GARLAND, Texas – A couple voluntarily surrendered their newborn at the North Garland Fire Station on Thursday evening, ensuring the baby’s safety under the Texas Safe Haven Law.
What We Know:
- The couple arrived at the fire station around 5:45 p.m. and handed over their infant.
- Paramedics transported both the baby and the mother to a hospital, where the newborn was confirmed to be in perfect health, and the mother was reported to be stable.
- Since the surrender met all the requirements of the Texas Safe Haven Law, the parents will not face any criminal charges.
Understanding the Texas Safe Haven Law:
Established in 1999, the Texas Safe Haven Law (also known as the Baby Moses Law) allows parents to legally and anonymously surrender a newborn, provided the child is 60 days old or younger, unharmed, and safe.
Safe Haven locations include:
- ✔ Fire stations
- ✔ Hospitals
- ✔ EMS stations
Parents are not required to provide an explanation for surrendering their child. According to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS), the process is confidential, stating:
“No questions asked. No police. No prosecution.”
Once medically cleared, DFPS takes custody of the baby and ensures the child’s care and placement.
What Authorities Are Saying:
Garland police commended the parents for making a difficult but responsible decision.
“We want to reassure parents that they have a legal and safe option to bring their newborn to a designated Safe Haven location,” said Garland Police Chief Jeff Bryan. “This ensures the baby receives immediate care and the opportunity for a safe future.”
What Remains Unknown:
- The exact age of the baby was not disclosed, though it must have been under 60 days old per Safe Haven Law criteria.
- The reasons behind the surrender remain unclear, as parents are not required to provide one.
- Since no criminal charges were filed, the parents’ identities have not been released.
This case serves as an important reminder that Safe Haven laws provide a secure, judgment-free option for parents unable to care for a newborn.