In a shocking turn of events, Rosie O'Donnell's oldest daughter, Chelsea Belle O'Donnell, 27, was arrested on multiple charges, including child neglect and drug possession, after police discovered her 11-month-old son living in a squalid home filled with meth pipes, garbage, and used needles.
On September 17, police responded to a domestic disturbance call at Chelsea's home in Marinette County, Wisconsin, where officers found signs of heavy drug use and a toxic environment.
During the visit, Chelsea had dilated pupils and appeared jittery, denying any altercation despite having fought with her boyfriend, Jacob Nelund, earlier. Officers found meth pipes on her and later discovered disturbing conditions inside the house.
Arrest unfolds amid drug-fueled chaos
Police described the home as filled with "rotten food, moldy dishes, soiled diapers, and used hygiene products." A child's room contained hypodermic needles, drug residue, and even a meth pipe within the infant's reach. The baby was found sleeping amid the chaos and was handed over to a friend of Nelund.
Both Chelsea and Jacob admitted to using marijuana, but officers suspected much heavier drug use. Jacob, whose physical appearance suggested meth addiction, initially denied other drug involvement. Meanwhile, Chelsea was caught hiding meth in a black vial concealed in her bra during her arrest.
This isn't Chelsea's first run-in with the law. Raised by Rosie O'Donnell and her ex-wife Kelli Carpenter, Chelsea has battled drug addiction and mental health challenges for over a decade.
A troubled past comes to light
She went missing as a teenager in 2015, and her relationship with Rosie has been strained for years. At one point, she even distanced herself from the family to live with her biological mother.
After her latest arrest, Chelsea was released on bond, but things took a darker turn on October 11, when police caught her attempting to discard a meth pipe during a traffic stop. Officers found more meth and prescription pills hidden in her bra, resulting in additional felony charges.
Chelsea now faces multiple felony charges, including drug trafficking, possession of meth, and child neglect. A court hearing is scheduled for next month as her family hopes for a turning point in her turbulent journey.