Florida Mother Arrested After Newborn Twins Found ‘Severely Malnourished’ in Marijuana-Filled Home

Florida Mother Arrested After Newborn Twins Found ‘Severely Malnourished’ in Marijuana-Filled Home

Panama City, FL – A 21-year-old Florida woman has been arrested on child neglect charges after deputies discovered her 1-month-old twin boys severely malnourished inside a home that reeked of marijuana, according to the Bay County Sheriff’s Office. One of the infants was found barely responsive and nearly died before being rushed to intensive care.

The Incident: Distress Call Leads to Shocking Discovery

On September 30, deputies responded to a medical emergency call made by Hailey Smith, who reported that one of her infant sons was unresponsive. When Bay County deputies and fire rescue teams arrived at her home in Panama City, they found the baby “barely responsive” and struggling to breathe.

“While at the residence, the responding deputies noted the odor of marijuana emanating from within the residence,” the official affidavit stated.

Bay County Fire Rescue immediately began CPR on the infant before transporting him to a local hospital. Medical staff determined the child was in critical condition and later transferred him to Gainesville for intensive care after placing him on a ventilator.

Investigation and Medical Findings

According to the affidavit reviewed by investigators, the baby weighed 5 pounds, 6 ounces at birth on August 18, and only 5 pounds, 13 ounces when weighed again on October 2—a dangerously low gain for a newborn.

Doctors initially considered whether a genetic disorder might explain the infant’s frailty but ruled it out after he gained weight during hospitalization. Medical personnel concluded that the infant’s condition resulted from severe malnutrition and neglect, not an underlying medical condition.

During the investigation, deputies learned that Smith’s other twin had not been examined. When located, the second infant was also found to be “severely malnourished” and was transported to the same hospital in Gainesville for treatment.

The first baby “nearly died” as a result of his condition, according to the sheriff’s report.

Authorities said both babies have since been released from the hospital and placed in the care of relatives.

Charges and Court Proceedings

Following the investigation, Hailey Smith was arrested and charged with one count of aggravated child neglect and one count of child neglect. She is currently being held without bond at the Bay County Jail.

According to court records, Smith’s next court appearance is scheduled for November 13. If convicted, she faces serious prison time for failing to provide necessary medical care and nourishment to her infants.

The Bay County Sheriff’s Office said that further charges may be considered pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation.

Statements from Authorities

In a Facebook post, the Bay County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the arrest and said the infants’ condition reflected severe medical neglect. Authorities emphasized the importance of vigilance in reporting potential child abuse or neglect cases.

“This situation could have easily resulted in tragedy,” an agency spokesperson said. “Thanks to the quick actions of first responders and hospital staff, both babies are alive and safe today.”

Officials also noted that marijuana odor inside the home indicated possible substance use or exposure, which may have contributed to the neglect.

Background Context: Child Neglect in Florida

Florida law defines aggravated child neglect as a caregiver’s failure to provide a child with necessary care resulting in great bodily harm, permanent disability, or disfigurement. The charge is a first-degree felony punishable by up to 30 years in prison.

Experts say such cases highlight the critical need for early child welfare interventions. Neglect remains one of the most common forms of child abuse in the state, often linked to parental substance abuse and mental health issues.

Ongoing Developments and Next Steps

Both infants remain in stable condition under the supervision of family members and child protective services. Investigators are continuing to assess the home environment and any potential drug-related concerns.

The Bay County State Attorney’s Office is expected to review the evidence before Smith’s scheduled court hearing in mid-November. Prosecutors have not yet announced whether they will seek enhanced penalties.

Conclusion

The arrest of Hailey Smith has shocked the local community and renewed conversations about parental responsibility and child welfare oversight. While both infants are now safe, authorities have described the case as a reminder of how quickly neglect can endanger young lives.

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