seeks to preserve the integrity of families, native americans. but it cannot be used as a bludgeon to destroy the integrity of an existing family. >> reporter: the assistant attorney general for the cherokee nation says the law is clear. >> some of the protections provided by the indian child welfare act, there's a mrailsment preference if the child is removed by the state or if they're placed in private adoption placement. the first preference is for a family member. >> reporter: but in cases like this, what about the child? >> everybody keeps saying how bad they feel for us, but, i mean, she's a 2-year-old girl who got shoved in a truck and driven to oklahoma with strangers. >> reporter: the couple thought the transfer would happen on new year's day, but it happened on new year's eve, a lot sooner than they were prepared for. they've gotten to speak with