A Georgia woman has been arrested and charged with attempted murder after allegedly abandoning her newborn baby boy in a trash bag on her porch. The 22-year-old mother, identified as Elena Rapun, faces serious allegations that have left the local community in shock and prompted discussions around mental health and the state’s safe haven law.

The incident occurred in the early hours of March 31, when Rapun reportedly gave birth at her home in Bibb County. Instead of seeking immediate medical help for her newborn, authorities say she wrapped the infant in towels, placed him in a trash bag, and left him on the porch. Hours later, Rapun was taken to Piedmont Hospital by her boyfriend due to excessive bleeding, all while leaving the fate of their child unspoken and unknown to him.

The discovery of the baby was made by the boyfriend when he returned home to gather belongings after ensuring Rapun was receiving medical care. He heard noises coming from the trash bag and found the infant alive, struggling for breath. The baby was subsequently transported to the hospital, where he was reported to be in critical but stable condition.

According to the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, Rapun kept her pregnancy and the birth of her child a complete secret from her boyfriend and failed to notify medical staff about the delivery when she sought treatment. Investigators stated that she gave birth around 4:30 a.m. but did not call for help until later that afternoon, raising concerns about the well-being of both mother and child.

Following her release from the hospital, Rapun was taken into custody by crimes against children investigators and charged with criminal attempt to commit felony murder, reckless abandonment of a child, and first-degree cruelty to children. She appeared in court on April 2, where her bond was denied, and a commitment hearing was scheduled.

Legal experts have weighed in on the case, highlighting potential defenses that could arise during the proceedings. Notably, Georgia’s safe haven law allows mothers to surrender their newborns safely within 30 days of birth without facing criminal charges. However, ignorance of this law is unlikely to serve as a viable defense, and questions surrounding Rapun’s mental state during the incident may play a crucial role in her legal strategy.

Criminal defense attorney Meg Strickler emphasized the need to investigate Rapun’s background, including any history of abuse or mental health issues that may have influenced her actions. Strickler noted that postpartum depression and other psychological factors could be significant in understanding the circumstances of the case.

As the community grapples with the implications of this distressing case, local authorities continue to piece together the timeline of events leading up to the baby’s abandonment. The infant’s future remains uncertain, with discussions around his long-term care ongoing as he recovers in the hospital.

The case has sparked broader discussions about the resources available for expectant mothers, particularly in low-income areas where access to information about safe haven laws might be limited. Advocates stress the importance of education and support for those in crisis situations, urging anyone in need of help to reach out to resources such as the National Safe Haven Alliance.

As the legal proceedings develop, all eyes will be on the upcoming commitment hearing, where the court will further explore the complexities surrounding this tragic case. The hope remains that the infant will make a full recovery, and that this incident will lead to greater awareness and prevention of similar situations in the future.