Oklahoma State Representative Gabe Woolley Is Still Fighting to Save His Nephew from DHS
Clayton Woolley has reportedly run away again and has once again been placed into DHS custody.
On May 17, 2026, 13-year-old Clayton reportedly ran nearly 3 miles from the Broken Arrow home of his guardian, Amanda Lindstrom, to the home of Julia Evans. Witnesses say Clayton described serious allegations of abuse, including starvation, being locked in closets, physical mistreatment, and fear for his safety.
Five witnesses have reportedly signed affidavits describing what they heard directly from Clayton.
This latest incident has reignited concerns surrounding Oklahoma DHS, family courts, and the guardianship arrangement that has kept Clayton separated from his biological family for years.
The History
The case began in 2018 after Clayton’s infant brother, Elijah Woolley, tragically died while in the care of their paternal grandparents, Bill and Lisa Woolley. The grandparents were arrested and charged with murder and child abuse, spending about eight months in jail before all charges were dropped in 2021.
Despite being cleared, Clayton was never returned to his biological family.
Instead, he remained in the guardianship of Amanda Lindstrom, Clayton’s paternal aunt and a Broken Arrow Police Department employee.
For more than seven years, the Woolley family has fought for visitation and reunification, saying they have repeatedly presented evidence showing Clayton’s desire to return home, along with ongoing concerns involving the Lindstrom household.
The case has been highlighted through the “Saving Clayton” film and the “Rescue Clayton Podcast,” hosted by Rep. Gabe Woolley, Clayton’s uncle and one of the most vocal advocates pushing for accountability and reform.
What’s Happening Now
• April 1, 2026: Fourteen Oklahoma lawmakers sent a letter to Governor Kevin Stitt, Attorney General Gentner Drummond, and DHS Director Jeff Cartmell outlining concerns about Clayton’s welfare, citing DHS referrals, school incidents, witness statements, and unanswered attempts by Clayton’s biological mother, Desiree Woolley, to verify her son’s safety.
• As of the latest public update, no public response had been issued. The lawmakers later released the letter publicly to increase transparency and accountability.
• May 17 Runaway: Clayton reportedly arrived at a relative’s home and described the alleged abuse. A Ring camera reportedly captured his arrival. Family members attempted to obtain an emergency protective order, but Tulsa County courts denied the request because the matter was already set for a July hearing.
• Current Status: Clayton has reportedly been moved into a new foster placement. Lawmakers, including Senator Dana Prieto and Rep. Gabe Woolley, are now calling for the OSBI to conduct an independent investigation into the handling of the case.
According to lawmakers and family members, there have been at least 14 documented DHS referrals connected to the Lindstrom household over time. Other children connected to the home, including Clayton’s half-siblings, were reportedly removed previously through protective orders involving similar allegations.
This case has become a major flashpoint in the debate over Oklahoma’s DHS system, family court transparency, and child welfare accountability.
For years, Gabe Woolley and Clayton’s family have continued fighting to make sure Clayton’s voice is heard and that he has the chance to reunite with biological relatives who have never stopped advocating for him.
Clayton deserves safety. He deserves stability. He deserves to be heard.
Many believe the system has failed him for far too long.
Share this if you believe family reunification matters when parents and relatives have been cleared and a child is asking for help.
Demand accountability from Governor Stitt, Attorney General Drummond, DHS, and the courts.
#RescueClayton #SaveClayton #OklahomaDHS #FamilyMatters