This is a hard one for me to post. Being an adoptive parent and trudging through the dark alleys of behavior challenges for older adopted children, especially those adopted from institutions, is a very hot topic for me. This story is tragic and I am so hopeful that these girls are now is a safe place where they can receive proper treatment and care.
Often, couples start out with the best intentions and when confronted with the realities of children's needs, they become overwhelmed and resort to monstrous behavior. I have to wonder about their church. Could this be another family who subscribes to the Michael Pearl method of discipline?
http://www.coloradoan.com/article/20100826/NEWS01/8260346/1002/CUSTOMERSERVICE02
Larimer County couple charged with abuse of adopted Russian daughters
"The adoptive parents of three sisters from Russia have been charged with child abuse in Larimer County in a disturbing case that extends as far back as five years.
Edelwina Leschinsky, 46, and Steven Leschinsky, 43, of Larimer County were arrested in March and have both been charged with one felony count of child abuse and four other related charges.
The arrest affidavit obtained by 9NEWS on Wednesday reveals disturbing details.
According to police statements, the Leschinskys adopted the biological sisters from Russia four to five years ago...."
and
"...In one instance, police say the parents made one girl run more than 45 miles in three days, all because she chewed her food too much.
Another common punishment, according to police, was "fisties," having to remain in a push-up position with their fists on the wood floor. One girl said she remained in that position for 40 minutes...."
more at link
Often, couples start out with the best intentions and when confronted with the realities of children's needs, they become overwhelmed and resort to monstrous behavior. I have to wonder about their church. Could this be another family who subscribes to the Michael Pearl method of discipline?
http://www.coloradoan.com/article/20100826/NEWS01/8260346/1002/CUSTOMERSERVICE02
Larimer County couple charged with abuse of adopted Russian daughters
"The adoptive parents of three sisters from Russia have been charged with child abuse in Larimer County in a disturbing case that extends as far back as five years.
Edelwina Leschinsky, 46, and Steven Leschinsky, 43, of Larimer County were arrested in March and have both been charged with one felony count of child abuse and four other related charges.
The arrest affidavit obtained by 9NEWS on Wednesday reveals disturbing details.
According to police statements, the Leschinskys adopted the biological sisters from Russia four to five years ago...."
and
"...In one instance, police say the parents made one girl run more than 45 miles in three days, all because she chewed her food too much.
Another common punishment, according to police, was "fisties," having to remain in a push-up position with their fists on the wood floor. One girl said she remained in that position for 40 minutes...."
more at link