A Louisiana mother, Ashley Burguera, 34, faces multiple charges after her two young children allegedly tested positive for cocaine during a hospital visit. The incident came to light on Nov. 21 when hospital staff in Kenner, Louisiana, treated Burguera’s 4-year-old son for a broken arm. He reportedly told medical staff that the injury occurred when the boy fell while jumping on a bed.
However, the situation worsened when a routine urine analysis revealed the presence of cocaine in the boy’s system. Concerned for the well-being of both children, the hospital alerted the Kenner Police Department, who informed the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Subsequently, both the 4-year-old boy and his 2-year-old brother were examined, the results of which confirmed the presence of cocaine in their bodies.
During a search of Burguera’s home, police reportedly discovered several small bags and bottle caps containing a white powder residue. Tests confirmed that the substance was cocaine, according to FOX 8 live. The items were allegedly left in areas easily accessible to children, leading authorities to believe the children unknowingly ingested the drugs.
Five days later, on November 26, Burguera was arrested during a custody hearing for her children. Following his arrest, police say they discovered a small amount of cocaine on his person, adding to the seriousness of the case.
He now faces multiple charges, including two counts of unlawful use of controlled dangerous substances in the presence of minors, second-degree cruelty to minors, general cruelty to minors and possession of drug paraphernalia.
As the investigation continues, DCFS took custody of the children, whose names have not been released. Their current location remains uncertain, and officials have yet to determine whether they will be placed with relatives or enter the foster care system.
The circumstances surrounding the boy’s broken arm remain unclear, as does Burguera’s explanation for the events leading up to the hospital visit. Kenner, a city of about 66,400 people in Jefferson Parish, is located just northwest of New Orleans.
The case has sparked concern in the community, with ongoing discussions about child safety and the risks posed by accessible drug paraphernalia. While the investigation continues, the fate of the children and the full extent of Burguera’s legal consequences remain unresolved.