A North Carolina woman has been arrested after her child repeatedly tested positive for meth following visits with her.
Samantha Dale Dockery was arrested by detectives with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office after it was revealed in an investigation that her child repeatedly tested positive for methamphetamine, amphetamine and THC metabolites, according to News Channel 9.
The investigation into Dockery, 38, began after a concerned individual contacted the sheriff’s office regarding an ongoing Department of Social Services case that involved the child, who authorities said is about 12 months old.
The child underwent multiple drug screenings as part of the Department of Social Services case, and it was revealed that the child’s tests consistently showed controlled substances in their system after visits with Dockery. However, the child’s tests were negative when they were in the care of the biological father or other relatives.
Department of Social Services personnel confirmed that they had been monitoring the situation by giving the child drug screenings after every overnight visit they had with Dockery.
Investigators said that Dockery previously failed a drug screen, and additional testing for her came back with positive results for methamphetamine and THC.
Dockery was arrested June 10 and was charged with one count of felony child abuse inflicting serious bodily injury, as well as three counts of felony exposing a child to a controlled substance.
A North Carolina magistrate has since ordered her to be held in custody without bond.
“This case is particularly disturbing because it involves the safety and well-being of a child who depended on the adults in their life for protection,” Sheriff Chris Wood said in a statement obtained by News Channel 9.
Wood continued, “Our investigators worked diligently alongside the Department of Social Services to uncover the facts and ensure that appropriate action was taken. The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to protecting our most vulnerable citizens and holding accountable those who place children in harm’s way.”
The investigation into the case remains ongoing, and Dockery may face additional charges as investigators uncover more details about the allegations made against her.
It is not currently clear if Dockery has entered a plea or retained legal counsel following her arrest. The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office did not immediately respond to Us Weekly’s request for comment regarding the case.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
If you or someone you know is experiencing child abuse, call or text Child Help Hotline at 1-800-422-4453.
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