Child Protective Services and sheriff’s deputies teamed up at an area hotel after a tip raised concerns about the safety of two children in the care of parents suspected of heavy drug use.
CPS requested a law enforcement escort to the Comfort Suites because the children’s mother had previously threatened caseworkers during an earlier investigation. Deputies say the father also had an outstanding warrant, raising further red flags.
When caseworkers knocked on the family’s hotel room door, the mother briefly opened it before shutting it again. Moments later, the father stepped out. Deputies took him into custody on the warrant while CPS continued speaking with the mother and checking on the children.
During the arrest, deputies found a folded piece of foil with burnt residue in the father’s pocket. He admitted to smoking meth just hours earlier and claimed he had also been using Suboxone, though he denied knowing what was in the foil. A field test later confirmed the substance contained fentanyl.
Authorities stress that CPS and law enforcement often work side by side in situations like this—not only to enforce the law but also to ensure children aren’t left in unsafe, drug-filled environments. By stepping in together, they can remove immediate threats while offering long-term protection and support for kids caught in dangerous circumstances.
The father was booked into the Lawrence County Jail. The evidence was submitted to the state crime lab for further processing.
