A California mother is sounding the alarm over what she describes as systemic failures in the state’s handling of people with disabilities. Teresa, the mother of Justin, has taken to social media to plead for help. alleging her son has been wrongfully institutionalized, abused, and neglected under state care.
Allegations of Unlawful Commitment
According to Teresa, her son Justin—who lives with borderline autism, epilepsy, and other complex disabilities stemming from a rare genetic disorder—was “wrongfully and unlawfully committed and institutionalized” more than two years ago. She claims this decision was based on false statements presented to a judge during confidential hearings that she was not allowed to attend.
“I believe my son was committed for money, not for his wellbeing,” Teresa stated. “He has a loving home, a strong family support system, and church friends waiting for him to come back. Yet he remains trapped in the system.
Reports of Abuse and Neglect
Teresa further alleges that Justin has been subjected to regular physical and sexual assault while under state care. She says she has documentation proving these claims but has been unable to find legal representation willing to take the case to the lengths necessary to secure her son’s release.
She also claims her son has been forced to perform outdoor labor despite being diagnosed with skin cancer and suffering from severe epilepsy. During one incident, she says Justin suffered a grand mal seizure while in jail but did not receive proper medical attention or medication.
“He fears for his life. They threaten him regularly,” she wrote. “I worry every day that he could be the next to die in their facility.
A Mother’s Plea
For 34 years, Teresa says she has been Justin’s sole advocate, conservator, and caregiver. She insists she has never had trouble with the law, does not drink, and has never used drugs. Her frustration, she says, lies with what she calls California’s “injustice system for people with disabilities.”
“I’ve tried everything within my means,” she wrote. “I can’t find legal counsel willing to fight this battle. My son is being medically kidnapped, and I want him released back home where he belongs.”
Larger Implications
Cases like Justin’s raise broader questions about how the U.S. legal and healthcare systems handle vulnerable individuals with disabilities. Advocates for disability rights have long criticized the lack of transparency in institutional care, as well as the legal barriers families face when trying to protect their loved ones.
As Teresa’s plea circulates online, it underscores the urgent need for stronger oversight, accountability, and legal resources for families navigating these complex systems.
Closing Note
This article is based on claims made publicly by Justin’s mother. At this stage, these allegations have not been independently verified. The case highlights the importance of oversight, transparency, and advocacy when it comes to the treatment of individuals with disabilities in state care.