Police are having no luck finding Huxley, the 5-year-old boy who was “rehomed” by Youtube vlogger Myka Stauffer and her husband James.
YouTube viewers lashed out at the couple after they gave up their adopted son because his autism and other special needs made him too difficult to handle.
The couple adopted Huxley from China in 2017 when he was 2-years-old.
The state of Ohio launched an investigation into the case, and the police are now involved because the boy can not be located in Ohio.
“We’re very aware of this case,” Tracy Whited, Delaware County Sheriff’s Office spokeswoman, told BuzzFeed News. “We are investigating, but it is an active case, and as such, we cannot divulge too much information just yet.”
Buzzfeed confirmed that Huxley is not being cared for by the state of Ohio. The county sheriff’s office said it’s working with “several other agencies” to find Huxley.
Fans of the couple’s popular YouTube channel began asking questions after pictures of the boy were removed from their Instagram account and they acted like he never existed.
The couple was criticized for exploiting Huxley for profit on their YouTube channel. According to Today, major brands cut ties with the couple following the intense backlash. Brands including Playtex Baby, Danimals, Suave, Chili’s, and Big Lots have announced they will no longer partner with the Stauffers.
In response to the constant questions, the couple, who have four other children, recorded a video explaining that Huxley was “rehomed” with another family who could better address his needs.
The Stauffers said “numerous medical professionals” told them Huxley would need a “different fit.”
“We’ve been trying to get his needs met and help him out as much as possible.” James Stauffer said.
