A Gassville woman appeared in Baxter County Circuit Court on Monday after being accused of exposing her six-month-old son to methamphetamine in levels far exceeding detection thresholds.
Lynsie Danielle Wright, 40, who resides along Buford Road in Gassville, waived her arraignment and entered a not guilty plea to a charge of introducing a controlled substance into the body of another. The charge is classified as a Class Y felony, the most severe in Arkansas short of crimes punishable by death. A conviction on this charge carries a potential life sentence. Wright is scheduled to reappear in court on November 16.
The Arkansas Department of Human Services (ADHS) initially became involved in the case on February 16 when the infant was born with methamphetamine in his system. Wright, who also tested positive for methamphetamine, amphetamines, and ecstasy at the time of the infant's birth, had custody returned after three months. The infant, born prematurely, had been treated at Arkansas Children’s Hospital and was in intensive care during that period. According to a probable cause affidavit, Wright was testing negative for drugs when custody was restored.
By August 1, however, ADHS received a report alleging neglect, inadequate supervision, and claims that Wright used and sold methamphetamine from her residence. During an investigation, Wright initially denied drug use or sales but later tested positive for methamphetamine. Officials say she subsequently admitted using the drug.
ADHS investigators removed the infant from Wright’s home shortly afterward, citing immediate concerns about his health and safety. They reported unsanitary living conditions and noted the child had a severe diaper rash with blisters. Prosecutors allege this was an indication of neglect tied to infrequent diaper changes.
Wright remains in custody at the Baxter County Detention Center with bond set at $50,000. In addition to the current charge, Wright faced separate legal issues in the past year, including charges of theft by receiving and tampering with evidence. Her bond on those charges was revoked as of September 29.