Letter to Governor of California

October 24, 2008

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger
State Capitol Building
Sacramento, CA 95814

Re: Relative placement of Baby R

I have written to you previously concerning my nephew Baby R who is in the foster care system. The letter was dated October 19, 2008 so you may not have had a chance to review it. Today I am writing to you to request to meet with you or your staff concerning this matter.

Time is running out for my nephew who is only two years-old. His parents have both been denied their RIGHT to sign designated relinquishments to me {Family Code 8700 (f)}, by the State Adoptions Arcata District Office. Their rights will be terminated on December 5, 2008 and my nephew will be adopted out of our family UNLESS someone stops this travesty. I am the maternal aunt of Baby R and have requested placement of him since he was first taken into custody of the Del Norte CPS. I have been approved for relative placement twice and have since been approved by, State Adoptions Fresno District Office, for adoption of Baby R. The Arcata Branch refused to study me or even give me an application, which is a violation of my rights.

My nephew lived the first 9 months of his life with my family, here in Fresno County. I want my nephew to come home, but the very agency that is suppose to protect him, is holding him hostage. Family is CLEARLY to have preference when it comes to the placement of a child {Family code 361.3 (a) } and yet I am being pushed aside.

Thank you in advance for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from your office.