Post: #1

This post was last modified: Today 01:24 AM by kjbriggs

Post: #1

The first edition of a series of articles on Kelsey's life has started today. She is leading the way to make child abuse an issue that should not go away or be ignored. I cannot tell you how hard it is to walk past the news stand and see your grandchild's picture on the front with the word murder connected to it. Yet, I am pleased to know Kelsey's story has gained the attention of so many willing to listen and help make changes.
Now, I must also say I will be the first to make fun of the goofy looking picture of myself. No, I will be the second, my dear sweet husband beat me to it. Yes, I gave it to them, knowing it was one of the best of the bad. What can I say, photogenic I am not!
 

Post: #2

Kathie,

Having seen you interviewed on the news, there is no way anyone can speak of how you look in a picture. Everything I have seen and read that has come from you has been so well put and so wonderful and so truthful. If I had to face this myself, I would only hope to have half of what it that you have. It's a presence that is hard to describe. I know you read others blogs and respond. Today Pam and Terry were here and Pam and I spent hours infront of this computer reading blogs. I can't say how impressed I am by you. For the four short years I have known you I have been impressed. Kelsey could not have a better spokesman than what she has in you. There are others out that fighting for her and they impress me to. But you stand out!!!.

Love,
April

Post: #3

Kathie:
I think that's a CUTE picture! It shows you, I guess, in happier times. When you could smile and be a little more carefree. I was upset that you had to sit and justify on the other website all the things that you have done in your life, and even the things with Kelsey. All of us that know the real truth in this situation know that the Briggs and Sigmans are the only ones that truly fought for Kelsey. Anything that you did was to benefit no one but Kelsey. And I can say, working at OUHSC for a long time, that the doctors there are some of the best in the country and I would TOTALLY trust their judgement with my children. I know why you had to say the things you did today, and I know that you or your family have nothing to hide, but its still irritating that people are pulling at straws to cover up the things they have done. Thats ok, because the truth will prevail, and God will deal with the person responsible for Kelsey's death, and I believe those that did nothing to help her. It is TERRIBLY hard to see little Kelsey's face all over the news, newspapers, and even on here, but it gives us strength to remember who and what we're fighting for, and keep it up! I say prayers for you and your family every night. Bless you!

Post: #10

I thought the same thing when reading it. How can you say DHS had no part in Kelsey's tragedy? They knew her health was declining. They were contacted many times by more than one person. We have all the documentation to prove it. I know that this editorial is only someone's opinion, but unless you have all the facts you need to be careful what you put in print. There are still many things that have not come out in this case. Even if you have read the DHS reports you would not have all the info since some of it was conveniently omited. The Oklahoman should not have read the DHS reports according to the court ruling so they would not have near all the facts in this case.

I do appreciate the articles about Kelsey. It helps to keep her story around so more and more changes can be made to help others.

Post: #1

Channel 4 will now be airing a newscast on their UPN station. It is known as channel 43, but for those of you with Cox cable it is channel 16. For us in the Shawnee area with Charter cable it is channel 8. Tonight was their debut with Cherokee Ballard as the anchor. The news cast will air nightly at 9:00. Cherokee will still be doing the 10:00 news on Channel 4 as she has been doing in the past. Most of her big stories will be on at 10:00 and occasionally she will do a segment of the story at 9:00.

Post: #2

When is Cherokee or anyone else for that matter going to report on the BIGGEST part of Key story--the fact that Key made his mind up before hearing evidence?

Post: #3

I believe Cherokee will be doing a story tonight on Kelsey and it will touch on the deposition.

I would recommend that some of you also contact Nick Winkler at Fox. Fox has been a great asset to getting Kelsey's tragedy out and we know Nick has been an advocate for Kelsey.

I have been waiting for months to be able to tell people about the deposition. Now that the story has broken, I feel it needs to be talked about. Making a decision before a court hearing is a major issue. It is not only a big issue in the case itself, but in the campaign. I might add the two girls that gave the depositions are not the only ones who have confirmed this action by Judge Key.

Post: #4

I have blind faith in Cherokee and Nick Winkler to report the truth. I know that they both will get the message that Judge Key placed Kelsey back into a home he knew she was going to be abused. He simply did not care about her. I believe and it’s my right in this country to believe what ever I want to that an offer was made to Judge Key he couldn’t refuse. I don’t think this man would refuse any offer.
Nick Winkler tried to ask Judge Key why and he would not answer. Judge Craig Key knows the law and protects himself with the same system he abuses while we pay him to hand out death sentences to toddlers.
JUDGE CRAIG KEY WILL BE EXPOSED. HE SHOULD BE DISROBED AND BOOKED FOR ACCESSORY TO MURDER.
 

Post: #54

Can we start posting when town meetings are going to be held and when there are going to be meetings where the people running for office are speaking? This is how we are going to make a difference. We have to let these officials know that we aren't going to be quiet any longer and that we want action. They need to do something to change things or get out!!! If enough of us pull together we can let these people know that WE control their future.

Post: #56

I started a thread for this very thing. It is called....Campaign issues and promises. I stuck it at the top of the forum so we can continue to use it during the campaign season.

Post: #41

Many many people were aware of this case. Judge Key saw the pictures of Kelsey's body from the first report. The Meeker Police took pictures themselves and determined it was not abuse. Yes, that is right they determined 29 bruises all over her body and multiple abrasions were accidental and sent her back to her mother. As a matter of fact they told us if we did not give her back that day we would have charges filed against us. That is why we had to get a court order to get her protection. We contacted DHS and they did not intervene prior to our court action. Meeker Police had told them Kelsey was in protective custody with us and they thought it was under control for the weekend. When we contacted them and told them we had to return her they still did not go immediately to check her out. I might add even after a formal complaint the town of Meeker still keeps these same police officers on payroll and never acknowledged our concerns. How many more children are being abused in Meeker that they are ignoring? Who knows. I have heard of another case where a neighbor to a girl in Meeker not only reported suspicions of abuse but recorded the mother through her apartment walls. She took those recordings to our police chief and nothing happened. It personally concerns me that this has not been addressed.

The doctor in OKC should have called the Oklahoma County DHS on the spot and taken Kelsey into custody. That did not occur to me until much later. That might have made a difference, but then again they could have turned her over to Lincoln County and the same results would have occurred.

Once Kelsey was returned to her mother we had no visitation. Our attorney asked him about it in court and he said "no". The mother was not going to allow a visit on her own. She always felt this was my fault because I reported the abuse. She never felt I was only concerned for Kelsey's safety.

On August 27th, we were allowed one more visit until Kelsey's pediatrician put a stop to it. This was to be the last visit we had with Kelsey. On that day we were not only shocked at her condition, but we knew she was going to die if someone did not help her. We expressed those exact words to CASA and DHS. They did not act on her behalf and she is dead. They would state she needed more tests to prove it was not a medical condition. Yet, the last test they needed was scheduled two months later. She did not live long enough for the test. Most doctors would have gotten that test asap under the condition Kelsey was in. It should not have been put off.

You can see I am bitter with many people who could have and should have helped Kelsey. We did everything we knew to do. My last hope was waiting for her Daddy to return from Iraq so he could fight for her. Then again, he was also listed as a perpetrator in the petition even though he was not here. Plus we would have been in front of the same Judge that sent her home against recommendations. Kelsey never stood a chance against the very system that should have protected her. Even though DHS did not recommend her to go home, they did nothing to move her once they were aware of the decline in her condition. They still had the power to save her. The fact is they have to much power and no accountability when they mess up. The same workers in Kelsey's case are still employed by our state and we are paying their salaries.

Post: #42

So in other words, you are not ONLY blaming Judge Key. There are so many peole who did ABSOLUTELY nothing! Where is that case worker now? And is the Doctor still practicing?!!!!!! These people are totally crazy! And for the mother to leave the hospital and NOT get that baby checked, to me, those actions speak louder than words. Where was Kelseys maternal grandma? Could she not insist to her daughter to take her to the hospital? Even a different hospital. I have been to Meeker on one occassion not to long ago. The beautiful signs were all over. Yet as my Nephew and teammates sat on the bench taking turns batting, the Meeker fans were hollering such bad things to these children (little league) many were crying. I shouldn't say all fans but a few in particular. I remember wondering as I sat there listening if these people knew about Kelsey and covered it up, if they were some of the ones who did nothing.. What do you do when you are in panic mode? Do you take the child and run? I guess in some ways that doesn't help either. But what can be done? Is that what your trying to change? Options? God knows it needs to be. Someone to help us be heard.WHO is that? Is that you Kathy? If it is, you have my prayers. All of you do.

Post: #44

As you know Meeker is a very small town and everyone knows everyone. One of the police officers that testified stated he did not know these families. He stated this under oath, when in fact he went to high school with the maternal grandmother, he lived next door to the maternal great grandmother and his daughter went to school with both of Kelsey's parents and was a cheerleader with my daughter. I don't know why Kelsey was not a priority to him, he has a beautiful granddaughter not much older than Kelsey that he adores. If only he would have cared as much for someone elses grandchild. His wife even refused to cut my grandson's hair when she heard I had complained. One of my complaints was that his wife was discussing a juvenile case to her customers and I thought that was unethical. She had cut my grandson's hair his entire life and sent them out the door. I had always thought they were good decent people and do not want to imply they are not. The other officer that testified stated he had previously let the mother go on a DUI charge because she was almost home. People do make mistakes in their judgements, but we have not seen any remorse from this department or the Town Board. I have also been told that at least one of our Town Board members wrote a letter to the Judge on the mother's behalf. As a matter of fact we have been told the officers still speak unfavorably towards us and feel they did a good job. My recomendation would be to get all of the facts on a case before you start tampering with the best interest of a child. People are not always the same once they go home and close the doors. I honestly don't know if these people have remorse in their hearts, I just know they have not expressed them to our family. That could go a long way in the healing process when dealing with what went wrong.

I don't know what happened at your little league game, but I can tell you most of the citizens of Meeker are good decent people. I apologize for their actions in front of your children. I think we are all guilty of spouting off at these games. They seem so much more important than they really are at the time.

The doctor in OKC that did not call DHS did not send Kelsey home with her mother. I was the one who took her to this appointment to have her growth plates checked. This had been recommended to me by the mother's cousin who worked for a foot doctor. She thought it was unusual for a small child to have two broken legs. The doctor in Shawnee had stated it was accidental and I believed that diagnosis and would not have thought to get a second oppinion. Most people cannot wrap their thought process around the fact that someone would break a child's legs. Once this was brought to my attention I realized there could be a serious medical problem. The mother was going to take her to this appointment, but due to a funeral I took her.

No, Judge Key is not the only one I blame. In the end there were only two people in the house the day Kelsey died. Had other people done their job Kelsey would not have been in that house with them and would still be alive. You do not have to physically kill a child to have had a hand in their death.

Post: #45

i would love to put my 2 cents in about the people involved in Kelsey's case, but they are not as vaulable as what Kathie has said.  every person that had a hand in Kelsey's death needs to admit it and correct it.  
i personally feel responsible for changing the channel the first few times i saw her on the news.  seeing her made me feel horrible.  now, i know i will never be able to make it up to the Briggs, Sigmans, or most of all Kelsey, but i'm going to try my hardest to help seek the justice she deserves. in my opinion, everyone needs to do that, including those who could have helped her but refused to do so.

Post: #47

That's the way things work in our little town.  One person that is very well connected to the Meeker police department went to court the day Raye Dawn got Kelsey back and testified on Raye Dawn's behalf. It really makes me sick the way things work here. I really believe it's all about who you know in this town.

Post: #48

Kathie,
This is minor compared to all of the other componets in this case but there is a point I am trying to make.
You mentioned that the wife of the police officer, the hairdresser, was discussing the case to her customers in the shop. You complained and nothing was done about it. DHS threatened to file felony criminal charges against us because our attorney had hired a PI. They said we broke confidentiality. They thought they had "got us" as the ADA said. They were mad at us and wanted to retaliate. In your case they were mad at you and wouldn't look at the complaint. This goes back to my constant and neverending complaint. ACCOUNTABILITY!!! The Good Ole Boy System. What do we do about it? These people don't even follow their own policies and rules. Only if they choose to. There is no one we can go to because no one holds any of these people accountable. The Good Ole Boy System is part of what killed Kelsey. It is alive in Lincoln Co. It is alive in Sequoyah Co. It is alive in Logan Co. It is alive in Hobart, whatever county that is. It is alive all across the state, and it is putting children in danger and killing them. What do we do to stop the Good Ole Boy System??? Accountability???? How do we get it?

Post: #1

We went to court today and the Judge dismissed our case. We were shocked!!!

We have a confirmed retaliation against the dept. A child was placed in the home of a convicted violent crime offender who has supervised visits with his other children because they were "mad" at us and the Judge closes the case.

WE HAVE PROOF. 56 Pages of it. We have read this report that the dept. has fought so hard to keep from us and after reading it we know why they don't want us to have it.

The Judge didn't even read the report. DHS had entered a motion to dismiss and the Judge said 2 words. "Motion Sustained". No comments were allowed, no arguments were allowed, no explanation was given. It took a whole 5 seconds.
There is something VERY wrong going on here.

Our fosterhome was closed after 24 years of service with not 1 mark against us. We stood up to the dept. concerning decisions they were making about a fosterchld and they retaliated. These workers were not reprimanded. They still hold their positions. They are still making decisions concerning childrens lives and it has been proven that they did not have the childs best interest at heart when doing what they did.

They keep children in fosterhomes where they know they are being abused and that there are problems and they close our home! They allow children to be sexually assaulted by their fosterparents.  How is that possible?

I have lost all faith in the judicial system. There is no justice.

So now we all sit and wait, watching, hoping this child is not the next victim of the dept.

Children have never been nor ever will be hurt in our home but they will continue to be abused by the very system set up to protect them. We will not be given the opportunity to provide a child with a safe, happy, and loving home BUT the dept. will continue to be given the opportunity to abuse Oklahoma children.





 

Post: #2

What is this Judge's name? As we all know it is NOT impossible to remove a Judge from the bench. If this Judge does not take the time to thoroughly review this case there is a major problem. If this Judge does not want to give reasons why this decision was made it tells me power has gotten to them....or something else has. No, I am not accusing this Judge of misconduct on the bench, but I do question this decision and the way it was delivered.

Sounds like we need a MAJOR campaign investigating this Judge. When will he/she be up for re-election?


Each time God closes a door he opens a window. Some houses have many windows and we will not give up.

Post: #3

This was in district court.
Judge Vicki Robertson.
I was told she was very political.

Post: #5

wow Pattsi, I'm so sorry, but unfortunately NOT suprised. These officials need to quit covering each others asses and start going against the grain and doing what is right, which is actually their JOB and that is to do what is in the BEST INTEREST OF THE CHILDREN! How many more children have to be murdered, tortured and maimed before they wake up and DO THE RIGHT THING IN THESE CASES? I'm disgusted with the system. America should be ashamed for the treatment of our children...good ol' Oklahoma right along with them.

Post: #6

I am so sorry...but never loose faith, God works in ways we don't always understand, and you never know what's right around the corner!! Loose faith in the system all you want, as it has done nothing but give us all millions of reasons to do just that, but God has a plan, and things will work out! We are all here, standing right behind you, as well as beside you and I know I speak for everyone when I say if you need help in ANY way, all you have to do is ask!!
On a side note, I am sick to death of these judges just throwing their power around and not taking anything seriously!! How hard would it be for them to take 20 minutes to gather all the information and make an INFORMED DECISION?!?! I think Kathie and Teri should run! LOL  Heck, forget running for seats on the bench...let's nominate them for President and Vice President!! They'd get it done!! I know they have no experience
running a country...but it seems to me like we could say the same for who's running the show right now!! Uh-Oh, all of our Republican members are going to have a field day with me!! Go easy on me guys! lol

Post: #7

Pattsi, I am really sorry. This doesn’t make sense whatsoever!!!  One judge wasn’t reelected for his actions and all of you know who I am speaking of…and we can see that this judge isn’t reelected also!  This is hogwash that a judge wouldn’t even listen to you.   This judge sounds very bias she made her decision without just grounds or sufficient information and in the court of law this is a bad mistake.
I believe some of us need to make a trip to Washington! I believe it will take this in order for our voices to be heard!!
 

Post: #9

The crazy thing about this is the report was released by error. It has been read and people DO know the shocking and revealing facts. If this Judge read the report and cared about this child she would not have ruled this way. If she read the report and is connected to DHS or the DA in Logan County then she needs to be removed from the bench before another child dies. If she did not read the report and this is her ruling she either lacks the skills she needs to be an effective Judge or she is doing someone else's work......hmmm!

DHS may think they have won and yes, they won another round, but the battle continues. This report contains information the state of Oklahoma needs to know. You cannot release a report and then pretend it doesn't exist just because that is how you want it.

Once before I asked the question....Does anyone know the difference between DHS and the Mafia? That may sound like a joke, but more and more I believe they are worse than these hired guns because they target children.

Post: #10

Can this story go to the media again??? Surely the naughty judge can be reprimanded?????

Post: #9

    Kelsey's case was marked HIGH PRIORITY. If this is what happens when you are high priority what kind of care do the others get? Our First Lady, Kim Henry, called Howard Hendrick personally and asked him to check on Kelsey. This is how he acknowledged her request. He turned it over to someone else and did not take care of the situation. He snubbed his nose at her request because he can and no one is doing anything about it. If the Governor's wife and the cousin to Kelsey cannot save a child the other children in this state don't have a chance under Howard Hendricks eye.

Our County Director, Debra Winn, knew this was a HIGH PROFILE case and she allowed her workers to make the decisions. It was her job as their supervisor to make sure Kelsey was safe. I have emails from her stating she noticed Kelsey's decline, yet she did nothing. She alone could have saved a child's life and she is still in charge of other children. How safe are they?

Look at Kelsey's face. Look at the other pictures of her? How could any HUMAN not notice a problem? These people have degrees? In what?

Post: #12

This post was last modified: 02-07-2006 12:47 AM by kjbriggs.

Post: #13

Post: #6

Post: #13

Apparently, Richard Smotherman did not take our petition with 3,000 signatures seriously last spring. The petition stated that anyone who knows about the abuse and doesn't do anything to stop it should be charged with the same crime as the abuser. People were lining up to sign the petition. I am still waiting for Raye Dawn to be charged with first degree murder. Anyone else?

Post: #14

Would it be alright to open a thread to mr Smotherman and send him court cases like the ones mentioned here. It would give them more court cases to back up what they intend to do...if its not giving them opportunity to plea bargain or reduce the charges to a lesser count..

For the kids,
Uncle Ray

Post: #16

The bill has not been totally funded. That is something we need to lobby for next session. I ask that you contact your Representative now and ask them why they did not fully fund it and when do they expect to? OSBI wanted enough money to hire 10 people for this and was given the budget for 2. I agree with John Walsh and have myself stated that a law that is not enforceable is not a law, it is a suggestion.

Post: #75

Most of the high profile news shows have been contacted. We encourage anyone to send this story to anyone you feel would take an interest. A magazine would be a great place to get some interest started. Please keep us posted on your progress. We have several members that continue to work on this.

Post: #1

Today is the day I have been waiting for. It is the first day of Child Abuse Awareness Month. It is also the first day of two big campaigns for Kelseyspurpose. I will post them separately and here is the first one. Please send this message or compose your own to everyone in your address book and challenge them to do the same. I have actually been saving email addresses for this challenge and plan to go through the phone book or any other literature I can to find more. If you know how you should also add the picture of Kelsey with her casts on. That picture makes a statement all on it's own.

   

 

April is Child Abuse Awareness month. We are challenging each of you to forward this letter to everyone in your address book. Each letter represents a child that could be saved if we bring awareness to more people.

Kelsey Briggs was murdered at the age of 2 after months of documented abuse. Her father was in Iraq fighting for our country while she was here fighting for her life. She lost that battle, but will not lose the war. Her story can and will save other children. To learn more about Kelsey's tragic life please go to www.kelseyspurpose.org

If you have a healthy child and want to see all children safe and free from abuse, please take this challenge.


 

Post: #5

I will try to answer your questions. Kelsey was taken to the ER when her father discovered the bruises. The Meeker Police department was called and assistant police chief showed up and took the report and pictures of 29 bruises, multiple abrasions and a broken collarbone. He told us he felt it was abuse and the nurse on duty had seen these types of cases many times and she would be an excellent witness.
It was our weekend to have Kelsey and she was to go home on Sunday at 6:00. We had been advised to keep her and when the mother called and asked where she was to explain what the ER report stated. We did that, she went to the Meeker Police, they called wanting Kelsey. After a discussion with the Sgt. he asked the mother to allow us to keep her one more night and he would interview her in the morning. We felt he should have done the interview right then instead of giving her time to get her story straight. Meeker Police called DHS and told them they had the child in protective custody and it was under control.
The following day he interviewed the mother and also allowed her mother, a former classmate of his, to be present. He also interviewed my son and would not allow me to stay in the room.

They took pictures of Kelsey's room and their findings was she fell out of her bed, landed on a slide, tumbled twice going down a three foot plastic slide, and landed on a hairbrush with out a diaper on. Case closed.
We had to give Kelsey back by 2:00 or have child abduction charges filed on us. We called DHS and explained we were to give Kelsey back and they started their investigation.
Two days later we retained an attorney, took the pictures of Kelsey to Judge Key and he granted emergency guardianship.

Post: #10

Remember this....our elected officials were more than ready to pass Kelsey's Law before the election. We need to remind them if they do not make the amendments that strengthen it we won't forget.

The politicians are not there forever....they will need to be elected again...OR NOT!

Post: #147

Rumor has it HB1699 has been passed out of the Rules Committee. As far as I know and can tell by the website, that is not the case. Tomorrow some of us are will be there meeting these people in person. For those of you that cannot attend PLEASE keep their phone lines tied up asking for their support. Call as often as you can and ask your co-workers to do the same. Focus on the co-chairs if you don't have time to call all of them.

Sen. Mike Schulz 405-521-5612
schulz@oksenate.gov Co-Chair

Sen. Cliff Branan 405-521-5543
branan@oksenate.gov

Sen. John Ford 405-521-5634
fordj@oksenate.gov

Sen. Earl Garrison 405-521-5533
garrisone@oksenate.gov

Sen. Joe Sweeden 405-521-5581 sweeden@oksenate.gov

Sen. James Williamson 405-521-5624
brownb1@oksenate.gov

Sen. Jim Wilson 405-521-5574
wilson@oksenate.gov

Post: #149

Today was very interesting. We had a good group making their way around the Capitol. We had a total of 18 members speaking on behalf of our states children.

We did confirm that HB1699 died in committee. We did not get straight answers as to why this happened. So reading between the lines we know DHS did not want it to pass and they lobbied for its failure. Several of our members spoke to different Senators and will be able to post what they were told. In my research I was told this Bill still has some hope. We need to get it attached to another Bill so it can be passed.

Senator Mike Shultz is one of the co-chairs of the Rules Committee. He told us to our faces two weeks ago he was in full support. It is my understanding he is the one that caused its failure. I am not personally pointing the finger towards him, that was done by his fellow Senators. We met with him again today and he has promised once again to help get it passed. I know longer have faith in that man and do not believe a word he says. He claimed he has "leaders", but would not tell us who they are. We too have leaders and even though I cannot list all of their names I know one of them is Kelsey Briggs.

What can we do now? PLEASE start tomorrow and call his office all day long and let him know we are going to hold him to his promise. I have been told his secretary was not very friendly on the phone. She was not very friendly in person today either so don't let her discourage you. After you call him call the other members of the Rules Committee. Tell them you are disappointed that now that the election is over their concern for our children is over too.

Sen. Mike Schulz 405-521-5612
schulz@oksenate.gov Co-Chair

Sen. Cliff Branan 405-521-5543
branan@oksenate.gov

Sen. John Ford 405-521-5634
fordj@oksenate.gov

Sen. Earl Garrison 405-521-5533
garrisone@oksenate.gov

Sen. Joe Sweeden 405-521-5581
sweeden@oksenate.gov

Sen. James Williamson 405-521-5624
brownb1@oksenate.gov

Sen. Jim Wilson 405-521-5574
wilson@oksenate.gov

Don't stop there. Email them all and have your family, friends and co-workers to do the same.

Post: #166

I have sent emails to every member of the House and Senate for three days. Beneath the last letter I wrote are the replies I have received. PLEASE keep writing and calling.

Today's email.....

Senator Shultz promised to attach HB1699 to another Bill. Won't you help?
Twice Senator Shultz has looked me in the eye and stated he supports HB1699. Others say he would not let it be heard in the Rules Committee that he co-chairs. I don't know who is speaking the truth. All I know is the laws in our state are not adequate for child protection. You have the power and the duty to make the needed changes one step at a time. Last years law was a great start, but was not enough. We can't wait for the next tragic story or the next election to gain this attention again.

I am not asking for this because it benefits me personally. I am asking for all the children that live in fear as you sit in your office and read this message. YOU are the voices of the silent majority please don't let them down. I never ever expected to have one of my own grandchildren abused and murdered. The next innocent victim could be one of your family members. I can tell you this is not a chance you want to take. I ask that you go to the bottom of this message and look at this child that was failed by many adults including many in the Capitol. Then look into your hearts and do what is right for our children.

Senator Shultz promised he would find a Bill to attach HB1699 to. I would hate to think this would escape him memory until it is to late. Please help him keep his promise.
       

___________________________________


Kathie,
I couldn’t agree more. I appreciate your very appropriate admonishment to the leaders of our state. I pray that each member of the Legislature will actually take the time to read your thoughtful comments.
Sincerely,
Ryan
Rep. Ryan McMullen
Chairman, Democratic Caucus
Proudly Serving Washita,
Caddo, Kiowa & Canadian Counties
2300 N. Lincoln Blvd, Rm 321
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
Office: (405) 557-7312
-----------------------------------

This is very unfortunate.
Rep. Sherrer

---------------------------------

Kathie:
Thank you for your e-mail.  I will put it with the card we received today (with Kelsey’s picture on it) and make sure Senator Laster receives it.  I think of her often, as I am sure many others do that never even knew her.  
Thanks again.
Sharon Veazey
Executive Assistant to Senator Charlie Laster
424-A State Capitol Building
Oklahoma City, OK  73105
veazey@oksenate.gov(405) 521-5539

---------------------------------------
This is the absolute truth, and I am so very sorry that it has happened.  We should be about policy, not politics.  Politics is what gets us to the Capitol.  It should be dropped off at the door.
Senator Nancy Riley
Serving the Citizens of Senate District 37
and the State of Oklahoma

Post: #169

Today my email to the Capitol will be letting them know how KP has grown. It will let them know that people in other states and other countries are baffled at the things that go on here. How the very people that can make a difference choose not to.

Please send an email to these people and let them know they are not protecting our children. Those of you in other states and countries you can help us too. Just copy and paste these addresses. Let them know you are a member of Kelseyspurpose and where you are from.

dennisadkins@okhouse.gov, donarmes@okhouse.gov, johnauffet@okhouse.gov, garybanz@okhouse.gov, chrisbenge@okhouse.gov, scott.bighorse@okhouse.gov, lisajbilly@okhouse.gov, gusblackwell@okhouse.gov, davidbraddock@okhouse.gov, neilbrannon@okhouse.gov, mikebrown@okhouse.gov, ed.cannaday@okhouse.gov, johncarey@okhouse.gov, lancecargill@okhouse.gov, wallace.collins@okhouse.gov, anncoody@okhouse.gov, mariancooksey@okhouse.gov, jamescovey@okhouse.gov, dougcox@okhouse.gov, david.dank@okhouse.gov, leedenney@okhouse.gov, david.derby@okhouse.gov, daledewitt@okhouse.gov, joedorman@okhouse.gov, rexduncan@okhouse.gov, jerryellis@okhouse.gov, john.enns@okhouse.gov, george.faught@okhouse.gov, darrellgilbert@okhouse.gov, larryglenn@okhouse.gov, rebeccahamilton@okhouse.gov, terryharrison@okhouse.gov, jwhickman@okhouse.gov, weshilliard@okhouse.gov, chuck.hoskin@okhouse.gov, terryhyman@okhouse.gov, terryingmire@okhouse.gov, scott.inman@okhouse.gov, mikejackson@okhouse.gov, shanejett@okhouse.gov, dennis.johnson@okhouse.gov, robjohnson@okhouse.gov, tadjones@okhouse.gov, fred.jordan@okhouse.gov, charlie.joyner@okhouse.gov, sallykern@okhouse.gov, charles.key@okhouse.gov, kiesel@okhouse.gov, luckylamons@okhouse.gov, guyliebmann@okhouse.gov, allindley@okhouse.gov, ken.luttrell@okhouse.gov, scott.martin@okhouse.gov, stevemartin@okhouse.gov, al.mcaffrey@okhouse.gov, mccarter@okhouse.gov, mark.mccullough@okhouse.gov, jeanniemcdaniel@okhouse.gov, randy.mcdaniel@okhouse.gov, ryanmcmullen@okhouse.gov, skye.mcniel@okhouse.gov, jerrymcpeak@okhouse.gov, kenmiller@okhouse.gov, dannymorgan@okhouse.gov, richardmorrissette@okhouse.gov, jason.murphey@okhouse.gov, billnations@okhouse.gov, ronpeters@okhouse.gov, pampeterson@okhouse.gov, ronpeterson@okhouse.gov, gregpiatt@okhouse.gov, anastasia.pittman@okhouse.gov, eric.proctor@okhouse.gov, rcpruett@okhouse.gov, brian.renegar@okhouse.gov, mikereynolds@okhouse.gov, philrichardson@okhouse.gov, paulroan@okhouse.gov, waderousselot@okhouse.gov, colby.schwartz@okhouse.gov, earl.sears@okhouse.gov, tw.shannon@okhouse.gov, mikeshelton@okhouse.gov, bensherrer@okhouse.gov, jerryshoemake@okhouse.gov, jabarshumate@okhouse.gov, glensmithson@okhouse.gov, krissteele@okhouse.gov, danielsullivan@okhouse.gov, randyterrill@okhouse.gov, mikethompson@okhouse.gov, todd.thomsen@okhouse.gov, suetibbs@okhouse.gov, johntrebilcock@okhouse.gov, daleturner@okhouse.gov, purcywalker@okhouse.gov, weldon.watson@okhouse.gov, paulwesselhoft@okhouse.gov, susanwinchester@okhouse.gov, treborworthen@okhouse.gov, johnwright@okhouse.gov
CC: adelson@oksenate.gov, aldridge@oksenate.gov, anderson@oksenate.gov, ballenger@oksenate.gov, barrington@oksenate.gov, bass@oksenate.gov, bingham@oksenate.gov, branan@oksenate.gov, brogdon@oksenate.gov, brownb@oksenate.gov, burrage@oksenate.gov, coates@oksenate.gov, coffee@oksenate.gov, cochran@oksenate.gov, crain@oksenate.gov, bigger@oksenate.gov, easley@oksenate.gov, easonmcintyre@oksenate.gov, fordj@oksenate.gov, garrisone@oksenate.gov, gumm@oksenate.gov, ivester@oksenate.gov, johnsonc@oksenate.gov, johnsonm@oksenate.gov, jolley@oksenate.gov, justice@oksenate.gov, lamb@oksenate.gov, laster@oksenate.gov, laughlin@oksenate.gov, leftwich@oksenate.gov, bell@oksenate.gov, mazzel@oksenate.gov, bard@oksenate.gov, ingraham@oksenate.gov, nichols@oksenate.gov, paddack@oksenate.gov, rabon@oksenate.gov, reynolds@oksenate.gov, rice@oksenate.gov, rileyn@oksenate.gov, schulz@oksenate.gov, sparks@oksenate.gov, sweeden@oksenate.gov, sykes@oksenate.gov, purinton@oksenate.gov, brownb1@oksenate.gov, wilson@oksenate.gov, wyrick@oksenate.gov
 

Post: #1

This is a letter to the editor in our County paper. I think you will all be just as amused as I was.


To The Editor,
Although I do not know him personally, I believe Judge Craig Key is a good man and a highly competent, fair and non-partisan judge. He has accomplished much for our community and worked tirelessly as an advocate for children and families in Lincoln County. He consistently demonstrates thoughtfulness, intelligence and compassion (important attributes in a judge) in his decisions.
Judge Key is not responsible for the murder of my granddaughter Kelsey. Kelsey was two years old before she was jerked from her stable environment and was subsequently passed back and forth between her birth father's family and her mother. We were forced to go to court for everything, even to change Kelsey's name. We named her Kelsey Shel-ton Smith after her grandpa. We were forced to change her name to Smith--Briggs, when Robinson is their actual family birth name.
At the same time, my daughter was still grieving the death of her dad and the subsequent death of her grandpa. She had come so far after surviving a relationship with her first husband and had begun to build a life for herself and Kelsey. Then she met a man she thought would be a good husband, provider, and most importantly a good stepfather to her daughter. By all outward appearances he seemed to fit the bill. Our whole family and others were lured by this wolf in sheep's clothing.
If Kelsey's paternal family members knew so much, then why didn't they call me, my son, or my mom? My mom is the most kindest, loving, and caring person I have ever known, and had she had any suggestion that any acts of harm were being done to Kelsey, I can assure you that she, as well as myself, would have addressed the situation. If my daughter or any of my family had been aware of any
wrongdoing, by anyone, it would not have been left to a Judge's decision. I never received a single call or voice of concern from any of Kelsey's paternal family, ever.
Many people say they want justice. We all want justice. But by hearing half-truths, false accusations, and one-sided distorted propaganda, created for one's personal gain will not bring justice. This is still America, so why not allow the judicial system to work, instead of creating a vigilante posse.
Judge Key did not murder Kelsey. That brutal act was committed by someone else. We all felt that Kelsey being with her mother was the best action. That is what Kelsey wanted - to be with her mommy. Kelsey and Raye Dawn loved each other so much. Raye Dawn was proud of her and cherished the love they shared. No one can take that memory away from her.
I want to send a message out there. When kids are involved, try to work it out. I've been a step parent myself
and it isn't always wonderful, but we made it. I didn't try to be my stepchildren's mom and my mom didn't try to be their grandma. They already had that. We loved them while they lived in our home and did our best. Don't try to control every situation; it doesn't work for families and it doesn't work for kids. Communicate with people, don't go behind their back.
Remember Kelsey was murdered but it was not by Judge Key. He made the best decision he could based on the information he had While we are all against child abuse we can't live in everyone's home every day and we can't take every child away from their parent. Children belong with their parents. Imagine DHS knocking on your door and taking your child away from you.
I miss my beautiful, sweet grand baby every day and I pray that true justice will be served so that she and we, can all finally rest in peace.
Judge Key deserves to be treated fairly, just as he has treated the cit zens of Lincoln County.
Thank You,
Gayla Smith
Kelsey's Grandma
and all of her maternal family.
Thursday, October 5th 2006 @ 1:48 PM

 

Post: #1

Post: #5

Post: #2

The Judge in Kelsey's case was removed from the bench at the last election. He continues to stand by his decision even knowing a child is dead. He has written a book so he can profit from Kelsey's story. The problem is the book is full of numerous inaccurate statements. It is poorly written and appears to be thrown together just to get the money rolling in. He uses this as an attempt to gain sympathy for himself.

A simple admission of making a mistake would have gone a long way with our family. Instead he tries to blame us for fighting for Kelsey. He refers to this as a custody fight instead of what it actually was, a fight to keep her safe.

Post: #21

I awoke this morning and still nothing had changed. There was no television coverage. There was no newspaper coverage. I started this thread because I could not believe the media doesn't think it is important that A JUDGE IS ACCUSED OF MAKING A RULING ABOUT A CHILD BEFORE HEARING EVIDENCE. Even if Kelsey had not died surely there should be outrage that a judge would do such a thing. Are we the only people that care about this conduct?