The Legislature clarified this law during the last session, identifying specific places where a newborn may be left. At least 26 states have considered similar legislation, including Oklahoma. At least 105 babies were abandoned in public places, and 33 were found dead. Because of the nature of this tragic act, exact statistics are sketchy, but what is apparent is that a child abandonment law can save an innocent life. The primary problem is communication and that many individuals who might consider such an act may not be aware of the alternative.
Education is needed at the state level to increase awareness, and thereby save lives.
Until local authorities proceed with the investigation and conclude what precisely happened, it is unknown if this law could have prevented a needless loss of life. Still, there exists the possibility that an individual may face criminal prosecution for an act that was unnecessary from a legal aspect, if not incomprehensible morally. And more importantly, there is the potential an innocent life could have been saved. Your comments will be sent to the editorial department . They will not be made public unless you give permission.