
When Barnes finally woke up, she allowed officers into the apartment. Inside, police found her 2-year-old son asleep in a bedroom. Conditions in the home raised serious concerns: there was no power, rotting food spilling out of a wide-open refrigerator, and drug paraphernalia—including a torch lighter and a glass pipe—near the couch where Barnes had been sleeping.
Meth Use and Child Exposure
According to court documents, Barnes admitted to police that she and her boyfriend use meth, though she claimed she only smokes it when the children are in a different room. Despite this assertion, both children later tested positive for methamphetamine exposure via urinalysis, according to prosecutors.
Barnes was arraigned on Thursday and charged with:
-
Four counts of criminal mistreatment
-
Two counts of child neglect
While she has no prior criminal history, she was released on her own recognizance following the arraignment, per court records.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Concern
The case has sparked concern among community members and child welfare advocates, especially given the children’s direct drug exposure and the hazardous living conditions in the home.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the current custody status of the children or whether further charges may be filed against the boyfriend mentioned by Barnes.
A Stark Reminder
This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers children face in environments involving drug use and neglect. Police and child protective services are continuing their investigation, and the court system will determine the next steps in ensuring the safety of the children involved.
If you suspect a child is being neglected or abused, you’re urged to contact local authorities or call the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline at 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).
Leave a Reply