Stolen Honor, and a Man's Life Destroyed

This extraordinary story covers constitutional rights, equal protection under the law, and issues of due process, but that's not all. It also addresses professionalism and proper training in law enforcement, and malpractice in social services, as well as complex issues such as institutional group think, and government waste. It is a tragic story about a Marine veteran, a father of four, an adoptive parent, and a former foster parent who is falsely accused of child abuse by an impaired relative who returned from the war in Iraq. The story illustrates how public servants, including local police, and social service workers, can be affected by bias and prejudice, which can then lead to gross negligence and malpractice. In this case, police and social service workers become convinced a father is an abusive parent after a bizarre set of circumstances create a ripe environment which is a trap for people blinded by pre-conceived notions and stereotypes. Public servants quickly become convinced they are empowered to eagerly pursue a man for child abuse, so much so that they forget about constitutional rights and the possibility that he could be a wonderful parent. They conspire to drive him away from his home, and deprive him of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. When this happens, the man's family and life are destroyed. However, the father really is innocent. Instead of just fading away, he uses his skills and experiences to write a fascinating book which brings the real story to the surface for others to learn from. This publication is an exceptional teaching tool for agencies and departments interested in improving the knowledge and skills of law enforcement and social service workers involved in child abuse and treatment.