The drop-off appears to conform with Ohio law, said Detective Nate Trout, a Lebanon police sergeant.
“The child has been placed in the custody child protective services,” Trout said. “We work closely with them. We talk to them daily. But as far as a criminal investigation goes, there’s no reason to do that as of now.”
Police and fire officials do not know who left the infant, Trout said. Lebanon police and fire crews responded shortly after the alarm was received, and the infant was taken immediately by fire officials to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, police said.
This organization’s attempts to reach Warren County Children Services have been unsuccessful. Lebanon police said the infant girl had no visible injuries, and they received no follow-up concerns after a medical exam.
Newborn safety incubators were approved by the Ohio Department of Health in 2017. Registrations are valid for three years, and renewals must be submitted at least 30 days before they expire, according to the ODH.
Under Ohio law, a parent may voluntarily deliver their child who is not older than 30 days, with no intent to return for the child, in various ways, according to the Ohio Department of Health.
They include dropping the child off with a peace officer, a hospital employee or an emergency medical service worker by calling 9-1-1 and staying with the child until those officials arrive, police said.
Another option is a newborn safety incubator provided by specified authorities, according to police. They include law enforcement agencies, hospitals and emergency service organizations, according to the state health department.
The ODH’s website lists more than 20 registered door or door alarm installers, including ones in Centerville, Dayton and Greenville.
Newborn safety incubators at the Lebanon and Troy fire departments were approved in 2023, according to Dayton Daily News records.
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