New Delhi: A 21-year-old woman named Juniper Bryson in Texas’ Houston has been charged with attempting to sell her newborn baby via Facebook. Bryson was arrested and is currently being held in Harris County Jail on a $30,000 bond after allegedly seeking money in exchange for her son.
According to court documents, Bryson posted in a Facebook group titled “Birth Mothers Looking for Adoptive Parent(s)” in September, stating she was seeking a family for her unborn son. This message came shortly after she reached out to a relative, informing them that the baby would likely be born with drugs in his system and hinting at a desire for financial compensation. The documents reveal that Bryson justified her request for money as a means to secure stable housing and employment.
Bryson allegedly demanded payment
Bryson reportedly interacted with multiple prospective parents, including same-sex couples and individuals who had responded to her post. In one instance, a couple from Louisiana who had shown interest in adopting her baby travelled to Houston, only to withdraw after Bryson allegedly demanded payment.
Among those who responded to Bryson’s post was a Houston resident, who initially supported her during labour and stayed with her in hospital for three days. The woman, who formed a bond with the baby, assisted Bryson during her difficult moments as she experienced withdrawal symptoms. Bryson even allowed her and her husband to choose the baby’s name and signed legal documents giving them temporary authority over him. However, when the woman confronted her about rumours of an adoption fee, Bryson requested that hospital staff escort her from the room. She subsequently reported the matter to Child Protective Services (CPS), leading to Bryson’s arrest on outstanding warrants.
Bryson’s case bears similarities to a recent incident in Arkansas, where a couple was charged with attempting to sell their child. In response to this case, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services stated that, while they could not comment on specifics, family members or close friends are always prioritised in placing a child in foster care. The court case is ongoing, with Bryson facing a felony charge under Texas law prohibiting the sale of children.
