Woman Arrested After Infant Tests Positive for Meth

PARAGOULD, Ark. — A woman is facing charges that include a Class Y felony after an infant tested positive for methamphetamine in Paragould.

The probable cause affidavit says that in January 2025, detectives with the Paragould Police Department were advised of a Department of Human Services case involving an infant who had tested positive for methamphetamine.

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Medical records obtained showed the infant had tested positive for meth both in a urine screen and a hair follicle test. Police noted the hair follicle test is consistent with sustained environmental exposure over months.

An interview was also conducted with another party present during the hospital visit. The affidavit says they corroborated methamphetamine usage in the residence.

Amber Ragland, 30, of Paragould, is facing charges including the introduction of a controlled substance into the body of another person, a Class Y felony, and first-degree endangering the welfare of a minor, a Class D felony. By itself, a Class Y felony is punishable by up to life in prison.

Bail was set at $1 million by Judge Dan Stidham. The defendant was ordered to have no contact with the victim, not to engage in felonious or criminal behavior, and to wear an ankle monitor if released.

All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.