Texas Arrested After 1-Year-Old Nephew Exposed to THC Vape Pen
El Paso County, Woman TX – May 16, 2025
El Paso County authorities have confirmed the arrest of 20-year-old Vianney Alyssa Acosta following a deeply troubling incident involving the exposure of her 1-year-old nephew to a THC vape pen. The incident, which occurred on May 16, 2025, has led to serious charges including child endangerment and possession of a controlled substance. The case has sparked widespread concern among local residents and renewed conversations about child safety, accountability, and responsible caregiving.
According to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office East Montana Patrol, deputies were dispatched to a local residence after receiving reports of a young child experiencing unusual symptoms. Upon arrival, the child was found to be lethargic and exhibiting signs consistent with THC ingestion — prompting immediate medical attention. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors confirmed the presence of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound found in cannabis, in his system.
Investigators quickly identified the source of exposure: a THC vape pen that was allegedly left within reach of the child while he was under the supervision of his aunt, Vianney Alyssa Acosta. Further investigation revealed that Acosta had been in possession of additional THC products at the time of the incident. She was subsequently arrested and taken into custody.
Acosta now faces charges of child endangerment, a felony offense in the state of Texas, as well as drug possession. If convicted, she could face significant jail time, fines, and the permanent mark of a criminal record. More importantly, the incident has raised alarms about the dangers of improperly stored drug paraphernalia and the urgent need for greater vigilance when caring for young children.
“This case is a tragic reminder of how easily children can be harmed when adults fail to take the responsibilities of caregiving seriously,” said a spokesperson for the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office. “The safety and well-being of our most vulnerable residents — our children — must always be the top priority.”
Family members have since taken custody of the child, who is now recovering and under close medical observation. Child Protective Services (CPS) has also launched an independent investigation to ensure the child’s long-term safety and assess the broader family environment.
The case has sent shockwaves throughout El Paso County, prompting community leaders and advocacy groups to speak out. Many are using the incident as a call to action for better public education around the risks associated with recreational drug use in environments where children are present.
“This could have ended in an even more heartbreaking way,” said one local child welfare advocate. “We urge anyone who is caring for children — whether full-time or temporarily — to treat that responsibility with the seriousness it demands. Lives depend on it.”
As the legal process moves forward, Acosta remains in custody pending a court appearance. The case is expected to be presented to the El Paso County District Attorney’s Office for formal prosecution.
In the meantime, authorities continue to urge the public to take preventative steps to protect children from accidental drug exposure — including locking away any and all substances that could pose harm, being mindful of what is within reach, and ensuring anyone tasked with childcare is fully capable and responsible.
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office has stated that further updates will be provided as the investigation continues. For now, the focus remains on the recovery of the young child and the pursuit of justice in what has been a deeply unsettling and preventable incident.