A couple implanted tracking devices into their children’s toys in secret to monitor their whereabouts while they were in foster care, a Family Court judge has determined. The parents, leading a nomadic lifestyle, had three young children and were expecting a fourth when the tracking devices were uncovered. Their children, all under school age, are currently in foster care due to ongoing care proceedings.
The tracking devices, resembling the mother’s mobile phone, were discovered by the foster carers in May. Judge Malcom Sharpe revealed that additional tracking devices were found concealed in toys given to the children by their parents. The parents initially denied knowledge of the devices, accusing the local authority of planting them to discredit them. However, the mother eventually admitted to purchasing the trackers but claimed sole responsibility, a statement the judge found dubious as he believed the father was also complicit.
The mother explained that she had installed the trackers out of concern for her children attending meetings with bruising. Yet, Judge Sharpe found her reasoning unclear and questioned how tracking the children would help address any injuries. He dismissed the parents’ claims, stating that the decision to use tracking devices was a joint parental choice, with the father likely being the instigator.
The judge determined that the parents had attempted to deceive by withholding their phones for examination regarding the tracking devices. He emphasized that they must reflect on their actions and work towards rectifying the harm caused to their case regarding the care of their children.
Judge Sharpe condemned the parents’ actions as part of a broader scheme to monitor the children’s whereabouts and potentially facilitate their removal. He urged the parents to acknowledge the consequences of their actions and make amends to salvage their case.