Semaj, Siblings Put In Foster Care
Posted: 10:50 am PDT August 18, 2008Updated: 6:01 pm PDT August 18, 2008
TACOMA, Wash. -- The 11-year-old boy who talked his way onto airline flights and got into trouble while in juvenile detention, is now in foster care along with three of his siblings, said Steve Williams of the Department of Social and Health Services.After an Aug. 5 hearing, Semaj Booker, along with his three brothers were taken from the home of his mother, Sakinah Booker, Williams said.Sakinah has five children all together ranging in ages from 2 to 12 years old.A 5-month-old girl was also taken away from Sakinah, but was later returned to her home, Williams said.Semaj was arrested in early July after he allegedly burglarized a home, destroyed property and made false statements to police. Two weeks later while in juvenile detention, he destroyed a mattress in his room at Remann Hall, causing $175 in damage.During Semaj’s hearing in July, a Pierce County Superior Court judge Frank Cuthbertson ordered the state to determine whether Sakinah could keep custody of her five children.Cuthbertson cited Child Protective Services records that include reports of neglect and abuse in Texas and Illinois and in King and Pierce counties regarding Sakinah. He did not further elaborate on reasons for the order.Semaj has had legal problems and gained nationwide attention after hopping flights and making an appearance on the "Dr. Phil" show. He also pleaded guilty to car theft and running from police in 2007.The next court hearing for Semaj is Sept. 15.
Previous Stories:
- August 1, 2008: Semaj, Siblings Could Be Taken From Mother
- July 28, 2008: Semaj Being Released From Juvenile Detention
- July 17, 2008: Semaj Ordered To Remain In Juvenile Detention
- June 16, 2008: Prosecutor Says Semaj Violated Court Order
- May 28, 2008: Almost Hopping Flight Could Get Detention Again For Semaj
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