Genetic bone disorder poses threat to child custody

Parents in Wisconsin may take heed from the suffering of a number of families across the country torn apart by false allegations of child abuse. One case followed up by news media helps to underline the problem. A father was charged with child abuse after doctors at a hospital reported his child’s fractures to authorities as non-accidental injuries. The man was stripped of child custody rights and essentially forced to move out of his family’s home by the court.

For nine months, the father and mother struggled with accusations that led to a felony charge, and the father was only allowed to visit the child with court supervision. The mother of the three-month-old was eventually contacted by another parent who had faced a similar situation in court. Charges were dismissed in both cases based on medical testing.

Medical personnel typically screen children for conditions that weaken the bones before reporting suspected child abuse to authorities. In both cases, the children did suffer from a condition that weakens bones, but it was thought to be rare and was not included in the initial screenings. The children were found to have Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, an inherited genetic condition that makes the child’s joints and bones fragile and which can lead to fractures.

In cases of suspected abuse, family courts are charged with acting on the best interests of the child, which means ensuring their physical safety. Sometimes, this responsibility leads to the needless separation of children from their parents. These highly emotional cases can leave parents emotionally traumatized and in need of a strong advocate. An attorney with experience in child custody may be able to help a client involved in such a matter.

Source: WFAA, “Rare bone disease leads to bogus child abuse allegations”, Janet St. James, November 15, 2013