A Jonesboro man faces multiple charges after police found suspected methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia in a home while conducting a welfare check on a 6-month-old child.
According to a probable-cause affidavit, 35-year-old Andrew Blake Barker was charged with possession of meth or cocaine less than 2 grams, a Class D felony; possession of drug paraphernalia, a Class A misdemeanor; and third-degree endangering the welfare of a minor, a Class B misdemeanor. Craighead County District Judge David Boling found probable cause for the charges on Wednesday.
Jonesboro police responded to the welfare check on Aug. 16 at a residence in the 1000 block of Kimberly Lane. Officers spoke with Barker and the child’s mother outside the home and entered the house with them. The child’s father was also inside.
The affidavit states Barker was on parole and was searched by an officer, who found a small baggie of suspected methamphetamine in his pants.
Police determined the 6-month-old child was in a bedroom with its parents. When the child’s mother showed the officer the child’s own bedroom, the officer discovered numerous items that raised concerns. These included drug paraphernalia, tattoo equipment, a metal plate with marijuana residue, and a bong disguised as a toy, which was placed on a shelf among the child’s toys.
The affidavit also detailed poor living conditions in the home. It described dog feces embedded in the carpet, an insect infestation involving ants and gnats, and piles of clothes scattered throughout the residence. Paraphernalia and tattoo needles were found on the floor of the child’s room, where the affidavit claims Barker had been sleeping on a pillow and blanket.
Barker reportedly admitted to police that the drug paraphernalia found in the child’s room belonged to him.
Barker’s bond was set at $25,000 cash or surety. His arraignment is scheduled for Sept. 30 in Craighead County court.