In the early morning hours of September 20, 2025, deputies from the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office responded to Renown Regional Medical Center regarding a 9-month-old child who had tested positive for multiple controlled substances, including methamphetamine, benzodiazepines, and barbiturates.
The infant was admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) in stable condition after an initial medical emergency when medical staff had conducted CPR before stabilizing the child. Despite the dangerous exposure, the infant is currently recovering under close medical care.
During the course of the investigation, deputies made contact with both parents. The child’s father, Dwayne Turner, initially fled the hospital when confronted by medical staff but later returned and was interviewed by detectives. Deputies and detectives recovered drug paraphernalia and controlled substances during the investigation.
Turner was arrested and booked into the Washoe County Detention Facility with the following charges:
- Child Abuse, Neglect 1st
- Possession of Controlled Substance
- Possession of Dangerous Drug without Prescription
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
- Convicted Person Failure to Register
Sheriff Darin Balaam expressed gratitude to first responders and compassion for the child and family:
“This is an incredibly tragic and disturbing situation. No child should ever be exposed to such dangers. We are grateful to the medical team at Renown and our deputies for their quick action to ensure this infant is safe and receiving the care they need. Our focus remains on protecting the most vulnerable members of our community, and we will work closely with our partners to ensure accountability and support for this child, ” said Sheriff Darin Balaam.
The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances leading to the infant’s exposure. Washoe County Child Protective Services has been notified and is engaged in the case. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Non-Emergency Dispatch at 775-785-WCSO (9276) or Secret Witness at (775) 322-4900, reference case # WC25-4770.
