California mother investigated over Facebook post seeking to rehome daughter
Detectives confirmed a seven-year-old girl was safe after concerned residents alerted authorities
A California mother is under investigation after a Facebook post seeking to "temporarily rehome" her seven-year-old daughter prompted alarm among community members and led to a police welfare check.
According to the Chico Police Department, officers launched an investigation after receiving multiple reports about the now-deleted social media post, which asked if anyone could provide a temporary home for the child.
The post reportedly read: "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."
Police said officers initially were unable to contact the woman, leading the case to be referred to the department's investigations bureau.
Detectives later located the mother, carried out a welfare check and confirmed that the child was safe and unharmed.
Following the visit, authorities said the mother was provided with available support resources and referred to Butte County Child Services.
The Chico Police Department added that the case will now be forwarded to the Butte County District Attorney's Office for review.
The Facebook post also sparked concern online, with several users warning about the potential dangers of seeking childcare arrangements through strangers on social media.
Multiple community members contacted the police after seeing the post.
In a statement, the department thanked those who reported the incident.
"We appreciate everyone who took the time to report the post," police said. "Your concern and quick action helped us make contact, ensure the child's safety, and connect the family with available resources."
Authorities have not publicly identified the mother, and no criminal charges have been announced at this stage.