Portland Mother Charged After Toddler Found Wandering Streets While She Slept Off Meth

PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — A 23-year-old Portland woman is facing serious charges of child neglect and criminal mistreatment after police say her toddler was found wandering the streets in nothing but a diaper, while she was passed out inside their Southeast Portland apartment.

3-Year-Old Found Alone in Diaper

Police responded around 7 p.m. on July 23 to reports of a young child walking alone near the intersection of 162nd Avenue and Southeast Stark. Witnesses flagged down officers and directed them to a nearby apartment where they believed the child lived.

When officers arrived, they attempted to contact the residents of a second-story apartment, but received no response. However, one officer spotted a woman — later identified as Chloe Alethia Barnes — slumped back on a couch inside.

Inside the Apartment: Alarming Conditions

Barnes eventually woke up and let the officers in. Inside, police discovered her 2-year-old son asleep in a bedroom, while the conditions of the home raised immediate red flags:

The apartment had no electricity
The refrigerator was open, with spoiled food hanging out and spilled on the floor
Officers found a glass meth pipe and torch lighter near the couch where Barnes had been unconscious

Barnes told police that both she and her boyfriend smoke methamphetamine, but claimed she only does so when her children are in a separate room.

Children Exposed to Meth

Court documents reveal both of Barnes’ young children tested positive for meth exposure after undergoing urinalysis. When asked, Barnes could not recall the last time the children had eaten.

Legal Charges and Court Appearance

Barnes was arraigned on four counts of criminal mistreatment and two counts of child neglect. Despite the severity of the charges, she was released on her own recognizance and has no prior criminal record, according to court documents.

Prosecutors expressed concern over the well-being of the children, who are now in protective care while the investigation continues.

Community Concerns

This disturbing case has sparked outrage among Portland residents and renewed discussions about child welfare and addiction in the region. The intersection of drug abuse and parental neglect continues to be a growing concern for local law enforcement and child protective services.

Anyone with additional information about the incident or concerns for the children’s safety is encouraged to contact the Portland Police Bureau.