There are some people who have come on here with hateful comments and disrespectful comments and spreading lies. For the first time I Mrs. West will address some of them because being called names and attacked when we have done nothing wrong is absurd.

And for the record I started my career as a teachers aid while in college and decided like so many in the late 1970’s to take a government job to give my growing family the benefits and security we needed.

CLARITY:

1. I, nor my husband, who is a disabled Marine veteran, have never received government money, support or subsidies. I spent my entire career working for Kern County and retired in 2009. I also was a member of the labor union SEIU and paid taxes and dues for my 29 years of service. I now live off my pension and savings. The false narratives about freeloading must stop. It is not true and has strong racial undertones.
2. I, nor anyone in my immediate family, have ever been a foster parent. Trezell was the first and only. To insinuate or lie that I have had foster children is make believe — check the public record before spreading lies. We have had several businesses over the years and worked hard through the ups and downs of the economy to maintain this family. Not a dime has been made from me or my husband through the so-called system.
3. Stop trying to attack my eldest son. He has worked hard his entire life, went to college and has had a visible career in public service. His work to address racism and improve voter turnout in the Black community is commendable. I have seen all types of stories and lies that are ignorant and reflect the true spirit of some of you. We are tracking those that are slanderous and have been falsely reported to law enforcement because you do not have a right to try and destroy someone’s reputation based upon lies.

We are not concerned about our image. We are not concerned about finances. We are concerned about my grandchildren and those of you who hide behind social media, spread lies and falsehood are not helping bring Orrin or Orson home.

Keep the official search going and keep praying!