My name is Chelsey Hancock and I stand before you today carrying the devastating loss of my 10-year-old son. A couple of years ago, my children were separated from me by the West Virginia Child Protective Services (WV CPS) and placed in the custody of my ex’s mother. Despite several reports and pleas to the WV CPS from myself and several others , stating that my mentally unstable ex was unlawfully residing with them, no action was taken. Regrettably, due to the system's failure to act, my son's life was abruptly ended by the hands of a monster

There is no sorrow more profound than losing a child, especially when the system designed to protect them fails. It is a tragedy that my son's voice was unheard by those who were duty-bound to help, despite the clear and presented dangers. It is a sobering fact, indicative of a problematic and potentially fatal flaw in our child protection system.

I propose an urgent reform of the WV CPS laws, constructing a vigilant system that will promptly act on submitted grievances regarding a child's welfare. By introducing stricter regulations and penalties for those failing to adhere to child custody agreements, we can fortify the protections in place for children across the state.

I'm advocating in remembrance of my son, his smile, his laughter, and his future that was cruelly snatched away. And I'm pleading for your support to ensure no other child or parent endures the same heartbreak. Please, sign this petition, and let us instigate a crucial change to the West Virginia Child Protection laws. No more lives should be lost due to system inefficiencies. Let's reform in honour of my son and for the safety of all children in West Virginia.