Father abandons 9 kids under safe-haven law (Ages 1-17)

MSNBC ^ | September 25, 2008

[Pinkbell]

OMAHA, Neb. - Nine children were left at a hospital by their father late Wednesday under the state's new safe haven law, a move officials say illustrates the problems many feared when the rule went into effect.

The father, who was not identified, left the children aged 1 to 17 at Creighton University Medical Center's emergency room.

The law, which went into effect in July, allows caregivers to abandon children at any state-licensed hospital without fear of prosecution. It was initially intended to protect infants — like similar laws in other states — but was amended to include children and teenagers.

At least four children between the ages of 11 and 15 have been abandoned in Nebraska by parents since the law took effect.

[Pinkbell]

That's horrible! What a low life! Where is the mother or where are the mothers of these children?

Imagine how the kids old enough to understand felt! Their dad decided he didn't want them anymore and dropped them all off at the hospital.

[Ann Archy]

Yes, but much better than killing them.

[mpackard]

ditto

[catbertz]

For sure it’s better than killing them, but still damnz that’s harsh. I can not imagine how you live with yourself after bailing on all your kids like that. It would eat me alive.

[j. earl carter]

This sounds like a great way for a non-custodial parent to avoid child support. Just drop your kid off at the emergency room after your weekend visitation.(sarcasm tag implied)

[theDentist]

I agree it’s terrible, but if there’s no Mom, and Dad is some addict, they’re better off without. I expect we’ll find out more about the circumstances pretty soon. Prayers for all the kids.

[Teflonic]

I’m sure the older kids were either glad to be out of his custody or understand they could live a better life on the taxpayers dollar this way.

[Publius6961]

Sounds like "It Takes a Village" Legislation through the back door.

"Progressives" are nothing if not resourceful and innovative...

[Obadiah]

Oh how utterly horrible. I cannot fathom the sting of betrayal so deep. I can only pray earnestly that their hearts will be touched by the Divine Healer.

[Kay]

Had a client who was 1 of 10+ children in a Midwest state. When he was 16 his mother unexpectly died. They did not see their father again after the funeral. Older kids raised the younger ones. Never heard from their father - who knows - may have committed suicide.

[USMCPOP]

They should have offered him a free castration. Using dull hedge clippers.

[MaryFromMichigan]

Does this law relieve a parent of all responsibilities?

Could this be used as a ploy by a parent who doesn’t want to pay child support?

[Publius6961]

I can not imagine how you live with yourself after bailing on all your kids like that. It would eat me alive.

I'm guessing that you don't have seven kids, with the certain knowledge that the our misguided laws will force the rest of us to raise them...

[Valpal1]

The law allows you to avoid abuse and neglect charges. It does not release you from financial support.

You’d quickly find yourself still paying suport, but with NO visitation rights.

I expect the motivation is to fast track their kids into the system while they disappear into the maelstrom of their drug/alcohol problems. This might even advantage you legally should you later attempt to regain custody after rehab because you voluntarily surrendered your children rather than had them taken from you.

[MARTIAL MONK]

Nine kids? He's addicted to something.

[Smedley]

maybe the father wasnt able to care for the children. maybe he is suffering greatly. pray for him and the children

[MARTIAL MONK]

Is there an age limit on this? Does 29 qualify?

[Manic_Episode]

"Oh how utterly horrible. I cannot fathom the sting of betrayal so deep."

===========================================

The 12 year old boy followed his mother's instruction and continued to sit on the side of the road in the hot Florida sun. He sat there for three days

I heard this guy speak about a dozen years ago. It was heart rending:

[GOP Poet]

I second that! Although I am not sure I would have offered being a woman of action. ;-) God bless, guide, and protect these children.

Being the youngest of a very large family I especially identify.

[Brytani]

I am not going to sit here and condemn this man without knowing any of the reasons he made this move.

We do not know the circumstances of this and the fact is leaving them at an emergency room, which the law allows for, is much better then leaving then to fend for themselves or what so many mothers and fathers have done, killed their children.

Yes, it could be that he’s the worst person in the world, or he could be facing circumstances that he could not keep his kids. I’m giving him the benefit of the doubt, leaving them at a hospital assures they will be taken care of.