Kidnapped baby has surgery

SEATTLE – An ailing 9-month-old baby had surgery Friday to insert a catheter that will allow for future kidney dialysis. His mother had tried desperately to prevent the surgery, seeking to pursue alternative natural treatments.

Earlier Friday, a Tacoma judge refused Tina Carlsen’s request to block the surgery. Carlsen, 34, of Sumner, spent five days in jail after she took her son, Riley Rogers, out of a Seattle hospital on June 22, prompting a two-day statewide Amber Alert.

She was freed from jail Thursday but still faces trial on a charge of second-degree domestic violence kidnapping. She could face a maximum year in jail if convicted.

The state took custody of the baby on June 9 after Carlsen refused to go along with doctors’ advice that Riley needed the surgery.

“Riley Rogers is in satisfactory condition after undergoing surgery today to insert a catheter in preparation for future dialysis treatments,” Children’s Hospital and Regional Medical Center said Friday evening in a statement. The baby was described as conscious and comfortable, with stable vital signs.

Late Thursday, the state Department of Social and Health Services, which has custody of the baby, agreed to allow Carlsen supervised visits with her son.

The hospital said Friday the boy’s mother would be allowed to join him in the recovery area.