A Pennsylvania couple has been arrested after daycare workers allegedly found a bag of cocaine inside their toddler’s lunch box.
Cocaine Discovered at Daycare
According to police, staff at Little Dreams Daycare in Dillsburg contacted authorities on May 28 after finding a small bag containing a white powdery substance inside a toddler’s lunch box.
Investigators tested the substance and said it came back positive for cocaine.
Parents Charged
The child’s parents, Emily Arter, 30, and Joel Rodriguez-Melendez, 31, have been charged with multiple offenses, including conspiracy to manufacture with intent to deliver drugs and endangering the welfare of children.
Police launched an investigation following the discovery at the daycare.
Search of Home
Authorities later executed a search warrant at the couple’s residence and said they found cocaine, marijuana and other controlled substances inside the home.
Investigators also reported finding packaging materials commonly associated with drug distribution.
Police said some of the drugs were accessible to children living in the house.
Children Removed From Home
Four children under the age of 10 were inside the residence when officers carried out the search.
The children were placed with responsible adults while the investigation continued.
Arter and Rodriguez-Melendez were taken to York County Prison and each received a $50,000 bond. They are scheduled to appear in court on June 29.
