Newborn found in field remains in state custody

Newborn found in field remains in state custody

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By Adam Ghassemi and KATU Web Staff

PORTLAND, Ore. – A newborn found alone in a northeast Portland field will remain in state custody after the child's mother failed to appear for a court hearing Monday.

The Oregon Department of Human Services will maintain temporary custody of the baby until further notice.

The state argued that the 29-year-old woman - who is believed to lead a transient lifestyle - is unfit because she abandoned her newborn Sunday morning in a field near Northeast 102nd Avenue in the Gateway area of northeast Portland.

They question her mental health and whether she was under the influence of alcohol during her pregnancy.

The woman's family said there is no way she abandoned the baby; they claim she only left its side to clean up from the pregnancy.

The birth mother has not been charged with any crime.

The woman's mother, Cheryl Grimm, appeared in court Monday as well as a man who stepped forward claiming to be the child's father. He was ordered to take a paternity test because DHS officials claim the woman could have taken part in prostitution.

Meanwhile, the baby was said to be doing well on Monday and could be released into temporary foster care as early as Tuesday.

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