Wichita Falls woman surrenders on child endangerment charge

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Autumn Rigney, a 29-year-old Wichita Falls resident, has turned herself in to the police after being wanted for three counts of abandoning or endangering a child. According to the arrest affidavit, Rigney's three children, aged between 9 months and 7 years old, tested positive for methamphetamine, and Rigney and an adult male confessed to smoking meth in their home every day with the children present.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of child endangerment and the devastating impact of drug abuse on families. It raises concerns about the safety and well-being of children in homes where illegal substances are present, and the need for stronger measures to protect vulnerable minors from such harmful environments.

The details

The CPS investigator notified the police on December 19, 2025, that Rigney's three children had tested positive for methamphetamine. The investigator said that Rigney and an adult male had confessed to smoking meth in their home every day with the children present. The police reviewed the CPS report, which stated that the adult male had admitted to smoking meth for a month and a half, and that Rigney had admitted to smoking meth daily in the apartment while the children were present for two weeks. Rigney had a history of exposing her children to methamphetamine and was on probation for those charges.

• On December 19, 2025, a CPS investigator notified the police about Rigney's children testing positive for methamphetamine.
• On March 9, 2026, Rigney turned herself in to the Wichita Falls Police Department.

What’s next

Rigney was jailed on bonds totaling $45,000, and the case is still ongoing. The judge will likely determine whether to grant her bail or keep her in custody.