Baby boy found dead in Whitewater field, woman arrested

WHITEWATER, Wis. - A 39-year-old Whitewater woman has been arrested in connection with the death of a newborn baby boy found in a field on Saturday, March 4.

Police responded to the area of Twin Oaks Mobile Home Park on Tratt Street around 11 a.m.

Officials said the deceased newborn was in a plastic bag in a cardboard box, wrapped in a light-colored shirt, and wearing no additional clothing. Police said they believe the newborn was placed in the field less than 48 hours before he was located.

Police believe the Whitewater woman is the mother of the baby boy.

The woman is in the Jefferson County Jail. Officials are considering charging her with concealing the death of a child and resisting or obstructing an officer.

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Whitewater police want to alert the public of the Safe Haven for Newborns legislation, which "guarantees the rights of parents relinquishing custody of newborn babies, 72 hours old and younger, anonymously and confidentially." 

Newborns can be given to a law enforcement officer, emergency medical services practitioner or hospital staff member without fear of legal consequences. 

Anyone with information is asked to call the Whitewater Police Department at 262-473-0555 or email Det. Justin Brock and Det. Anthony Heilberger. Anonymous tips can be shared through the P3 Tips website.