Legally Kidnapped

Shattering Your Child Welfare Delusions Since 2007


Friday, February 28, 2014

Seventy-four kids taken into care for their own protection as they are TOO FAT

Seventy-four kids taken into care for their own protection as they are TOO FAT

Britain is bringing up a generation of dangerously overweight children – and the problem is rapidly getting worse, health experts warn tomorrow.

Families will be free to speak about children who have died in care: Alberta human services minister

Families will be free to speak about children who have died in care: Alberta human services minister

The Alberta government will repeal a “dehumanizing” publication ban that makes it illegal to publicly identify a child who died in foster care or while receiving child welfare services.

Note: Bullshit!

Maine oversight committee orders probe of DHHS day care operations

Maine oversight committee orders probe of DHHS day care operations

The panel will investigate alleged delays by the DHHS child care licensing division in handling child abuse reports from its own day care inspectors.

Does anybody want a kid?




Every Time Foster Kids Move, They Lose Months of Academic Progress

Every Time Foster Kids Move, They Lose Months of Academic Progress

When 12-year-old Jimmy Wayne’s parents dropped him off at a motel and drove away, he became the newest member of the North Carolina Foster Care system. Over the next two years in the foster care system, he attended 12 different schools.

Mass. DCF “Working to Return” Justina Pelletier to CT

Mass. DCF “Working to Return” Justina Pelletier to CT

In its first public statement directly addressing the status of 15-year-old West Hartford teen, Justina Pelletier, the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families said the agency is working to return her to Connecticut.

‘They Can’t Put a Gag Order on Us’: Group Says Hundreds of Calls Made to Court in Pelletier Case



State: Many teens in Mass. child welfare agency care are unaccounted for

State: Many teens in Mass. child welfare agency care are unaccounted for

The commissioner of the state's embattled child welfare agency told a legislative hearing looking into the disappearance of a 5-year-old boy that no other children in state care were missing.

Children in care soar as councils seek more foster parents

Children in care soar as councils seek more foster parents

In all the news coverage of councils struggling with budget cuts, it's easy to overlook some big increases in funding.

Teenage mother who confessed to abandoning baby in dumpster after giving birth in a bathtub may REGAIN custody

Teenage mother who confessed to abandoning baby in dumpster after giving birth in a bathtub may REGAIN custody

Note: I realize that a headline like this may irritate the self-righteous child worshiping stupid people who don't realize that in a highly emotionally and perhaps hormonal state, one might make poor decisions, and I understand how all of  you zero tolerance people who would think, "Oh my god, how can this monster do this to that poor sweet child?" and all, but there usually is more to every story than the media will let on.  I personally feel for this family.  I wish them the best.  That includes the child and the mother.

A teenage mother who dumped her newborn baby in a dumpster moments after giving birth has been given hope of regaining custody of her son.

Governor Scott Visits With Child Protective Investigators

Governor Scott Visits With Child Protective Investigators

Today, Governor Rick Scott visited Child Protective Investigators to thank them for their dedication to Florida’s children and spoke about his 2014-2015 “It’s Your Money Tax Cut Budget” that commits more than $31 million for child protection services. The additional dollars would be targeted at protecting at-risk children and families by expanding investigation initiatives that are currently being piloted by the Department of Children and Families (DCF).

BREAKING NEWS: State probing Wilkes County DSS

BREAKING NEWS: State probing Wilkes County DSS

The Wilkes County Department of Social Services is now facing state scrutiny from a team of inspectors with the Department of Health and Human Services, the agency with oversight over Wilkes County DSS.

CPS caseworker says teen accused of putting newborn in trash bin didn't know she was pregnant

CPS caseworker says teen accused of putting newborn in trash bin didn't know she was pregnant

A Child Protective Services caseworker has testified that a 16-year-old girl accused of putting her newborn in a Houston trash bin this week didn't know she was pregnant and thought the baby was dead after giving birth in a bathtub.

Fontana Foster Parents Arrested For Child Abuse, Endangerment

Fontana Foster Parents Arrested For Child Abuse, Endangerment

A Fontana couple faced charges Thursday for allegedly abusing their foster child, police said.

Emergency domestic violence protective order granted against Mark Plants

Emergency domestic violence protective order granted against Mark Plants

Kanawha County prosecutor Mark Plants is under investigation for child abuse allegations after his ex-wife filed a complaint with West Virginia State Police. State Police say Plants' ex-wife claimed that he abused one of his children by disciplining him in an excessive manner.


Goodyear man accused of abusing foster child pleads guilty

Goodyear man accused of abusing foster child pleads guilty

A Goodyear man accused of injuring his 1-year-old foster daughter for throwing her sippy cup and spilling its contents has pleaded guilty.

Thursday, February 27, 2014

Missing teen found off-Cape, placed back in state care

Missing teen found off-Cape, placed back in state care

A 15-year-old boy missing for six weeks from a group home for foster children was found Thursday and returned to the care of the state, Falmouth police said.

Workers at DCF threatened

Workers at DCF threatened

Rutland City Police say they are investigating a pair of threats delivered to employees of a state agency that has come under scrutiny after the killing of 2-year-old Dezirae Sheldon.

Michigan's child welfare system would be more transparent, accountable under new funding plan

Michigan plans to change the way it funds child welfare, favoring a system based on performance and outcomes instead of a daily rate for foster care and adoption services.

Note: But they still won't look at the fact that they're stealing too many kids.

Former Department of Children and Families worker arrested on charges of falsifying records

Former Department of Children and Families worker arrested on charges of falsifying records

A 38-year-old woman was arrested Tuesday on charges of falsifying records she took as a Florida Department of Children and Families employee.

Justina Pelletier Not Being Transferred To Foster Care For Now, Family Rep Says

Justina Pelletier Not Being Transferred To Foster Care For Now, Family Rep Says

Plans to transfer Justina Pelletier, the West Hartford teenager being held in a Boston facility against her parents' wishes, to foster care have changed, a family representative said Wednesday.

DCFS chief Arthur Bishop steps down after Sun-Times, WBEZ reports

DCFS chief Arthur Bishop steps down after Sun-Times, WBEZ reports

Arthur D. Bishop, who was appointed last month to run the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, stepped down Wednesday following a series of Chicago Sun-Times and WBEZ reports that revealed a theft conviction and paternity case in his past.

Hundreds of children may be missing in state child welfare system

Hundreds of children may be missing in state child welfare system

Foster child Alisia Laboa just turned 16 this month — but there was no traditional Sweet 16 party for her.

Ex-DHHS inspectors say Maine managers ignored child abuse

Ex-DHHS inspectors say Maine managers ignored child abuse

Two former state child care inspectors say managers in the Department of Health and Human Services knew about abuse and neglect at day cares but often did nothing, letting staff reports on abuse languish on their desks for months or years and harassing inspectors who pressed for more action.

DCF teen missing when Olga Roche claims kids safe

DCF teen missing when Olga Roche claims kids safe

A Cape Cod foster child under DCF watch has been missing for more than six weeks — a start­ling development that contradicts last month’s testimony by agency boss Olga Roche that all 36,000 Bay State kids under the department’s care were safe and sound.

SENATE PANEL TO PROBE DCF AFTER 2-YEAR-OLD’S DEATH

SENATE PANEL TO PROBE DCF AFTER 2-YEAR-OLD’S DEATH

A panel of seven senators will attempt to discern whether policy changes could help prevent child deaths like that of 2-year-old Dezirae Sheldon in Poultney last week, Senate Pro Tempore John Campbell said Wednesday.

Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Two Mass. reps ask DCF to release Justina Pelletier

Two Mass. reps ask DCF to release Justina Pelletier

Representative Marc Lombardo (R-Billerica) and Jim Lyons (R-Andover) are looking to have Justina Pelletier, the teen involved in a high profile custody case, released from DCF custody.

Threats against DCF workers as Vt. launches probe into toddler's death

Threats against DCF workers as Vt. launches probe into toddler's death

A prominent Vermont doctor will lead the investigation into practices at the Vermont Department for Children and Families after the death of a Poultney toddler. The toddler's family says the department ignored warnings.

DCF worker accused of falsifying well-being report

DCF worker accused of falsifying well-being report

Investigators said a 38-year-old woman was supposed to be checking up on some of the most vulnerable victims of child abuse and neglect but instead lied in her paperwork to avoid being fired.

Teen mother forced to give son away ends up fostering 100 children

If you can't beat em... Join em.

Teen mother forced to give son away ends up fostering 100 children

A WOMAN who was forced to give up her illegitimate son at 16 later became a dedicated foster mum and has taken in a record 100 children.

Adoption Ruling



Utah Supreme Court gives father fighting for custody for years reason to celebrate

Social worker Dilsobha faces child molestation charges

Social worker Dilsobha faces child molestation charges

In a shocking revelation, investigations claim to have uncovered the evidence that social worker Dilsobha Shrestha , famed for her services to less fortunate lot—elderly and children, was involved in child sex molestation under the guise of providing them sanctuary. The Ravi Bhawan-based elderly home-cum-orphanage run by Dilsobha with the name of 'Aama Ghar' had been providing shelter to 53 children.

Supervisors approve deal with SEIU months after social worker strike

Supervisors approve deal with SEIU months after social worker strike

Los Angeles County supervisors approved a deal with the county's largest public employee union Tuesday, putting the cap on an unusually contentious period in county labor relations.

Unlicensed DCF-approved therapist faces teen sex assault sentence

Unlicensed DCF-approved therapist faces teen sex assault sentence

An unlicensed DCF-approved therapist — who already served time for kicking his pregnant wife — faces up to 10 years behind bars today for sexually assaulting a “vulnerable” 13-year-old boy whose appeal for help was first brushed off by child welfare officials.


Mass. DCF being audited

Mass. DCF being audited

The Massachusetts Department of Children and Families is being audited after a boy in state care goes missing and is presumed dead.

Tuesday, February 25, 2014

Haiti judge says US citizen and her Haitian mother face child-trafficking charges

Haiti judge says US citizen and her Haitian mother face child-trafficking charges

A U.S. citizen and her Haitian mother face child-trafficking charges after they were caught carrying thousands of dollars in cash and running an adoption agency without a license, a Haitian official said Tuesday.

Failure to communicate: Mass. DCF workers are offline

Failure to communicate: Mass. DCF workers are offline

Massachusetts State Police troopers have laptops in their vehicles to check the background of suspects. Firefighters have radios and EMTs can message ahead to hospitals.

Panel finds lapses by Sacramento County social workers

Panel finds lapses by Sacramento County social workers

Sacramento County Child Protective Services continues to make mistakes in cases that end up in death or near death, according to an independent report presented to supervisors Tuesday.

Utah Supreme Court gives dad second chance in adoption

Utah Supreme Court gives dad second chance in adoption

The Utah Supreme Court has ruled that a lower court judge erred when he refused to let a Pennsylvania war veteran amend a paternity petition aimed at stopping the Utah adoption of his daughter and dismissed his constitutional claims.

Grossman: I would have accepted DCF resignation

Grossman: I would have accepted DCF resignation

State Treasurer Steven Grossman said if he were governor he would have accepted the resignation of the head of the embattled Department of Children and Families, putting him at odds with fellow Democrat, Gov. Deval Patrick.


Child-welfare chief tells panel new agency needs time to find footing

Child-welfare chief tells panel new agency needs time to find footing

The new head of the Arizona's child welfare agency told an oversight committee on Monday that it will be months before a solid structure at the embattled agency is set in place.

Note: And until then, they'll just keep stealing kids.

Vermont's foster care system and claims of child abuse

Vermont's foster care system and claims of child abuse

Police say 2-year old Dezirae Sheldon was murdered last week by her step-father, Dennis Duby. She died from blunt force trauma to the head. Duby pleaded not-guilty this afternoon to second degree murder. This was not the first case of abuse in Dezirae's short life. Her mother was convicted of breaking Dezirae's leg when she was 11-months old. She was in state custody after that assault -- but was returned to her mother and step-father -- and now she is dead.

Corrupt ‘Kids for Cash’ judge ruined more than 2,000 lives

Corrupt ‘Kids for Cash’ judge ruined more than 2,000 lives

Hillary Transue, 14, created a fake, humorous Myspace page about her school’s vice principal.

Justin Bodnar, 12, cursed at another student’s mother.

Ed Kenzakoski, 17, did nothing at all.

It didn’t matter.

Schools put genius child in special ed, tell mom he can’t learn. Now he’s free, and he could win a Nobel Prize

Schools put genius child in special ed, tell mom he can’t learn. Now he’s free, and he could win a Nobel Prize

A genius boy whose IQ is higher than Albert Einstein is on his way to possibly winning a Nobel Prize after being set free of special education programs in public schools. His mother made the decision to take him out of the programs, even after having doctors diagnose him with Aspergers and say that her son Jacob Barnett would never even learn to tie his shoes.

Official details CPS flaws leaving thousands of cases in limbo

Official details CPS flaws leaving thousands of cases in limbo

Illegal actions by supervisors, overloaded caseworkers and flawed procedures for handling reports of abuse led to thousands of cases going uninvestigated by Child Protective Services, an official told lawmakers Monday.

Los Angeles’ Child Abuse Reporting System Underfunded & Underutilized

Los Angeles’ Child Abuse Reporting System Underfunded & Underutilized

Better information sharing between law enforcement and child welfare topped a list of recommendations made to Los Angeles’ Board of Supervisors by a blue ribbon commission created to reform the county’s child protective services.

Note: Don't be a CPS Rat.

Ex-inspectors for Maine DHHS likely to reveal flaws in day-care oversight

Ex-inspectors for Maine DHHS likely to reveal flaws in day-care oversight

Two former employees of the Maine Department of Health and Human Services will likely detail shortcomings in the state’s day care inspection program to a government oversight agency, lawmakers said Monday.

Utah adoption center loses license

Utah adoption center loses license

A Utah adoption center involved in a string of disputed adoptions has lost its license to operate in the state.

DHS looks to reunite American child with biological father in Mexico

DHS looks to reunite American child with biological father in Mexico

The name of the 6-year-old girl in this story has been changed to protect her identity.

Former Bethel foster parent Peter Tony pleads guilty to sexual abuse

Former Bethel foster parent Peter Tony pleads guilty to sexual abuse

Almost nine months after being charged with 10 counts of sexual abuse that rocked the small Southwest community of Bethel, Peter Tony has pleaded guilty.

Protest targets DCF in case of slain child

Protest targets DCF in case of slain child

Dozens of parents and concerned citizens gathered outside the office of the Vermont Department for Children and Families in Rutland Monday. They want answers from the child protection agency after two-year-old Dezirae Sheldon was allegedly murdered by her stepfather, 31-year-old Dennis Duby.

Monday, February 24, 2014

Parents of Justina Pelletier upset after learning teenager will now be sent to DCF foster care, advocat says

Parents of Justina Pelletier upset after learning teenager will now be sent to DCF foster care, advocat says

Justina Pelletier’s mother collapsed and her father shouted in anger today after learning at a Boston courthouse that the Department of Children and Families wants to place their teenage daughter in foster care on Boston’s North Shore, according to a minister who represents the family.

Gaetz wants private child welfare agencies to be more accountable

Gaetz wants private child welfare agencies to be more accountable

Senate President Don Gaetz on Friday called for greater accountability for the state’s privatized child-welfare system, despite arguments by local community-based care agencies that Florida is one of the best states in the country for the treatment of abused and neglected children.

Erin Conway McAleer to oversee DCF changes

Erin Conway McAleer to oversee DCF changes

At 33, Erin Conway McAleer is already an established Beacon Hill operative who in 13 short years has risen from intern to former U.S. Sen. John F. Kerry to Gov. Deval Patrick’s director of Cabinet affairs for his eight secretariats. She was named to the $91,350 post last May, and has now been directed to manage an overhaul at the beleaguered Department of Children and Families.

Note: Her goal, to let it all fade away and sweep it under the rug...

So what else is going on in Mass today?

GLOBAL HERO MARYANNE GODBOLDO BACK IN COURT; NEW CRIMINAL HEARING SET FOR MARCH 14

GLOBAL HERO MARYANNE GODBOLDO BACK IN COURT; NEW CRIMINAL HEARING SET FOR MARCH 14

Maryanne Godboldo, recognized world-wide as a hero for standing off a Detroit police SWAT team trying to seize her young daughter to administer the dangerous drug Risperdal in 2011, was in court once again Feb. 14. In a never-ending continuation of the original assault, she is to face criminal charges re-instated by an appeals court after 36th District Court Judge Ronald Giles and Third Judicial Circuit Court Judge Gregory Bill adamantly dismissed them. 


Saturday, February 22, 2014

Foster mother who fatally beat 2-year-old gets 25 to life

Foster mother who fatally beat 2-year-old gets 25 to life 

A foster mother convicted of second-degree murder in the beating death of a 2-year-old girl was sentenced Friday to 25-years-to-life in state prison.

Note: Sucks to be her, I guess.

legally kidnapped

Are Schools Asking to Drug Kids for Better Test Scores?

Are Schools Asking to Drug Kids for Better Test Scores?

In the past two decades, the number of children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder has nearly doubled. One in five American boys receives a diagnosis by age 17. More than 70% of those who are diagnosed—millions of children—are prescribed drugs.

Drugged as Children, Foster-Care Alumni Speak Out

Drugged as Children, Foster-Care Alumni Speak Out

Use of Powerful Antipsychotics on Youths in Such Homes Comes Under Greater Scrutiny

FBI Investigating Child Injured While in Foster Care On Reservation

FBI Investigating Child Injured While in Foster Care On Reservation

The FBI says it is investigating a child that was injured while in foster care on the White Earth reservation. FBI spokesman Kyle Loven says they are working with the Manomen county sheriff, the BCA and White Earth tribal police to gather more facts on the case. Authorities say this is being investigated as a case of "injury to a child."

Why can’t these children come home?

Why can’t these children come home?

Earlier this month, I reported the bizarre story of two boys, aged 14 and 11, being hauled out of bed at 7.45am on Christmas Day. They were carried out by four police officers, kicking and shouting, to be handed over – on the orders of a High Court judge – to a father who walked out on them 11 years ago.

No homes, no goals for foster kids who age out

No homes, no goals for foster kids who age out

Foster children, hanging on the hopes of being helped by an adopting family, sometimes don’t get that desired dream.

US couple, adopted kids stuck in midst of Kiev violence

US couple, adopted kids stuck in midst of Kiev violence

A Topeka couple and their new family are stranded near the violence that has erupted in Ukraine.

Invading Parental Rights, Scotland Moves to Assign Social Worker to Every Child

Invading Parental Rights, Scotland Moves to Assign Social Worker to Every Child

Almost 8,000 children have been singled out for “targeted intervention” as part of a pilot for the Scottish National Party's (SNP) controversial state guardian proposals, a Scottish newspaper has revealed.

Teens in foster care lobby lawmakers for 'normalcy' law

Teens in foster care lobby lawmakers for 'normalcy' law

Recently, a girl in foster care who is a high school cheerleader faced a dilemma.

Foster home under investigation

Foster home under investigation

A foster home is under investigation Friday after twin six-week-old babies were found with broken bones and bruises.

Former Daycare Owner Sentenced In Fatal Beating Of Foster Child

Former Daycare Owner Sentenced In Fatal Beating Of Foster Child

A South Los Angeles woman convicted of fatally beating a foster child she was trying to adopt was sentenced on Friday.

At DCF, death’s sad calculation

At DCF, death’s sad calculation

CHILD WELFARE commissioner Olga Roche is a well-liked, long-time human service administrator who was probably in over her head on day one last spring when she took over the state Department of Children and Families. It’s an axiom of state government that governors in the waning months of their final term don’t have a huge talent pool to draw from. That helps explain how she got tapped for the job.

Did state agency neglect child abuse case?

Did state agency neglect child abuse case?

A local doctor is taking aim at Michigan's Department of Human Services, specifically, Child Protective Services. He says the agency simply failed his young patient.

CPS worker fired after allegedy trying to buy heroin

CPS worker fired after allegedy trying to buy heroin

A state Child Protective Services worker has been fired after being accused of trying to buy drugs from undercover Phoenix police detectives.

Foster father caring for kids despite sex harass suit by caseworker

Foster father caring for kids despite sex harass suit by caseworker

A foster father is still caring for some of the most fragile children under DCF watch even after his former caseworker accused him of sexual harassment — and said she feared for her life because “he has guns,” according to a lawsuit obtained by the Herald.

Note: Remember that this accusation comes from a child snatcher, so it shouldn't hold much merit.

Caseworker Charged with Downloading, Sharing Child Porn

Caseworker Charged with Downloading, Sharing Child Porn

A central Ohio caseworker contracted by Franklin County Children Services is off the job amid accusations that he downloaded child pornography on his home computer.

Judge grants funds for extra psychological evaluation for mother of missing Fitchburg boy

Judge grants funds for extra psychological evaluation for mother of missing Fitchburg boy

The attorney for Elsa Oliver, the mother of the 5-year-old Fitchburg boy who is missing and feared dead, was granted a request today for $2,500 in state funds to pay for an additional psychological assessment of Oliver’s mental state.

Friday, February 21, 2014

Gov.: Mass. child services head offered to resign

Gov.: Mass. child services head offered to resign

The head of the embattled Department of Children and Families offered to resign after social workers lost track of a 5-year-old boy who is now feared dead, but Gov. Deval Patrick said Friday that he refused to accept.

The Stealing of American Children



Promotional Video about Child Protective Services

Infants with broken bones, bruises removed from Austin foster home

Infants with broken bones, bruises removed from Austin foster home

Twin infants were removed from their Austin foster home last week after the six-week-old babies were found to have broken bones and bruises.


Texas senators split on how to address sharp rise in foster child deaths

Texas senators split on how to address sharp rise in foster child deaths

Senators disagreed sharply Thursday over how to curtail the recent spike in foster child deaths from abuse and neglect, splitting along party lines over funding and caseloads for workers.

Olga Roche should fall on her sword

Olga Roche should fall on her sword

If Olga Roche were British, she would have resigned long ago.  But she’s not, and so she’s still here, with the word embattled forever attached, like a tattoo, to her and the agency she allegedly leads, the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families.

Arizona Senate passes bill requiring outside review of Child Protective Services

Arizona Senate passes bill requiring outside review of Child Protective Services

The Arizona Senate has passed a bill requiring an outside review of the state's child welfare agency.

Long serving social worker struck off

Long serving social worker struck off

One of the county’s longest serving social workers  has been struck off for his sexual interest in young girls.

Phoenix PD: CPS caseworker tries buying drugs from client

Phoenix PD: CPS caseworker tries buying drugs from client

A caseworker for the state's Child Protective Services is in trouble with the law after she tried to buy drugs while on the clock.

Foster girl died from lack of oxygen, not abuse: expert

Foster girl died from lack of oxygen, not abuse: expert

A 21-month-old girl in foster care likely died from a lack of oxygen to the brain and not any trauma or abuse, an expert told court Thursday.

Senators question reforms after spike in deaths of foster children

Senators question reforms after spike in deaths of foster children

In response to a spike in the number of children dying in foster care, Child Protective Services officials assured senators Thursday that they’re working hard to reduce the number of children who die of abuse and neglect each year.

Child Protective Services Hopes Caseworker Ready For A Doozy

Child Protective Services Hopes Caseworker Ready For A Doozy

Suggesting she’d better “sit down and buckle up tight,” officials from Michigan’s Child Protective Services bureau urged caseworker Hayley Reynolds on Thursday to brace herself, because she was in for grade-A doozy.

Note: Gotta love the Onion.

Thursday, February 20, 2014

Union sues Clark County for not reinstating worker to child abuse hotline job

Union sues Clark County for not reinstating worker to child abuse hotline job

Clark County has failed to abide by an arbitrator’s decision ordering it to reinstate a fired employee to his job handling calls on the county’s child abuse hotline, court records show.

False Reports of Child Abuse Now Illegal

False Reports of Child Abuse Now Illegal

As of January 1, 2014, intentionally or knowingly making a false report of child abuse is now a misdemeanor of the second degree in Pennsylvania. Approved by Governor Tom Corbett on December 18, 2013, Senate Bill 28 included this provision as part of other revisions to the law prohibiting intimidation, retaliation, and obstruction in child abuse cases. A person convicted of a misdemeanor of the second degree is subject to a fine not to exceed $5,000 and imprisonment of not more than two years.

Sibling separation in foster care a new 'stolen generation'

Sibling separation in foster care a new 'stolen generation'

Traumatised children separated from their siblings while in foster care are a ''new stolen generation'', child protection advocates say.

Native American groups seek child welfare probe

Native American groups seek child welfare probe

Four national Native American organizations on Feb. 3 asked the U.S. Department of Justice to launch an investigation into the treatment of American Indian and Alaska Native children in the private adoption and public child welfare systems, saying civil rights violations there are rampant.

Second Court Marshal Terminated in Groping Case

Second Court Marshal Terminated in Groping Case

The I-Team has learned that a second Clark County marshal has been terminated in connection with allegations of groping by fellow marshal at the Family Court. 

AMERICAN CHILD WELFARE RUINS LIVES, HERE’S YOUR RECEIPT

AMERICAN CHILD WELFARE RUINS LIVES, HERE’S YOUR RECEIPT

The choice was obvious, at least to 18-year-old me. Either stay inside the New York City child-welfare system for some extra college money I didn’t trust would be there, or get the hell out and claim a terrifying bit of freedom.

'Named guardian' plan for every child in Scotland set to go ahead

'Named guardian' plan for every child in Scotland set to go ahead

Plans to give every child in Scotland a “named guardian” until their 18th birthday have been approved by MSPs after a last-ditch attempt to water down the proposal were rejected.

County's Foster Care Agency Facing Crisis Because CPS Is Taking Too Many Kids.

County's Foster Care Agency Facing Crisis

The director of the lead agency that runs Palm Beach County’s foster care system is pleading for the public’s help.

Note: It's all in the wording people.  If half of those they were appealing to for "help" knew what they were really all about they'd be begging for even more.

Protecting foster kids from sex trafficking

Protecting foster kids from sex trafficking

Every month, more than 100 kids run away from foster homes throughout Washington.

Foster family: CPS dropped off kids and disappeared


As Arizona's Child Protective Services works out its new program, you might expect some bumps in the road.

State reports show problems at local DSS agencies

State reports show problems at local DSS agencies

Each day, hundreds of social workers in our area have victories protecting children. It's a difficult job with high turnover and lots of emotional stress.

Sometimes the system they work within falls short.

Kansas child welfare group opposes spanking bill

Kansas child welfare group opposes spanking bill

A Kansas group specializing in adoption services, foster homes and anti-child abuse efforts is voicing opposition to a bill that would allow parents and teachers to spank children.

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

Meet Some Of The Children Who Died In Los Angeles Because The City's Child Protection System Is Broken

Between 2008 and 2011, more than seventy children who passed through the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services have died due to child abuse or neglect. Many of the lives and deaths of these children have been rigorously documented by Los Angeles Times reporter Garrett Therolf and by the paper's invaluable Homicide Report blog.

Contempt Charges Filed Against Dad Who Defied Gag Order to Tell Daughter’s Heartbreaking Story

Contempt Charges Filed Against Dad Who Defied Gag Order to Tell Daughter’s Heartbreaking Story

The Massachusetts Department of Children & Families filed for Lou Pelletier — the father of 15-year-old Justina Pelletier who is the center of a controversy and legal battle involving custody, parents’ rights and two medical diagnoses — to be held in contempt of court, a family source told TheBlaze.

Epidemic of Infantile Rickets May Have Put Thousands of Innocent Parents in Jail for Child Abuse

Epidemic of Infantile Rickets May Have Put Thousands of Innocent Parents in Jail for Child Abuse 

Child abuse is a terrible thing. But as evidenced by the work of a select few, including Dr. David Ayoub, thousands of child abuse cases may in fact be misdiagnosed cases of rickets, caused by either vitamin D deficiency or aluminum adjuvants in vaccines, or both.

Our view: DCF chief must go

Our view: DCF chief must go

When the deliberate acts or negligence of parents cause something bad to happen to a child, we hold those parents responsible.

Family court judges are ‘in cahoots’ with social workers

Family court judges are ‘in cahoots’ with social workers

Courts are routinely removing children from their mothers into care after “cutting and pasting” the arguments put by social services and rubber-stamping them, a senior judge has warned.

Former DSS worker’s rape charge cleared

 Former DSS worker’s rape charge cleared

A Mecklenburg County judge has expunged rape charges against a former unit supervisor with the Lincoln County Department of Social Services.

Denise Robertson: Separation from a sibling goes against principles of social work

 Denise Robertson: Separation from a sibling goes against principles of social work

Note: But it certainly doesn't go against the principles of a CPS Agent.  :)

Sir Martin Narey, the former head of the prison service and the charity Barnardo’s, advises the Education Secretary Michael Gove on children’s social care.

Ex-foster parent found not guilty of assault

Ex-foster parent found not guilty of assault


After six hours of deliberating Monday, the jury in the sexual assault of a child case of David Earl Gatewood found the former foster parent not guilty of a molesting a child who was in the care of Child Protective Services.

Tuesday, February 18, 2014

Province Of B.C. Sued By Guardian Of Boy Tasered By Police

Province Of B.C. Sued By Guardian Of Boy Tasered By Police 

The guardian of a British Columbia boy who was jolted by a police Taser while in government care is suing the province for subjecting him to neglect and abuse that a court document says left him traumatized.

Former foster parent suspected of molesting 4th child

Former foster parent suspected of molesting 4th child

A former foster parent from Soquel who was arrested last year on suspicion of sexually abusing three juveniles is now suspected of molesting a fourth victim, according to the Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office.

Purfleet Social worker in UK "illegally" for 15 years


Purfleet Social worker in UK "illegally" for 15 years

A SOCIAL worker hired by an agency that supplies councils and health trusts across South Essex has been accused of working in the UK illegally for 15 years.

New DCFS boss pleaded guilty to stealing from social service agency's clients

New DCFS boss pleaded guilty to stealing from social service agency's clients

Gov. Pat Quinn’s new director of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services pleaded guilty to stealing from clients of a West Side social service agency and later became embroiled in a child-support battle over a daughter he said he never knew he’d fathered, records show.

More than 125 Oklahoma DHS employees disciplined

More than 125 Oklahoma DHS employees disciplined

Disciplinary records from the Oklahoma Department of Human Service show that more than 125 employees were fired, suspended or demoted during 2013 for various infractions, including one instance of an employee picking up the wrong baby from a day care.

Are You a Smoker Who Has Been Awarded Child Custody? Some Anti-Smoking Advocates Want Your Children Taken Away from You

Are You a Smoker Who Has Been Awarded Child Custody? Some Anti-Smoking Advocates Want Your Children Taken Away from You

A prominent anti-smoking advocate is urging that judges revoke child custody of smokers, even if they never smoke in the presence of their children.

Ex-foster parent found not guilty of assault

Ex-foster parent found not guilty of assault

After six hours of deliberating Monday, the jury in the sexual assault of a child case of David Earl Gatewood found the former foster parent not guilty of a molesting a child who was in the care of Child Protective Services.

Monday, February 17, 2014

Shelters reveal flaws in child welfare

Just two weeks after the first temporary shelter for babies was established in Guangzhou in late January, nearly 80 abandoned infants had been collected from the safe haven.

The dark side of Swedish foster care

The dark side of Swedish foster care

The parents of the Malaysian children who are now back in Malaysia with their own relatives are being prosecuted by Sweden for having allegedly harmed their children by punishing them physically.

Take The Child And Run - LK Report For February 17th 2014

Saturday, February 15, 2014

Women upset about treatment of children in foster care

Women upset about treatment of children in foster care

Although the foster care system is in place to protect children, one mother feels she has been treated unfairly.

Another couple says CPS demanded they divorce to get kids back

Another couple says CPS demanded they divorce to get kids back

"It doesn't mean the kids are in danger it doesn't mean the kids are abused because your having an argument with your spouse that gets kind of loud," Devin Matthew said.

Grieving mother of tot under DCF watch: ‘I want to know how he died’

Grieving mother of tot under DCF watch: ‘I want to know how he died’

Investigators are probing the death of a Yarmouth toddler who died while under the watch of state child welfare officials yesterday morning, as the grieving mom told the Herald last night she wants answers.



Patrick defends DCF chief as 24 reps call for her resignation

Patrick defends DCF chief as 24 reps call for her resignation

Twenty-four House lawmakers , including Billerica Rep. Marc Lombardo and Rep. James Lyons, who represents a part of Tewkbury, have asked Gov. Deval Patrick to seek the resignation of Department of Children and Families Commissioner Olga Roche, prompting a sharp rebuttal from the state's CEO, who is standing by his DCF chief.

Barahona case: How has child welfare system changed in three years?

Barahona case: How has child welfare system changed in three years?

On the third anniversary of the death of then 10-year old Nubia Barahona and the near-death of her brother, Victor, many still criticize a system that could not protect the twin siblings from their own adoptive parents.

Caseworker Charged with Downloading, Sharing Child Porn

Caseworker Charged with Downloading, Sharing Child Porn

A central Ohio caseworker contracted by Franklin County Children Services is off the job amid accusations that he downloaded child pornography on his home computer.

Friday, February 14, 2014

Fathers sue Utah over law allowing mothers to secretly give up babies for adoption

Fathers sue Utah over law allowing mothers to secretly give up babies for adoption

A dozen men are suing the state of Utah in federal court because of a law that allows mothers to put their babies up for adoption without the biological father's consent, or sometimes even knowledge. The civil rights lawsuit claims the Utah Adoption Act has resulted in what amounts to "legalized fraud and kidnapping."

Calif. woman embezzled $450K in foster care funds

Calif. woman embezzled $450K in foster care funds

Riverside County prosecutors say a woman has pleaded guilty to embezzling $450,000 intended for foster children at an agency where she was director.

Past felonies could restrict Mass. foster parents

Past felonies could restrict Mass. foster parents

The Massachusetts Senate on Thursday approved a measure that would put a six-month moratorium on the placement of any child with a foster parent who has been convicted of a felony. It would not apply if the agency explains why the placement is needed and assures that the child is not in danger.

Reichert bill aims to help foster kids, stop sex trafficking

Reichert bill aims to help foster kids, stop sex trafficking

It's a good bet that most of the children caught up in prostitution and sex trafficking are part of the foster care system. A new bill would force states to identify victims and make better lives for foster kids.

State representatives urge governor to seek resignation of DCF commissioner

State representatives urge governor to seek resignation of DCF commissioner

A group of state representatives is calling on Governor Deval Patrick to ask for the immediate resignation of the commissioner of the embattled state Department of Children and Families.

Death of 2-year-old in Yarmouth under investigation

Death of 2-year-old in Yarmouth under investigation

Yarmouth and State Police are investigating the death of a 2-year-old boy who was previously placed in a foster home by the Department of Children and Families and then moved into the custody of relatives.

Court rules Indiana child welfare agency went too far by taking children from struggling mom

Court rules Indiana child welfare agency went too far by taking children from struggling mom

The Indiana Supreme Court says the state's child welfare agency went too far when it took custody of a woman's five children when she had trouble making ends meet during one child's medical crisis.

Thursday, February 13, 2014

‘Pop-Tart bill’ would protect school kids’ right to turn pastry into guns

‘Pop-Tart bill’ would protect school kids’ right to turn pastry into guns 

The Florida legislature may vote to protect children from zero tolerance policy, which allows schools to suspend children for 'brandishing a partially consumed pastry or other food' in the shape of a weapon.

Church of Scotland says child guardian plan would ‘diminish’ the family

Church of Scotland says child guardian plan would ‘diminish’ the family

THE Church of Scotland has accused SNP ministers of diminishing the role of the family with its plans for state guardians for every child.

Belgian lawmaker vote to approve euthanasia for children of all ages

Belgian lawmaker vote to approve euthanasia for children of all ages

TWELVE years after legalising euthanasia for adults, Belgium’s parliament has extended the right to die to terminally ill children of any age, despite opposition from the Catholic Church and some pediatricians.

Police: Child in DCF custody dies after being found unresponsive

Police: Child in DCF custody dies after being found unresponsive

A 23-month-old child in custody of the Department of Children and Families died Thursday after he was found unresponsive in West Yarmouth.

State poised to yank Utah adoption agency’s license

State poised to yank Utah adoption agency’s license

A Utah agency that has come under fire in the past for its involvement in controversial adoptions has been put on notice that the state plans to revoke its license after it continued to accept new clients despite being prohibited from doing so.

Kentucky risks losing federal child abuse funds

Kentucky risks losing federal child abuse funds

If Kentucky’s lawmakers don’t act soon, children in our community and across the commonwealth will lose out on $9.2 million in matching federal dollars to care for victims of child abuse and neglect. We simply cannot afford to let that happen; the need is too great!

Homeless family helped by San Francisco police officers loses custody of children

Homeless family helped by San Francisco police officers loses custody of children

On Monday, ABC7 News reported on the story of four San Francisco police officers who reached into their own wallets to help a homeless family of seven find shelter on a cold, rainy night. Joel Silva says he's still grateful to the officers for renting a room for his family when they had no place to stay Friday night. But he says he's confused and dejected at what's happened since.

Teacher Claims He Was Fired For Reporting Suspicion Of Child Sexual Abuse

Teacher Claims He Was Fired For Reporting Suspicion Of Child Sexual Abuse

A Pennsylvania substitute teacher claims he was wrongfully terminated after he reported suspicion of child sexual abuse to police.

CA gubernatorial candidate blasts Child Welfare Services over 'dirty' home

CA gubernatorial candidate blasts Child Welfare Services over 'dirty' home

California gubernatorial candidate Tim Donnelly is getting involved in another case involving children who were taken from their family by a government agency.

Rights panel notice to P'kula orphanage staff over injury to child

Rights panel notice to P'kula orphanage staff over injury to child

The Haryana Human Rights Commission has decided to issue a showcause notice to two employees of Shishu Grih, a state-run orphanage at Panchkula for negligence because of which a girl inmate had fallen off an official vehicle and was injured while going to school last year.

Commission Eyeing Big Changes for Cali’s Child Welfare System

Commission Eyeing Big Changes for Cali’s Child Welfare System

Those living in homes run by private agencies were about a third more likely to be the victims of serious physical, emotional or sexual abuse than children in state-supervised foster family homes, according to a Times analysis of more than 1 million hotline investigations over a recent three-year period. In Los Angeles County, at least four children died as a result of abuse or neglect over the last five years in homes overseen by private agencies.

Too many Aboriginal children in state care in NSW admits Family Services Minister Pru Goward

Too many Aboriginal children in state care in NSW admits Family Services Minister Pru Goward

The New South Wales Minister for Family and Community Services has conceded the number of Aboriginal children in care around the state is too high.

Lawmakers Grapple With Changing The Culture At DCF

Lawmakers Grapple With Changing The Culture At DCF

Both chambers of the Legislature took up child-welfare reform Tuesday, hearing from a wide range of experts with research about staff turnover and caseloads.

Bronx foster child missing after being taken by biological mother during scheduled visit: police

Bronx foster child missing after being taken by biological mother during scheduled visit: police

Foster child Paul Heavlow (right) has been missing since Wednesday afternoon. He was last seen with his mother Yvonne, who picked him up for a scheduled visit in the Bronx but never returned with the boy.

Massachusetts DCF officials made multiple visits to Mattapan home where 14-year-old boy fatally shot younger brother, 9-year-old Jan Marcos Pena

Massachusetts DCF officials made multiple visits to Mattapan home where 14-year-old boy fatally shot younger brother, 9-year-old Jan Marcos Pena

The Department of Children and Families had previously sought custody of the 14-year-old Boston boy accused of fatally shooting his younger brother, 9-year-old Jan Marcos Pena, and caseworkers continued to visit the family's Mattapan home even after state custody was denied, according to reports.

Note: Since the State of Massachusetts apparently wants to dominate Legally Kidnapped.

Baby’s Birth Certificate Is a First of Its Kind Under British Columbia’s New ‘Family Law’

Baby’s Birth Certificate Is a First of Its Kind Under British Columbia’s New ‘Family Law’

Amid an ongoing push to make family structures more fluid, a baby in Vancouver, Canada, is reportedly the first child in British Columbia to be granted three legal parents under a new law in the province that allows for up to four legal guardians.

State reps push to keep cons out of foster homes

State reps push to keep cons out of foster homes

Note: That's right.  Only perfect people should be foster care providers.

House legislators — shocked by Herald reports that hundreds of criminals were approved to live in foster homes last year — moved unanimously yesterday to prohibit cons with records of violent assaults and sex crimes from being in the same residence as foster kids.

ABUSE: State can do more to protect foster children

ABUSE: State can do more to protect foster children

In a recent Viewpoint, Congressman Dave Reichert identified a very serious problem – the sexual exploitation of children in foster care – and then offered an inadequate solution, the equivalent of “let them eat cake.”

Former Counselor Charged With Sexually Assaulting Teen

Former Counselor Charged With Sexually Assaulting Teen

A northwest suburban man has been charged with having a sexual relationship with a teenage girl who he previously counseled.

Social workers' training too focused on theory rather than working with children

Social workers' training too focused on theory rather than working with children

Note: They should also be required to read Legally Kidnapped.

An official government report has found training for social workers focuses too much on human rights theory and not enough on actually protecting the vulnerable in practice

Social worker punched, robbed after home visit in Fall River

Social worker punched, robbed after home visit in Fall River 

A social worker was assaulted and robbed after finishing a home visit Tuesday afternoon on Reuben Street, police said.

Mom speaks out about the abuse of her disabled son



Mom speaks out about the abuse of her disabled son while in care.

Mass. AG Coakley backs Patrick’s handing of DCF

Mass. AG Coakley backs Patrick’s handing of DCF

Attorney General Martha Coakley is defending Gov. Deval Patrick’s decision not to fire the head of the state’s embattled Department of Children and Families, following the disappearance of a 5-year-old boy now feared dead.

Metro Beat: County CYF caseworker jailed, suspended in shootout car

Metro Beat: County CYF caseworker jailed, suspended in shootout car

An Allegheny County Children, Youth and Families caseworker has been suspended without pay and jailed on drug and weapons charges after she was stopped driving a bullet-riddled vehicle Pittsburgh police believe was involved in a shootout.

Wednesday, February 12, 2014

Mother Retains Custody of Children Because There is Nowhere Else for Them to Go

Mother Retains Custody of Children Because There is Nowhere Else for Them to Go

A Maine mother charged with deliberately burning her 6-year-old son’s hand on a wood stove as punishment has retained custody of all three of her children.  Authorities say this is because there’s nowhere else for the children to go.

Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Single mother ordered to pay legal and paternity test costs to ex-boyfriend she named as father of her child

Single mother ordered to pay legal and paternity test costs to ex-boyfriend she named as father of her child

A QUEENSLAND single mother has been ordered to pay legal and paternity test costs to an ex-boyfriend she incorrectly named as the father of her child on a birth certificate.

Review of child deaths in Texas uncovers lapses, lies at Child Protective Services

Review of child deaths in Texas uncovers lapses, lies at Child Protective Services

Mistakes by Child Protective Services caseworkers over the past year contributed to the deaths of two children and the serious injury of another, while employees put numerous children at risk by failing to visit them and then lying about it, state records show.

Russian child protective services to seek diplomatic counsel on US orphan return

Russian child protective services to seek diplomatic counsel on US orphan return

The Pskov Child Protective Services will consult Russia's Ministry of Education and Science and Ministry of Foreign Affairs for advice on seeking the repatriation to Russia of orphan Kirill Kuzmin, whose older brother Maxim died in the US while under the care of his adoptive parents last year, according to Valentina Chernova, head of the regional social security department's guardianship division.

DCF visited teen just days before shooting

DCF visited teen just days before shooting

Social workers at the Department of Children and Families sought custody of a Mattapan teen now charged in the shooting death of his 9-year-old brother and visited the family’s home just eight days before tragedy struck, the state’s top health and human services chief disclosed yesterday in defending the embattled agency’s handling of the case.

Man goes to prison for threatening judge

Man goes to prison for threatening judge

A Manchester man will spend seven to 14 years in prison for threatening to kill a Derry family court judge.

Minnesota faces penalties for failed placements of foster children

Minnesota faces penalties for failed placements of foster children

Inside the mice-infested house where Thomas Stone spent much of his childhood, there was a closet just big enough to hold a small boy and his pet cat. On many nights, Stone would crawl there to hide from the sounds of his father’s violent rampages.

Administration for Children's Services failing to prevent tragedies despite city efforts to make changes

Administration for Children's Services failing to prevent tragedies despite city efforts to make changes

Mayors from Ed Koch to Bill de Blasio have found themselves confronted by the deaths of innocent children like Lisa Steinberg and Myls Dobson, but the reforming the city's child protection unit does little good.

The women brainwashed by therapists to believe their parents abused them

The women brainwashed by therapists to believe their parents abused them

The 41-year-old psychology graduate recounted in disturbing detail the night her mother murdered Carol’s older sister, Joan-Julie, before setting fire to the house to hide the evidence.

It’s Shockingly Easy to Create False Memories

It’s Shockingly Easy to Create False Memories

Is it possible to create false memories? Many may wonder this, partly because of the accusations of abuse made by Dylan Farrow against Woody Allen. Of course, I cannot speak to the truth of these accusations. What I can do, however, is provide some background on how and why researchers like me give people memories for events that never happened. And in truth, it is a shockingly easy thing to do.

Mother of slain Boston boy sought help from DCF

Mother of slain Boston boy sought help from DCF

The mother of a Boston teen facing charges in his younger brother's death sought help from the Department of Children and Families.

DCF office in Leominster may have failed two other children in addition to Jeremiah Oliver

DCF office in Leominster may have failed two other children in addition to Jeremiah Oliver

Jeremiah Oliver, who was missing for months before the state noticed, is not the only child the Department of Children and Families' North Central office may have recently failed, according to social workers in that office.

Social workers swoop on couple who refused to let son have HIV test because they feared he might have infected a nurse

Social workers swoop on couple who refused to let son have HIV test because they feared he might have infected a nurse

A couple were reported to social services for refusing to let hospital staff test their nine-week-old baby for HIV.

Lawsuit targets NM child welfare agency

Lawsuit targets NM child welfare agency

New Mexico's embattled child welfare agency is the target of a federal lawsuit alleging civil rights violations.

DCF Placing More Children In Foster Care Following Scrutiny and Many More Links

Massachusetts has been the media circus kings for over a month now.

DCF Placing More Children In Foster Care Following Scrutiny

The controversy plaguing the state child protection agency seems to be unfolding everyday. In response, DCF has made changes to several of its policies. And as WGBH News reporter Gail Huff tells us, there’s been a spike in the number of children removed from their homes and placed in foster care.

State officials downplay waivers granted to foster parents with criminal records

State officials downplay waivers granted to foster parents with criminal records

Massachusetts officials on Monday downplayed concerns that the state has approved hundreds of waivers for foster care parents with criminal records.

DHS wins judgment against mother but fight isn’t over, attorney says

DHS wins judgment against mother but fight isn’t over, attorney says

A Johnson County jury found in favor last week for the Iowa Department of Human Services in a lawsuit brought by a mother whose child was put into foster care based on a false abuse allegation made by the non-custodial father in 2009.

Department of Human Services moves to fire two employees in Oklahoma

Department of Human Services moves to fire two employees in Oklahoma

The Oklahoma Department of Human Services has initiated steps to terminate two employees after an internal investigation into the January 2013 death of Quinten Wood, a 15-year-old special-needs youth who died after state officials allegedly failed to respond appropriately to complaints of neglect.

Saturday, February 08, 2014

Former foster children say publication ban can make youths in care feel invisible

Former foster children say publication ban can make youths in care feel invisible

Three young women who grew up in foster care told a roundtable Wednesday that a sweeping publication ban has the power to make youth in care feel invisible.

Foster carer who molested boys in his care is jailed for 10 years

Foster carer who molested boys in his care is jailed for 10 years

A FORMER youth worker and foster carer who sexually assaulted three teenage boys more than 20 years ago has been jailed for 10 years.

A dozen CPS workers caught falsifying records since 2010

A dozen CPS workers caught falsifying records since 2010

Each year, the Office of Inspector General investigates a handful of complaints related to Child Protective Services employees — complaints that have nothing to do with deaths.

Five Years After Boy’s Suicide, Findings Could Resurface

Five Years After Boy’s Suicide, Findings Could Resurface

The suicide of 7-year-old Gabriel Myers in foster care shocked the child-welfare system in 2009. It led to a series of recommendations about Florida’s use of psychotropic medications on foster kids and how to protect already-traumatized children from sexual abuse by other abused children.

FRC spokesman shocked by state law that allows criminals to foster children

FRC spokesman shocked by state law that allows criminals to foster children

A family policy expert warns that Massachusetts officials need to reconsider regulations that put foster children in danger.

Note: Yeah!  Foster Contractors should be perfect.

French judges foil social workers out to take mother’s baby

French judges foil social workers out to take mother’s baby

On November 9, I reported the story of yet another pregnant mother who had fled abroad with her partner – this time to France – to prevent her baby being seized by social workers because she had formerly been in an “abusive relationship”.

2014 02 Russia Today Forced Adoption Interview



Interview on Russia Today about problems with the Child Protection System.
Original is here:

http://rt.com/shows/going-underground...

Police: Girl, 5, taken from Detroit school by parent without legal custody found safe in Texas

Police: Girl, 5, taken from Detroit school by parent without legal custody found safe in Texas

Police say a 5-year-old girl who was taken from a Detroit school by a parent who didn't have legal custody has been found safe in Texas.

Bill would require removal of abused children

Bill would require removal of abused children

Legislation dubbed “Omaree’s Law” after a 9-year-old Albuquerque boy allegedly killed by his mother would require the Children, Youth and Families Department to take immediate custody of children who show certain signs of abuse.

Note: This is what we refer to as Knee Jerk Legislation.  It's the kind of bill that comes around in reaction to a major fuck up on the part of the child protective industry.  It's like saying, "one bad apple makes it more difficult for the whole bunch."

B.C. teen's suicide blamed on 'dysfunctional' child welfare system

B.C. teen's suicide blamed on 'dysfunctional' child welfare system

The tragic suicide of a 14-year-old girl on a B.C. First Nations reserve was the result of a failure of a "dysfunctional child welfare system," according the latest report by B.C.'s Representative for Children and Youth Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond.

Dickson couple loses custody of girl after apparent adoption overturned

Dickson couple loses custody of girl after apparent adoption overturned

A Dickson County couple is struggling with their separation from a 9-year-old girl they adopted after a Tennessee appeals court overturned the adoption and awarded custody to the biological father.

Abused foster children hit out after guilty mum uses court appearance to claim her innocence

Abused foster children hit out after guilty mum uses court appearance to claim her innocence

THE victims of evil foster mum Ruth Johnston were left disgusted yesterday after she used a court ­appearance to protest her innocence.

Orphaned by deportation

Orphaned by deportation

He remembers the moment so clearly, the last time he saw his mother on American soil.


DCF clears 557 convicts to live with foster kids in ‘13

DCF clears 557 convicts to live with foster kids in ‘13

The state’s embattled child welfare agency admitted there are at least 475 convicted criminals now living in foster homes that care for at-risk kids, according to stunning data for 2013 released to the Herald last night.

On Russian TV, US mom urges waiver to adoption ban

On Russian TV, US mom urges waiver to adoption ban

A Minnesota woman has gone on television in Russia with an emotional appeal for an exception to be made to that nation's year-old ban on adoptions by Americans. She and her husband adopted a boy from Russia in 2008 and refuse to give up long-standing efforts to also adopt their son's biological brother from a Russian orphanage.

Adoption records bill up again in Legislature

Adoption records bill up again in Legislature

A 20-year-old bill that would make it easier for adoptees over the age of 18 to get their original birth records is up again in the New York Legislature, where backers say it has more momentum than in the past.

Friday, February 07, 2014

552 DCF foster parents have prior criminal conviction

552 DCF foster parents have prior criminal conviction

Foster parents with prior criminal records were allowed to take children into their homes in 650 cases from 2013 to present under the policy at the state's embattled Department of Children and Families.

Woody Allen's adopted son defends filmmaker against child-abuse claim

Woody Allen's adopted son defends filmmaker against child-abuse claim

Woody Allen's adopted son has defended him against accusations he molested his then-7-year-old adopted daughter in 1992. Moses Farrow told People magazine in an interview published Wednesday that Allen "of course" did not molest Moses' younger sister, Dylan Farrow.

Woody Allen's adopted son defends filmmaker against child-abuse claim

Woody Allen's adopted son defends filmmaker against child-abuse claim

Woody Allen's adopted son has defended him against accusations he molested his then-7-year-old adopted daughter in 1992. Moses Farrow told People magazine in an interview published Wednesday that Allen "of course" did not molest Moses' younger sister, Dylan Farrow.

UK hospitals must report genital mutilation

UK hospitals must report genital mutilation

British hospitals will be required for the first time to record patients who have been subjected to female genital mutilation, the government announced on Thursday.

Friday Throwdown: What will it take to fix the problems at DCF?

Friday Throwdown: What will it take to fix the problems at DCF?

DCF Commissioner Olga Roche met with lawmakers for about 90 minutes in a secret meeting yesterday and afterwards only said it was a "productive" meeting.

Adoptive mom says DCF retaliated for Herald tip

Adoptive mom says DCF retaliated for Herald tip

An adoptive mom who sounded the alarm in the Herald yesterday over four at-risk kids being pushed to visit their abusive birth parents has been put on the hot seat by the beleaguered Department of Children and Families for speaking out.

How Prosecutors in Florida Gained Incredible Power Over the Fate of Juveniles

How Prosecutors in Florida Gained Incredible Power Over the Fate of Juveniles

The headlines screamed across the world, branding Florida as a state of baby-faced murderers: “Sun ‘N’ Guns: Florida crime surge rocks Canadians”

Brewer signs off on added CPS fnding

Brewer signs off on added CPS fnding

Gov. Jan Brewer inked her approval Thursday to give an additional nearly $6.9 million immediately to the state's child welfare agency.

Couple say CPS told them to get divorce if they want kids back

Couple say CPS told them to get divorce if they want kids back

"Dad and Mom is the world to them when they see dad they're like where's mom when they see me they're like where is dad," said Shmarian Jackson said.

Latest Arizona abuse report update show more cases


A team assigned to review child abuse and neglect reports that weren't investigated by Arizona child welfare officials say more cases were identified.

UN Report Blasts Catholic Church for Systemic Child Abuse Coverups

UN Report Blasts Catholic Church for Systemic Child Abuse Coverups

On Wednesday, the UN's Committee on the Rights of the Child blasted the Vatican for being more concerned with avoiding scandal than addressing clergy child abuse and refusing to cooperate with law enforcement. The UN panel demanded the Catholic Church immediately remove clergy known or suspected of child molestation and report them to authorities. The Holy See defended itself following the publication of the report.

DHHS failed parents, children in daycare case

DHHS failed parents, children in daycare case

To be entrusted with the care of other people’s children is a great responsibility, and one that most caregivers take very seriously. Parents who must work and do not have the option of having a family member watch their child put a great deal of effort into finding the right place for their child to spend the day – with people they can trust.

Foster carer jailed for sexual abuse

Foster carer jailed for sexual abuse

A foster carer and youth worker has been jailed for 10 years for sexually abusing three boys during his WA career in what a judge described as a significant breach of trust of his victims and the community.

Thursday, February 06, 2014

Foster Care versus Modern Orphanages

Foster Care versus Modern Orphanages

Arguably, child welfare officials should understand that children need some stability in their lives, something that was once offered in orphanages and is not offered in foster care, says Richard McKenzie, the Walter B. Gerken Professor emeritus at the University of California, Irvine, and a senior fellow with the National Center for Policy Analysis.

Runaway Siblings Returned to Foster Home by Biological Family

Runaway Siblings Returned to Foster Home by Biological Family

“The three missing siblings from yesterday, they were brought in to the police department by biological family members,” Stockton Police Officer Joe Silva said.

Investigators said it was the 13-year-old boy, the oldest of the three, who was the “mastermind” and plotted their escape from the home. The youngest of the siblings is 3 years old.


DCF pushed visitation in alleged abuse case

DCF pushed visitation in alleged abuse case

The Worcester child welfare office spent years advocating that four at-risk foster children be allowed to visit their mother and father, even after documents obtained by the Herald show the agency’s own investigators found the parents had sexually and physically abused the kids in what an adoptive mother of one called a “house of horrors.”

Note: First of all, DCF finding anything does not make it true.  Second, perhaps it was in the child's best interest to see their parents.  This is why the opinions of foster parents should not matter.  Because when they fall in love with your kid, they will stop at nothing to see your rights terminated and you completely cut off.

Editorial: Deval Patrick defends DCF

Editorial: Deval Patrick defends DCF

Gov. Deval Patrick this week defended Department of Children and Families rules that allow individuals with criminal records to be considered as foster parents, rules detailed in a Herald report Tuesday. And believe it or not we’re with the governor — to a point.

Wednesday, February 05, 2014

Stony Plain foster boy died from methadone overdose

Stony Plain foster boy died from methadone overdose

A 13-year-old boy in provincial care overdosed on methadone during a sleepover at a friend’s house in 2010, a fatality inquiry report revealed Wednesday.

Judge's ruling against grandma puts toddler in foster care limbo

Judge's ruling against grandma puts toddler in foster care limbo

A Sedgwick County District Court judge's ruling in a fight over a 2-year-old girl has left the girl's future undecided.

Woody Allen Lawyer Says Dylan Farrow Is Mia’s ‘Pawn’

Woody Allen Lawyer Says Dylan Farrow Is Mia’s ‘Pawn’

An attorney for Woody Allen said Tuesday that Dylan Farrow was coached by her mother and Allen’s former girlfriend, Mia Farrow, to believe false memories of sexual abuse by Allen.

3 Stockton foster children are missing

3 Stockton foster children are missing

Stockton police are looking for two young brothers and their little sister who fled their foster home sometime between 9:30 Monday night and Tuesday morning.

Sperm donor’s attorney: Court using child support case to bolster traditional marriage

Sperm donor’s attorney: Court using child support case to bolster traditional marriage

A Kansas sperm donor who answered a lesbian couple’s Craiglist ad is appealing a judge’s decision that he is the legal father of the child and must pay child support.

Guess what

It Could Happen To You