How Could You? Hall of Shame-James Middleton

This will be an archive of heinous actions by those involved in child welfare, foster care and adoption. We forewarn you that these are deeply disturbing stories that may involve sex abuse, murder, kidnapping and other horrendous actions.

From Pratt, Kansas, prospective domestic adoptive parent James I. Middleton, 33, was arrested on February 2, 2012 on two counts of aggravated battery of the 2-month-old girl that he and his wife were in the process of adopting from Colorado. He was being held on a $50,000 bond and subsequently bonded out.

The child was “taken to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Via Chirsti-St. Francis in Wichita with internal head and soft tissue injuries.”

After an investigation by the Wichita Police Department the child was taken into protective custody and the Pratt Police Department was notified.

The child was being adopted through a Colorado adoption agency after the birthmother contacted the family in Pratt through an internet ad.”

“The child has recovered and is expected to be released following placement in court.”

Pratt man arrested in Child abuse case
[KWCH 2/12/12 by Ryan Johnson]

UPDATE: Arrest made in Pratt abuse case
[KFDI 2/12/12]

Pratt man arrested for injuries to child
[The Hutchinson News 2/13/12]

REFORM Puzzle Piece

Finalization of adoption in Colorado occurs 6 months after placement. Thankfully, this child will recover and NOT be adopted by this man. That homestudy checklist just isn’t enough to assess PAPs.