Craigslist Adoption Ad Leads To Mom’s Arrest

The sad tale of an attempted Craigslist adoption — involving a human child, not a pet — has led to the misdemeanor arrest of a mom in Huffman, Texas.

According to police, 29-year-old Stephanie Christine Redus allegedly posted the Craigslist adoption ad, after discontinuing medication for depression and anxiety.

Redus, who is pregnant and unable to take any medications, claims to have been overwhelmed by the care of the toddler when she posted the following ad to Craigslist, offering her son for adoption:

“Hi. I’m trying to adopt out my 3yr old son. I’m not in a good place in my life and don’t feel like I can care for him properly but I don’t know where to start.”

The Craigslist adoption ad continues:

“If you or know anyone who is interested in caring for him please let me know. I’m a single mom and can’t do this. Thanks, Desperate.”

Redus’ three-year-old son has since been placed in the care of his father as police investigate the situation. The ad was posted on May 1, and Houston police say they subpoenaed the popular bulletin board service to reveal the poster’s identity, eventually locating Redus.

A little over a week later, KVUE reports, Redus spoke to police about the Craigslist adoption posting, and the station reports:

“During a recorded interview on May 9, Redus admitted to placing the ad, but said she never intended to give up her child. The mom said she only spoke to one person, and asked if they had any additional children and requested to see pictures of their home, according to court documents… Redus was feeling guilty after making her initial statement and returned to the police department on May 13 in order to clear the air.”

The Craigslist adoption posting resulted in a misdemeanor charge of advertising for placement of a child against Redus, and the expectant mom is currently free on $1,000 bail.