• A college student in Ohio faces charges after allegedly hiding a newborn in a closet inside a trash bag.
• Police say the infant was discovered alive after a welfare check, sparking outrage and renewed debate over safe haven laws.
• The case underscores broader concerns about mental health, access to resources, and protections for vulnerable children.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (TDR) — Authorities say a 20-year-old college student has been charged with child endangerment after police discovered a newborn hidden in a trash bag inside her off-campus apartment closet. The shocking discovery, made during a welfare check late Monday, has rattled the community and reignited debates about safe haven protections and support systems for young mothers in crisis.

Police said they responded to reports of unusual noises and odors coming from the apartment. Inside, officers found the infant concealed in a plastic bag placed in a closet. The baby was rushed to a local hospital, where doctors confirmed the child was in stable condition and receiving care.

Arrest and Charges

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The student, whose name has not been released pending arraignment, was taken into custody at the scene. Prosecutors said she faces charges of child endangerment and evidence tampering, with additional counts possible as the investigation unfolds.

“This is a deeply disturbing case, and we are thankful the infant is alive,” said Detective Laura Simmons, who is leading the investigation. “We’re working closely with prosecutors to ensure accountability and to understand the circumstances that led to this act.”

Neighbors told reporters they were horrified by the discovery. “I can’t imagine what would drive someone to do that,” said one student who lives nearby. “We’re just relieved the baby survived.”

Spotlight on Safe Haven Laws

The case has drawn renewed attention to Ohio’s safe haven law, which allows parents to legally surrender infants up to 30 days old at hospitals, fire stations, or police departments without facing criminal charges. Advocates say greater public awareness and outreach are critical to preventing tragedies.

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Rachel McCarthy, director of the Safe Haven Coalition, said the case underscores gaps in education. “Too many young people don’t realize there are safe, legal options,” she said. “We need better messaging on campuses and in communities.”

Similar incidents have occurred nationwide, prompting calls for states to expand access to safe haven baby boxes, where infants can be surrendered anonymously and securely. Ohio has installed several in recent years, but advocates say more are needed.

Mental Health and Support Systems

Beyond legal questions, the case raises broader concerns about mental health and the pressures faced by young mothers. College counselors noted that unexpected pregnancies often trigger fear, isolation, and desperate decisions when students lack access to resources.

“The stigma remains powerful,” said Dr. Steven Patel, a psychiatrist who works with at-risk youth. “Without support, a student may feel trapped, leading to choices that put both themselves and their child in danger.”

University officials said they are reviewing campus outreach programs to ensure students are aware of counseling, medical, and legal assistance. Critics argue that institutions often fail to connect vulnerable students to resources in time.

Looking Ahead

The infant remains in hospital custody, with child protective services determining next steps. Prosecutors are preparing formal charges, and the case is expected to proceed quickly given the public scrutiny.

For Ohio, the episode adds urgency to the conversation around safe haven protections, education, and mental health. While many praised officers for saving the child, others warned that punishment alone won’t prevent future tragedies.

Will this disturbing case push Ohio and other states to expand safe haven awareness — or will it fade into another forgotten headline until the next crisis strikes?

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