De Queen Woman Charged After Toddler Tests Positive for Marijuana

A 22-year-old De Queen woman is facing a felony charge after authorities say her 15-month-old daughter tested positive for marijuana.

It was reported, Jessika Johnson called for an ambulance on April 18 after her toddler had been lethargic for several hours. Emergency responders reportedly found the child running a fever and transported her to Sevier County Medical Center. The child was later transferred to Arkansas Children’s Hospital in Little Rock, where testing showed the presence of marijuana.

During the investigation, Johnson told authorities she initially believed the child may have ingested cleaning products while she was cleaning the home the previous day. Investigators said Johnson acknowledged having smokable marijuana and marijuana gummies in the residence but denied the child had access to the gummies.

Johnson reportedly told investigators the child may have eaten a biscuit that had fallen onto a floor where loose marijuana could have been present.

Johnson has been charged with endangering the welfare of a minor. If convicted, she could face up to six years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, or both.

The case has been assigned to Sevier County Circuit Judge Tom Cooper.