DeKalb GA News

A Massachusetts couple, Isael Rivera and Ruth Encarnacion, is facing accusations from authorities for allegedly abducting their five children from the custody of the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF). The couple was located by Fitchburg Police in early March after an extensive multi-state search.

According to reports, the couple fled Massachusetts to avoid DCF intervention, shortly before the state moved to enforce child protective measures. Rivera, the biological father of four of the children, was arraigned in Fitchburg District Court, where a not-guilty plea was entered on his behalf. He is being held without bail. Encarnacion, the mother of all five children, is set to be arraigned this week under charges of kidnapping a minor by a relative.

Law enforcement indicated that the family disappeared as DCF was preparing to remove the children from Encarnacion's care on February 27. Encarnacion’s sister reported her missing a few days later, prompting a state and federal search.

The Massachusetts Department of Children and Families had initiated a case against the parents in February following concerns raised by a pediatrician over possible neglect of their youngest child, a 9-month-old. Despite reporting escaping vaccines based on religious beliefs, DCF sought to intervene after reportedly being informed otherwise by the pediatrician.

Boston Broadside highlighted the parents' opposition to vaccinations based on sincerely held religious beliefs, despite laws allowing exemptions. Rivera is currently held in Worcester County Jail, while the children have been taken into custody by Child Protective Services.

Amid legal and family turmoil, Constitutional Law Strategist Ron Bouchard criticized the actions taken against the family stating, “This is a blatant violation of fundamental rights on multiple levels.” He questioned the legal foundation for the apprehension.

Reports indicate the family evaded authorities with assistance from a good Samaritan in Texas. Until their discovery in Whitney, Texas, the children remained with their parents before Texas Child Protective Services intervened.

Attorney Kevin Carl Larson maintains Encarnacion acted in her children's best interest, challenging any probable cause for charges, and asserting that Encarnacion is not a flight risk.