Judge Removes Boy From Smoker’s Home

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A 7-year-old boy with asthma was removed from his mother’s custody to protect him from his stepfather’s cigarette smoke.

Judge Bill Parsons awarded temporary custody to the boy’s father on Friday, saying it was his legal duty to protect the child’s health.

But the judge said he already fears his ruling will be misinterpreted.

“I’m not saying adults can’t smoke. I’m just saying don’t do it in front of a helpless child,” he said. “Secondhand smoke is killing children . . . and I think it’s time for the courts of this country to help these children.”