Florida Dad’s Heartbreaking Battle: ‘My Daughter Died, But I Found Her Alive and Up for Adoption’

A Florida man is fighting for custody of his two-year-old daughter, Amiya. Brandon Marteliz claims that the child’s mother deceived him by telling him their daughter had died and subsequently putting her up for adoption.

As reported by New York Post on Friday, December 15, 2023, Marteliz recounted the painful experience, stating that he was informed by the child’s mother that Amiya had passed away due to sudden infant death syndrome shortly after her birth in January 2022.

Devastated by the news, Marteliz had no reason to doubt her claim, as he had been with her just days before the baby’s expected arrival, even taking a photograph with his hand resting on her pregnant belly.

However, nearly three weeks after being told of his daughter’s demise, Marteliz received a text message from the mother stating, “I have her” and “I got the baby.”

Desperate to see his child, he pleaded with her, but his requests went unanswered. It was then that a Child Protective Services agent contacted Marteliz, revealing that his daughter was alive and under the care of an adoption agency.

Despite his efforts to establish paternity and be involved in his daughter’s life, Marteliz faced legal obstacles.

The adoption was authorized by the mother, and the agency argued that Marteliz had not fulfilled financial responsibilities associated with the pregnancy and birth, making him ineligible for custody.

The prospective adoptive parents currently have custody of Amiya through the private adoption agency.

Marteliz expressed his frustration with the legal system, particularly the Florida law that seems to favor adoption agencies over parents.

He had filled out the putative father registry and filed a petition to determine paternity shortly after his daughter’s birth, but his efforts were overshadowed by existing legal limitations.

His attorney, David Hurvitz, criticized the law, stating that it needed reform to protect the rights of fathers and ensure a fair process.

Marteliz’s case highlights the difficulties faced by fathers in similar situations and the need for a more equitable system.

As the custody battle enters its third year, Marteliz remains determined to be a part of his daughter’s life. He had prepared for her arrival by purchasing toys, clothes, and even setting up a dedicated bedroom.

The emotional toll of the situation is evident as he contemplates giving away the items he had lovingly acquired, knowing they will soon be too small for Amiya.

While the legal proceedings continue, Marteliz hopes for a resolution that will grant him the opportunity to build a relationship with his daughter.

He refuses to let the obstacles deter him and remains committed to fighting for his parental rights, hoping to bring about positive change in the system along the way.