Girl, 14, Shouldn’t Be Forced to Visit Mother, Therapist Says

SARASOTA, Fla. —  A psychologist testifying in the so-called “baby swap” trial Monday said a 14-year-old girl who was switched at birth has a very negative view of her biological mother and should not be forced to visit her.

A series of psychological experts have testified for one side or the other in the trial, now entering its second week, but clinical psychologist Herbert Goldstein was the first independent court-appointed therapist to give his views.

Kimberly Mays, 14, was swapped at birth and has been raised by Robert Mays. The other baby, reared by Regina and Ernest Twigg, died of a congenital heart defect. The swap was discovered after genetic tests were conducted during her illness.

The Twiggs are suing for visitation rights, but Kimberly is trying to “divorce” them or sever all legal ties. She wants to remain with Robert Mays. Goldstein said Kimberly has an extremely negative view of Regina Twigg, describing her as “ugly” “loud” “rude” and having a “droopy face.”