But why she didn't get the boy before the fosters, i believe there's a choice, an acquaintance of mine, his mom dead n his dad going to jail and the state ask for family to take custody of him, nobody wants him bcuz he was a very chaotic teen, and he end up in foster care, but his Dad tried with everyone
How did these people even qualify to foster or even adopt a child when they don’t even have the basic amenities like water and food ?!?! This is beyond me.
I was thinking…(and I’m not far into the video and this is all I’m going from) are we sure his account is accurate? I can’t imagine this could be the case if they were approved to be foster parents and on the road to being approved for adoption.
For a little kid suffering so much trauma, his smile still looks genuine in those pictures. I feel like he was more resilient than those foster parents gave him credit for. Poor poor little boy.
His smile is definitely infectious!! I agree he appears to be pretty resilient. I think this little boy could have become someone quite remarkable, had he been allowed to live his life, bless him.
I can’t help but think that Jaliek was physically or sexually abused in foster care & that’s why he would have these aggressive outbursts. That poor baby just needed help & guidance. breaks my heart
Exactly. A child doesn’t just have those kinds of outbursts for no absolute reason. Especially a 12 year old kid. Something had to have been going on. EDIT: And there’s no way a 12 year old child who wasn’t abused in any way, neglected or even was born w drugs in their system will threaten another child, saying they’ll SA them. The foster parents def did something to him. Especially the foster dad.
@@thekendrashow 💯 for sure! & instead of getting him the help & therapy he needed they chose to ignore it & reprimand his behavior and not ask WHY he is having these behaviors.
That could be. But I also wonder how true those allegations were, considering he didn’t exhibit those behaviors any where else besides with his adoptive parents.
One main concern, when he threatened that kid and it was sexual. How does he even know about something sexual like that, there must have been something at home that exposed him to that: a red flag for possible sexual abuse. This case makes me so upset
I stopped the video and scrolled until I found a comment like this!!! It’s shocking that more people weren’t concerned about his threat and what he could have been exposed too
Since he went through a lot of foster families, it's possible he heard it elsewhere. Even if that was the case though, it's still horrible that Jocelyn and Steven decided this was proof he was a rotten egg, rather than that very valid concern! At best, he overheard someone saying it in media or to another person. At worst... well, yeah, like you pointed out.
My theory (just a theory, to be clear) is that Stephen was sexually and physically abusing Jaliek, which caused an escalation of aggressive and sexualized behaviors that they then pretend were totally random and unexplained, even though they didn't happen with different caregivers. I believe Stephen killed Jaliek to avoid being found out and disposed of his body, possibly in a body of water along the trip route to Greenwich. I do not believe Jocelyn was directly involved in that but I believe she knew about it either immediately or shortly after and covered it up. P.S. Stephen even talks like a weird cult leader motherfucker.
i also believe when he lashed out on the kid that bothered him and sexually threatened him, Stephen immediately got scared and he probably had to act quick to cover it up
That is what I was thinking!! If young kids act out sexually then that means that have meant sexual abuse. The amount of people who don’t understand this pisses me off
It really bothers me when he’s out there calling Jaliek “my son” when they were trying to pass him off to somebody else yet again. Jaliek deserved so much better, it’s heartbreaking 💔
I know we’re still much in speculations bc of lack of evidences …but I also believe that him constantly saying “my son “ is SO manipulative. As if he desperately wanted but sympathy from the public…to wash out the suspicions …but it’s clear to me that this man has never loved Jaliek nor ever considered him as his own son. There’re so many 🚩 that prove this .
I live locally to where this happened. We all believe his foster family had something to do with it and we all just want justice for Jaliek. Thank you so much for covering this case on your platform.
Warren and Washington county in New York are very Caucasian, in the past five years or so it’s becoming more diverse however at that time I wouldn’t be surprised if he was the only POC in his school. I don’t think a little black boy could run away in this area and not be noticed. We were all on alert when that happened, there’s no chance he just ran away
@@vicd8346 yes. I thought the same thing. Every picture he was smiling , beautiful and unique . I think Stephen did something to him. just a gut feeling. unfortunately that doesnt help. Breaks my heart.
@@syrenadurager It's not about his skin color. To me he just looks very bright and exotic, with those bright green eyes and blond hair. I feel like he would stand out in almost any state or county. Because I don't really see this type of appearance in daily life or have seen much in any other state...
I am only 10 mins in and needed to comment above already about what I am already outraged about. I just want to say that in a rural area if they can’t properly get him mental health care when they have cars than how In the shit is this young boy going to make it somewhere on foot ? Without being seen?
Did they never consider that if a child threatens another child with a violent sexual act it's highly likely they were sexually abused at some point?? Especially combined with the continued behavioral issues. That should have been the immediate concern and treatment to get to the bottom of the trauma should have immediately begun.
No exactly. The only reason he would have made a threat like that is because someone was threatening (and sadly most likely doing) the same thing to him. Its a learned behavior it didn’t come out of no where
Ikr! I thought the same thing. I hear so many stories of careless police work and it made me happy to know that they really looked for this boy 😢 too bad nothing has come of it yet
@@LenaGabbani Remember, the State only gets one shot at prosecuting a defendant due to double jeopardy. It can be heart wrenching and extremely frustrating not being able to prosecute a suspect due to insufficient evidence, even when you feel strongly about the guilt of said suspect. That's why it is better to wait until they have a concrete solid case before bringing charges. Otherwise, they run the risk of an acquittal due to not being able to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt and the perpetrator walks free.
Usually in these kinds of cases the authorities don’t care but then actually trying their best to find him still is surprising to me and makes me happy.
@@LenaGabbani It’s not the police or investigators that determines whether or not someone gets charged and arrested for a crime. The DA is the ONLY one who determines whether or not someone gets charged with a particular crime, and is the only one who determines what those charges are. Even if investigators and police want charges to be brought against someone or even if they recommend certain charges, the DA does not have to do anything. The fact of the matter is, no decent DA is going to bring charges against someone that they are not 100% certain will receive a unanimous guilty verdict beyond a reasonable doubt in court. They only have ONE opportunity to charge and and go after a conviction. Even if they know they have the right person, if they get to court and don’t have enough to convince a jury, that “not guilty” verdict sticks. Even if a bombshell piece of evidence is discovered later on, there is nothing more they can do. So oftentimes, if they don’t feel that there is enough evidence to believe 100% that a guilty verdict will be reached, they decide to wait, and hope that something else comes to light that will further strengthen the case. But again, police and investigators do not have a say in this. The decision starts and ends with the DA, and the DA alone. The police and investigators only have authority over some aspects of the investigation.
This truly is so sad for me personally as I knew J. I’m actually in this video at 9:54 - That photo was from Green Mountain Music Camp in Bennington Vermont where I attended camp with him two summers in a row. I’m dressed in the blue and white, playing Alice in Alice in Wonderland. He was one of the Queen’s cards. The last time I saw J was that summer four months before he disappeared. He was a great kid and even though we were 11/12 years old at the time I only remember good things. He was never violent at camp and loved to sing and dance in the play we put on for the camp. I think about him often and it’s crazy to me that his foster dad got away with this. Also, Stephen lives about 45 mins from the town I live in. It’s a very small town/ state. I have never seen him or his wife out and about in the community since this all went down. It’s like he’s in hiding because he knows we all KNOW HES A GUILTY POS! RIP J I hope they find your body someday or someone comes clean about what really happened to you that night. ( just a local fact Stephen also worked for a crematorium at one point.. I wonder if he burned his body and that’s why we’ve never found him.)
I knew something was up when the grandmother said he wasn’t nearly as violent when with her than with the foster family. It amazes me that children can end up in such disgusting and abusive places when the government and social services are supposed to be overseeing that they end up somewhere safe. This child and many others have been failed by the system, there must be some way we can change this. I hope he is found sometime soon and these people are brought to justice ❤️
I know right?!! In my area, it is more difficult to adopt a pet from a shelter than it was for these ignorami to foster, and potentially adopt, poor Jaliek. 😢
I'm not defending the adoptive parents in any way because I think they are involved, but at the same time the grandma and respite care family didn't spend all day, every day with Jaliek. They got to have happy, fun visits with him. They didn't have to parent him.
@cassie but what jaliek Said when he was with that respite family when he was talking to the woman about the environment, they grew up in tells me that they are not good parents, and don’t have a proper place to take care of children
Jaliek, I am so terribly sorry that you were not treated as you should have been. You should have been encapsulated with love and support. You didn’t deserve ANY of this. I hope wherever you may be, that you are at peace.
Kendall didn't really touch on it, but she was once arrested breaking and entering into their home looking for evidence-where she says to this day she saw the yellow sweatshirt they said he went missing in still inside. Police shortly got a warrant and searched the house after she was charged and said she found evidence inside.
Thank you for your excellent and well researched podcast on my grandson's disappearance. I truly appreciate how detailed it is and I'm sure many more people will have a better understanding of Jaliek's case and investigation. Thank you.
I’m sorry for your loss. I hope you can rest somewhat easy at night knowing that there is millions of people searching for your grandson. You are not alone in this fight.
What kind of "father" says "I believe he's alive and somewhere safe" while their child is missing? Unless he wanted people to stop searching. It's heartbreaking no justice was served.
This! My 8yo daughter was missing from her school for 20 minutes and I was assuming the worst because the world is scary and hoping for the best!!!! Even if one of my kids had told me they were going to run away- and then ran away- I would not assume they were safe!! A young kid on the streets?! Safe?! No way.
I live 30 minutes from where this happened. I remember my mom setting a place for him at our thanksgiving table for years after his disappearance. We still pray for him.
I guess 15+ years ago, things were different, but as a current foster parent, there is absolutely no way in hell anyone living without indoor plumbing and only one bedroom would get licensed. And then on top of that being a therapeutic home... that just blows my mind. The grandparents should go after the state for allowing Jaliek to be placed there. It wouldn't be the full justice he deserves, but it'd be something and I don't think it'd be difficult to win.
My cousin adopted a girl 18 years ago, and it was a rigorous process from day 1 to get approved by the state that the home was in neat condition and fit for children, so it’s definitely suspicious that these people were approved by the state.
I’ve never been able to forget this case. It’s so upsetting. I’m glad Jaliek got to experience happy moments like Seaworld and the Halloween festival with people who genuinely seemed to care about him.
I think when he had that sexual threat outburst the foster parents were panicking because they were close to being exposed. To me it seemed Jaliek was very smart maybe to smart and the foster parents had to put an end to it.
Well... considering the account he gave about all of them sleeping in the same room, seems more like a hint to additional info, esp being the main target of attention (good or bad) by the foster dad. Before the age of puberty, where curiosity leads to discovery, sexual knowledge is learned by environmental circumstances... even if it's learned from their peers, a CHILD doesn't just know those things. They're taught by, exposed to or witness it. Something stinks BAD about this whole case... not just the foster parents or system, for this boy to vanish and STILL no answers.
@@LilithsCosmicLounge as much as I agree some people shoudnt be allowed to have kids, giving the govt that power of peoples bodies would be hell. And judging from their recent handling of roe, they probably want more kids in foster care. The govt doesn’t care about foster kids..
@@LilithsCosmicLounge no way! they did this already hence one of the reasons for the Nuremberg code! why do we think the government having more control over our bodies will fix things 💀🙈 please wake up😊
As someone who spent most of my childhood & aged out of foster care in Kansas (1990-2008) it is INSANE to me that in NY it wasn't a requirement for Jaliek to actively see a therapist, as a foster child, especially considering his circumstances. I don't remember a time when I wasn't in therapy as a child, because of the immense amount of emotional trauma foster children experience. Not only did all of his foster parents fail him, but so did the state of NY. Of course he's going to have behavioral issues, the adults in his life continuously failed him instead of trying to help him. Some people just really should not be allowed to foster children, especially if they can't deal with "troubled" children. In what world would a child NOT be "troubled" when the adults in their life continuously give up on them. This is so SO heartbreaking, on so many levels.
I really feel that comment he made about his “future wife” was about looking for a real family. I was abandoned by my parents as a baby, thankfully I was raised by my grandparents. Still, I deal with feelings of being “unwanted” to this day (I’m 40). I actually met my husband at age 11, I was always looking to have a “real family”. We have been together for 29 years total, 19 married, and I got to be the mother I always wanted to my 3 teenagers. Our oldest son has autism and can be hard to deal with, but he has so much good in him and I couldn’t imagine giving him up 😢
@@gigi7242 Some of us watching have had similar experiences that we lived through. It changes how you see the world… I wish he had gotten to have that family. If you can’t relate I’m honestly happy for you 👏
As someone who was in the foster care system, there is no doubt that shady shit happens all the time, unfortunately. So many people failed Jaliek. I can’t believe his “parents” are out there free till this day! I hope and pray justice is served one day.
This is so sad. He was such a handsome young man. So jealous of those eyes. Definitely suspicious of Steven, he probably did something to that boy. Clearly they didn't care about him. So tragic.
Honestly it is. The other day my daughter told me her friend at school told her something about her parents not being around and something about drugs .. I was devastated!! She is 9 😔
That whole fancy last meal is such a tell. A lot of the stories I've heard, once the parents decide they're gonna harm a child, they give them some super nice meal or gifts beforehand. These foster parents are so sus. This poor child and his family.
There are dozens of cases like this with foster children. The system is severely flawed and largely neglected by the public. They see these stories and do nothing. Better people need to foster children.
His comment about wanting to live wherever his future wife did I think showed how much he just wanted to be loved and accepted unconditionally 😢❤ it’s so sad that he didn’t attain that dream, when he so deserved it ❤😢❤❤
Exactly- I was abandoned by my parents as a baby and thankfully my grandparents raised me. Still, I deal with feelings of being “unwanted” to this day (I’m 40). I actually met my husband at age 11 and I think I was always looking for a “family”. We have been together for 29 years, 19 married, and I got to be the mother to my 3 teenagers that I always wished I had.
Not even 10 minutes in yet and I just... As someone who was that child in foster care and then adopted into a family that ended up not wanting them... This hits so close to home for me. I was treated like I was nothing. I literally got bounced around from family member to family member, both birth family and adoptive family. No one ever wanted me. I feel for Jaliek.
I agree. Even if they didn't directly end his life or cause him to goissing they were still abusing and neglecting him. Singling him out and mentally hurting him. And had him living in squaler. Their kids need to be removed and they need to be charged with child abuse asap. Even if they didn't do anything to him. But they very well might have and I hope this case gets solved asap.
I just want to know how in the world were these parents approved to provide foster care. My daughter & son-in-law in Oklahoma had to go through much training & many home inspections before getting approval & frequent checks after children were placed. they also had to prove they had enough finances to support these children. They did go on to adopt 2 little girls they fostered.
I thought the same thing. We had to jump through a lot of hoops for foster care. And these people were supposed to be trained. No running water or bathroom?
I’ve thought about fostering before but would never do it until I feel financially, emotionally, spiritually ready. The amount of things you need to do and prove to qualify is extensive (as it should be!). I don’t understand how these foster parents were approved to care for not only one, but two children!
You are seriously the most amazing youtuber, particularly in the true crime community which has a thin line when it comes to ethics. I started here and I’ll always love your channel the most. You use your platform for the victims and advocate for them, donate to rightful causes and give the families a voice. You’re amazing Kendall, I just know Holly is going to grow up to be such an amazing girl. Thank you for being so amazing
Man, it triggered tf out of me seeing that man stand up at a vigil and call Jaliek his son. After trying so hard to get rid of him, he goes and calls him his son for sympathy and show. The audacity.
this!!! seems like the "parents" only adopted him to put on a good face to to others or to feel better ab themselves. they didnt really care about him.
Abusive parents and foster parents always exaggerate behavioural issues because it discredits children when they make accusations of abuse. I get the feeling that he was being mistreated in a lot of his home. I think Jaliek was building up to exposing the sexual, physical and psychological abuse at his foster father's hands so Steven got rid of Jaliek - either by killing him or trafficking him. They easily could have just put him back into the system if he was unmanageable, instead he needed to get rid of him. I hope they find out what really happened to him, he was so beautiful and seemed like a joyful person with such a heavy sadness for someone so young. Poor baby boy ♥️
As a former foster child. It’s sad to say but true that I felt safe in a bench in a park then I would at these foster homes. This lil guy deserves justice and these people did something I’m sure
The fact that his adoptive grandparents made every effort possible while his adoptive parents were useless, tells me everything I need to know about them as people.
Right? Barbara seems awesome. So many times in cases like this you see the families all clamming up. I love that she broke into her daughter & son-in-law's home to investigate lol.
@@HayaikazeKaiKen Barbara was not the mother of Jaliek’s adoptive parents. She was Jaliek’s maternal grandmother. So she didn’t break into her daughter’s home.
@@amberrollins7646 Yes, Barbara is Jaliek's adoptive mother's, mother. I was confused at first but Kendall does say towards the end of the video, that she and her husband were Jaliek's "maternal adoptive grandparents." His adoptive mom's parents.
He honestly is such a sweet-looking boy, such beautiful eyes with so much life in them. Shoutout to his maternal adoptive grandparents for actually caring. This boy and grandparents deserve JUSTICE🙏🏼💚
It's so sad that some people want to un-adopt a child just because it gets difficult. Those poor babies need stability and love. Some people should never be parents.
I agree that its shocking but understsnd sometimes it may be necessary esp when other children are at risk. Some children have extra needs and shouldnt be in homes with other kids. The process needs to help prevent bad matches. Alot of parents also havy a rose tinted perception of parenthood, this happens in biological families aswell.
@@miche6563 They didn't even try though. Didn't try to get him help or anything. They were aware of his issues and troubled past and set him up to fail. So, no. I won't bother understand how someone could put so little effort into caring for another human being. Also they couldn't have been too worried about the other children seeing as they weren't even bothered to provide basic amenities.
@@moongi8428 this case is clearly different. The original comment was broad and my answer waa briad at sometimes. Then again they shoukd have never gotten any child which is a separate issue.
If you can't handle a child who has traumatic issues then just don't frigging adopt them. I'm all for people adopting. There are so many children out there who deserve a loving home and I respect foster families in wanting to adopt a child but again, if you CAN'T, then DON'T. Period. End of story. My heart really goes out to Jaliek and his grandmother who, I think, was the only one who actually cared about him with all her heart. It was so sad to hear that even the kids taunted him. Who even gave them permission to be foster parents????
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This case breaks my heart. Jaliek deserved so much more. Therapy would have worked wonders for him. All he needed was extra love and support. I don't know how they were legally able to adopt a child. Jaliek reminds me a lot of my oldest child with his wanting to help, loving to read and just overall excitement and joy for life. He was so resilient despite his tough childhood. I hope he is happy and at peace now 😔
Jaliek, I’m a preschool teacher sitting here in tears and I’m so sorry you were failed and harmed by the adults that were supposed to protect you no matter what. I hope you are at peace now ❤️
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I’m so glad you’re covering this case. This happened very close to my home town, and everyone believes the foster family did something. This whole case needs more national attention.
@@elizabethgreer27 thank you. I’m soo in shock for years my family been searching for him but it was a closed adoption where we came to a dead end until I literally came across this today. He looks identical to my older brother I had the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. I have contacted the detective working his case and he definitely thinks it’s a possibility. My heart hurts sooo much we could have gave him such a better life
@@lasheaypatterson3387 I’m so sorry to hear that. This case is so sad, all around. My husband and I have been following this case throughout, and there’s still so many questions. Maybe Kendall can help somehow or the detectives? I don’t have any info other than what’s been reported, but feel free to send me a DM. 😌
@@lasheaypatterson3387 have you found anything out? I keep coming back to see if you made any other comment on this! But I haven't seen anything yet!?! So sad. That baby could be anywhere if he truly ran away, but I don't think he did. That adoptive family did something to him. So sad. I hope you find out if he's your family or not. Maybe even by donating DNA somewhere there will be a new discovery of some kind! I pray he's found one way or the other so that everyone can have peace knowing what happened to Jaliek! My thoughts and prayers are with you all!!
His story is soooo common. I work with kids like Jalik and the stories you hear are just heartbreaking. How people can do these things to these kids and damage them so badly is beyond me. You know when he threatened his sibling with assault that typically means that threat has been used against them or it something that’s happened to them and they know it hurt them so it will hurt you too.
This one hits close to home. We lived two towns over when he went missing. Such a sad situation and he was failed by so many. I do hope his family finds closure someday
These people need to be ashamed of themselves!! How dare you adopt a child then because the child isn’t the “perfect” child you want to take him back!!??? He’s not something you purchase from Walmart!!! How do they think it made him feel!!?? Not only did bio mother not want him but his adopted parents didn’t either….you think that made him feel warm and fuzzy!!?! I’m sure that’s partially why he acted out!! And there is NO excuse for him NOT getting help!! You can’t use the excuse of where you live being “remote”!! I live in nowhere Utah and there’s places here!! I’m sorry! This is so disgusting and frustrating!!! I have ALWAYS wanted a child and I learned in my early 20’s that I wasn’t going to be able to have children so when I hear stories like this not only does it disgust me on how the child is treated but there’s people out there that would do ANYTHING to have a child!! To take that for granted is not ok with me at all!!! It’s disgusting!!
Me too girl me too. Infertile from my service to this country and some people just flat out don’t deserve children AT ALL it’s disgusting. Ugh I would love him like my OWN 😭❤️
One of the things you probably have noticed becoming a mom is that these cases hit you a little deeper. You feel a literal ache in your arms wanting to protect these babies.
I am 5 months pregnant and I was sad watching these cases before I was pregnant. But it makes me so much sadder now watching them I sometimes start to cry. No child deserves to go through anything like that
The lead investigator straight up said I hope we bring closure not only to Jaliek and his family THAT ACTUALLY loved him. They know the adoptive parents were involved...unfortunately they just can't prove it. This is such a sad story.
i live in the town next to where this happened. i remember seeing the posters all over. i even used to cash out the family at Hannaford when i worked there. and i remember how the foster father made me very uncomfortable even before i knew who he was. im so glad you covered this case. also, i have friends who knew him and said he never saw any behavior issues, never seemed mad, always was happy, and smiling.
I’m usually pretty calm and collected when it comes to this type of thing, but something about this case specifically had me crying. I have never experienced such a deep heartache before from one of these videos, but I guess something about Jaliek just brought it on. The whole thing is so frustrating but I hope someday there can be closure and peace for him and the family that truly loved him.
They might not know anything, since he was gone to the respite care house and disappeared after that, if the parents didn’t tell them anything they’d have no way to know. I don’t think it’s fair to assume the other kids are covering it up. They could very well not know anything.
@@clairep3688 Reportedly they all shared a bedroom. If this is accurate and Jaliek had returned home and slept there the other children might have seen or heard him - and could maybe confirm if he did ever return home. I'd be curious to know what the other children observed.
It's so sad because you can tell Jaliek just wanted to be loved. I don't understand how you could take in ANY child and not love them and make them all feel special. This breaks my heart smh 😥💔
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This pisses me off so much!! I have an adopted son, he’s been with us since he was 6 months old. He’s now 5 and let me tell you he gives me a run for my money DAILY!! BUT he is OUR child NO one else’s. OUR child and he’s loved as if I gave birth to him.
This breaks my heart. I'm so sad that Jaliek had to endure such horrific conditions with his foster parents. That's straight up torture. Makes my blood boil. As soon as I heard that Jaliek's behavioral issues improved when he wasn't with the Kerrs, that the family was absolutely the major cause :(
I'm so glad that you covered this. Jaliek needs justice and I'm still heartbroken that his case has not been solved yet. I remember submitting a request for this case and I was brought to tears to see this on my recommended. Thank you so much for shedding some light! Justice for Jaliek.
Maybe I missed it but why wasn’t Jaliek placed with his biological grandparents? They seem loving and in good health. There’s probably a good reason it just looks like they would have provided the best home life for Jaliek.
I think it’s usually something to do with the biological mother… If the grandparents are the biological mothers parents, then maybe the child couldn’t go there full time because he would be in contact with his biological mother & that may have put him at risk in some way? I don’t know, I’m just guessing? Although, in hindsight, the poor child ended up going from pillar to post & then ended up being placed in the worst home imaginable!! I use the term "home" loosely in this case!! It would be fantastic if he was found somewhere & was safe, however, I really don’t think there’s much possibility of that happening. I don’t like to think of the alternative, but it is sadly more probable that the adoptive "father" has done something to him. If this is the case, I hope he is found soon, to give some closure to anyone who truly love him!! 😢 Very sad case…
I appreciate you doing this story because need to know but I would also like to bring some awareness that foster parents aren't always like this. I had an addiction and unfortunately lost my kids. I had 3 kids my older 2 had family to take them and they were together but my 2 year old was with his dad who abandoned him because our son has autism and ADHD and could be a handful but being taken away from me and his brother and sister was devastating for him. My son got put in foster care with someone who was actually a friend of the family. This woman is AMAZING and was a second mom to my son. She worked at his special needs school and was very educated on what autism is and has a son of her own with autism. She is a behavior specialist I think that's what it is. Anyway she helped my son heal and she helped me however she could do that I could work to get my kids back. Losing my kids was a wake up call and I got my life together and my babies back and have been clean 4yrs. My son going into foster care was terrifying because I didn't know where he would end up and I couldn't think about anything else. I know we are extremely lucky. His foster mom still talks to him and tries to help me any way she can whenever I struggle and I'm thankful for her. Sadly she has breast cancer and I hope she is going to be okay. She loves my son as her own and he loves her like a second mom. She was there when I couldn't be
The grandmother is the one light in this case, this poor woman, poor Jaliek. This case is so painful and boils my blood. I hope answers will come one day
This couple definitely has something to do with Jaliek's disappearance. But that threat Jaliek made, that was sexual in nature really sticks out to me. Where did he hear that language from? Usually kids don't just say things like that cos they don't know anything about sex, especially using it as a way to threaten someone. He must've heard it from his "parents". And the fact that a part of the room they slept in was cordoned off for his sister is all kinds of dodgy to me. What does she need so much privacy for, as a small child? Nah, I think either both Steven and Jocelyn, or one of them have been sexually abusing these kids. As well as the other abuse they were subject to. Especially Jaliek. Poor kid. Failed from the start.
Not the first time i've heard Jaliek's stories but I am still blown away. I have no desire to have my own children and stories like this push me more and more towards being a foster parent. Thank you for sharing his story! Foster parents can be the sweetest people on the planet but unfortunately there are still way too many stories like this.
Not only was I someone who requested this case to Kendal. I do believe the “father” had something to do with him. I really do. I’ve felt like that since this case took place. Thank you, Kendal for doing this case. I’ve wanted people to hear this case ever since it started cause it’s one of those cases not many people hear about unless you’re from this area. So, thank you for sharing spreading information about his case! I hope they will find him one day. He deserves to be at peace.
this was so heartbreaking & he deserves justice!!! He lost his entire life! the system failed him those pos failed him. I really hope they found evidence! Because whoever is responsible belongs behind bars. he’s only 5 years younger then me. 😞😞 so sad
So when they went to adopt him, the people in charge of that visited thier tiny over crowded , cramped house with no facilities miles away from any professional help he may need and they said " Yep that look fine, go ahead " 🤔🙄😔
I'm thinking they may have used the parents' nicer, vacant (but furnished?) home in that nearby town as their home address with the state foster system...
That poor baby! I really think that his adoptive dad killed him. There’s no other explanation. I pray for jaleiks family to find out what happened to him. This is so heartbreaking.
Thank you for covering this case. I fully believe Steven had something to do with this. I hope they find Jaliek and get justice. This case shatters my heart.
I am from Greenwich NY. I knew several people who were friends with this kid and I remember when this happened how much it shook the town because it’s such a small town. Glad to see Kendall cover this story! It really hits hard because he went missing where I grew up
He is 8 days older than me and I just cannot believe what he went through in his life. He should be 27 and thriving. I feel so awful for him. Something about him reminds me of my cousin that has passed and I think that just makes it hit even harder.
Looking at his picture just breaks my heart. I feel so terrible for this beautiful child. He deserved so much better and he was failed by almost everyone in his life. Such a sad story. I don’t trust Steven whatsoever. The minute I heard they stopped at this abandoned house I knew something wasn’t right.
I’ve been watching you for years and this case is from right next to my hometown. I’m so happy someone like you has drawn attention to the case in hopes of more answers and justice for Jaliek, he deserves that and the entire community deserve to know what they did. Thank you
That picture of him holding the chicken makes my heart ache. He is looking at it with such happiness on his face that it seems like he adores animals. Reminds me of my little girl with our animals. ❤️ I desperately hope somehow he is found safe
I think it’s ridiculous that an AMBER alert wasn’t issued simply because he possibly could’ve been a runaway. In my opinion, a child, regardless of whether they chose to leave or not, is still out on their own and needs protection so an alert should always be issued in the case of a missing minor.
I’ve never heard of this case before. This is truly heartbreaking. Jaliek never had a fair chance at having a good childhood. The regulations and eligibility for foster care really need to be tighter. This is exactly why I want to foster kids one day so they can have the resources and support they need to grow into a functional adult. I’m pretty certain it’s clear Jaliek’s adoptive parents did this, but even if they didn’t, they need to be reprimanded for their carelessness in his case. He deserved better.
Thank you for covering this, Kendall. I live near Altamont and this case is just so heartbreaking. Jaliek sounds like he was such an amazing kid, and it’s so sad that he was failed by so many people throughout his life. People that should have protected him and loved him like he deserved. I have no doubt his adoptive parents were involved, and I hope one day justice will be served.
Barbra breaking into the house is a BADASS move! RIP Jaliek, you deserved so much more.
Everyone loves a law breaking gramma! Lol.
But why she didn't get the boy before the fosters, i believe there's a choice, an acquaintance of mine, his mom dead n his dad going to jail and the state ask for family to take custody of him, nobody wants him bcuz he was a very chaotic teen, and he end up in foster care, but his Dad tried with everyone
@@mariarobles9116l
I think shes the adoptive moms mom if im not mistaken @mariarobles9116
How did these people even qualify to foster or even adopt a child when they don’t even have the basic amenities like water and food ?!?! This is beyond me.
Right?! They didn’t have indoor plumbing? That’s insane. And, what did they do with all of the money they got from the adoption?
I wondered this same thing. And they received money monthly but still never had plumbing or heating. It's so sad for those children.
I wonder if that has been confirmed or if that's just what was in the letter...
I was thinking…(and I’m not far into the video and this is all I’m going from) are we sure his account is accurate? I can’t imagine this could be the case if they were approved to be foster parents and on the road to being approved for adoption.
Right? Their biological children shouldn't be living under those conditions either
For a little kid suffering so much trauma, his smile still looks genuine in those pictures. I feel like he was more resilient than those foster parents gave him credit for. Poor poor little boy.
His smile is definitely infectious!! I agree he appears to be pretty resilient. I think this little boy could have become someone quite remarkable, had he been allowed to live his life, bless him.
L
Yes it was the first thing I noticed as well. Peace Jaliek ❣️🌹
This story really hit me, he did have such a good smile. No one should have to suffer this much. Kids have behaviours. So sad
I can’t help but think that Jaliek was physically or sexually abused in foster care & that’s why he would have these aggressive outbursts. That poor baby just needed help & guidance.
breaks my heart
Right? And threatening a kid with sexual violence? Kid learned that somewhere. 😢
@@blaah9999 yep! I was already thinking that but when she mentioned that it just solidified it for me.
Exactly. A child doesn’t just have those kinds of outbursts for no absolute reason. Especially a 12 year old kid. Something had to have been going on.
EDIT: And there’s no way a 12 year old child who wasn’t abused in any way, neglected or even was born w drugs in their system will threaten another child, saying they’ll SA them. The foster parents def did something to him. Especially the foster dad.
@@thekendrashow 💯 for sure! & instead of getting him the help & therapy he needed they chose to ignore it & reprimand his behavior and not ask WHY he is having these behaviors.
That could be. But I also wonder how true those allegations were, considering he didn’t exhibit those behaviors any where else besides with his adoptive parents.
One main concern, when he threatened that kid and it was sexual. How does he even know about something sexual like that, there must have been something at home that exposed him to that: a red flag for possible sexual abuse. This case makes me so upset
This!
What did he say?
I stopped the video and scrolled until I found a comment like this!!! It’s shocking that more people weren’t concerned about his threat and what he could have been exposed too
Does anyone know what the threat was i couldnt find it online
Since he went through a lot of foster families, it's possible he heard it elsewhere. Even if that was the case though, it's still horrible that Jocelyn and Steven decided this was proof he was a rotten egg, rather than that very valid concern! At best, he overheard someone saying it in media or to another person. At worst... well, yeah, like you pointed out.
My theory (just a theory, to be clear) is that Stephen was sexually and physically abusing Jaliek, which caused an escalation of aggressive and sexualized behaviors that they then pretend were totally random and unexplained, even though they didn't happen with different caregivers. I believe Stephen killed Jaliek to avoid being found out and disposed of his body, possibly in a body of water along the trip route to Greenwich. I do not believe Jocelyn was directly involved in that but I believe she knew about it either immediately or shortly after and covered it up.
P.S. Stephen even talks like a weird cult leader motherfucker.
YES! his stepfather gives me those vibes for sure
i definitely agree too its just so weird that he has a remote home and took in a kid that they knew had severe psychological problems
i also believe when he lashed out on the kid that bothered him and sexually threatened him, Stephen immediately got scared and he probably had to act quick to cover it up
That is what I was thinking!! If young kids act out sexually then that means that have meant sexual abuse. The amount of people who don’t understand this pisses me off
I believe both Stephen and his wife sexually assaulted him
shout out to the lead detective saying “the family that actually loved him” on live tv. i hope sweet jaliek gets the justice he deserves
Yes it was so moving to hear him speak and realize they were awful to Jaleik
I appreciated that comment as well!!
I liked this too. Made it very personal and real. Sounds like a genuinely decent cop/detective.
It really bothers me when he’s out there calling Jaliek “my son” when they were trying to pass him off to somebody else yet again. Jaliek deserved so much better, it’s heartbreaking 💔
I know we’re still much in speculations bc of lack of evidences …but I also believe that him constantly saying “my son “ is SO manipulative. As if he desperately wanted but sympathy from the public…to wash out the suspicions …but it’s clear to me that this man has never loved Jaliek nor ever considered him as his own son. There’re so many 🚩 that prove this .
@@chay2033 You’re right, it totally comes of manipulative. It really irks me 😬
Hearing him say "my son" bothered me to my core. The son you were trying to give away?! 🤬😡 this poor child and his poor biological grandparents 😢
My exact thoughts too
Unless your in their shoes dont judge his mom had drugs in her system when he was born he was probably very violent and hard to control
Jaliek would be 27 now. My heart hurts.
He would be 28 today. It’s his birthday. 😔😔
I live locally to where this happened. We all believe his foster family had something to do with it and we all just want justice for Jaliek. Thank you so much for covering this case on your platform.
They for sure are guilty and he didn't run away. This boy had a very remarkable look. There's simply no way he'd be able to travel far unrecognized.
Warren and Washington county in New York are very Caucasian, in the past five years or so it’s becoming more diverse however at that time I wouldn’t be surprised if he was the only POC in his school. I don’t think a little black boy could run away in this area and not be noticed. We were all on alert when that happened, there’s no chance he just ran away
@@vicd8346 yes. I thought the same thing. Every picture he was smiling , beautiful and unique . I think Stephen did something to him. just a gut feeling. unfortunately that doesnt help. Breaks my heart.
@@syrenadurager It's not about his skin color. To me he just looks very bright and exotic, with those bright green eyes and blond hair. I feel like he would stand out in almost any state or county. Because I don't really see this type of appearance in daily life or have seen much in any other state...
I am only 10 mins in and needed to comment above already about what I am already outraged about. I just want to say that in a rural area if they can’t properly get him mental health care when they have cars than how In the shit is this young boy going to make it somewhere on foot ? Without being seen?
Did they never consider that if a child threatens another child with a violent sexual act it's highly likely they were sexually abused at some point?? Especially combined with the continued behavioral issues. That should have been the immediate concern and treatment to get to the bottom of the trauma should have immediately begun.
exactly, this needs to be pinned
So right, and would explain why the ‘parents’ wanted rid of him so quickly - concerned about being exposed potentially?
That’s why they were tryin to get rid of him because he started acting out what he was experiencing.
Thank you! As soon as I heard about him making a sexual threat, that's immediately what I thought of as well
No exactly. The only reason he would have made a threat like that is because someone was threatening (and sadly most likely doing) the same thing to him. Its a learned behavior it didn’t come out of no where
I LOVE THE POLICE WORK IN THIS!!! It’s so refreshing to see how much they cared about Jaliek and wanted to find him!
Ikr! I thought the same thing. I hear so many stories of careless police work and it made me happy to know that they really looked for this boy 😢 too bad nothing has come of it yet
@@Mooodyyhhh yeah it’s confusing how they didn’t arrest the dad considering the evidence and how much they cared but…
@@LenaGabbani Remember, the State only gets one shot at prosecuting a defendant due to double jeopardy. It can be heart wrenching and extremely frustrating not being able to prosecute a suspect due to insufficient evidence, even when you feel strongly about the guilt of said suspect. That's why it is better to wait until they have a concrete solid case before bringing charges. Otherwise, they run the risk of an acquittal due to not being able to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt and the perpetrator walks free.
Usually in these kinds of cases the authorities don’t care but then actually trying their best to find him still is surprising to me and makes me happy.
@@LenaGabbani It’s not the police or investigators that determines whether or not someone gets charged and arrested for a crime. The DA is the ONLY one who determines whether or not someone gets charged with a particular crime, and is the only one who determines what those charges are. Even if investigators and police want charges to be brought against someone or even if they recommend certain charges, the DA does not have to do anything.
The fact of the matter is, no decent DA is going to bring charges against someone that they are not 100% certain will receive a unanimous guilty verdict beyond a reasonable doubt in court. They only have ONE opportunity to charge and and go after a conviction. Even if they know they have the right person, if they get to court and don’t have enough to convince a jury, that “not guilty” verdict sticks. Even if a bombshell piece of evidence is discovered later on, there is nothing more they can do. So oftentimes, if they don’t feel that there is enough evidence to believe 100% that a guilty verdict will be reached, they decide to wait, and hope that something else comes to light that will further strengthen the case.
But again, police and investigators do not have a say in this. The decision starts and ends with the DA, and the DA alone. The police and investigators only have authority over some aspects of the investigation.
This truly is so sad for me personally as I knew J. I’m actually in this video at 9:54 - That photo was from Green Mountain Music Camp in Bennington Vermont where I attended camp with him two summers in a row. I’m dressed in the blue and white, playing Alice in Alice in Wonderland. He was one of the Queen’s cards. The last time I saw J was that summer four months before he disappeared. He was a great kid and even though we were 11/12 years old at the time I only remember good things. He was never violent at camp and loved to sing and dance in the play we put on for the camp. I think about him often and it’s crazy to me that his foster dad got away with this. Also, Stephen lives about 45 mins from the town I live in. It’s a very small town/ state. I have never seen him or his wife out and about in the community since this all went down. It’s like he’s in hiding because he knows we all KNOW HES A GUILTY POS! RIP J I hope they find your body someday or someone comes clean about what really happened to you that night. ( just a local fact Stephen also worked for a crematorium at one point.. I wonder if he burned his body and that’s why we’ve never found him.)
What?!?! He def could have disposed of his body 😭 poor J
How could that information not come out?
Hi! Just wondering, do you think the authorities know that Stephen worked for a crematorium?
Wow this is a really important peice of information thank you for sharing
Authorities have looked into the rumor that he worked in a crematorium. No facility has claimed they employed him.
I knew something was up when the grandmother said he wasn’t nearly as violent when with her than with the foster family. It amazes me that children can end up in such disgusting and abusive places when the government and social services are supposed to be overseeing that they end up somewhere safe. This child and many others have been failed by the system, there must be some way we can change this. I hope he is found sometime soon and these people are brought to justice ❤️
I know right?!! In my area, it is more difficult to adopt a pet from a shelter than it was for these ignorami to foster, and potentially adopt, poor Jaliek. 😢
I'm not defending the adoptive parents in any way because I think they are involved, but at the same time the grandma and respite care family didn't spend all day, every day with Jaliek. They got to have happy, fun visits with him. They didn't have to parent him.
@cassie but what jaliek
Said when he was with that respite family when he was talking to the woman about the environment, they grew up in tells me that they are not good parents, and don’t have a proper place to take care of children
And the fact that the Grandma said the only time he does rage out was when something tragic would come up
Jaliek, I am so terribly sorry that you were not treated as you should have been. You should have been encapsulated with love and support.
You didn’t deserve ANY of this. I hope wherever you may be, that you are at peace.
You sound like a really nice person. Have you considered adopting a special needs child? If not, you should.
The Grandma is a real G. She said she's getting answers one way or another.
That poor baby. I hope he receives the justice he deserves. 💔
Wonder why the grandparents weren't looking after him all along, not that great
@@flickiow24 shut up
He should have been with his grandmother, I'm not impressed by the family allowing the state to place him into Foster care.
Kendall didn't really touch on it, but she was once arrested breaking and entering into their home looking for evidence-where she says to this day she saw the yellow sweatshirt they said he went missing in still inside. Police shortly got a warrant and searched the house after she was charged and said she found evidence inside.
@@96bel96 where was this shown at?
Jaliek is a stunning child and it completely shatters me to know that he wasn't given the best life the world has to offer.
Gorgeous child:(
Thank you for your excellent and well researched podcast on my grandson's disappearance. I truly appreciate how detailed it is and I'm sure many more people will have a better understanding of Jaliek's case and investigation. Thank you.
Sorry this happened to your grandson. I hope he gets justice very soon!
I’m sorry for your loss. I hope you can rest somewhat easy at night knowing that there is millions of people searching for your grandson. You are not alone in this fight.
Prayers for your family
You are such an incredible person for all you’ve done to look for and fight for justice for your grandson!
What kind of "father" says "I believe he's alive and somewhere safe" while their child is missing? Unless he wanted people to stop searching. It's heartbreaking no justice was served.
Plus he wrote that letter..
i thought this too? why would you think he’s safe it makes no sense
“safe”???
This! My 8yo daughter was missing from her school for 20 minutes and I was assuming the worst because the world is scary and hoping for the best!!!! Even if one of my kids had told me they were going to run away- and then ran away- I would not assume they were safe!! A young kid on the streets?! Safe?! No way.
It's giving Casey Anthoney and every other parent that's killed their kid. That's the vibe i get from him
I live 30 minutes from where this happened. I remember my mom setting a place for him at our thanksgiving table for years after his disappearance. We still pray for him.
That’s so moving- I can’t even put together more words about it.
Oh my gosh, I love your mom 🥺
Bless her heart 🙏🏾🙏🏾
Wow omg, bless your mother and hug her for me please. Amazing
Thank you for still praying for him. Wherever he is, he needs them.
I guess 15+ years ago, things were different, but as a current foster parent, there is absolutely no way in hell anyone living without indoor plumbing and only one bedroom would get licensed. And then on top of that being a therapeutic home... that just blows my mind. The grandparents should go after the state for allowing Jaliek to be placed there. It wouldn't be the full justice he deserves, but it'd be something and I don't think it'd be difficult to win.
My cousin adopted a girl 18 years ago, and it was a rigorous process from day 1 to get approved by the state that the home was in neat condition and fit for children, so it’s definitely suspicious that these people were approved by the state.
They may have used that other property that looked nicer and no one checked in. Sadly, I’m not super shocked. I was a member of CASA.
Maybe maybe not but CPS has been overlooking much and many kids have been killed because of it
Right. I work for a foster care agency, and we would never allow that. I wonder if they moved there after the kids were adopted.
I’ve never been able to forget this case. It’s so upsetting. I’m glad Jaliek got to experience happy moments like Seaworld and the Halloween festival with people who genuinely seemed to care about him.
I think when he had that sexual threat outburst the foster parents were panicking because they were close to being exposed. To me it seemed Jaliek was very smart maybe to smart and the foster parents had to put an end to it.
This is my theory as well.
Well... considering the account he gave about all of them sleeping in the same room, seems more like a hint to additional info, esp being the main target of attention (good or bad) by the foster dad. Before the age of puberty, where curiosity leads to discovery, sexual knowledge is learned by environmental circumstances... even if it's learned from their peers, a CHILD doesn't just know those things. They're taught by, exposed to or witness it. Something stinks BAD about this whole case... not just the foster parents or system, for this boy to vanish and STILL no answers.
I think he was sexually abused.
I too thought it was very strange a kid would make a threat like that, unless he had experienced that himself.
I wonder if he even said that considering that information came from Stephen Kerr and his wife
What kind of kid wouldn’t act out after those living conditions!? Wow. He sounds like such a smart and good kid that was just pushed to his limits.
It's makes me so mad that we, as a society, let kids go through all that
children really need more protection :( and rights
It happens in Canadian foster care also. I speak from personal experience. I was in several abusive foster homes.
Extremely sad indeed when people cant wrap it up and spare a life the burdens of being alive.
@@LilithsCosmicLounge as much as I agree some people shoudnt be allowed to have kids, giving the govt that power of peoples bodies would be hell. And judging from their recent handling of roe, they probably want more kids in foster care. The govt doesn’t care about foster kids..
@@LilithsCosmicLounge no way! they did this already hence one of the reasons for the Nuremberg code! why do we think the government having more control over our bodies will fix things 💀🙈 please wake up😊
jaliek seemed like such a sweet kid, it’s crazy he would be 27 now :( i hope his loved ones can get closure soon and that justice can be served
As someone who spent most of my childhood & aged out of foster care in Kansas (1990-2008) it is INSANE to me that in NY it wasn't a requirement for Jaliek to actively see a therapist, as a foster child, especially considering his circumstances. I don't remember a time when I wasn't in therapy as a child, because of the immense amount of emotional trauma foster children experience.
Not only did all of his foster parents fail him, but so did the state of NY. Of course he's going to have behavioral issues, the adults in his life continuously failed him instead of trying to help him. Some people just really should not be allowed to foster children, especially if they can't deal with "troubled" children. In what world would a child NOT be "troubled" when the adults in their life continuously give up on them. This is so SO heartbreaking, on so many levels.
I really feel that comment he made about his “future wife” was about looking for a real family. I was abandoned by my parents as a baby, thankfully I was raised by my grandparents. Still, I deal with feelings of being “unwanted” to this day (I’m 40). I actually met my husband at age 11, I was always looking to have a “real family”. We have been together for 29 years total, 19 married, and I got to be the mother I always wanted to my 3 teenagers. Our oldest son has autism and can be hard to deal with, but he has so much good in him and I couldn’t imagine giving him up 😢
I definitely believe this too❤️
Do you always make everything about you????
@@gigi7242 that’s a bit rough
@@gigi7242 Some of us watching have had similar experiences that we lived through. It changes how you see the world… I wish he had gotten to have that family. If you can’t relate I’m honestly happy for you 👏
@@gigi7242 damn empathy is obviously an alien concept to u
As someone who was in the foster care system, there is no doubt that shady shit happens all the time, unfortunately. So many people failed Jaliek. I can’t believe his “parents” are out there free till this day! I hope and pray justice is served one day.
This is so sad. He was such a handsome young man. So jealous of those eyes. Definitely suspicious of Steven, he probably did something to that boy. Clearly they didn't care about him. So tragic.
I thought he was very handsome too, he had such lovely eyes
It’s soul shattering that there are so many kids in foster care just barely surviving 😭
Honestly it is. The other day my daughter told me her friend at school told her something about her parents not being around and something about drugs .. I was devastated!! She is 9 😔
That whole fancy last meal is such a tell. A lot of the stories I've heard, once the parents decide they're gonna harm a child, they give them some super nice meal or gifts beforehand. These foster parents are so sus. This poor child and his family.
I can’t believe it’s been 15 years since he went missing and there’s no Justice yet. I hope something comes from the recent search. That poor boy 😢
There are dozens of cases like this with foster children. The system is severely flawed and largely neglected by the public. They see these stories and do nothing. Better people need to foster children.
Why were they living without running water, but one child went to a $17k/year private school?
That is one of many questions I have too. Makes absolutely no sense at all!
They were receiving $3,000 a month for the 2 fosters, obviously couldn't be bothered with either.
Makes no sense no running water and using an out house yet they had money for private school, for a “reward” and for picking up and moving
@@missyrose2154 Simply put, they were total weirdos.
@@missyrose2154 PS I read in the comments that people have read that the "family" had "Naked Time" when nobody was allowed to wear any clothing. 😠
It breaks my heart how this sweet baby had felt like a burden when he should have been cherished.
How sad 😢
“Joined a gang”? Are you KIDDING me? I have no words. This one is absolutely horrific
Of course they said this 😩😕
Yeah the way that’s where their mind went is disgusting also he is TWELVE??
His comment about wanting to live wherever his future wife did I think showed how much he just wanted to be loved and accepted unconditionally 😢❤ it’s so sad that he didn’t attain that dream, when he so deserved it ❤😢❤❤
What a beautiful soul he was
🥺🥺🥺 such a smart, beautiful boy
Exactly- I was abandoned by my parents as a baby and thankfully my grandparents raised me. Still, I deal with feelings of being “unwanted” to this day (I’m 40). I actually met my husband at age 11 and I think I was always looking for a “family”. We have been together for 29 years, 19 married, and I got to be the mother to my 3 teenagers that I always wished I had.
@@loribethartist6353 I’m happy for your happy ending! Wish the beginning was better for your sake 🙏❤️💕🫶🥰
Not even 10 minutes in yet and I just...
As someone who was that child in foster care and then adopted into a family that ended up not wanting them... This hits so close to home for me. I was treated like I was nothing. I literally got bounced around from family member to family member, both birth family and adoptive family. No one ever wanted me.
I feel for Jaliek.
Same. And being taken advantage of. It leaves a empty feeling in us.
I’m sorry to hear this for the both of you. I hope you know you have value and the right people will come into your lives one day❤️
This case breaks my heart every single time and the foster parents has 100% everything to do with this. They need to be held accountable ASAP
I agree. Even if they didn't directly end his life or cause him to goissing they were still abusing and neglecting him. Singling him out and mentally hurting him. And had him living in squaler. Their kids need to be removed and they need to be charged with child abuse asap. Even if they didn't do anything to him. But they very well might have and I hope this case gets solved asap.
I just want to know how in the world were these parents approved to provide foster care. My daughter & son-in-law in Oklahoma had to go through much training & many home inspections before getting approval & frequent checks after children were placed. they also had to prove they had enough finances to support these children. They did go on to adopt 2 little girls they fostered.
Exactly what I want to know 😒
??? exactly that house they lived in does NOT sound like the kind of spot you would approve for foster care
Would love to know what company they used to foster him and adopt from they should be vetted and people fired
I thought the same thing. We had to jump through a lot of hoops for foster care. And these people were supposed to be trained. No running water or bathroom?
I’ve thought about fostering before but would never do it until I feel financially, emotionally, spiritually ready. The amount of things you need to do and prove to qualify is extensive (as it should be!). I don’t understand how these foster parents were approved to care for not only one, but two children!
You are seriously the most amazing youtuber, particularly in the true crime community which has a thin line when it comes to ethics. I started here and I’ll always love your channel the most. You use your platform for the victims and advocate for them, donate to rightful causes and give the families a voice. You’re amazing Kendall, I just know Holly is going to grow up to be such an amazing girl. Thank you for being so amazing
@@rjmunster9600 I'm not sure... I got one also? Probably spam
Yes I agree...I can't watch just anyone anymore! Kendall has raised the bar when it comes to not exploiting a family's pain for views.
I second this!!!!
Me too❤
can you point me to instances where she lets the families speak?/gen. im new here
Man, it triggered tf out of me seeing that man stand up at a vigil and call Jaliek his son. After trying so hard to get rid of him, he goes and calls him his son for sympathy and show. The audacity.
He probably is a child-murdering, psychopath...
this!!! seems like the "parents" only adopted him to put on a good face to to others or to feel better ab themselves. they didnt really care about him.
I’ve never heard parents who are genuinely distressed about their child being missing saying they believe their child is ‘safe’
Abusive parents and foster parents always exaggerate behavioural issues because it discredits children when they make accusations of abuse. I get the feeling that he was being mistreated in a lot of his home. I think Jaliek was building up to exposing the sexual, physical and psychological abuse at his foster father's hands so Steven got rid of Jaliek - either by killing him or trafficking him. They easily could have just put him back into the system if he was unmanageable, instead he needed to get rid of him. I hope they find out what really happened to him, he was so beautiful and seemed like a joyful person with such a heavy sadness for someone so young. Poor baby boy ♥️
As a former foster child. It’s sad to say but true that I felt safe in a bench in a park then I would at these foster homes. This lil guy deserves justice and these people did something I’m sure
Same💯. I’m still healing from everything I went through in foster care .
The fact that his adoptive grandparents made every effort possible while his adoptive parents were useless, tells me everything I need to know about them as people.
Right? Barbara seems awesome. So many times in cases like this you see the families all clamming up. I love that she broke into her daughter & son-in-law's home to investigate lol.
@@HayaikazeKaiKen Barbara was not the mother of Jaliek’s adoptive parents. She was Jaliek’s maternal grandmother. So she didn’t break into her daughter’s home.
It wasn’t the “adoptive” parents that made every effort possible. It was Jaliek’s maternal grandparents that did that.
@@amberrollins7646 Yes, Barbara is Jaliek's adoptive mother's, mother. I was confused at first but Kendall does say towards the end of the video, that she and her husband were Jaliek's "maternal adoptive grandparents." His adoptive mom's parents.
He honestly is such a sweet-looking boy, such beautiful eyes with so much life in them. Shoutout to his maternal adoptive grandparents for actually caring. This boy and grandparents deserve JUSTICE🙏🏼💚
Yes, his eyes has a Beautiful light to them and his smile! His whole aura!😢
I STAN the grandma. Good for her. I hope one day they solve this case and this sweet boy can Rest In Peace 😢
It's so sad that some people want to un-adopt a child just because it gets difficult. Those poor babies need stability and love. Some people should never be parents.
Myka Stauffer comes to mind! I will never understand why anyone would want to deliberately put children through such pain.
I agree that its shocking but understsnd sometimes it may be necessary esp when other children are at risk. Some children have extra needs and shouldnt be in homes with other kids. The process needs to help prevent bad matches. Alot of parents also havy a rose tinted perception of parenthood, this happens in biological families aswell.
Exactly
@@miche6563 They didn't even try though. Didn't try to get him help or anything. They were aware of his issues and troubled past and set him up to fail. So, no. I won't bother understand how someone could put so little effort into caring for another human being.
Also they couldn't have been too worried about the other children seeing as they weren't even bothered to provide basic amenities.
@@moongi8428 this case is clearly different. The original comment was broad and my answer waa briad at sometimes. Then again they shoukd have never gotten any child which is a separate issue.
If you can't handle a child who has traumatic issues then just don't frigging adopt them. I'm all for people adopting. There are so many children out there who deserve a loving home and I respect foster families in wanting to adopt a child but again, if you CAN'T, then DON'T. Period. End of story. My heart really goes out to Jaliek and his grandmother who, I think, was the only one who actually cared about him with all her heart. It was so sad to hear that even the kids taunted him. Who even gave them permission to be foster parents????
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This case breaks my heart. Jaliek deserved so much more. Therapy would have worked wonders for him. All he needed was extra love and support. I don't know how they were legally able to adopt a child. Jaliek reminds me a lot of my oldest child with his wanting to help, loving to read and just overall excitement and joy for life. He was so resilient despite his tough childhood. I hope he is happy and at peace now 😔
Jaliek, I’m a preschool teacher sitting here in tears and I’m so sorry you were failed and harmed by the adults that were supposed to protect you no matter what. I hope you are at peace now ❤️
It is so sad to see children mistreated. There should be something more we can do to protect our most vulnerable. It’s great to see you back Kendal🎉
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I’m so glad you’re covering this case. This happened very close to my home town, and everyone believes the foster family did something. This whole case needs more national attention.
Hi Samantha my name is Lasheay and I believe this kid is actually my deceased brother biological son is it possible u can contact me
@@lasheaypatterson3387 I hope she sees this. Contact kendall. Maybe she can help maybe? 😢I’m so sorry
@@elizabethgreer27 thank you. I’m soo in shock for years my family been searching for him but it was a closed adoption where we came to a dead end until I literally came across this today. He looks identical to my older brother I had the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. I have contacted the detective working his case and he definitely thinks it’s a possibility. My heart hurts sooo much we could have gave him such a better life
@@lasheaypatterson3387 I’m so sorry to hear that. This case is so sad, all around. My husband and I have been following this case throughout, and there’s still so many questions. Maybe Kendall can help somehow or the detectives? I don’t have any info other than what’s been reported, but feel free to send me a DM. 😌
@@lasheaypatterson3387 have you found anything out? I keep coming back to see if you made any other comment on this! But I haven't seen anything yet!?! So sad. That baby could be anywhere if he truly ran away, but I don't think he did. That adoptive family did something to him. So sad. I hope you find out if he's your family or not. Maybe even by donating DNA somewhere there will be a new discovery of some kind! I pray he's found one way or the other so that everyone can have peace knowing what happened to Jaliek! My thoughts and prayers are with you all!!
All I'm going to say is God bless all the good foster parents out there who genuinely love and care for the children in their care.
It's sad the grandparents didn't want custody until he was missing.
Prayers for the child.
Yes, I’m wondering why didn’t they fight for custody before ???
Another thing I was wondering about. Cause obviously this wasn't the first instance that their daughter and her husband were unfit parents.
They did..... She did.... He was adopted :(
The system is so screwed up especially when it comes to certain families.
@@ReyReyz They wouldn't have got it over a younger working family.
@@duchessofhazjack4878 they are his legal next of kin. They would have gotten him easily.
His story is soooo common. I work with kids like Jalik and the stories you hear are just heartbreaking. How people can do these things to these kids and damage them so badly is beyond me. You know when he threatened his sibling with assault that typically means that threat has been used against them or it something that’s happened to them and they know it hurt them so it will hurt you too.
!!
This one hits close to home. We lived two towns over when he went missing. Such a sad situation and he was failed by so many. I do hope his family finds closure someday
Kendall your respect for Jaliek and commentary on this case are so important and really appreciated. And SPOT ON.
I'm so glad to see Kendall talking about Jaliek!
These people need to be ashamed of themselves!! How dare you adopt a child then because the child isn’t the “perfect” child you want to take him back!!??? He’s not something you purchase from Walmart!!! How do they think it made him feel!!?? Not only did bio mother not want him but his adopted parents didn’t either….you think that made him feel warm and fuzzy!!?! I’m sure that’s partially why he acted out!! And there is NO excuse for him NOT getting help!! You can’t use the excuse of where you live being “remote”!! I live in nowhere Utah and there’s places here!! I’m sorry! This is so disgusting and frustrating!!! I have ALWAYS wanted a child and I learned in my early 20’s that I wasn’t going to be able to have children so when I hear stories like this not only does it disgust me on how the child is treated but there’s people out there that would do ANYTHING to have a child!! To take that for granted is not ok with me at all!!! It’s disgusting!!
Me too girl me too. Infertile from my service to this country and some people just flat out don’t deserve children AT ALL it’s disgusting. Ugh
I would love him like my OWN 😭❤️
One of the things you probably have noticed becoming a mom is that these cases hit you a little deeper. You feel a literal ache in your arms wanting to protect these babies.
I am 5 months pregnant and I was sad watching these cases before I was pregnant. But it makes me so much sadder now watching them I sometimes start to cry. No child deserves to go through anything like that
The lead investigator straight up said I hope we bring closure not only to Jaliek and his family THAT ACTUALLY loved him. They know the adoptive parents were involved...unfortunately they just can't prove it. This is such a sad story.
i live in the town next to where this happened. i remember seeing the posters all over. i even used to cash out the family at Hannaford when i worked there. and i remember how the foster father made me very uncomfortable even before i knew who he was. im so glad you covered this case. also, i have friends who knew him and said he never saw any behavior issues, never seemed mad, always was happy, and smiling.
You have good instincts.
So sad 😢 God will judge them for sure!!🙏😔
What a beautiful soul you can see it radiating through his eyes and the glow from his skin.. he didn’t deserve this truly heartbreaking
This happened in my area. I remember watching this on the local news. THANK YOU FOR COVERING THIS AND GIVING THIS CASE THE ATTENTION IT DESERVES!!!!!
Do you have any possible idea about what might have happened to Jaliek?
@@Kaden10 I can only speculate, but I do believe the foster family had something to do with his disappearance.
Didn’t the grandparents know they lived in squaller do you know?
Everyone around here think the same thing
So heartbreaking. As someone who grew up in foster care and had 2 failed adoptions this hits so close to home. Praying for that sweet sweet boy :,(
😢
my mom literally worked on this case, ive never been able to wrap my head around so many details. we still talk about it to this day.
What does she think??
Why would you say your mom worked on the case and not tell us anything about the case
What an absolutely beautiful little boy. I have no doubt these people did something to that baby. Justice for Jaliek!!!!
And they got away with it. Madness.
Poor kid. It breaks my heart to think he may have lived his entire life not feeling wanted and being misunderstood. He deserved so much more. 😔
I’m usually pretty calm and collected when it comes to this type of thing, but something about this case specifically had me crying. I have never experienced such a deep heartache before from one of these videos, but I guess something about Jaliek just brought it on. The whole thing is so frustrating but I hope someday there can be closure and peace for him and the family that truly loved him.
His “siblings” have to know something.. they are hiding a huge disgusting secret. Jaliek we are here to give you justice ❤
I'd like to know more about what they had to say as well.
They might not know anything, since he was gone to the respite care house and disappeared after that, if the parents didn’t tell them anything they’d have no way to know. I don’t think it’s fair to assume the other kids are covering it up. They could very well not know anything.
@@clairep3688 Reportedly they all shared a bedroom. If this is accurate and Jaliek had returned home and slept there the other children might have seen or heard him - and could maybe confirm if he did ever return home. I'd be curious to know what the other children observed.
@@JoliNatural it’s certainly possible, but not for sure because based on the timeline he might not have ever gone back to the house
@@clairep3688 That's exactly my point. Did he in fact return to the house or not? I feel like the others should be able to confirm or deny this.
The kid had so much potential, they failed him… I’m so sad just hearing his story.😢😢
I can’t help but notice how beautiful Jaliek is. I pray that against all odds, he is somewhere safe, healthy, happy, and loved 🤍
omg i know, like lord help me hes so beautiful...
It's so sad because you can tell Jaliek just wanted to be loved. I don't understand how you could take in ANY child and not love them and make them all feel special. This breaks my heart smh 😥💔
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This pisses me off so much!! I have an adopted son, he’s been with us since he was 6 months old. He’s now 5 and let me tell you he gives me a run for my money DAILY!! BUT he is OUR child NO one else’s. OUR child and he’s loved as if I gave birth to him.
This breaks my heart. I'm so sad that Jaliek had to endure such horrific conditions with his foster parents. That's straight up torture. Makes my blood boil. As soon as I heard that Jaliek's behavioral issues improved when he wasn't with the Kerrs, that the family was absolutely the major cause :(
I'm so glad that you covered this. Jaliek needs justice and I'm still heartbroken that his case has not been solved yet. I remember submitting a request for this case and I was brought to tears to see this on my recommended. Thank you so much for shedding some light! Justice for Jaliek.
Maybe I missed it but why wasn’t Jaliek placed with his biological grandparents? They seem loving and in good health. There’s probably a good reason it just looks like they would have provided the best home life for Jaliek.
No, I wondered the same. Very odd.
I have the same question!
@@carolinamarin7436 no his grandparents
I was going to comment the same question
I think it’s usually something to do with the biological mother… If the grandparents are the biological mothers parents, then maybe the child couldn’t go there full time because he would be in contact with his biological mother & that may have put him at risk in some way? I don’t know, I’m just guessing? Although, in hindsight, the poor child ended up going from pillar to post & then ended up being placed in the worst home imaginable!! I use the term "home" loosely in this case!! It would be fantastic if he was found somewhere & was safe, however, I really don’t think there’s much possibility of that happening. I don’t like to think of the alternative, but it is sadly more probable that the adoptive "father" has done something to him. If this is the case, I hope he is found soon, to give some closure to anyone who truly love him!! 😢 Very sad case…
I appreciate you doing this story because need to know but I would also like to bring some awareness that foster parents aren't always like this. I had an addiction and unfortunately lost my kids. I had 3 kids my older 2 had family to take them and they were together but my 2 year old was with his dad who abandoned him because our son has autism and ADHD and could be a handful but being taken away from me and his brother and sister was devastating for him. My son got put in foster care with someone who was actually a friend of the family. This woman is AMAZING and was a second mom to my son. She worked at his special needs school and was very educated on what autism is and has a son of her own with autism. She is a behavior specialist I think that's what it is. Anyway she helped my son heal and she helped me however she could do that I could work to get my kids back. Losing my kids was a wake up call and I got my life together and my babies back and have been clean 4yrs. My son going into foster care was terrifying because I didn't know where he would end up and I couldn't think about anything else. I know we are extremely lucky. His foster mom still talks to him and tries to help me any way she can whenever I struggle and I'm thankful for her. Sadly she has breast cancer and I hope she is going to be okay. She loves my son as her own and he loves her like a second mom. She was there when I couldn't be
I'm glad that you got cleaned and got your kids back. I hope you continue to stay sober for your kids. Hugs
How are people with substandard living conditions like that able to adopt ANY kids !? They should’ve never had ANY kids there, even their own! 😡😡😡
Amen
Exactly right.
The grandmother is the one light in this case, this poor woman, poor Jaliek. This case is so painful and boils my blood. I hope answers will come one day
But if she knew her son had held Jaliek's head under water as punishment why didn't she report it?
@@joanna0988 he’s not her son
@@giselleclarke4693 Oh that's confusing. How is she related to him?
@@joanna0988 she’s the adoptive mothers mother
@@giselleclarke4693 Oh I see thank you.
This couple definitely has something to do with Jaliek's disappearance.
But that threat Jaliek made, that was sexual in nature really sticks out to me. Where did he hear that language from? Usually kids don't just say things like that cos they don't know anything about sex, especially using it as a way to threaten someone. He must've heard it from his "parents". And the fact that a part of the room they slept in was cordoned off for his sister is all kinds of dodgy to me. What does she need so much privacy for, as a small child?
Nah, I think either both Steven and Jocelyn, or one of them have been sexually abusing these kids. As well as the other abuse they were subject to. Especially Jaliek. Poor kid. Failed from the start.
Jaliek could have heard it at any other foster family. In the video Kendall said that he moved around a little bit.
Not the first time i've heard Jaliek's stories but I am still blown away. I have no desire to have my own children and stories like this push me more and more towards being a foster parent. Thank you for sharing his story! Foster parents can be the sweetest people on the planet but unfortunately there are still way too many stories like this.
Not only was I someone who requested this case to Kendal. I do believe the “father” had something to do with him. I really do. I’ve felt like that since this case took place. Thank you, Kendal for doing this case. I’ve wanted people to hear this case ever since it started cause it’s one of those cases not many people hear about unless you’re from this area. So, thank you for sharing spreading information about his case! I hope they will find him one day. He deserves to be at peace.
this was so heartbreaking & he deserves justice!!! He lost his entire life! the system failed him those pos failed him. I really hope they found evidence! Because whoever is responsible belongs behind bars. he’s only 5 years younger then me. 😞😞 so sad
It’s refreshing to see the police and investigators so dedicated to finding closure for Jaleik.
That grandma is a legend! Idc if she committed a crime, it just shows how much she loves/loved him. Steven def did something.
Shame she didn’t adopt him
@@chelleyd4020 ya 😞
So when they went to adopt him, the people in charge of that visited thier tiny over crowded , cramped house with no facilities miles away from any professional help he may need and they said " Yep that look fine, go ahead " 🤔🙄😔
It was likely a different house they lived in at that time
I'm thinking they may have used the parents' nicer, vacant (but furnished?) home in that nearby town as their home address with the state foster system...
Thier?
That poor baby! I really think that his adoptive dad killed him. There’s no other explanation. I pray for jaleiks family to find out what happened to him. This is so heartbreaking.
Thank you for covering this case. I fully believe Steven had something to do with this. I hope they find Jaliek and get justice. This case shatters my heart.
I am from Greenwich NY. I knew several people who were friends with this kid and I remember when this happened how much it shook the town because it’s such a small town. Glad to see Kendall cover this story! It really hits hard because he went missing where I grew up
What did people who knew him think of him? Was he aggressive and possibly autistic or was he a happy sweet kid?
He is 8 days older than me and I just cannot believe what he went through in his life. He should be 27 and thriving. I feel so awful for him. Something about him reminds me of my cousin that has passed and I think that just makes it hit even harder.
Did they ever find out if the conditions Jaliek described were found? Like the outhouse and the one room? If so, they should take away the other kids.
Is indoor plumbing a legal requirement for families? I'm sure it is for foster care but I don't know about families.
Looking at his picture just breaks my heart. I feel so terrible for this beautiful child. He deserved so much better and he was failed by almost everyone in his life. Such a sad story. I don’t trust Steven whatsoever. The minute I heard they stopped at this abandoned house I knew something wasn’t right.
I’ve been watching you for years and this case is from right next to my hometown. I’m so happy someone like you has drawn attention to the case in hopes of more answers and justice for Jaliek, he deserves that and the entire community deserve to know what they did. Thank you
Jaliek has such a beautiful presence. I can even tell by the pictures. This poor, poor boy. I’m so so sad for him
That picture of him holding the chicken makes my heart ache. He is looking at it with such happiness on his face that it seems like he adores animals. Reminds me of my little girl with our animals. ❤️
I desperately hope somehow he is found safe
I think it’s ridiculous that an AMBER alert wasn’t issued simply because he possibly could’ve been a runaway. In my opinion, a child, regardless of whether they chose to leave or not, is still out on their own and needs protection so an alert should always be issued in the case of a missing minor.
This story is so heartbreaking. That little baby didn’t deserve any of that. I hope he gets justice!! Thank you Kendall for covering his story 😭
I’ve never heard of this case before. This is truly heartbreaking. Jaliek never had a fair chance at having a good childhood. The regulations and eligibility for foster care really need to be tighter. This is exactly why I want to foster kids one day so they can have the resources and support they need to grow into a functional adult. I’m pretty certain it’s clear Jaliek’s adoptive parents did this, but even if they didn’t, they need to be reprimanded for their carelessness in his case. He deserved better.
As someone who works with kids in Treatment Foster Care, I am devastated by this story on so many levels. This sweet baby deserved so much better. 😥
Thank you for covering this, Kendall. I live near Altamont and this case is just so heartbreaking. Jaliek sounds like he was such an amazing kid, and it’s so sad that he was failed by so many people throughout his life. People that should have protected him and loved him like he deserved. I have no doubt his adoptive parents were involved, and I hope one day justice will be served.