On June 10, 2022, Katia and Chad Thompson welcomed a young boy into their family with the intent to adopt, just as they had with their daughter. They built a loving, stable home and even formed strong bonds with his biological siblings and their adoptive families.

But on June 6, 2025, Chippewa County removed him from their care under the Family First Prevention Services Act and placed him with a biological uncle — someone previously deemed unfit to foster due to allegations of sexual abuse by the child's biological mother.

Initially, Chippewa County Family Services advocated in court for the child to remain with the Thompsons, firmly believing it was in his best interest. However, under the pressure from the MN Department of Human Services, the county reversed its stance, prioritizing policy and politics over the well-being of the child.

This decision not only contradicts the purpose of the Act — which aims to protect children and strengthen families — but has caused deep trauma to a three-year-old boy who was taken from the only home he’s ever known. We need your help.

Please share this story. Raise your voice. Demand that this child be returned to the safe, loving family that has raised him for the past three years.

This vulnerable child has no voice in this fight — but WE do. Please help us bring him home!

In addition to signing this petition, please consider contacting the following individuals to voice your concern for this child’s welfare and well-being, & request his immediate return home.

 MN Ombudsperson for Families: Beth Chaplin, Deputy Ombudsperson: beth.chaplin@state.mn.us - 651-539-1253

 MN Guardian ad Litem: Tami Baker-Olson, Program Administrator: tami.bakerolson@courts.state.mn.us - 651-368-2621

 MN Chippewa County: Lisa Schultz, Director of Family Services: 320-269-6401 ext: 1140

 Governor Tim Walz: 651-201-3400

 MN Attorney General Keith Ellison: (651) 296-3353

Chippewa County Commissioners: Matt Gilbertson 320-269-2902, Kurt Sandburg 320-894-7047, David Nordaune 320-564-4260, Bill Pauling 320-269-1392, David Lieser 320-269-6619