Arrest Warrants Issued for Haskell Foster Parents in Child Neglect Case
Update on the Haskell, Oklahoma Foster Care Abuse Case
A disturbing case of alleged child neglect in Haskell, Oklahoma, has taken a serious legal turn as arrest warrants have now been issued for Kaytlin Fultz and Andrew Fultz, a foster couple accused of punishing their 7-year-old foster child by leaving her outside in freezing temperatures.
The Muskogee County District Attorney’s Office officially charged both foster parents with felony child neglect under 21 O.S. § 843.5, reinforcing the severity of the allegations against them.
Recap of the Case: How It Unfolded
This case first came to public attention when a concerned neighbor captured video footage of the young girl standing outside in frigid temperatures, barefoot and without a coat. The footage quickly went viral, sparking public outrage and prompting an investigation into the foster parents’ disciplinary methods.
Court records now confirm that the child in question is only 7 years old, adding to the gravity of the charges.
Statements from Law Enforcement and Officials
Muskogee County District Attorney Larry Edwards released an official statement:
"These charges stem from the allegations that the defendants put a 7-year-old female child outside in frigid temperatures as some form of punishment in Haskell, Oklahoma."
Due to the involvement of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) and child welfare authorities, further details remain confidential at this time.
What the Foster Parents Told Police
Newly obtained court documents reveal how the foster parents explained their actions to police:
Kaytlin and Andrew Fultz claimed the child was only outside for about two minutes as part of a routine meant to help her "reset" or cool down.
They told police this was a common practice but denied that she was outside for an extended period.
A neighbor contradicted their claims, stating the child was outside for 10 to 15 minutes, barefoot and pleading to be let back inside.
When asked about the child not having shoes, the couple stated she refused to wear them but had socks on.
How DHS Responded and the Child’s Relocation
According to court documents, a representative from OKDHS initially saw no immediate health concerns regarding the child and reportedly stated that the couple’s method of discipline was preferable to "forcing the child to wear shoes."
Despite this initial decision, by Friday night, the child was removed from the Fultz home and placed elsewhere. The biological mother’s attorney, Don Smolen, has since spoken out, stating:
"She got moved in the middle of the night. DHS hasn't told us a thing. We were able to confirm all of this through a third party that's close to the family and had direct personal knowledge of the transfer."
As of now, DHS has not provided an official statement regarding the removal or future custody arrangements.
Public Outrage and Legal Implications
The Preston Public Schools district, where Kaytlin Fultz is employed as a third-grade teacher, has also been contacted for comment but has yet to respond. Additionally, the Oklahoma State Board of Education has confirmed it is launching an investigation into the matter.
This case has sparked nationwide discussion about the safety of children in the foster care system, raising serious concerns about disciplinary practices, DHS oversight, and the process of foster parent vetting.
The Higher Risk of Abuse in Foster Care
Statistics show that children in foster care are at a significantly higher risk of abuse compared to those in their biological homes, even in less-than-ideal circumstances:
Foster children are 3 to 4 times more likely to be abused than children living with their biological families.
A Johns Hopkins University study found that foster children are 4 times more likely to experience sexual abuse.
Children in foster care are twice as likely to suffer from PTSD than combat veterans.
60% of child sex trafficking victims in the U.S. have a history in the foster care system.
While the foster care system is intended to provide a safe environment for children, cases like this one in Haskell, Oklahoma, illustrate how poor oversight, rushed placements, and lack of proper screening can lead to further trauma rather than protection.
Key Takeaways:
Kaytlin and Andrew Fultz have been charged with felony child neglect.
New court records confirm the child is only 7 years old.
The foster parents claim the child was outside for only two minutes; a neighbor reports it was at least 10 to 15 minutes.
Despite initial DHS approval, the child was relocated from the home by Friday night.
The Oklahoma State Board of Education is now investigating Kaytlin Fultz’s role as a teacher.
Final Thoughts: Is Foster Care Failing Children?
This case highlights the ongoing concerns surrounding foster care safety and oversight. The fact that DHS initially allowed the child to remain in the home—despite clear signs of distress—raises serious questions about how abuse and neglect are evaluated within the system.
Cases like this underscore the urgent need for reform in the foster care system.
