In a recent legal case, California father Harrison Tinsley has been granted full custody of his 4-year-old son, Sawyer, following a lengthy court battle with the boy’s mother. Tinsley claimed that the mother, who identifies as a lesbian and non-binary, attempted to raise their son as non-binary. Which he alleged was against the child’s wishes. Tinsley described winning custody as akin to “watching a miracle,” expressing his relief and joy at the outcome.

A Father’s Fight for His Son

Tinsley spoke with Virginia Allen on “The Daily Signal Podcast,” asserting that his son wants to be recognized as a boy and becomes upset if told otherwise. “I know he’s a boy. He wants to be a boy. He adamantly expresses that,” Tinsley stated. The father described the legal journey as an arduous struggle against what he viewed as an attempt by Sawyer’s mother to impose her gender ideology on their child.

Allegations of Manipulation

Tinsley accused Sawyer’s mother of manipulating their son’s gender identity from an early age. Referring to him with they/them pronouns and dressing him in girls’ diapers, dresses, and makeup. Tinsley detailed these allegations on a GiveSendGo page created to raise funds for his legal battle. He shared his initial excitement when his former girlfriend announced her pregnancy in 2019. A joy that quickly turned to anguish when she ended their relationship and restricted his access to Sawyer.

Challenges in a Progressive Court System

Despite the challenges posed by California’s progressive court system, Tinsley managed to meet his son for the first time when Sawyer was 15 months old. He recounted various instances of what he described as manipulative behavior by Sawyer’s mother. Such as organizing a girly-themed second birthday party for him and insisting he wears a dress. Tinsley alleged that she took Sawyer to Disneyland but only allowed him on rides if he wore princess shoes.

Legal Intervention and CPS Investigation

The turning point in the custody battle came after Sawyer’s mother was arrested for felony child endangerment. Tinsley sought full custody, alleging defamation and slander by the mother. Despite presenting extensive evidence, including police bodycam footage and numerous documents, the court initially ruled in favor of the mother. Tinsley appealed the decision, and an investigation by Child Protective Services (CPS) ultimately recommended that Tinsley be granted full custody. The investigation, which involved CPS in San Francisco, led to the recommendation for the mother to undergo regular drug and alcohol testing.

The Importance of Putting Politics Aside

Tinsley expressed gratitude to the investigators, acknowledging that their political views likely differed from his own. However, he praised them for putting politics aside and acting in the child’s best interest. “His mom tried to paint me as some right-wing hillbilly from Mississippi or something even though I had nothing to do with the investigation,” Tinsley said, emphasizing his identity as a “California dude with long hair and skinny jeans.”

Focus on a Normal Childhood – Not a Non-Binary One

With Sawyer now living with him, Tinsley describes his son as his “best friend” and “the most amazing, greatest blessing” of his life. He emphasized the importance of allowing Sawyer to be a regular child. Free from the pressure of conforming to any ideological box. “Kids don’t care about sex or identity or all of these fake weird concepts, they just care about having fun and spending time with their parents,” Tinsley stated.

Unanswered Questions and Legal Representation

The reports have not disclosed the identity of Sawyer’s Non-Binary mother, and attempts to contact her legal representation were unsuccessful. As the legal battle concludes, the focus shifts to Sawyer’s well-being and the hope that he can enjoy a childhood free from the complexities of adult ideologies.

Sources

1. “VICTORY: California Dad Wins Custody of Son, 4, Over Mother Who Sought to Raise Him Nonbinary” The Daily Signal. Virginia Allen. July 30, 2024.
2. “California dad wins custody of son, 4, after mom allegedly tried to raise him non-binary” The Express. Kia Fatahi. August 1, 2024.
3. “Dad wins full custody of son, 4, after child’s mother allegedly tried to raise him non-binary” NY Post. Chris Nesi. July 31, 2024.
4. “Dad Wins Custody Of Four-Year-Old Son In Legal Battle With Mom Who Wanted To Raise Him Nonbinary” Bored Panda. Andréa Oldereide and Karina Babenok. August 5, 2024.