KIDNAP: Crime was committed

In regard to the letter written by Hendrik Mills and published Feb. 23, 2011: What Ms. Ward did was KIDNAPPING. You don't have to drag someone kicking and screaming to be guilty of kidnapping. Ms. Ward's actions were inappropriate and unlawful. When your children are in foster care, you can't go looking for them.

As to the actions of Idaho Department of Health and Welfare: Multiple hearings to address the removal of children from their parents take place starting 72 hours after removal and again in 2-3 weeks. You are afforded multiple opportunities to receive the information used to remove your children and multiple opportunities to respond to it. You are appointed a lawyer if you cannot afford one.

I know the statements made in this individual's letter are FALSE and inflammatory. The judges, social workers and CASA all work together to act in the child/children's best interests.

LAURA TOLIN

Rathdrum