WOMAN'S DRUG SALES PAID HER HOUSE-ARREST COSTS' POLICE SAY

Crime:Wearing an electronic bracelet, she sold methamphetamine to
undercover officers three times.

Newport Beach-The woman with the electronic bracelet around her ankle had
begged a judge for house arrest instead of jail time so she could take care
of her 5-month-old son.

When her request was granted, police said Thursday, the 34-year-0ld mother
started selling drugs to finance the program.

Police say Judith Dyann Lupex, 34, of Orange, sold methamphetamine to an
undercover officer three times. Once, they say, she sold him drugs in front
of the offices of the company that monitors her whereabouts. Her son was
along for the sale, police said.

"She said as soon as the finished the transaction, she had to pay the fee
to remain on the program," said Sgt. Mike McDermott. "That wasn't too
bright."

It is unclear how much Lupex paid to remain on house arrest, but McDermott
estimated that each drug sale netted her about $400.

She brought her son with her for all the buys, which occurred in Newport
Beach and Orange, he said.

Lupex, who lives in Orange, was arrested by Newport Beach detectives Friday
on suspicion of child neglect and three counts of methamphetamine sales.
She was booked into Orange County Jail in liew of $50,000 bail.

Her son, meanwhile, was released to his father.

McDermott said the electronic monitoring device is still wrapped around her
ankle.