(KIWA) — A second adult is facing multiple felony charges in connection with an O’Brien County investigation into controlled substances and prescription medications allegedly given to children.
According to a criminal complaint filed by the O’Brien County Sheriff’s Office, 28-year-old Victoria Barnes of Madison, South Dakota, is accused of providing the children with medications that had not been prescribed to them.
The complaint states that Barnes admitted to a deputy that she gave the children the medications. Authorities say one was classified as a controlled substance, while urine samples collected during the investigation allegedly tested positive for the substances.
Barnes has been charged with:
•Drug distribution violation to a person under 18, a Class B felony
•Two counts of prescription drug violation involving a minor, Class C felonies
•Two counts of child endangerment, misdemeanor offenses
A Class B felony is punishable by up to 25 years in prison. Each Class C felony carries a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years.
Barnes faces the same charges as 29-year-old Johnathan Barnes of Paullina, who was previously arrested in connection with the investigation. Authorities allege Johnathan Barnes also admitted to giving the children medications that had not been prescribed to them.
Victoria Barnes is scheduled to appear for a preliminary hearing Friday, July 24. Johnathan Barnes has a preliminary hearing scheduled for Monday, July 27.
At last report, Victoria Barnes remained in the O’Brien County Jail in Primghar in lieu of bond.
The charges are allegations, and both defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
