Top Stories
Baby Trafficking Scheme Uncovered in Costa Rica
By Explore Costa Rica Staff
Mar 5, 2008, 06:00

Explore Costa Rica.com is Costa Rica's online English language daily newspaper, featuring Costa Rica News, Costa Rica Events, Central America News, Costa Rica Weather, Costa Rica Travel, Costa Rica Business, Costa Rica Real Estate, Costa Rica Hotels, Surfing, Fishing, Golf Tournaments, for all those traveling or living in Costa Rica

Baby Trafficking Scheme Uncovered in Costa Rica

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica — Costa Rican police arrested 14 people, including a family court judge and a lawyer, on suspicion of participating in a scheme in which mothers allegedly were paid to give up their babies.

Police estimated that Costa Rican adoptive parents may have paid an average of $10,000 per child. There was no immediate evidence that any of the babies were sent abroad, but police said investigations are continuing.

At least three babies have changed hands since the beginning of the investigation in 2006, but police suspect there may be more. The ring allegedly targeted birth mothers in financial need, police said.

"We have evidence of the sale of a child, who perhaps went to a family enthused to have a baby," said police director Jorge Rojas. "But this trafficking is prohibited by law. Even though it was a direct deal, in which the mother handed over the child, it was in exchange for money." quoted AP.

Two social workers were also detained. No formal charges have been filed in the case.

The judge allegedly signed adoption papers, apparently in return for a portion of the price paid by the adoptive parents, investigators said. The detained lawyer was the alleged mastermind, and the social workers may have channeled needy mothers into the ring, investigators added.

Costa Rica police found photos of 4,000 children at the home of one of the detained women.

Costa Rica News | Costa Rica Real Estate | Living & Retiring 
 
 Promote YOUR Costa Rica Business & Link to YOUR Website:Get A
Business Information Page
 
 Add Your Costa Rica Business, Costa Rica Tours & Costa Rica Hotel FREE!