UPDATE: A shocking tragedy has unfolded in Idaho as police discovered a 12-day-old infant dead in a filthy trailer, prompting serious criminal charges against the parents. Authorities report that the child suffocated in a home littered with animal feces and cigarette debris, raising urgent questions about child safety and welfare systems.
On December 16, 2023, at approximately 3:32 a.m., Nampa police responded to a 911 call made by Brian Lemke, 31, who initially claimed the baby died from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). However, investigators allege the infant was moved post-mortem from the location where it suffocated. Officers found the mother, Allysen Armenta, 28, hiding in a camp trailer in the backyard, leading to her arrest alongside Lemke.
Police reports detail that the trailer was in a deplorable state, filled with garbage, food, dirt, and animal excrement. Text messages exchanged between the couple on the day of the infant’s death revealed their frantic state after the tragedy. “What did I do. I’m sorry. I don’t know what happened, but it’s my fault. Are they saying SIDS?” Lemke allegedly texted Armenta, instead of contacting authorities immediately.
Both parents face multiple felony charges, including felony injury to a child, hiding evidence, and obstruction of justice. This incident marks a disturbing continuation of their troubled history, as court records indicate they have prior convictions for child endangerment and have had other children removed from their custody due to hazardous living conditions since 2019.
Idaho Representative Dori Healey addressed the pressing issues raised by this case, emphasizing the need for systemic improvements in child welfare interventions. “Ensuring child safety, proper intervention, and accountability within state agencies is critically important,” Healey stated.
As the investigation unfolds, both Lemke and Armenta are scheduled to appear in court next month for preliminary hearings. The Nampa Police Department is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the infant’s tragic death, with community members expressing outrage and sorrow over the incident.
This developing story highlights significant concerns about child welfare and the responsibilities of state agencies in protecting vulnerable children. Stay tuned for further updates as this case progresses.
