How many of us have made offhand comments to friends or on social media when our kids are driving us up the wall, suggesting we might “rehome” them? “If anyone wants a child, I’ve got one to give away!” or lightheartedly mentioning selling them to a circus are common jokes. I’ll admit, I may have joked about selling my little one just last week. It seems like ever since he turned three, I’ve made that quip at least once a month. Most people understand the humor in it. But what happens when someone takes such a joke too far?
A 24-year-old resident of Noxubee County, Mississippi, discovered the consequences of crossing that line when she was arrested for allegedly attempting to sell her child on multiple online platforms. Jasmine Smith reportedly made posts on various buy-sell-trade groups on Facebook, leading to law enforcement being alerted.
In one post, she shared a photo of her daughter, estimated to be about 2 years old, with a caption reading, “For Sale Do Anybody Wants To Buy Her Best Offer I Would Take” with an absurd price of $123,456,789—typically a number chosen for humor rather than serious consideration. However, the frequency and nature of her posts raised red flags for investigators. Supporters of Smith argued that she only shared the posts in groups where family would see them, but I’m not sure if that defense holds much water.
Sheriff Greg Thompson of Noxubee County commented on the incident, stating, “This isn’t a joke. It’s a serious issue. The moment that post went up, it caught everyone’s attention. I received calls from every local sheriff’s office and even the highway patrol.” Many locals defended Smith, claiming she was just joking, while others insisted that in a world rife with child trafficking concerns, such humor isn’t taken lightly.
Regardless of her intentions, Smith now faces charges related to the sale of a minor, and her daughter has been placed in the custody of Child Protective Services. The law has taken a hard stance on this matter, likely due to the serious nature of child safety and trafficking issues.
So, consider this a friendly reminder to all parents out there who joke about their kids on social media, especially as summer approaches and the chaos escalates. Be mindful of your audience, think before you post, and ensure your humor is clear. You might find yourself facing unexpected consequences otherwise.
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In summary, while joking about the challenges of parenting can be relatable, it’s essential to recognize the potential repercussions of those jokes, especially in the digital age.