There is a lie people are told about Child Protective Services
“the system exists to protect children at all costs.”
The truth is harder to say out loud. Sometimes, the system becomes the trauma.
In January 2024, my daughter Everleigh Grace was born under medical emergency circumstances. What should have been a moment of protection, compassion, and coordinated care instead became the beginning of a chain of decisions that permanently altered our lives. Within hours of birth, Everleigh was removed from my care — not because of imminent danger, not because of abuse, and not because of neglect — but because of my history with CPS, not my present reality. That distinction matters. And it was ignored.
A Removal Rooted in Assumptions, Not Evidence
Everleigh was removed based on allegations that were later contradicted by records, timelines, and medical documentation. Medical decisions were made without my consent, planned care was refused, and reports were filed that I am now actively proving to be false or materially altered.
Once CPS is involved, the presumption of innocence disappears. Every action is viewed through a lens of suspicion. Every parent is treated as guilty until they can somehow prove otherwise — often without access to the very evidence being used against them.
Foster Placement Should Mean Safety — But It Didn’t
Everleigh was placed in what was labeled a “foster home”. The court believed this placement would provide stability and safety. I was told it was the best possible outcome under the circumstances.
What followed instead were:
- Severely restricted visitation
- Missed and denied family contact
- medical and physical neglect
- A complete lack of transparency
- And ultimately, a sexual abuse allegation involving the placement
To this day, I have not been provided full answers. Oversight failed. Safeguards failed. And the very system tasked with protecting a newborn failed to act with urgency once concerns were raised.
why I speak out? I did not choose this fight. But I will not abandon it.
This is not just about Everleigh — though she is the reason I wake up every day determined to keep going. This is about every parent who has been told to “comply and stay quiet.” Every child whose voice is filtered through paperwork instead of protection. Every family told to trust a system that refuses accountability. Silence is what allows this to continue.
what justice looks like!
Justice looks like:
- Transparency in medical and CPS records
- Accountability for false or misleading reports
- Independent oversight when placements fail
- And most importantly, the child’s safety taking priority over institutional reputation
I am documenting everything. I am filing complaints. I am pursuing legal remedies. And I am telling this story publicly — not for attention, but for accountability.
If this system is going to separate families, it must be held to the highest standard. If it cannot meet that standard, it must be challenged.
Everleigh deserves better. So do countless other children whose stories never make it to the surface.
This blog is where I will continue to speak — not just as a parent, but as a witness.
Author: Alexis Landrum
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