Utah Couple Charged with Child Kidnapping for Gender Reassignment Surgery in Cuba
Two individuals from Utah have been charged with child kidnapping after taking one of their children to Cuba for gender reassignment surgery. The individuals, identified as Rose Inessa-Ethington and Blue Inessa-Ethington, were deported back to the United States from Cuba. The incident occurred when the group, including Rose's 10-year-old child and Blue's 3-year-old child, failed to arrive at their planned destination in Canada. The 10-year-old, who identifies as female, was supposed to be returned to the mother's custody but never arrived. The group crossed the U.S.-Canada border and flew to Mexico City before heading to Cuba.
The Utah court granted exclusive custody of the child to the mother ten days after the child was supposed to be returned. Cuban law enforcement located the group in Cuba and ensured the child's return to the mother. The child's family members expressed concerns about manipulation by Rose Inessa-Ethington and suspected that the group was heading to Cuba for gender reassignment surgery. Investigators found 'to-do lists' at the Inessa-Ethington residence, including tasks related to learning Spanish and gender-affirming medical care for children. Rose and Blue Inessa-Ethington have been charged with international parental kidnapping and aiding and abetting.
The FBI emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of the child in parental kidnapping cases. Charges against the individuals are allegations, and they are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The swift action of law enforcement led to the child's safe return to the mother. The case highlights the collaboration between agencies in locating victims, supporting reunification, and ensuring accountability.