The Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office has announced the arrest of 25-year-old Christine Zickefoose. Authorities say that DHS requested TCSO investigators respond to a Tulsa hospital on May 14, 2024 after a newborn baby reportedly died after being exposed to narcotics and abandoned by the mother.

TCSO says the baby had been on life support due to oxygen deprivation and exposure to multiple narcotics during the mother’s pregnancy. Authorities allege that 25-year-old Christine Zickefoose delivered the baby on May 4th at a residence in the 1500 block of South 264 W Avenue.

Hours later, she allegedly took the baby to an area hospital for treatment. At that time, the baby was placed on life support with no sign of brain activity. Authorities claim Zickefoose left the hospital the following day and attempts by medical staff to have her return were unsuccessful.

The baby passed away on May 10. Zickefoose has been charged with Felony Child Neglect. She was arrested and booked into the Tulsa County Jail on October 11.