Drugged-Up Couple Found Passed Out in Car at Sarasota Gas Station; 2 Infants in Backseat: Deputies

SARASOTA, FL – Responders called to a Sarasota gas station Thursday morning on a possible drug overdose found a man and woman passed out in a vehicle, with its engine running, and two babies in the backseat, according to law enforcement.

The pair's black SUV was seen on video surveillance stopping and parking at the gas pump at the Texaco at 19 East Road in Sarasota at 6:15 a.m., however, no one was seen exiting the vehicle, officials said. Witnesses' attempts to rouse the adults inside were unsuccessful, so 911 was called.

Arriving deputies said when they opened the SUV's passenger door, the two regained consciousness. The couple from Manatee County, William Ballard, 36, and Delaney Crissinger, 32, were arrested by the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office.

The two infants, secured in carseats in the back, were 5 months and 18 months old, the agency said.

Crissinger allegedly was holding a clear baggie containing .61 grams of methamphetamine, which she handed to deputies. And a search of the vehicle turned up another 2 grams or so of the drug, .38 grams of fentanyl and heroin, numerous baggies, a scale and a spoon, the department said. A loaded syringe also reportedly was found on the floorboard next to a container of baby formula.

She reportedly told deputies they were enroute to a methadone clinic and that she had little memory of how they ended up at the Texaco station, according to court papers.

Ballard, meanwhile, allegedly told law enforcement he lost his job and was selling heroin to make money for his family, filings stated.

The couple was taken to the Sarasota County jail.

Ballard of Ellenton was charged with suspicion of child neglect, possession of heroin and methamphetamine with intent to sell and driving with a suspended license. He is currently in custody on $30,120 bond.

Crissinger of Parrish was charged with suspected child neglect and possession of methamphetamine and narcotics equipment. During a first appearance hearing, the judge set her bond at $17,000.

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--Images via Sarasota Co. Sheriff