Infants found in back of overdosed couple’s SUV, sheriff says

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. -- Two infants were found in the back of an SUV as two adults were found sleeping in the front after overdosing in a Sarasota gas station parking lot, reports CBS Tampa affiliate WTSP-TV.

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office says deputies arrested William Ballard, 36, and Delaney Crissinger, 32, on Jan.19 after they were discovered passed out in a black SUV in a Texaco gas station.

While Ballard and Crissinger were nodding off, two children, ages 5 months and 18 months, were sitting in car seats with the vehicle’s engine running, authorities say.

Crissinger allegedly fell asleep with a clear baggy of methamphetamine in her hand. Deputies say they also found a loaded syringe next to a container of baby formula on the vehicle’s floorboard.

A further search of the car revealed more methamphetamine, fetaynyl, heroin and drug paraphernalia, deputies say.

Both suspects face child neglect charges. Ballard was also charged with possession of heroin and methamphetamine and driving with a suspended license. Crissinger was charged with possession of methamphetamine and narcotics equipment.

Ballard is being held on $30,120 bond. Crissinger is held on $17,000 bond.