Kelsey said:
@Aria
Unfortunately, the most dangerous person to a child is often the mom’s boyfriend or a step-parent. This is why it’s so important to document everything.
That’s true. Many moms ignore signs of abuse because they prioritize their new relationship over their child’s safety. It’s tragic.
And one day, the boyfriend just disappeared.
Daryl said:
And one day, the boyfriend just disappeared.
Honestly, I wouldn’t blame you if that happened.
Daryl said:
And one day, the boyfriend just disappeared.
Honestly, I wouldn’t blame you if that happened.
Not saying violence is the answer, but I wouldn’t be surprised if something happens to him and no one asks any questions.
Daryl said:
And one day, the boyfriend just disappeared.
I’d tell him calmly: anything you do to my son will be done to you a hundred times over.
You should go to court and explain what’s happening. A four-year-old refusing to see their mom is a huge red flag. Make sure your ex’s family knows about the abuse too.
You might be able to file for a protection order on behalf of your son. You can also try to get a judge to require your ex to be the one doing the pickups. A therapist can also help testify in court about the abuse your son is experiencing.
Check if the boyfriend is on a sex offenders registry. That might give you the evidence you need to prove your ex is endangering your son.
The cops can’t force you to give your child to someone who isn’t named in the custody agreement. And with CPS, did they open an investigation? Keep reporting every time your son comes home with marks, and keep being a great dad.
Take your son to a doctor or therapist. They are mandatory reporters and can help back up your concerns with official documentation.
Why is the boyfriend allowed to do the pickups in the first place? Go to court and ask that only your ex be allowed to do them.
File for full custody and keep reporting everything. Document all the marks and make sure all your communication with your ex is in writing. Get a lawyer if you haven’t already.
File a report against the boyfriend for child abuse.
Start taking pictures of your son before and after every visit with his mom.
Encourage your son to talk to someone at school, like a teacher, about what’s happening. Then, take him to a therapist to help him feel safe, and apply for full custody.
Utah law prohibits hitting or abusing children, and the boyfriend is not a parent or legal guardian, so he has no right to discipline your son. Call Utah’s Child Abuse Hotline at 1-855-323-3237 and file for full custody.
@Fynn
Thank you so much for this! I’ll look into it.
File for an emergency custody order.
If your child has visible injuries, make sure to take photos.
Take photos, file with the court, and don’t be afraid to speak up. Keep pressuring CPS and the cops until they listen.