Massachusetts Catholic Parents Battle State Over Custody and Gender-Transition Dispute

A Massachusetts Catholic couple is fighting to regain custody of their teenage daughter after a dispute involving gender identity, parental rights, and the family’s religious convictions.

Joseph and Arlene Kutzko say their daughter was removed from their home in 2024 after they declined to affirm a male identity for her. According to the parents, their daughter had participated in counseling at Algonquin Regional High School without their knowledge or consent. They claim they initially believed she was remaining after school for mathematics assistance.

During appearances on Fox News programs, the Kutzkos alleged that the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families later restricted their contact with their daughter. They say they have not communicated with her since January 2025 despite repeatedly asking to see or embrace her.

The parents further allege that their daughter was placed in a boys’ residential setting, prevented from attending Sunday Mass, and given birth control and psychiatric medication. These claims remain part of an ongoing legal conflict, and the state’s complete account of the case was not included in the source material.

Attorney Vernadette Broyles, who appeared with the family, said they are also seeking to stop authorities from administering testosterone. She warned that such treatment could produce irreversible physical effects, including possible reproductive and cardiovascular harm.

“The most important thing is to bring her back to our family,” Joseph said, adding that the immediate objective is preventing testosterone treatment.

The Kutzkos described their daughter as once deeply involved in Catholic life. They said she led the rosary before Mass and received special permission to be confirmed earlier than usual. Joseph also shared a birthday message she reportedly wrote shortly before the custody dispute, expressing profound love and gratitude for him.

The case raises urgent questions about whether schools and state agencies may override parents when religious convictions conflict with a minor’s asserted gender identity. For Christians, it also underscores the importance of defending the family, protecting children from irreversible decisions, and upholding the biblical truth that humanity was created male and female.

“We love her. We miss her,” Joseph said as the family’s court battle continues.

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