CHICO, California — A California mother is under investigation after authorities say she made a Facebook post asking for someone to “temporarily rehome” her 7-year-old daughter, a request that quickly alarmed local residents and prompted multiple reports to law enforcement.
The unusual social media post spread concern throughout the community, with many fearing for the child’s safety. After receiving several complaints, the Chico Police Department launched an investigation to determine whether the girl was in immediate danger.
Facebook Post Prompted Community Concern
According to police, the now-deleted Facebook post allegedly stated:
“Hello looking for a place for my daughter to call home temp! Ideally if you have a daughter close to age she is 7 will be 8 in Dec. We reside (in) Chico will be attending school here. Message me for details.”
The message quickly drew attention online, with many people expressing concern over the idea of seeking housing for a child through strangers on social media.
Several residents reportedly contacted local authorities after seeing the post, believing the situation could place the child at serious risk.
Police Investigation Began After Multiple Reports
The Chico Police Department said officers initially attempted to contact the mother after receiving numerous reports about the Facebook post. However, when they were unable to reach her, the investigation was transferred to the department’s Investigations Bureau.
Detectives later located the woman and conducted a welfare check on the family.
Authorities confirmed that the 7-year-old girl was found safe and unharmed, easing immediate concerns about her well-being.
Family Connected With Child Services
Following the welfare check, detectives provided the mother with available community resources and referred the case to Butte County Child Services for further assistance.
Police also confirmed that the investigation remains active and that the case will be submitted to the Butte County District Attorney’s Office for review, where officials will determine whether any legal action is appropriate.
At this stage, the mother’s identity has not been released publicly, and authorities have not announced any criminal charges.
Online Reactions Highlighted Safety Concerns
The Facebook post generated significant discussion online, with many commenters warning about the dangers of attempting to place a child with strangers through social media.
One commenter wrote:
“Relying on strangers online can put you and your daughter in a vulnerable situation and create risks you may not realize.”
The comment reflected the concerns shared by many community members, who believed the child could have been exposed to unnecessary risks if the request had gone unanswered by authorities.
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Police Thank Community Members for Acting Quickly
After confirming the child’s safety, the Chico Police Department publicly thanked residents who reported the post rather than ignoring it.
In its statement, the department said:
“We appreciate everyone who took the time to report the post. Your concern and quick action helped us make contact, ensure the child’s safety, and connect the family with available resources.”
The department emphasized that community reporting played an important role in allowing officers to quickly locate the family, verify the child’s welfare, and connect them with support services while the investigation continues.
What are your thoughts on this case? Do you think social media users made the right decision by immediately notifying police after seeing the post? Share your opinion in the comments.
