The mother and family of the baby reported abandoned to police this morning, has come forward to authorities, admitting that the story was false. The mother and family advised police that they were fearful of getting in trouble for surrendering the baby. The mother and family came forward after seeing media reports and information about California’s Safely Surrendered Baby (SSB) laws.
At this time, the mother and baby are being medically evaluated. The Oakland Police Department is still investigating the incident.
As a reminder, the SSB law (California Health and Safety Code, section 1255.7) provides a safe alternative for the surrender of a newborn baby in specified circumstances. Under the SSB law, a parent or person with lawful custody can safely surrender a baby confidentially, and without fear of prosecution, within 72 hours of birth.
Anyone who has information on this incident is encouraged to contact the Oakland Police Department Special Victims Section at (510) 238-3641.
