[JShoda]

I am the father of three children ranging in ages from 5 down to 14 months. My girlfriend and I have been together almost 6 years, and we are no longer together. After giving birth to our last child she developed Postpartum Depression, which was discovered after she hit our middle child of 2 (at the time) across the face a bloodied his nose. I was not home when the incident took place, and was not told about it until much later. We are part of the CANi program here in Indiana and the social worker told my girlfriend that she had to report herself to Child Protective Services. She did, and was placed on medication for her PPD. She has since stopped taking her meds and has had CPS called on her again by friends, for neglecting the children's needs. I have moved out of the home trying to shock her into getting some help but it seems she is un-willing. After another incident where the police had to get involved, I have decided that it is no longer in the best interest of my children to stay with her. I asked the police if she was allowed to leave the state with my children, and I was told I had no rights. Surly this cannot be the case? I work full time, and have a second part-time job to help support my family. She does not work, and she is disabled. She has threatened several times to leave the state with our children and never let me see them again. I cannot let this happen for their safety alone, not to mention the fact that I love my children and want what is best for them. She is an unstable individual , and I have no doubt in my mind that if given the right motivation, my children will become just another news story. Please tell me what I can do?

[Synnen]

You can go to court and get your rights established.