Wisconsin baby hospitalized after accidentally ingesting vodka

KENOSHA, Wis (WLS) -- Parents are being warned after a Kenosha baby was accidentally fed a baby bottle full of vodka. The mistake led to a physical altercation with the baby's father, who is now behind bars.

Brian Smith, 22, is facing several counts of domestic abuse. Smith allegedly got into an argument with his girlfriend after police said she accidentally gave their daughter two ounces of vodka mixed with baby formula.

"The child had a blood alcohol level of .294, which is rather high, even for an adult," said Lt. Brad Hetlet, Kenosha Police Dept.

Inside their Kenosha apartment, police said Smith had dumped out a bottle of water and filled it with vodka on the kitchen counter. He left home and his girlfriend then used the contents of the bottle to mix with the baby formula, unaware alcohol was inside the bottle.

"Sometime later they noticed the child behaving strangely, the child's feet were red, eyes were really squinty. Really, she appeared what I would say to be intoxicated," Lt. Hetlet said.

The Illinois Poison Center for all new parents who may use different liquids in original containers.

"Make you sure you label it make sure you label container boldly with skull and crossbones or whatever the substance is that you put in there so you know exactly what you're getting when you drink out of the bottle," said Erin Pallasch, Illinois Poison Center.

Police said the alcohol mix-up was an accident and Smith and his girlfriend likely won't face child neglect charges. As for Smith, he faces several charges including battery and resisting arrest.

Lt. Hetlet said the baby is expected to recover.