Omaha, NE-  Gary Staton first gave up his kids under the controversial safe haven law back in September. A widower, he said he couldn't manage nine of them alone.  His lawyer tells Action 3 News,  Gary Station gave them up for good and they are in better hands.

Under the safe haven law, it was legal for him to drop off his nine kids at a hospital and turn them over to the state.  For a year and a half after his wife died, the family lived in a run down Omaha house. The single dad tried to manage the children.   

But he told the court, he could no longer care for them.  Monday, March 9, Staton voluntarily relinquished his parental rights.  Staton has since moved from the family home, which the city has condemned.  He didn't want to talk on camera but didn't turn away reporter Michelle Bandur either.  Staton says, "This is my problem. It isn't the world's problem ."

The state placed seven Staton children, ages, 2, 6, 7, 10, 11, 14, 15  with an Aunt in Lincoln.
The two oldest boys, ages 16 and 17 are in an Omaha foster home. The same one the state placed the children in in 2004.  The family the boys live with will now be their guardians until they turn 19. Staton says, "I have my visits with them and I will see them tonight in Lincoln.

Michelle asks, "What will you say to them tonight?" Staton, "I already talked to them about it to explain it all. Actually tonight it's just gonna be a fun visit." His lawyer says it was in the children's best interest to relinquish parental rights. Staton says, "Roughly, yes." It's true.  

Gary Ston also says he can't believe his personal family situation made news in Australia.  There will be another court hearing later this month and Staton says he will let the judge know what it's been like for him the past few months.

Reported by Michelle Bandur;michelle@action3news.com