GLOCESTER – Police have charged two individuals with child endangerment in an investigation that began when Glocester officers reportedly found evidence of drug activity in a room where an 18-month-old child had been living.
Danielle Bennett, 41, and Jose Lopez, 41, who both had a last known address in Woonsocket, are facing one count each of child endangerment.
According to police, officer were called to the West Glocester Motor Inn on Tuesday, Sept. 2 for a reports of landlord-tenant issue involving an adult female resident.
“During the course of this investigation, management at the motel later contacted police after discovering suspected narcotics and drug activity inside the vacant room,” noted a release from the Glocester Police Department.
Officers reportedly observed children’s clothing, toys, and other personal belongings in the room where drug activity was also observed and documented.
The Department of Children, Youth, and Families was immediately notified and opened an investigation, according to Glocester police.
Subsequent coordination with DCYF investigators led to the location of the child and guardian in Woonsocket. The child was taken into protective custody and evaluated at Hasbro Children’s Hospital, where toxicology testing confirmed the presence of cocaine and fentanyl exposure.
“DCYF’s investigation concluded that the living conditions seriously endangered the physical health and welfare of the child,” noted GPD.
The joint investigation led to arrest warrants for Bennett and Lopez. Both suspects have extensive prior contacts with law enforcement, including drug-related offenses, according to police.
Bennett and Lopez were located, arrested, and charged on Saturday, Oct. 18. Both were arraigned and released on $10,000 personal recognizance, and have a pre-arraignment conferences scheduled for Monday, Jan. 5.
