An Online Group Bullied This Family For Years: Then CPS Showed Up
Intro:
Welcome to the Family Freedom Project Podcast. Today, we bring you the story of JD and Britney Lott, a family targeted by an online Reddit group leading to a terrifying encounter with Child Protective Services (CPS). This episode delves into their journey, the broader implications for families across the nation, and the urgent need for CPS reform.
Segment 1: The Lott Family's Journey
JD and Britney Lott, both veterans of the Iraq war, have a remarkable story. After serving their country, they settled down in Lubbock, Texas, and started a family. With eight children and a desire for adventure, they converted a school bus into an RV, embarking on a cross-country journey. The Lotts shared their travels and homeschooling experiences on Instagram, quickly amassing over half a million followers under the handle "American Family Road Trip."
However, with popularity came scrutiny. The Lotts faced criticism from a Reddit group known for targeting conservative Christian families. This online harassment went beyond mere comments, eventually leading to a serious and unfounded CPS report.
Segment 2: The Incident
In April 2024, while the Lotts were traveling, a group of Reddit users accused them of neglecting their newborn, Boone. These users tracked the family's movements through social media, ultimately identifying their location. Despite the Lotts' attempt to ignore the negativity, the situation escalated.
On April 30th, the Lotts received a call from a Florida CPS investigator, citing concerns about Boone's well-being. This call came as a shock, as the family had not anticipated such a severe reaction from online hate. JD and Britney quickly learned that a false CPS report could have devastating consequences.
Segment 3: The CPS Response
Florida CPS acted swiftly and severely, calling JD and Britany, who had already driven to Georgia for their road trip by this time, and telling them they CPS would commence a nationwide manhunt for the family and the removal of the children if they didn’t show up in person by the end of the day for an inspection of the kids.
Immediately, they reached out to the Family Freedom Project for help. With the support of the organization and a local attorney, the family rushed to meet the CPS demands. A medical evaluation confirmed that the children were healthy. In fact, the doctors and the police officer were incensed that CPS had acted so aggressively based on an anonymous allegation on social media. The doctors and the officer were able to talk CPS down, and CPS agreed to close the case.
However, the experience left the Lotts traumatized and questioning the ease with which CPS can be weaponized against families. This ordeal highlighted the broader issue of CPS overreach and the need for system-wide reform.
Segment 4: The Bigger Picture
The Lotts' experience is not unique. Research shows that 1 in 3 American children will be investigated by CPS before they turn 18, with the rate being even higher for black children. The Family Freedom Project and other advocates are calling for reforms similar to those implemented in Texas, which have successfully reduced child removals and improved outcomes for families.
False CPS reports are a felony, yet the damage done by such reports can be immense. The Lotts' story underscores the urgent need for accountability and systemic change to protect innocent families from undue trauma.
Segment 5: Call to Action
JD and Britney continue to advocate for CPS reform. One way you can help is by signing the petition urging the Florida Attorney General to hold these Reddit users accountable.
Outro:
Thank you for listening to the Family Freedom Project Podcast. We hope the Lott's story sheds light on the challenges faced by families around the nation. Stay tuned for more stories and updates and visit the links below to join the fight.
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