A 28-year-old Iowa mother has been charged after police say she fell asleep under the influence of drugs and later discovered her infant son head-first inside a trash can, motionless and not breathing.
Investigators believe the child, named in records as R.S., died as a result of asphyxia.
Infant Found with His Head Inside Trash Can After Mother “Passed Out”
According to the criminal complaint, the incident occurred on January 27 while Jaley Bush was visiting a friend at his home on Hickory Terrace in Keokuk. Bush brought her baby with her, and the two slept together on a bed in a basement bedroom.
When Bush awoke, she informed investigators that she discovered her infant “head first and unresponsive inside a trash can next to the bed.”
Authorities say the child was placed on the inside portion of the bed, and Bush stated he had to crawl over or under her before falling into the trash can while she slept.
Police Say Bush Appeared Under the Influence
Keokuk police officers arrived at 2 p.m. and began rescue efforts, as Bush appeared disoriented and impaired. The complaint notes she displayed “signs of being under the influence,” such as slurred speech and a stoic demeanor.
Bush acknowledged taking Klonopin, a sedative intended to relieve anxiety and induce relaxation, before falling asleep. She replied she had no idea who the pills belonged to.
A blood test performed the following day indicated the presence of:
- Methamphetamine
- Benzodiazepines (including Klonopin)
Bush informed detectives that she had not consumed any extra narcotics between the time police came and her blood was drawn.
Infant’s Death Ruled Asphyxia; Mother Charged
Baby R.S. was hospitalized but died on February 5. The medical examiner found that his death was caused by asphyxia, or a lack of oxygen.
Bush was later charged with child endangerment resulting in death, a crime. She appeared in court this week to face the charges.
Leave a Comment