Iowa Mom Gets Probation for Attempting to Sell 4-Year-Old Son to Pay for Wedding Dress

Friday , December 07, 2007

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DAVENPORT, Iowa —

Marcy Gant, 32, was convicted in October of purchase or sale of an individual and could have been sentenced up to 10 years in prison.

Gant was arrested in October 2006 after offering her son to a retailer to settle a $200 bill for the dress. Police said Gant offered the trade at least twice.

Gant's sons, ages 4 and 10 at the time, have been removed from the home by Iowa Department of Human Services.

Prosecutor Julie Walton requested prison time for Gant, citing "out-of-control behavior" fueled by alcoholism.

Lauren Phelps, Gant's attorney, requested probation.

"She's making better choices," Phelps said, saying she is keeping in touch with her children and maintaining a stable residence. "She's doing things she needs to do."

Gant will have to follow several special provisions, including bans on alcohol and contacting the prosecution's main witness in the case. Gant also will have to submit to random tests for drugs and alcohol, follow the advice of mental health professionals and attend two Alcoholics Anonymous meetings a week, Scott County District Judge James Kelley ruled.

Gant could be sent to prison for up to 10 years if she violates the order.