NORTH CAROLINA — A North Carolina couple has been arrested after four children tested positive for methamphetamine and marijuana and one child showed signs of abuse, according to the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities said the investigation began in April after the Department of Social Services received a referral involving a toddler who was found with markings consistent with abuse.
During the investigation, deputies removed the toddler and three other children from the home. Officials said all four children later tested positive for methamphetamine and marijuana.
The sheriff’s office identified the suspects as 24-year-old Austin McClain and 26-year-old Malik Monta McClain.
Both were charged with four counts of exposing a child to a controlled substance and one count of misdemeanor child abuse. Each was issued a $300,000 secured bond.
The investigation remains ongoing.
