Parents who do drugs around their children put them in danger, whether they intend to or not. Illegal drugs alter a person’s mind, and when they’re under the influence, they aren’t always thinking clearly, which can lead to trouble when there are kids around. Colorado mom Meghan Anderson learned this lesson the hard way on March 24, 2026. The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office received a call just after 10 a.m. about an unresponsive 4-year-old child. Thankfully, emergency responders got to the residence in time to save the child, but the mother didn’t totally cooperate with police and found herself in handcuffs.
Deputies rushed to the home.
Deputies and medical personnel from Tri-lakes Monument Fire Protection District responded to a residence on Jessie Drive and found the child not breathing. Anderson reportedly told them to administer Narcan, a nasal spray that reverses the effects of opioid overdose, per a release from the sheriff’s office. It took multiple doses, but the child finally began breathing again.
EMS took the child to an area hospital.
Following the revival, crews took the child to a hospital for further care. After rushing the child away, Anderson reportedly became uncooperative with police. Detectives arrived a short time later and secured the scene.
“A search warrant was obtained and executed, resulting in the discovery of drugs and multiple items of drug-related paraphernalia inside the residence,” the sheriff’s office’s release read.
The sheriff’s office noted that the Department of Human Services took custody of the child at the hospital. The child’s current condition is unknown.
Police arrested Anderson on multiple charges.
She faces charges of child abuse, attempted child abuse, child assault, and reckless endangerment, the release noted. A judge set her bond at $100,000.
The sheriff praised deputies in a social media post for their quick response ultimately saving the child. “I commend my deputies and our partner first responders for their swift, decisive actions in this case. Their efforts ensured this child received immediate, life-saving care and that those responsible are being held accountable,” El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal shared.
“Protecting the most vulnerable members of our community—especially our children—remains one of our highest priorities, and we will continue to pursue justice in cases such as this without hesitation,” he added in the post.
The mother faced harsh criticism following her arrest.
Many people commented on the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office’s Facebook page about the case.
“Thank God, the child was revived. Please do not ever give this child back to this mother,” someone wrote. “I don’t care what she does to try to get that child back. Give the child a chance at life.”
Others hoped Anderson would take this time to heal her mind and body.
“Please use this time to recover. Recovery is possible. If I can do it can you,” a former addict wrote.
Some gave Anderson a bit of grace, knowing the situation could have been worse.
“I want to be angry, but I’m also glad she told them what was needed no matter what the circumstances would play out to be. I do feel like that says a lot about her because every day we are seeing children that are not given that opportunity,” someone wrote.
“Her only saving grace is she called for help and told them what her child needed. Thank god she at least did that,” another person agreed. “It doesn’t excuse the risk she put her child in, but it shows there use to be someone there that could be good before addiction ruined her life and her child’s life.”
Thankfully, this innocent child survived. We agree that calling 911 was a smart decision on Anderson’s part. Hopefully, this entire experience will change her life for the better.
