Every parent’s worst fear is having their child taken from them. Yet in Alabama, especially in counties like Houston, that fear has become reality for far too many — not because of abuse or danger, but because of broken protocol, power plays, and silence.

DHR has the legal power to remove a child in emergency situations. But what happens when “emergency” is defined by opinion, not fact? Families have reported children being taken:

• Without a court order
• Without proper notice
• Without even notifying the other parent or next of kin

These are not isolated cases — they are patterns. And in many of them, children were never returned, despite the removals being later ruled unjust.

This isn’t about bad parents. It’s about a system that confuses control with care, and secrecy with safety.

Call to Action:
If this has happened to you, you are not alone. We are collecting stories, pushing for reform, and demanding accountability — because no family should be torn apart without real cause.