Grand Forks mom pleads guilty in drunk breastfeeding case

In an unusual case that's received international attention, a Grand Forks mother who police say was “extremely intoxicated” while breastfeeding her 6-week-old pleaded guilty to child neglect Tuesday.

Officers responded to an unrelated call at a Grand Forks residence in the early morning of Feb. 13 and saw 26-year-old Stacey Anvarinia slurring her speech and breastfeeding, prosecutor Meredith Larson told the judge.

Citing a police report, Larson said officers were concerned about the infant’s welfare, so they called Altru Hospital and were told that breastfeeding while intoxicated was not good for the child.

“Ms. Anvarinia was notified of that, and she continued to make attempts to breastfeed,” Larson said.

Anvarinia entered what's known as an open plea, since she had not reached a plea agreement with the prosecution.

She is slated to be sentenced Aug. 7. The charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.

Judge Sonja Clapp of state District Court said Anvarinia will not have to register as an offender against children.

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