Oklahoma couple accused of using 14-year-old as surrogate for twins

Authorities say the mother and her boyfriend told police the teen "desperately wanted additional siblings".

Mar. 23, 2026 at 12:51am

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An Oklahoma mother and her boyfriend were arrested for allegedly using the mother's 14-year-old daughter as a surrogate for twins. The couple, Nathan Potier and Erica Palmer, both 36, fled Oklahoma after the investigation began but were later located and apprehended in Nevada by US Marshals.

Why it matters

This case highlights the exploitation of minors and the disturbing lengths some adults will go to in order to have children, even if it means abusing and manipulating a vulnerable teenager. It raises concerns about the lack of safeguards and oversight around surrogacy arrangements, especially those involving minors.

The details

According to authorities and court documents, the investigation began in December when Child Protective Services received a report about the 14-year-old girl being pregnant with twins, possibly by her mother's boyfriend. In an interview with police, Erica Palmer allegedly claimed her daughter "desperately wanted additional siblings" and that she wanted to have children with her boyfriend, but couldn't because her tubes were tied. However, Palmer denied allowing Potier to impregnate her daughter. Police obtained a search warrant for Potier's DNA to determine paternity, but the couple fled Oklahoma before the test could be conducted.

  • The investigation began in December when Child Protective Services received the initial report.
  • The teen's due date was in late February.

The players

Nathan Potier

A 36-year-old Oklahoma man who was arrested and charged with sexual assault of a child.

Erica Palmer

A 36-year-old Oklahoma woman who was arrested and charged with enabling the sexual abuse of a child, as well as two counts of desertion of a child under 15.

The 14-year-old girl

The teenager who was allegedly used as a surrogate for twins by Potier and Palmer.

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What they’re saying

“Her daughter 'desperately wanted additional siblings'”

— Erica Palmer, Mother

What’s next

The couple was extradited to Oklahoma to face charges, and the 14-year-old girl has been placed in foster care.

The takeaway

This disturbing case highlights the urgent need for stronger regulations and oversight around surrogacy arrangements, especially those involving minors, to prevent the exploitation of vulnerable individuals and protect the wellbeing of all parties involved.