A Texas mother was arrested for allegedly attempting to put her 3-year-old son up for adoption on Craigslist.
Stephanie Redus, 29, told authorities that she placed the ad because she struggles with depression and anxiety, CBS Houston reports. She is currently pregnant.
"Hi, I'm trying to adopt out my three-year-old son. I'm not in a good place in my life and don't feel like I can care for him properly, but I don't know where to start. If you or know anyone who is interested in caring for him please let me know. I'm a single mom and can't do this.
Thanks, Desperate."
The posting, published May 1, has since been removed by Craigslist administrators, NBC News reports.
Houston Police Officer D. Thomas questioned Redus on May 9 after locating her through the Craigslist ad.
"The defendant stated that she did make the post but never intended to give ... [the] child up for adoption," Thomas stated in the complaint, according to the Houston Chronicle. "The defendant responded that she is pregnant and has not been able to take her medication to combat her depression and anxiety."
Four days later, Redus told authorities that "the posting was to help her with her anxiety."
A neighbor who lives near Redus in Huffman appeared surprised, saying that he thought the boy seemed well cared for.
"You'd see him out here playing," John Kirby told KTRK. "The little boy he goes around riding a little electric police car he's got."
The children are now with Child Protective Services.
Redus is charged with advertising for placement of a child. She is scheduled to appear in court May 21.
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