Police: Oakland Abandoned Baby Report Was A Hoax
OAKLAND (CBS SF) -- The mother and family of the baby reported abandoned to police Tuesday came forward hours later admitting that the story was false, authorities said.
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 laws.
The mother and baby were being medically evaluated. The Oakland Police Department was 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.