Michael Valva, Thomas’ father and his girlfriend Angela Pollina were accused of locking 8-year-old Thomas Valva in their New York garage to suffer until he died in January of 2020. It was a harsh winter for everyone, and especially for Tommy because was forced to eat hot peppers, and sleep in temperatures below freezing. Tommy was not allowed to go inside and eat healthy food like other children do. He didn’t get to cozy up in the house with a loving family. He suffered for years before God finally took him home.

Tommy and his brother Anthony were forced to sleep in subfreezing temperatures on a cold, cement slab in the garage while temperatures were well below freezing. His father, Michael Valva was found guilty of second-degree murder for Tommy’s death.

Michael Valva’s lawyers argued that it was his girlfriend, Angela Pollina’s, idea to make the boys sleep in the garage and that “he was overwhelmed emotionally and financially after a heated custody battle with his ex-wife, Justyn Zubko Valva” reported Pocharapon Neammanee at the Insider. 

However, Tommy Valva’s mother was recently able to finally file lawsuits against the school and child protection agency because two years prior to Tommy dying, Justyna Zubko-Valva, showed proof that Michael was abusing the boy’s. The school allegedly did not report it until one year after Michael was awarded custody, and even then, the boys were forced to live in horrific conditions under their father’s care. CPS closed the case just 10 days before Tommy died.

“The lawsuit alleges that CPS investigators lied repeatedly to advance the neglect investigation against the mother and fabricated evidence against her. According to the ruling, a judge dismissed that neglect petition and ordered CPS to investigate abuse allegations against the father. Despite reports that the children looked emaciated, CPS closed out its final investigation 10 days before Tommy Valva’s death”, Adam Klasfeld, Law and Crimes managing editor wrote.

Thomas Valva’s mother suing child protective services and the school district. 

Minding Hearts is building advocacy and peer support groups. The groups are created to raise awareness, educate, and advocate for those that might not otherwise be heard. We are here for encouragement, education, and support. We are here to support families and develop resources that maintain family integrity. We look forward to your support.