Oklahoma Couple Charged in Alleged Exploitation of Teen as Surrogate

Oklahoma authorities have arrested a couple accused of coercing a 14-year-old girl into serving as a surrogate mother, resulting in a pregnancy with twins. The case, which began with a report of possible sexual assault in December 2025, has sparked concerns about the exploitation of minors and the legality of surrogacy arrangements involving underage individuals.

Details of the Case

Nathan Potier, 36 and Erica Palmer, 36, both of Oklahoma City, face felony charges related to the alleged exploitation. Potier is charged with sexual abuse of a child, while Palmer is charged with enabling child abuse and two counts of desertion of a child under 15, according to the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office.

The Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD) initiated an investigation after receiving a referral from Child Protective Services regarding the teen’s pregnancy. Court records indicate Palmer claimed the teen “desperately” wanted more siblings and that she and Potier also desired children, but Palmer was unable to conceive due to a previous tubal ligation.

Police obtained a search warrant for Potier’s DNA to establish paternity. However, before the warrant could be executed, Potier and Palmer fled Oklahoma. They were apprehended on March 17, 2026, in Sparks, Nevada, by the United States Marshals Nevada Violent Offender Task Force.

Legal and Ethical Concerns

The case raises significant legal and ethical questions surrounding surrogacy, particularly when involving minors. The Oklahoma Bar Association stipulates that a gestational carrier must be at least 21 years old. Even if the pregnancy is not the result of sexual assault, the use of a 14-year-old as a surrogate is illegal in Oklahoma.

Authorities emphasize the importance of interagency cooperation in capturing fugitives and ensuring justice in cases involving the exploitation of children.

Current Status

As of March 22, 2026, both Potier and Palmer remain in custody at the Washoe County Detention Facility, awaiting extradition to Oklahoma County to face charges. Palmer’s bail is set at $200,000, while Potier’s is $300,000. The teen has been placed in protective custody and is expected to give birth to the twins later this month.