Infant Found Abandoned in Cold Weather in A Dumpster: Jackson Police Investigate

The Jackson Police Department is actively investigating the case of an infant found in a dumpster near Carver Street during extremely cold weather on Thursday, January 19, 2023.

Emergency responders were called to the scene and attempted to save the child’s life. The infant is currently alive and receiving advanced medical care.

On Friday, January 20^th, during a press conference, Jackson Police Chief Thom Corley announced that the child was transferred from Jackson-Madison County General Hospital to another medical facility for additional medical treatment.

The police have already identified the newborn’s mother with the assistance of the local District Attorney’s Office and Department of Children Services. However, the police have not yet released any further details about the mother to the public.

During the press conference, the Chief of Police, Thom Corley, also spoke about Safe Haven locations where a child can be surrendered, such as emergency rooms, fire departments, and clinics. These locations provide a safe and legal option for parents who may be unable to care for their child.

The Tennessee Safe-haven law allows mothers to give up their healthy newborns at specific locations within 14 days of delivery without facing criminal charges, according to a report by  39 News on January 19, 2023.

Jackson police spokesperson told 39 News that the city will be installing a “baby box” in April, which is a safe-haven facility where unwanted infants can be left. This will be in addition to the existing safe-haven facilities throughout the city.