Oklahoma Couple Accused of Exploiting Teen as Surrogate Mother

Pair arrested in Nevada after fleeing state following child sexual abuse investigation

Mar. 21, 2026 at 12:07pm

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An Oklahoma couple, Nathan Potier, 36, and his 36-year-old girlfriend Erica Ramirez, have been arrested in Nevada on charges related to the alleged sexual exploitation of a 14-year-old girl. The investigation began in December when Child Protective Services alerted authorities that the young girl was pregnant with twins, and the couple had allegedly exploited her as a surrogate mother despite the girl's young age and Ramirez's inability to conceive due to having her tubes tied. The couple fled Oklahoma before authorities could execute a DNA warrant for Potier, sparking a multi-agency manhunt that ended with their arrest in Sparks, Nevada.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious issue of child exploitation and the lengths some individuals will go to in order to have children, even if it means abusing and taking advantage of minors. It also raises concerns about the need for stronger regulations and oversight around surrogacy arrangements to protect vulnerable individuals.

The details

According to court records, Potier faces charges of sexually assaulting a minor in Oklahoma County, while Ramirez is accused of facilitating child sexual abuse. The investigation began in December when Child Protective Services alerted Oklahoma City authorities that the 14-year-old girl was pregnant with twins. Ramirez reportedly confessed her desire for children with Potier but cited an inability to conceive due to having her tubes tied. Before authorities could execute a DNA warrant for Potier, the couple fled the state. With warrants issued for their arrest, a multi-agency manhunt ensued, and the couple was eventually located and arrested in Sparks, Nevada.

  • In December, Child Protective Services alerted Oklahoma City authorities that the 14-year-old girl was pregnant with twins.
  • Before authorities could execute a DNA warrant for Potier, the couple fled the state.
  • The couple was eventually located and arrested in Sparks, Nevada.

The players

Nathan Potier

A 36-year-old man facing charges of sexually assaulting a minor in Oklahoma County.

Erica Ramirez

Potier's 36-year-old girlfriend, who is accused of facilitating child sexual abuse.

Child Protective Services

The agency that alerted Oklahoma City authorities about the 14-year-old girl's pregnancy.

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What’s next

The couple is currently being held in the Washoe County jail in Nevada and is awaiting extradition to Oklahoma to face the charges against them.

The takeaway

This case underscores the urgent need for stronger regulations and oversight around surrogacy arrangements to protect vulnerable individuals, particularly minors, from exploitation and abuse. It also highlights the importance of vigilant child welfare monitoring and collaboration between law enforcement agencies to swiftly apprehend those who engage in such heinous crimes.