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Police: Florida woman exposed baby to cocaine, causing severe injury

Posted at 5:12 PM, Nov 18, 2018
and last updated 2018-11-19 12:23:25-05

CLEARWATER, Fla. (AP) — A Florida woman is charged with exposing a 3-month-old baby to cocaine, leaving him with significant brain damage.

The Tampa Bay Times reports 29-year-old Angelica Lopez was arrested Thursday on a charge of child neglect causing great bodily harm.

Clearwater police didn't disclose her relationship to the baby.

Detectives say Lopez was preparing cocaine for sale in the apartment she shared with the child in June when he was exposed to the drug. They say Lopez waited 11 hours before seeking medical attention even though the child was showing signs of distress. Tests showed cocaine in his system.

Police say Lopez confessed. They didn't say why she wasn't arrested for five months.

Lopez was being held Sunday on $20,000 bond. Jail records don't show if she has an attorney.

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