Happy to do it, Cover Me, and you are right. I do remember now that this was Vilt's theory early on -- and probably where I got the idea. I admit that I have not followed this case very closely at all.
The reason I think he was "adopted out" for money by the parent(s) is that first of all, I can't imagine anyone harming that little guy -- and certainly not his own parent(s)! I really don't think there was an accidental death. Secondly, I know that people who cannot have their own children, and are financially able, will look for a private adoption, even one with no paper trail involved. I also seem to recall that the parents were not flush with cash, and this would be a way to get some quickly. They certainly didn't waste any time splitting up and going their separate ways. Further J had children by another or other "unions", and apparently didn't have primary custody of them. DeOrr was yet another child. Being financially strapped, Vernal certainly wouldn't mind being relieved of having to pay child support. (I don't recall whether he had any children with someone else.) Finally, if little DeOrr was taken out of state to live his new life with adoptive parent(s), I really don't think he'd be recognized.
All of the above is just based on my personal opinion, speculation, and theory. I may even have confused the facts; there are so many of you who have closely followed this case. I have not. So, don't hesitate to correct me!