GRAND FORKS, N.D. - In an unusual case that's grabbed international attention, a Grand Forks mother who police say was "extremely intoxicated" while breastfeeding her 6-week-old was sentenced today to a six-month term, which she is allowed to serve at a substance-abuse treatment facility.
"I'm very sorry for what I did, and I know it was wrong," 26-year-old Stacey Anvarinia told the judge. "And I would like to continue working toward getting my daughter back."
Anvarinia pleaded guilty to child neglect, a Class C felony, in state District Court in June.
Grand Forks police responded to a domestic disturbance at Anvarinia's home in February. Officers reported that she was drunk and breastfeeding. The child was taken to Altru Hospital, and Anvarinia was arrested.
Cpl. William Hahn, who was at the scene, testified today that Anvarinia was not holding her infant correctly, not supporting the child's head. Citing a report, prosecutor Carmell Mattison said Anvarinia, at one point that night, held the child upside down by one leg.
