Crime
21-year-old Juniper Bryson arrested after trying to sell newborn baby to highest bidder on Facebook
Bryson allegedly revealed that her baby would likely test positive for drugs and stated she could not keep him.
A Houston woman, 21-year-old Juniper Bryson, faces charges for allegedly attempting to sell her newborn through social media. She has been charged with “sale or purchase of a child” and is currently held on a $30,000 bond.
The investigation began on September 23, when Houston police received a tip regarding Bryson’s alleged activities on Facebook.
According to court records, just two days earlier, on September 21, Bryson reportedly reached out to a family acquaintance, asking if they knew of any families interested in adopting.
Bryson allegedly revealed that her baby would likely test positive for drugs and stated she could not keep him.
Through a Facebook group designed to connect birth mothers with prospective adoptive families, Bryson advertised her location as Houston and indicated her willingness to travel if necessary.
On September 24, Bryson gave birth at a local hospital, with an acquaintance—reported to be interested in adopting—present during her labor.
Police allege that Bryson was waiting for “the highest bidder” to secure the adoption deal, and authorities were contacted after users on social media flagged the situation as suspicious.
Additional messages show Bryson allegedly sought financial compensation in exchange for her child, prompting police to proceed with formal charges.
Bryson is scheduled to appear in court today at 9 a.m., where further details may emerge regarding her actions and potential penalties.
Christian County, Mo. — Authorities have identified the suspect accused of fatally shooting a deputy with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office during a traffic stop as Richard Bird.
At the time the Blue Alert was issued, the suspect had not yet been taken into custody.
According to law enforcement officials, the deputy initiated a traffic stop involving a 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck along State Highway 160 near Highlandville.
During the stop, the suspect allegedly opened fire, fatally wounding the deputy before fleeing the scene.
The suspect was reported to have traveled southbound on Highway 160 following the shooting.
Authorities described the suspect vehicle as a black 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck equipped with a silver brush guard, black body trim, tinted rear windows, and a three-ball trailer hitch. The vehicle was bearing Missouri license plate 9MG-X36.
A statewide Blue Alert was issued to notify the public and assist in locating the suspect.
Law enforcement officials urged residents not to approach the vehicle or suspect if located, but instead to immediately call 911 and provide detailed information while remaining at a safe distance.
Christian County is situated south of Springfield and north of Branson, an area that sees significant travel due to its proximity to the Ozarks.
Multiple agencies across the region coordinated efforts in response to the alert.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting or the status of the investigation.
Law enforcement officials expressed their condolences to the deputy’s family, colleagues, and the community as they continue to pursue justice in the case.