How far are you nest located off the ground? If they are pretty high, put some walking ramps up for the girls to get to them. Chickens are naturally inquisitve and love to fly up...the ramps will give them something to do and introduce them to the nest boxes.
And, if possible, keep them...
To say chickens can't digest whole corn is "out there". Some chickens do experience problems when eating it because it is larger but they can eat it and will eat it very well.
I'd give it in small quantities as well. They don't need a lot of it.
There is a huge difference in mentality and actions when it comes to a 3 week old chick and a 7 week old chick. Under most circumstances the 7 week old will be twice the size and will be more aggressive toward the smaller chicks. Plus the 3 week old chicks are still developing feathers that...
Such a sad situation but you did what you had to do, and what you did was RIGHT
Looks like to me you already have the best defense in the world, the newphew. IF the nephew will go before the court and tell the truth. At his age, any good lawyer would talk to him and see would be able to find...