By Greg Murphy
An Ivanhoe man says his children aren’t the only ones who have been apprehended illegally and mistreated by Children’s Aid.
On August 30, Jeffrey Kingston filed a 14.5 million dollar lawsuit against the Highland Shores Children’s Aid Society of Belleville. He claims three of his five children were illegally apprehended, mistreated and subjected to unprofessional conduct while they were wards last year.
Kingston said the organization has caused his family undue stress. “They have engaged themselves in our lives for a period of time that is unwarranted,” said Kingston in a phone interview.
Kingston also said his case is not unique and extends to other families who have had children taken by Children’s Aid.
“No one wants to come forward, and no one can prove it because no one has done what we’ve done. I’m not afraid to go after these people,” said Kingston.
Kingston said the case involving his family will help start a discussion across the country that hopes bring awareness to the mistreatment of children in foster care.
Tami Callahan, Director of Services for the organization’s Belleville location, said complaints are not taken lightly. “We certainly take those seriously. We will endeavor to work through the process as best we can,” said Callahan.
The Highland Shores Children’s Aid Society of Belleville has yet to be served the statement of claim. They will have 20 days to prepare a statement of defense upon being served.
None of the allegations have been proven in court.