A couple out of Clay County is now facing charges following an incident involving an infant.

 

On March 1st, Clay County 911 received a call from inside the emergency room at Manchester Advent Health.

 

After his arrival, Deputy Wes Brumley spoke with 25-year-old Ethan Hensley, of Manchester, who allegedly told him that he was involved in a wreck and had used meth.

 

Hensley is said to have had an argument with his girlfriend before leaving their residence with their baby.

 

Hensley allegedly admitted to Deputy Brumley that the child was in his arms while he was driving and had hit its head on the steering wheel during the crash. Hensley also allegedly told the deputy that he did not call 911.

 

Hensley was determined to be under the influence during the course of the investigation. The child was cleared by medical staff and placed in the custody of Child Protective Services.

 

The deputy was informed by a social worker that there could potentially be another child involved in the case, and was advised that he should go check the house Hensley was staying at on Lipps Branch.

 

Upon his arrival, the deputy spotted the child sleeping on the couch through the window. After announcing himself and knocking loudly, the deputy entered the home and tried to speak to the child, who did not respond.

 

At that point, 21-year-old Whitney Smith, of Manchester, woke up and came to check on things.

 

The deputy noticed a clear bag with a crystal-like substance in plain sight and several white pills on the stove. Smith admitted that the substance and pills belonged to her. She also admitted to taking meth and heroin while both children were in the home.

 

Smith was charged with endangering the welfare of a minor, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

 

Hensley received charges of endangering the welfare of a minor and public intoxication..

 

Both are currently being held at the Clay County Detention Center.