Indianapolis Woman Faces Charge After Child Overdoses
A 10-year-old child required hospitalization in May after ingesting methadone left in a lock box.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Substance Abuse
Authorities in Indianapolis have charged 33-year-old Sabricia Witherspoon with neglect of a dependent resulting in serious bodily injury. The charge follows a late May 2026 incident where her 10-year-old child required emergency medical treatment after consuming methadone.
Why it matters
The case highlights the dangers posed to children by improperly secured prescription medications kept in the home. It also underscores the medical risks associated with pediatric exposure to opioids, which can cause severe physiological distress.
The victim, a 10-year-old child, required two doses of Narcan after testing positive for methadone but negative for all other substances. The mother is currently facing a Level 3 felony charge.
The players
Sabricia Witherspoon
The 33-year-old mother is facing a charge of neglect of a dependent resulting in serious injury in Marion County.
The details
The 10-year-old victim ingested the medication at a home in the 3700 block of Yellow Poplar Court while in the care of another minor. The child later told investigators she attempted to consume the substance after hearing the mother describe its taste.
Timeline
Late May 2026: Police responded to the child's reported overdose.
October 13, 2026: An arrest warrant for Sabricia Witherspoon was issued.
The Big Picture
This case follows the enforcement patterns established by the Indiana criminal code regarding neglect of a dependent. It marks a continued effort by local authorities to hold guardians accountable when household safety lapses lead to severe harm.
This incident serves as a critical reminder to keep all prescription medications in locked containers inaccessible to children. Medical experts emphasize that even small doses of methadone can be fatal to a child and require immediate emergency intervention.
The takeaway
Parents and guardians are encouraged to audit their homes for unsecured medications to prevent accidental ingestion. Proper disposal of unused prescriptions is the most effective way to eliminate these risks from the household environment.
Further reading
For more information on local outreach, visit the Substance Abuse section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Fox 59.
