Detectives in Casselberry said a mother refused to take her newborn to the hospital because of her vegan beliefs.

Investigators said Sarah Markham's pediatrician told her the baby was dehydrated and needed to go to the hospital as soon as possible.

But when officers arrived at Markham's home, the mother told police she wanted to get second opinion from a vegan doctor.

Officer arrested Markham on child neglect charges.

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Managing Partner at Atlantica Properties, Darion Dunn (center) talks with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens during a tour following the ribbon cutting of Waterworks Village as part of the third phase of the city’s Rapid Housing Initiative on Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025.
(Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez