Austin child advocate faces sex abuse charges
As a court-appointed child advocate, Billy Dan Carroll volunteered to help children and families deal with abuse and neglect cases. His job was to get to know them and help the courts guide the best path to recovery.
Austin police now say Carroll, 53, is a serial pedophile and have charged him with multiple counts of sexually abusing children and women and videotaping the acts. At least one of his alleged victims had connections to his advocacy work, police said Friday.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
CPS faces consequences of losing child-custody battle
CPS faces consequences of losing child-custody battle
Questions about Texas Child Protective Services (CPS) actions are coming into light a day after the Supreme Court ruled in favor of FLDS families.
Duane Betournay, Director Child and Family Services, said, "I'm sure they're looking at their system and their response to it, and they're going to re-evaluate what their response was."
Questions about Texas Child Protective Services (CPS) actions are coming into light a day after the Supreme Court ruled in favor of FLDS families.
Duane Betournay, Director Child and Family Services, said, "I'm sure they're looking at their system and their response to it, and they're going to re-evaluate what their response was."
Boy begged in school, but did anyone hear?
Boy begged in school, but did anyone hear?
The 11-year-old boy allegedly abused by his adoptive mother was so hungry he begged for food off classmates' cafeteria trays, but whether teachers or other school officials intervened to help him is not clear.
The 11-year-old boy allegedly abused by his adoptive mother was so hungry he begged for food off classmates' cafeteria trays, but whether teachers or other school officials intervened to help him is not clear.
Child-welfare staff may have records
Child-welfare staff may have records
About three per cent of Manitoba's child-welfare staff have criminal records, according to data gathered in 2000.
About three per cent of Manitoba's child-welfare staff have criminal records, according to data gathered in 2000.
Lawsuit threatened over teen foster care center
Lawsuit threatened over teen foster care center
Child advocates told Broward foster care administrators: Improve care for troubled foster teens -- or else.
Child advocates told Broward foster care administrators: Improve care for troubled foster teens -- or else.
Gov. Kaine signs foster care reforms
Gov. Kaine signs foster care reforms
Gov. Tim Kaine formally signed a series of bills Friday that is intended to reform Virginia's foster care system.
Gov. Tim Kaine formally signed a series of bills Friday that is intended to reform Virginia's foster care system.
The FLDS Children Seized in Texas are in Their Own Private Gitmo
The FLDS Children Seized in Texas are in Their Own Private Gitmo
Foster care is a toxic intervention, to be used sparingly. In the case of the Yearning for Zion ranch, Texas prescribed megadoses of foster care.
A little boy, maybe 3 years old, walks past row after row of cots arrayed in a sports coliseum in Texas, carrying a little pillow. "I need someone to rock me," he says. "I just want to be rocked, I want to find a rocking chair." Two adults, whose job is child protection, are following him. But they make no move to comfort him. They just follow him and write in their notebooks.
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Talks to return children to polygamist ranch break down
An agreement to reunite children removed from a West Texas polygamist ranch with their parents fell apart at the last minute on Friday, after a district judge and attorneys for the religious sect sparred over the details.
Foster care is a toxic intervention, to be used sparingly. In the case of the Yearning for Zion ranch, Texas prescribed megadoses of foster care.
A little boy, maybe 3 years old, walks past row after row of cots arrayed in a sports coliseum in Texas, carrying a little pillow. "I need someone to rock me," he says. "I just want to be rocked, I want to find a rocking chair." Two adults, whose job is child protection, are following him. But they make no move to comfort him. They just follow him and write in their notebooks.
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Talks to return children to polygamist ranch break down
An agreement to reunite children removed from a West Texas polygamist ranch with their parents fell apart at the last minute on Friday, after a district judge and attorneys for the religious sect sparred over the details.
Authorities launch investigation into possible abuse of 1-year-old foster child
Authorities launch investigation into possible abuse of 1-year-old foster child
Butler County Children Services is working with local law enforcement to investigate a report that a 1-year-old girl may have been abused in a Trenton foster home.
Butler County Children Services is working with local law enforcement to investigate a report that a 1-year-old girl may have been abused in a Trenton foster home.
Loganville Foster Mom Arrested for Abuse of Foster Kids
Loganville Foster Mom Arrested for Abuse of Foster Kids
Police said some children were starved for days at a time and their foster mother may be to blame. Fifty-six-year-old Shirley Allen of Loganville bonded out of jail Friday after being arrested for abusing her foster children.
Police said some children were starved for days at a time and their foster mother may be to blame. Fifty-six-year-old Shirley Allen of Loganville bonded out of jail Friday after being arrested for abusing her foster children.
The DAy They Stole You Away
I raised my baby sister for so long, then they placed her in foster care..her name is Faith and she just turned 2 in March. I still fight for her to this day.
a video, for my baby sister. She just turned 2 and we do miss her like crazy. Set to the song in my daughter's eyes, there are pictures and videos of her, pics of me, and my best friend/older sister.
Marcus Fiesel
Funeral for Marcus Fiesel Funeral held for boy murdered by foster mother Greber, Dave. Kentucky Post, May 5, 2007, pg. A4. Some who came to Marcus Fiesel's final send-off Friday found consolation in the fact that the 3-year-old who died such an ignominious death -- bound in a blanket and closed up in a closet for two days during a sweltering August weekend -- was at last getting a proper funeral. "That little boy got some respect for once in his life," said Paul Brownstead, foreman of the Clermont County, Ohio, jury that convicted Marcus' foster mother, Liz Carroll, of his murder, leading to a prison sentence of 54 years to life for her.Carroll's husband, David Carroll Jr., got 16 years to life after copping a plea. He was also convicted of burning the boy's body. Friday, all that remained of Marcus, 18 charred bone fragment enclosed in a casket no larger than a child's toy box, were buried in a cemetery here. Earlier in the day, his biological mother, Donna Trevino, wept as she greeted mourners at a funeral home where about 60 people paid their respects. Some carried flowers and stuffed animals, and many said they felt compelled to attend even though they didn't know the boy. "For me personally, this was the ultimate violation of civil rights," said Anita Scott Jones, president of the Middletown NAACP. But there was also consolation in the fact that the boy's death has prompted calls for sweeping reform of Ohio's foster care system. Among changes that have been proposed: adding staff and funding for the Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services to intensify its oversight of private foster agencies like the one that placed Marcus with the Carrolls; mandating annual criminal background checks of foster parents and adding drug testing to them; and developing a central database for criminal and personal background checks. Reformers also want a database of foster caregivers whose licenses have been revoked and requiring a five-year waiting period before they can apply for reinstatement. At the county level, Marcus' death provided the impetus to disband the Butler County Children Services Board and merge the agency with the county's Department of Job and Family Services. And the case cost board director Jann Heffner her job. The Children Services board has decided to oppose Butler County Commissioners' plan to disband it, which could occur as early as May 14 with a unanimous vote by commissioners. Contracts with private foster care agencies, such as Lifeway for Youth, which selected the home where Marcus died, were renegotiated for more frequent foster parent background checks. They now require state, federal and driving record checks every year, local criminal checks every six months, and notification within 24 hours of criminal activity. Instead of every three months, caseworkers began checking private foster homes inside and outside the county monthly starting in September.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Kids on attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder drugs
Kids on attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder drugs
CHILDREN as young as two are being prescribed strong stimulants to cope with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
CHILDREN as young as two are being prescribed strong stimulants to cope with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Shame of 11 babies dying in state care
Shame of 11 babies dying in state care
ELEVEN babies died while under state child protection last year, a report has found.
ELEVEN babies died while under state child protection last year, a report has found.
Bungling social services allowed Munchausen's mother to abuse her own children for years
Bungling social services allowed Munchausen's mother to abuse her own children for years
Bungling social workers seized two children from a mentally- ill mother but abandoned three others to be abused by her, it has emerged.
Bungling social workers seized two children from a mentally- ill mother but abandoned three others to be abused by her, it has emerged.
Ex-foster mom agrees not to contact Arnette children
Ex-foster mom agrees not to contact Arnette children
The woman who once acted as a foster parent to the children of a slain Sadorus woman has agreed to have no contact with them.
The woman who once acted as a foster parent to the children of a slain Sadorus woman has agreed to have no contact with them.
Social worker: Children in torture case 'appeared happy, healthy'
Social worker: Children in torture case 'appeared happy, healthy'
A social worker testified Thursday that the children of a man accused of starving, beating and keeping most of them imprisoned at his Aguanga home appeared happy, healthy and well cared for, if somewhat thin.
Note: Oops!
A social worker testified Thursday that the children of a man accused of starving, beating and keeping most of them imprisoned at his Aguanga home appeared happy, healthy and well cared for, if somewhat thin.
Note: Oops!
Questions linger in death of foster child
Questions linger in death of foster child
More than a month has passed since 7-week-old Destiny Linden died after being found unconscious in an adult bed in an Indianapolis foster home, and her family is still waiting for answers from the state Department of Child Services.
More than a month has passed since 7-week-old Destiny Linden died after being found unconscious in an adult bed in an Indianapolis foster home, and her family is still waiting for answers from the state Department of Child Services.
Police make third arrest in child abuse investigation in Channel island of Jersey
Police make third arrest in child abuse investigation in Channel island of Jersey
Police on the Channel island of Jersey say they have made their third arrest in an investigation of alleged child abuse in the 1970s and 1980s.
Police say the 45-year-old suspect was detained in Britain and was in custody in Jersey on Friday.
Police on the Channel island of Jersey say they have made their third arrest in an investigation of alleged child abuse in the 1970s and 1980s.
Police say the 45-year-old suspect was detained in Britain and was in custody in Jersey on Friday.
FLDS ruling upheld by Texas Supreme Court
FLDS ruling upheld by Texas Supreme Court
The Texas Supreme Court on Thursday said the state had no right to take more than 400 children from a polygamist compound last month, opening the door for most of the youths to be reunited with their parents.
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Polygamists Gain Custody of Children
The Texas Supreme Court on Thursday said the state had no right to take more than 400 children from a polygamist compound last month, opening the door for most of the youths to be reunited with their parents.
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Polygamists Gain Custody of Children
Gov't may compensate foster-home victims
Gov't may compensate foster-home victims
A Manitoba cabinet minister says the province may consider a compensation package, a formal apology and a public inquiry for survivors of a "shameful" foster home system the Manitoba government ran up until the 1980s.
A Manitoba cabinet minister says the province may consider a compensation package, a formal apology and a public inquiry for survivors of a "shameful" foster home system the Manitoba government ran up until the 1980s.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Foster Father Pleads Guilty To Molesting Children
Foster Father Pleads Guilty To Molesting Children
A former Lincoln Heights foster father has pleaded guilty to molesting children.
A former Lincoln Heights foster father has pleaded guilty to molesting children.
Talks stall in suit against Mich. foster care system
Talks stall in suit against Mich. foster care system
Settlement talks have broken down again in a federal class-action lawsuit against Michigan's foster care system.
Settlement talks have broken down again in a federal class-action lawsuit against Michigan's foster care system.
Sect Mothers Say Separation Endangers Children
Sect Mothers Say Separation Endangers Children
Ruth Edna Fischer was first allowed to see her 2-year-old daughter, from whom she had been separated after the raid on their polygamist ranch in Texas, at the child’s hospital room. The child had been taken there because of severe dehydration and malnutrition, Ms. Fischer said.
“Hannah looked like a little orphan sitting on the couch,” Ms. Fischer said. “Her hair was stringy and she was in a diaper, a pair of dirty socks and a hospital gown.”
Ruth Edna Fischer was first allowed to see her 2-year-old daughter, from whom she had been separated after the raid on their polygamist ranch in Texas, at the child’s hospital room. The child had been taken there because of severe dehydration and malnutrition, Ms. Fischer said.
“Hannah looked like a little orphan sitting on the couch,” Ms. Fischer said. “Her hair was stringy and she was in a diaper, a pair of dirty socks and a hospital gown.”
Jersey investigation team rejects 'sensationalism' claims
Jersey investigation team rejects 'sensationalism' claims
Jersey police officers carrying out the investigation into historic child abuse on the island have rejected claims they "sensationalised" the way they reported finding human remains.
Jersey police officers carrying out the investigation into historic child abuse on the island have rejected claims they "sensationalised" the way they reported finding human remains.
DCSF official: Children's social workers give degree poor marks
DCSF official: Children's social workers give degree poor marks
The Department for Children, Schools and Families has found that only one-third of newly qualified children's social workers believe their degree courses prepared them fully or largely for their job.
The Department for Children, Schools and Families has found that only one-third of newly qualified children's social workers believe their degree courses prepared them fully or largely for their job.
Lawmaker says CPS officials guilty of ‘ruthless behavior’
Lawmaker says CPS officials guilty of ‘ruthless behavior’
In August, the Free the Children Coalition is planning a national rally in D.C. to expose what it says is judicial fraud in the family court system and the violation of families’ rights by child protective agencies nationwide.
In August, the Free the Children Coalition is planning a national rally in D.C. to expose what it says is judicial fraud in the family court system and the violation of families’ rights by child protective agencies nationwide.
Bureaucrats running down the clock against parents
Bureaucrats running down the clock against parents
When Congress passed the 1997 Adoption and Safe Families Act, it allowed states to terminate parental rights after a child has been in foster care longer than 15 months.
But the law, intended to keep children from truly abusive homes from languishing in foster care for years, had unintended consequences. States receive a $4,000 cash bonus from the federal government for each child adopted, multiplied by the percentage that the state exceeds its adoption goal.
When Congress passed the 1997 Adoption and Safe Families Act, it allowed states to terminate parental rights after a child has been in foster care longer than 15 months.
But the law, intended to keep children from truly abusive homes from languishing in foster care for years, had unintended consequences. States receive a $4,000 cash bonus from the federal government for each child adopted, multiplied by the percentage that the state exceeds its adoption goal.
Is it child protection or legal kidnapping?
Is it child protection or legal kidnapping?
Children being taken from their homes, based on tips from anonymous telephone callers alleging abuse or neglect, has been cast in a harsh spotlight in the Texas polygamy case, and there’s growing evidence that more than a few of the 510,000 children placed in foster care annually don’t belong there.
Children being taken from their homes, based on tips from anonymous telephone callers alleging abuse or neglect, has been cast in a harsh spotlight in the Texas polygamy case, and there’s growing evidence that more than a few of the 510,000 children placed in foster care annually don’t belong there.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Foster Parent Gets 20 Years For Sex Abuse
Foster Parent Gets 20 Years For Sex Abuse
A man accused of sexually abusing eight children was sentenced to 20 years in prison today.
A man accused of sexually abusing eight children was sentenced to 20 years in prison today.
Indigenous babies in 'home shuffle'
Indigenous babies in 'home shuffle'
A ONE-YEAR-OLD Aboriginal girl had been shunted between 16 different homes under state care in Western Australia, depriving her of any chance to bond.
A four-year-old racked up 17 different homes and was still in temporary care.
In a damning indictment of the state's child protection system, the Carpenter Government yesterday admitted that almost a third of the 501 Aboriginal babies and toddlers in state care had been moved at least four times in their short lives, and often much more frequently.
A ONE-YEAR-OLD Aboriginal girl had been shunted between 16 different homes under state care in Western Australia, depriving her of any chance to bond.
A four-year-old racked up 17 different homes and was still in temporary care.
In a damning indictment of the state's child protection system, the Carpenter Government yesterday admitted that almost a third of the 501 Aboriginal babies and toddlers in state care had been moved at least four times in their short lives, and often much more frequently.
Babystealer Wanted
Qualified Social Worker - Child Protection
Solihull are looking for a Qualified Social Worker to join their their friendly and lively Child Protection team.
Note: friendly and lively? What a crock!
Solihull are looking for a Qualified Social Worker to join their their friendly and lively Child Protection team.
Note: friendly and lively? What a crock!
A Short Life Ends on Rikers Island, in a Place Where Suicide Isn't Supposed to Happen
A Short Life Ends on Rikers Island, in a Place Where Suicide Isn't Supposed to Happen
He was just 17 years old, charged with murder, accused of suffocating his infant daughter. He was a product of the city's foster-care system, his mother having abandoned him at birth. He had no money, little or no ties to family, and few friends. His only solid relationship—with his girlfriend, the mother of the dead infant—was collapsing.
He was just 17 years old, charged with murder, accused of suffocating his infant daughter. He was a product of the city's foster-care system, his mother having abandoned him at birth. He had no money, little or no ties to family, and few friends. His only solid relationship—with his girlfriend, the mother of the dead infant—was collapsing.
Witness testifies girl made false abuse accusations
Witness testifies girl made false abuse accusations
A former foster mother of a 14-year-old at the center of a sex-trafficking trial said the girl once accused her and her husband of sexually and physically abusing the girl and the other children in the home.
A former foster mother of a 14-year-old at the center of a sex-trafficking trial said the girl once accused her and her husband of sexually and physically abusing the girl and the other children in the home.
Man gets 25 years for sexual attack
Man gets 25 years for sexual attack
In November, Chapman sexually attacked the woman, who has cerebral palsy and lived in his mother's state-licensed adult foster home. Chapman's mom, Marsha Chapman, called 9-1-1 after she found blood on the woman's sheets and the client refused to eat or drink. She was also running a temperature.
Note: Foster care isn't even safe for adults? Wow.
In November, Chapman sexually attacked the woman, who has cerebral palsy and lived in his mother's state-licensed adult foster home. Chapman's mom, Marsha Chapman, called 9-1-1 after she found blood on the woman's sheets and the client refused to eat or drink. She was also running a temperature.
Note: Foster care isn't even safe for adults? Wow.
Mother sues DCF over boy's death
Mother sues DCF over boy's death
A year after Broward's medical examiner determined 'blunt force head injuries' caused a 7-year-old boy's death, his mother has filed suit, blaming state child welfare agencies for not investigating complaints of abuse.
A year after Broward's medical examiner determined 'blunt force head injuries' caused a 7-year-old boy's death, his mother has filed suit, blaming state child welfare agencies for not investigating complaints of abuse.
A Child Voluteer Is Charged with Sexually Abusing a Young Girl
A Child Voluteer Is Charged with Sexually Abusing a Young Girl
53-year-old Billy Dan Carroll is accused of sexually assaulting an eight-year-old girl he met through his volunteer work with "CASA", which stands for Court-Appointed Special Advocates. The group helps kids who are placed in foster care by CPS because of abuse or neglect. Executive Director Laura Wolf says they were dismayed to learn about the accusations against Carroll.
53-year-old Billy Dan Carroll is accused of sexually assaulting an eight-year-old girl he met through his volunteer work with "CASA", which stands for Court-Appointed Special Advocates. The group helps kids who are placed in foster care by CPS because of abuse or neglect. Executive Director Laura Wolf says they were dismayed to learn about the accusations against Carroll.
Loganville woman charged in abuse case
Loganville woman charged in abuse case
A Loganville woman was arrested May 20 and charged with allegedly abusing her three adoptive children.
A Loganville woman was arrested May 20 and charged with allegedly abusing her three adoptive children.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Parents jailed after children are taken from foster home
Parents jailed after children are taken from foster home
An Alvin couple who sparked an Amber Alert last week were in the Galveston County Jail on Wednesday, accused of abducting their four children from a foster home in defiance of a court order.
An Alvin couple who sparked an Amber Alert last week were in the Galveston County Jail on Wednesday, accused of abducting their four children from a foster home in defiance of a court order.
CPS employees stall Nassau probe into drowning deaths
CPS employees stall Nassau probe into drowning deaths
A probe into Nassau County's handling of neglect cases against a New Cassel mother charged with drowning her three children in February has been delayed more than two months by uncooperative Child Protective Services employees, the county's top investigator said.
One CPS worker declined to be interviewed and then, after being subpoenaed by Investigations Commissioner Bonnie Garone, exercised his Fifth Amendment right to not incriminate himself, Garone said.
Note: So the 5th Amendment is ok for workers, but not the 4th for parents?
A probe into Nassau County's handling of neglect cases against a New Cassel mother charged with drowning her three children in February has been delayed more than two months by uncooperative Child Protective Services employees, the county's top investigator said.
One CPS worker declined to be interviewed and then, after being subpoenaed by Investigations Commissioner Bonnie Garone, exercised his Fifth Amendment right to not incriminate himself, Garone said.
Note: So the 5th Amendment is ok for workers, but not the 4th for parents?
John Hemming: Time to probe failings of child protection
John Hemming: Time to probe failings of child protection
The case of Khrya Ishaq raises a number of questions.
It would be wrong, however, merely to have an inquiry into this case in isolation.
The case of Khrya Ishaq raises a number of questions.
It would be wrong, however, merely to have an inquiry into this case in isolation.
Suspected DUI Social Worker Loses Job
Suspected DUI Social Worker Loses Job
A social worker suspected of being under the influence of drugs when he drove a child from Greenup County to Knott County has been let go from his job.
A social worker suspected of being under the influence of drugs when he drove a child from Greenup County to Knott County has been let go from his job.
Ex-foster kids ease stress for those now in system
Ex-foster kids ease stress for those now in system
When Tovar was in junior high, it dawned on her that she wasn't going to be getting a family to call her own. And she was right. She never did.
When Tovar was in junior high, it dawned on her that she wasn't going to be getting a family to call her own. And she was right. She never did.
Study Finds Rampant Child Abuse by Aid Workers, Peacekeepers
Study Finds Rampant Child Abuse by Aid Workers, Peacekeepers
A new report by Save the Children U.K. accuses some aid workers and peacekeepers of sexually exploiting children living in countries affected by conflict and natural disaster. As Tendai Maphosa reports from London, the report says the general silence surrounding the abuse is also shocking.
A new report by Save the Children U.K. accuses some aid workers and peacekeepers of sexually exploiting children living in countries affected by conflict and natural disaster. As Tendai Maphosa reports from London, the report says the general silence surrounding the abuse is also shocking.
Top cop in Jersey child abuse inquiry slams critics
Top cop in Jersey child abuse inquiry slams critics
The Northern Ireland police officer at the head of the investigation into horrific child abuse and possible murder in Jersey has furiously warned his critics that he will not let them damage the highly sensitive inquiry.
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Another tooth found in Jersey child abuse probe
Detectives investigating allegations of abuse at a former Jersey children’s home have unearthed more bone fragments and another child’s tooth, police on the island said today.
The Northern Ireland police officer at the head of the investigation into horrific child abuse and possible murder in Jersey has furiously warned his critics that he will not let them damage the highly sensitive inquiry.
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Another tooth found in Jersey child abuse probe
Detectives investigating allegations of abuse at a former Jersey children’s home have unearthed more bone fragments and another child’s tooth, police on the island said today.
Ahearn: DSS makes a federal case of an orphan's house
Ahearn: DSS makes a federal case of an orphan's house
When foster kids hit the magic age of 18 and typically leave the government-issue nest of the system to fly solo in an adult world, Guilford County wants to help them.
Note: I'm surprised that they didn't try to seize and sell off the house.
When foster kids hit the magic age of 18 and typically leave the government-issue nest of the system to fly solo in an adult world, Guilford County wants to help them.
Note: I'm surprised that they didn't try to seize and sell off the house.
Monday, May 26, 2008
Jonathan Kay on how child-services are failing native children: Flipping racism on its head
Jonathan Kay on how child-services are failing native children: Flipping racism on its head
Last month, I wrote about Gage Guimond, a two-year-old Winnipeg child abandoned by his mother before his first birthday. As I noted, child services found a safe foster family for Gage. But there was a problem — a racial problem: The foster family was Métis, while Gage’s mother was a member of the Sagkeeng First Nation. Like virtually all aboriginal-run child-services outfits, this one had a mandate to place children in homes that are “culturally” — which is to say, racially — “appropriate.”
Last month, I wrote about Gage Guimond, a two-year-old Winnipeg child abandoned by his mother before his first birthday. As I noted, child services found a safe foster family for Gage. But there was a problem — a racial problem: The foster family was Métis, while Gage’s mother was a member of the Sagkeeng First Nation. Like virtually all aboriginal-run child-services outfits, this one had a mandate to place children in homes that are “culturally” — which is to say, racially — “appropriate.”
Grandmother of Khyra Ishaq hits out at social services
Grandmother of Khyra Ishaq hits out at social services
"My grandchildren have been let down by the very people who are supposed to protect them and ensure they are safe. When they were taken away from school, why did no-one ask any questions? Why did social services not look in on my grandchildren?"
"My grandchildren have been let down by the very people who are supposed to protect them and ensure they are safe. When they were taken away from school, why did no-one ask any questions? Why did social services not look in on my grandchildren?"
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Lawyers cry foul in FLDS seizures
Lawyers cry foul in FLDS seizures
Many lawyers for children and parents in a Texas polygamist sect are boiling mad about the growing number of legal errors they claim the state has made in seizing and holding more than 460 children.
Many lawyers for children and parents in a Texas polygamist sect are boiling mad about the growing number of legal errors they claim the state has made in seizing and holding more than 460 children.
Mother striving to get custody
Mother striving to get custody
Christina Keschick had been beaten, abused, and tormented, and went to the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe's Behavioral Health and social services for help.
She ended up losing her entire family.
Christina Keschick had been beaten, abused, and tormented, and went to the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe's Behavioral Health and social services for help.
She ended up losing her entire family.
Baby offered on eBay now in state custody
Baby offered on eBay now in state custody
Anyone who trolls eBay with regularity has probably gotten used to seeing the odd object up for sale now and again. But the Saturday story of a German pair offering their 8-month-old for purchase on the site may end up topping more than a few creepiest-ever-on-eBay lists.
Anyone who trolls eBay with regularity has probably gotten used to seeing the odd object up for sale now and again. But the Saturday story of a German pair offering their 8-month-old for purchase on the site may end up topping more than a few creepiest-ever-on-eBay lists.
Saturday, May 24, 2008
DCF: Jeb Bush's Legacy - Greg Pound - Child Abuse
Greg and Melissa Pound have had their four children taken away by DCF for over two years because one child was bitten by a dog. Greg spent a month in the county jail for refusing to tell Judge Marion Fleming where is wife is living with their new baby (named Moses), as Judge Fleming and DCF want to take that child away too. Greg can only see one of his children for one hour a week, and they now have cavities and health problems. Greg's story was reported by the St Petersburg Times article: "Tampabay Missing mom may have feared losing son" - April 24th, 2006.
The DCF Investigator that handled Greg's case Megan Gallagher, has been arrested for falsifying cases of child abuse to get money from DCF - December 10, 2004.
Greg notes that the St. Pete Times reported that the Del La Cruz children were raped in foster homes run by DCF. Also, parents are required by State of Florida to teach sexual deviations to their children as part of their case plan. Many scandals are going on in DCF, but why are they lying about the parents to take away their children? It is all about money from federal grants that DCF receives for abducting children from Christian homes.
N. CAROLINA TO PAY $23.8M TO RESOLVE OVERBILLING ALLEGATIONS FOR STATES FOSTER CARE & CHILDCARE SERVICES
N. CAROLINA TO PAY $23.8M TO RESOLVE OVERBILLING ALLEGATIONS FOR STATES FOSTER CARE & CHILDCARE SERVICES
North Carolina has agreed to pay the United States $23.8 million to resolve multiple allegations of False Claims Act violations, as well as administrative violations, concerning federal funding of the states foster care and childcare services, the Justice Department announced today.
North Carolina has agreed to pay the United States $23.8 million to resolve multiple allegations of False Claims Act violations, as well as administrative violations, concerning federal funding of the states foster care and childcare services, the Justice Department announced today.
State Investigates Foster Care Agency for Over billing
State Investigates Foster Care Agency for Over billing
The Nebraska State Patrol and the Department of Health and Human Services are investigating Sigma Treatment Foster Care in Omaha for alleged overbilling. A spokesperson for HHS tells Action 3 News Sigma has a contract with the state to provide counseling and family support services to ninety children currently in state foster care. A search warrant was issued for records related to bills submitted to the state. The office was searched Friday morning by state and federal investigators.
The Nebraska State Patrol and the Department of Health and Human Services are investigating Sigma Treatment Foster Care in Omaha for alleged overbilling. A spokesperson for HHS tells Action 3 News Sigma has a contract with the state to provide counseling and family support services to ninety children currently in state foster care. A search warrant was issued for records related to bills submitted to the state. The office was searched Friday morning by state and federal investigators.
Family of Molestation Suspect Speaks Out
Family of Molestation Suspect Speaks Out
In a KSWT News 13 exclusive report, the family of a man accused of molesting his foster children speaks out. Jeff Rowell appeared in court facing charges of molestation and sexual abuse. Yuma County Sheriff's deputies say the victims are Rowell's three young foster children ranging in age from four to nine. Investigators say Rowell's wife made the report earlier this week. After the hearing, Rowell's brother spoke with KSWT about his brother's arrest.
In a KSWT News 13 exclusive report, the family of a man accused of molesting his foster children speaks out. Jeff Rowell appeared in court facing charges of molestation and sexual abuse. Yuma County Sheriff's deputies say the victims are Rowell's three young foster children ranging in age from four to nine. Investigators say Rowell's wife made the report earlier this week. After the hearing, Rowell's brother spoke with KSWT about his brother's arrest.
Biological Mother Of Child Killed By Painkillers Sues City
Biological Mother Of Child Killed By Painkillers Sues City
The biological mother of a six-year-old Manhattan girl who died while in foster care filed a $50 million lawsuit against the city Friday.
Michelle Gochenaur alleged that her child's foster mother used a powerful narcotic anti-pain patch on the little girl and caused an overdose.
The biological mother of a six-year-old Manhattan girl who died while in foster care filed a $50 million lawsuit against the city Friday.
Michelle Gochenaur alleged that her child's foster mother used a powerful narcotic anti-pain patch on the little girl and caused an overdose.
The removal of children from families can't be handled by call centres
The removal of children from families can't be handled by call centres
Vulnerable families targeted by the state need lawyers, not telephone advice lines, says Alistair MacDonald
Vulnerable families targeted by the state need lawyers, not telephone advice lines, says Alistair MacDonald
CPS attorneys grill FLDS couple in custody hearing
CPS attorneys grill FLDS couple in custody hearing
Lawyers for Texas Child Protective Services dropped several bombshells in court today as they try to make their case for why the state should take custody of a 1-week-old baby born to a woman who was once declared a minor.
Lawyers for Texas Child Protective Services dropped several bombshells in court today as they try to make their case for why the state should take custody of a 1-week-old baby born to a woman who was once declared a minor.
St. Joachim couple seek transparency from Children's Aid
St. Joachim couple seek transparency from Children's Aid
Five years after a heartbroken St. Joachim couple returned a baby girl to the local Children's Aid Society -- when a potential adoption fell through -- the prospective parents are still fighting to find out what went wrong.
Five years after a heartbroken St. Joachim couple returned a baby girl to the local Children's Aid Society -- when a potential adoption fell through -- the prospective parents are still fighting to find out what went wrong.
Friday, May 23, 2008
CPS agrees to reunite 12 FLDS children with parents for now
CPS agrees to reunite 12 FLDS children with parents for now
State child welfare authorities have agreed to reunite 12 children from a west Texas polygamist sect with their parents until the state Supreme Court rules on their custody case.
State child welfare authorities have agreed to reunite 12 children from a west Texas polygamist sect with their parents until the state Supreme Court rules on their custody case.
Regarding FLDS: The Biggest Screw-up in CPS History?
Would the appeals court have issued the same order, telling CPS that they had no right to take all of those kids, without all the media attention?
If it was all kept secret like your typical CPS/Foster Care case those families wouldn't have a chance.
The workers would eat them alive.
This is what I mean. Media attention backs them into a corner and forces them to do the right thing in front of the masses who watch too much television. They know they're being watched and need to maintain public support for the Child Protection Industry.
This is all a big public relations campaign.
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One comment on this.
I agree, but I also think that the CPS in TX thought that WE the public would be easily swayed by the "different" nature of the FLDS. They saw it as a means of "securing" (ha, ha, don't ya like the use of that word in relation to CPS!) many adoptable children as well as public sympathy money....they under-estimated that the general public can sometimes be smart enough not to buy thier bs!
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I would really be interested on thoughts about this.
If it was all kept secret like your typical CPS/Foster Care case those families wouldn't have a chance.
The workers would eat them alive.
This is what I mean. Media attention backs them into a corner and forces them to do the right thing in front of the masses who watch too much television. They know they're being watched and need to maintain public support for the Child Protection Industry.
This is all a big public relations campaign.
--------
One comment on this.
I agree, but I also think that the CPS in TX thought that WE the public would be easily swayed by the "different" nature of the FLDS. They saw it as a means of "securing" (ha, ha, don't ya like the use of that word in relation to CPS!) many adoptable children as well as public sympathy money....they under-estimated that the general public can sometimes be smart enough not to buy thier bs!
---------
I would really be interested on thoughts about this.
Mom who caged teen son gets 20 years behind bars
Mom who caged teen son gets 20 years behind bars
A mother was sentenced to 20 years in prison Thursday for keeping her 17-year-old adopted son caged in her home.
A mother was sentenced to 20 years in prison Thursday for keeping her 17-year-old adopted son caged in her home.
Regarding The FLDS Decision
I honestly believe that if not for the media attention, this decision would be radically different. Whenever Child Protective Services gets media spotlight on any of their cases, they are suddenly forced to do the right thing, as it is the only time they are subjected to any checks and balances.
Imagine that.
LK
Imagine that.
LK
Too Poor to Parent?
Too Poor to Parent?
Black children are the most overrepresented demographic in foster care nationwide. According to the U.S. Government Accounting Office (GAO), blacks make up 34 percent of the foster-care population, but only 15 percent of the general child population. In 2004, black children were twice as likely to enter foster care as white children. Even among other minority groups, black mothers are more likely to lose their children to the state than Hispanics or Asians -- groups that are slightly underrepresented in foster care.
The reason for this disparity? Study after study reviewed by Stanford University law professor Dorothy Roberts in her book Shattered Bonds: The Color of Child Welfare (Basic Books/Perseus, 2002) concludes that poverty is the leading cause of children landing in foster care. One study, for example, showed that poor families are up to 22 times more likely to be involved in the child-welfare system than wealthier families. And nationwide, blacks are four times more likely than other groups to live in poverty.
Black children are the most overrepresented demographic in foster care nationwide. According to the U.S. Government Accounting Office (GAO), blacks make up 34 percent of the foster-care population, but only 15 percent of the general child population. In 2004, black children were twice as likely to enter foster care as white children. Even among other minority groups, black mothers are more likely to lose their children to the state than Hispanics or Asians -- groups that are slightly underrepresented in foster care.
The reason for this disparity? Study after study reviewed by Stanford University law professor Dorothy Roberts in her book Shattered Bonds: The Color of Child Welfare (Basic Books/Perseus, 2002) concludes that poverty is the leading cause of children landing in foster care. One study, for example, showed that poor families are up to 22 times more likely to be involved in the child-welfare system than wealthier families. And nationwide, blacks are four times more likely than other groups to live in poverty.
Government can inflict abuse also
Government can inflict abuse also
Ellen Goodman's "Destroying village" column in the Advertiser, concerning the Eldorado religious sect, was evidently another attempt to justify mass governmental intervention in the lives of citizens.
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Who's Kids Are They Anyway?
The mass abduction of hundreds of children who lived at the "Yearning for Zion" ranch in Eldorado, Texas was just the beginning of predictably disgraceful behavior by the state's Child Protective Services agency. CPS is an agency that frequently runs amok in many states, an out-of-control organization that regularly tramples on the rights of adults accused of abusing children. The horror stories of parents humiliated by the storm trooper tactics of this bunch of state bureaucrats are lengthy.
Note: Really?
Ellen Goodman's "Destroying village" column in the Advertiser, concerning the Eldorado religious sect, was evidently another attempt to justify mass governmental intervention in the lives of citizens.
----
Who's Kids Are They Anyway?
The mass abduction of hundreds of children who lived at the "Yearning for Zion" ranch in Eldorado, Texas was just the beginning of predictably disgraceful behavior by the state's Child Protective Services agency. CPS is an agency that frequently runs amok in many states, an out-of-control organization that regularly tramples on the rights of adults accused of abusing children. The horror stories of parents humiliated by the storm trooper tactics of this bunch of state bureaucrats are lengthy.
Note: Really?
Child welfare hits rock bottom
Child welfare hits rock bottom
Just how badly can Manitoba's fractured child welfare system fail a child in care?
Just how badly can Manitoba's fractured child welfare system fail a child in care?
Two child welfare workers faked visits to kids, DCF says
Two child welfare workers faked visits to kids, DCF says
Two state child welfare workers skirted their duties by falsifying reports to make it appear they visited children in the state's care, according to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
Andrew Joseph, 36, of Riverview and Robert Matthew Vilardebo, 34, of Brandon both face criminal charges of falsifying records, jail records show.
Two state child welfare workers skirted their duties by falsifying reports to make it appear they visited children in the state's care, according to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
Andrew Joseph, 36, of Riverview and Robert Matthew Vilardebo, 34, of Brandon both face criminal charges of falsifying records, jail records show.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Jersey inquiry:'A child lies buried... I'm not going to walk away'
Jersey inquiry:'A child lies buried... I'm not going to walk away'
The policeman at the centre of the Jersey inquiry tells Gordon Rayner he will not be cowed by threats
Bent cops. Hostile politicians. Buried bodies. And at the centre of it, a maverick lawman who has received death threats for daring to uncover dark secrets from the past.
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British police make 'homicide' link in Jersey child abuse scandal
London - British police investigating a long-running suspected child abuse scandal in a care home on the Channel island of Jersey said for the first time Wednesday that they believed human remains found there could 'suggest homicide.'
The policeman at the centre of the Jersey inquiry tells Gordon Rayner he will not be cowed by threats
Bent cops. Hostile politicians. Buried bodies. And at the centre of it, a maverick lawman who has received death threats for daring to uncover dark secrets from the past.
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British police make 'homicide' link in Jersey child abuse scandal
London - British police investigating a long-running suspected child abuse scandal in a care home on the Channel island of Jersey said for the first time Wednesday that they believed human remains found there could 'suggest homicide.'
Court: Texas had no right to take polygamists' children
Court: Texas had no right to take polygamists' children
The state of Texas should not have removed children from a polygamist sect's ranch because it didn't prove that they were in "imminent danger," an appeals court ruled Thursday.
In the ruling, a three-judge panel did not order that the children be returned to their families on the Yearning for Zion Ranch in Eldorado, Texas.
Instead, the judges gave the lower court 10 days to vacate an order placing the children in state custody.
Note: Good for them! Now with the biggest screw-up in CPS history behind us, maybe this is the time to start a National Bitch About CPS Campaign.
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Texas had no right to take polygamist sect kids: court
Court: Texas Had No Right to Seize Children at Polygamist Ranch
Texas Court Rules Sect Children Were Improperly Seized
Texas court rules against seizure of polygamist sect’s children
The state of Texas should not have removed children from a polygamist sect's ranch because it didn't prove that they were in "imminent danger," an appeals court ruled Thursday.
In the ruling, a three-judge panel did not order that the children be returned to their families on the Yearning for Zion Ranch in Eldorado, Texas.
Instead, the judges gave the lower court 10 days to vacate an order placing the children in state custody.
Note: Good for them! Now with the biggest screw-up in CPS history behind us, maybe this is the time to start a National Bitch About CPS Campaign.
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Texas had no right to take polygamist sect kids: court
Court: Texas Had No Right to Seize Children at Polygamist Ranch
Texas Court Rules Sect Children Were Improperly Seized
Texas court rules against seizure of polygamist sect’s children
Riverview Man Arrested, Charged With Falsifying DCF Records
Riverview Man Arrested, Charged With Falsifying DCF Records
A Hillsborough Kids Inc. worker was arrested this morning and charged with 33 counts of falsifying records, according to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
Andrew Joseph, 36, of Riverview, claimed he conducted face-to-face interviews for Hillsborough Kids – a contractor for the state Department of Children & Families – with children and foster parents, FDLE spokeswoman Trina Reddick said.
A Hillsborough Kids Inc. worker was arrested this morning and charged with 33 counts of falsifying records, according to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
Andrew Joseph, 36, of Riverview, claimed he conducted face-to-face interviews for Hillsborough Kids – a contractor for the state Department of Children & Families – with children and foster parents, FDLE spokeswoman Trina Reddick said.
7Th Circuit Court Rules That A Social Worker Violated The 4th Amendment By Strip Searching Children
7Th Circuit Court Rules That A Social Worker Violated The 4th Amendment By Strip Searching Children
The gist of it is that a social worker who was investigating a suspected case of children being spanked by their parents entered a private school and ordered two children to partially disrobe to inspect them for signs of abuse:
Two children who attended a private Christian school in Wisconsin were illegally strip-searched and had their constitutional rights violated by a state social worker, the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals unanimously ruled Monday
The gist of it is that a social worker who was investigating a suspected case of children being spanked by their parents entered a private school and ordered two children to partially disrobe to inspect them for signs of abuse:
Two children who attended a private Christian school in Wisconsin were illegally strip-searched and had their constitutional rights violated by a state social worker, the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals unanimously ruled Monday
eBay Scammer on Judge Judy
Note: This is not at all off the mark. Judge Judy threatens this eBay scammer with Child Protective Services.
Adoption Agency Under Investigation Again
Adoption Agency Under Investigation Again
They sold everything to have a family of their own. They got rid of their motorcycle and even their BMW to adopt a child. But they say they have nothing to show for it.
First coast news first started looking into Tedi Bear Adoptions in 2003. As part of a state action, the agency surrendered their license in 2003. Then in 2005, The state sent them a demand to stop operating without a license.
They sold everything to have a family of their own. They got rid of their motorcycle and even their BMW to adopt a child. But they say they have nothing to show for it.
First coast news first started looking into Tedi Bear Adoptions in 2003. As part of a state action, the agency surrendered their license in 2003. Then in 2005, The state sent them a demand to stop operating without a license.
'We can't always comply with court deadlines', say CPS
'We can't always comply with court deadlines', say CPS
BOSTON court cases are being held up because prosecutors are not preparing for them in time.
BOSTON court cases are being held up because prosecutors are not preparing for them in time.
FLDS shun Texas officials twice at ranch
FLDS shun Texas officials twice at ranch
Two Child Protective Service (CPS) workers, accompanied by a Schleicher County Sheriff's deputy, first asked to be let on the YFZ Ranch shortly before noon Wednesday.
The workers told Guy Jessop, who met them at the gate, they were "looking for more children" but he refused to let them enter without a search warrant.
Note: You go Guy Jessop!!! Tell them to go **** themselves!
Two Child Protective Service (CPS) workers, accompanied by a Schleicher County Sheriff's deputy, first asked to be let on the YFZ Ranch shortly before noon Wednesday.
The workers told Guy Jessop, who met them at the gate, they were "looking for more children" but he refused to let them enter without a search warrant.
Note: You go Guy Jessop!!! Tell them to go **** themselves!
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Suspended child protective supervisor back on job
Suspended child protective supervisor back on job
The Nassau County Child Protective Services supervisor suspended after a New Cassel mother drowned her three children will report back to work next week, reassigned to a desk job in a different department, county officials said Wednesday.
The Nassau County Child Protective Services supervisor suspended after a New Cassel mother drowned her three children will report back to work next week, reassigned to a desk job in a different department, county officials said Wednesday.
Illinois Accidentally Places 3,000 Innocent People on Child Abuser Registry, Won't Apologize
Illinois Accidentally Places 3,000 Innocent People on Child Abuser Registry, Won't Apologize
"What is the attitude of the DCFS when confronted with over 3,000 mistakes they made? Spokesman Kendall Marlowe 'acknowledged that mistakes are made, but he said the vast majority of people…were placed there properly… he declined further comment.'
Note: I'll bet they accidentally hired all those babystealers to do it too.
"What is the attitude of the DCFS when confronted with over 3,000 mistakes they made? Spokesman Kendall Marlowe 'acknowledged that mistakes are made, but he said the vast majority of people…were placed there properly… he declined further comment.'
Note: I'll bet they accidentally hired all those babystealers to do it too.
Instant Editorial: DCF off the hook in latest child death
Instant Editorial: DCF off the hook in latest child death
There’s another dead child in Lee County, another adult charged with abuse and murder. Our hearts go out to little Daisy Juarez-Coj’s family, the latest family to plan a toddler’s funeral.
There’s another dead child in Lee County, another adult charged with abuse and murder. Our hearts go out to little Daisy Juarez-Coj’s family, the latest family to plan a toddler’s funeral.
San Carlos man to plead guilty in foster-child rape
San Carlos man to plead guilty in foster-child rape
A San Carlos Park man intends to plead guilty to charges he raped his teenage foster daughter three years ago.
A San Carlos Park man intends to plead guilty to charges he raped his teenage foster daughter three years ago.
Foster mom gets prison for beating kids
Foster mom gets prison for beating kids
A Fremont woman who used a back scratcher to beat her foster children has been sent to prison.
A Dodge County district judge gave 43-year-old Polly Sims one to two years in prison for felony child abuse.
A Fremont woman who used a back scratcher to beat her foster children has been sent to prison.
A Dodge County district judge gave 43-year-old Polly Sims one to two years in prison for felony child abuse.
Foster parent accused of molesting three kids under his care
Foster parent accused of molesting three kids under his care
The Yuma County Sheriff' Office received a child molestation report from the Wellton Police Department on February 20 of this year. Jeff Rowell is accused of molesting three children ranging from 4 to 9 years old.
The Yuma County Sheriff' Office received a child molestation report from the Wellton Police Department on February 20 of this year. Jeff Rowell is accused of molesting three children ranging from 4 to 9 years old.
Social workers turned away from FLDS ranch
Social workers turned away from FLDS ranch
Texas Child Protective Services workers were turned back from a polygamist sect's ranch Wednesday when they tried to investigate reports that some children remained at the compound, a lawyer for the sect said.
Texas Child Protective Services workers were turned back from a polygamist sect's ranch Wednesday when they tried to investigate reports that some children remained at the compound, a lawyer for the sect said.
Foster care concerns heard
Foster care concerns heard
Advocates for better foster care say they are worried that the state is not moving fast enough to find new foster families and move away from group homes, which critics say cost more and do not always meet neglected and abused children's needs.
Advocates for better foster care say they are worried that the state is not moving fast enough to find new foster families and move away from group homes, which critics say cost more and do not always meet neglected and abused children's needs.
Foster Care in America - How it Affects Children
Note: An article I found in a directory. Typical Pro CPS Propaganda
By Margaret Iuculano
Approximately 800,000 children end up in a foster care home in America each year. Foster care is designed to help orphaned, abandoned and abused children find homes where they are safe and can receive proper care until a more stable home environment can be found for them. The problem is that the American foster care system is loosely organized and makes living situations hard on the kids involved by not meeting their individual needs fully.
* Who is eligible for foster care?
Foster care is given to any child between the ages of birth and 18 years old. Children are usually placed in a foster home for an average of three years. After that, a child will typically be reunited with his biological family or become permanently adopted by another family. However, some children remain in a foster care situation longer than this time frame.
* How do young children fare in a foster situation?
Statistics show that young children placed in foster care often have some level of emotional and behavioral problems. They are removed from their homes because of neglect or physical, sexual or verbal abuse. They carry those memories with them for a long time. It may make many children timid around other people or just the opposite; make them direct anger at the families who take them in under the foster care program. Many of these children require mental health services and often have physical disabilities due to poor health.
Children in a foster care program do not do as well on average as their counterparts in school. They have lower grades and perform much worse on standardized tests. Some children become bitter and find themselves in trouble a lot of the time, even to the point of expulsion. This is not only hard on the child, but the family providing care for him.
* What happens to kids who "age out" of foster care?
Children who "age out" of foster care, become too old for the program, may find themselves in a troublesome predicament. While some agencies and previous foster families may help these teenagers transition into adulthood, it is often difficult for the teens to find work and afford another place to live. Sadly, many end up homeless.
Statistics show that children who age out rarely have anyone to turn to for advice or guidance once they reach the maximum foster care age of 18. There are mentoring programs available to help, but these children may not know where to find such outreach programs. Many of these teens become parents themselves at an early age, and only about 46 percent of them actually graduate from high school.
* What about the foster care family?
In almost half of all cases; 46 percent of the time, a child is placed in a foster care home with strangers. This may happen multiple times over the course of the child's participation in the foster care system. Some will be able to live with relatives, and still others may be placed in a foster home that houses a group of foster children under one roof. A foster family is given a small monthly stipend to provide for the foster child, but this is often not enough, especially if a child requires counseling of any sort.
It all seems bleak for the children who are forced into a foster care situation. The purpose of the program is to give these children a loving and nurturing environment to get them through some pretty rough times, but is the system failing these children? Is there a way to make the system work better for these children? This topic is under thorough and continuous investigation. More and more Americans realize that something must change in the foster care system across our nation. Increased awareness in the problems faced by the foster care system is the driving force behind these needed changes. Only the future will tell if we have hit the mark.
Iuculanos website is http://www.margaretlano.com and http://www.angelsforfosterkids.org
By Margaret Iuculano
Approximately 800,000 children end up in a foster care home in America each year. Foster care is designed to help orphaned, abandoned and abused children find homes where they are safe and can receive proper care until a more stable home environment can be found for them. The problem is that the American foster care system is loosely organized and makes living situations hard on the kids involved by not meeting their individual needs fully.
* Who is eligible for foster care?
Foster care is given to any child between the ages of birth and 18 years old. Children are usually placed in a foster home for an average of three years. After that, a child will typically be reunited with his biological family or become permanently adopted by another family. However, some children remain in a foster care situation longer than this time frame.
* How do young children fare in a foster situation?
Statistics show that young children placed in foster care often have some level of emotional and behavioral problems. They are removed from their homes because of neglect or physical, sexual or verbal abuse. They carry those memories with them for a long time. It may make many children timid around other people or just the opposite; make them direct anger at the families who take them in under the foster care program. Many of these children require mental health services and often have physical disabilities due to poor health.
Children in a foster care program do not do as well on average as their counterparts in school. They have lower grades and perform much worse on standardized tests. Some children become bitter and find themselves in trouble a lot of the time, even to the point of expulsion. This is not only hard on the child, but the family providing care for him.
* What happens to kids who "age out" of foster care?
Children who "age out" of foster care, become too old for the program, may find themselves in a troublesome predicament. While some agencies and previous foster families may help these teenagers transition into adulthood, it is often difficult for the teens to find work and afford another place to live. Sadly, many end up homeless.
Statistics show that children who age out rarely have anyone to turn to for advice or guidance once they reach the maximum foster care age of 18. There are mentoring programs available to help, but these children may not know where to find such outreach programs. Many of these teens become parents themselves at an early age, and only about 46 percent of them actually graduate from high school.
* What about the foster care family?
In almost half of all cases; 46 percent of the time, a child is placed in a foster care home with strangers. This may happen multiple times over the course of the child's participation in the foster care system. Some will be able to live with relatives, and still others may be placed in a foster home that houses a group of foster children under one roof. A foster family is given a small monthly stipend to provide for the foster child, but this is often not enough, especially if a child requires counseling of any sort.
It all seems bleak for the children who are forced into a foster care situation. The purpose of the program is to give these children a loving and nurturing environment to get them through some pretty rough times, but is the system failing these children? Is there a way to make the system work better for these children? This topic is under thorough and continuous investigation. More and more Americans realize that something must change in the foster care system across our nation. Increased awareness in the problems faced by the foster care system is the driving force behind these needed changes. Only the future will tell if we have hit the mark.
Iuculanos website is http://www.margaretlano.com and http://www.angelsforfosterkids.org
Proof positive the family court system is broken
Proof positive the family court system is broken
When we have a situation that allows for this couple to attend court countless times and have 25 court orders made by eight different judges, I say it's time to revamp this system that almost everyone agrees is broken.
When we have a situation that allows for this couple to attend court countless times and have 25 court orders made by eight different judges, I say it's time to revamp this system that almost everyone agrees is broken.
Foster dad charged with sex abuse
Foster dad charged with sex abuse
A La Mesa man has been indicted for the alleged sexual abuse of a then-5-year-old girl in his foster care and threatening the girl with not feeding her and her brother if she did not perform sex acts.
A La Mesa man has been indicted for the alleged sexual abuse of a then-5-year-old girl in his foster care and threatening the girl with not feeding her and her brother if she did not perform sex acts.
Foster dad charged with sex abuse
Foster dad charged with sex abuse
A La Mesa man has been indicted for the alleged sexual abuse of a then-5-year-old girl in his foster care and threatening the girl with not feeding her and her brother if she did not perform sex acts.
A La Mesa man has been indicted for the alleged sexual abuse of a then-5-year-old girl in his foster care and threatening the girl with not feeding her and her brother if she did not perform sex acts.
Jersey care home abuse: police suspect murder
Jersey care home abuse: police suspect murder
The detective in charge of an investigation into decades of alleged abuse at a former children’s home in Jersey has said bone fragments found in a cellar "indicate homicide".
The detective in charge of an investigation into decades of alleged abuse at a former children’s home in Jersey has said bone fragments found in a cellar "indicate homicide".
OBA report recommends sweeping changes to justice system
OBA report recommends sweeping changes to justice system
An Ontario Bar Association report recommends sweeping changes to the province’s justice system, and one of the organization’s section chairwomen says it’s among a series of reports that could build momentum for the movement to revitalize.
An Ontario Bar Association report recommends sweeping changes to the province’s justice system, and one of the organization’s section chairwomen says it’s among a series of reports that could build momentum for the movement to revitalize.
New Video Designed to Get Kids to Report Child Abuse on You Tube
New Video Designed to Get Kids to Report Child Abuse on You Tube
Child abuse is a major problem in this country. Now the Department of Social and Health Services has launched a new video to encourage the reporting of child abuse. It's targeted at kids in particular.
Child abuse is a major problem in this country. Now the Department of Social and Health Services has launched a new video to encourage the reporting of child abuse. It's targeted at kids in particular.
Foster Mother Investigated For Abuse Before Child, 6, Died
Foster Mother Investigated For Abuse Before Child, 6, Died
The East Harlem foster mother charged in the death of a 6-year-old girl was the subject of four separate investigations by the Administration of Children's Services regarding the treatment of the children in her care, News 4 New York has learned.
The East Harlem foster mother charged in the death of a 6-year-old girl was the subject of four separate investigations by the Administration of Children's Services regarding the treatment of the children in her care, News 4 New York has learned.
Foster dad arrested for DUI during traffic operation
Foster dad arrested for DUI during traffic operation
During a traffic operation, a man was arrested for driving with a blood alcohol level more than three times the legal limit while taking four children, including a foster child, to school Monday morning, officials said.
During a traffic operation, a man was arrested for driving with a blood alcohol level more than three times the legal limit while taking four children, including a foster child, to school Monday morning, officials said.
Foster Rules on Medicine Are Key in Child’s Death
Foster Rules on Medicine Are Key in Child’s Death
Foster parents are supposed to check with the foster-care agency before administering even routine medication to children in their care, but the Harlem woman charged Monday with criminally negligent homicide of a 6-year-old girl apparently did not do so before placing a strong medicinal patch on her injured neck or giving her Motrin earlier.
Foster parents are supposed to check with the foster-care agency before administering even routine medication to children in their care, but the Harlem woman charged Monday with criminally negligent homicide of a 6-year-old girl apparently did not do so before placing a strong medicinal patch on her injured neck or giving her Motrin earlier.
Former public workers indicted
Former public workers indicted
The Maricopa County Attorney's Office on Tuesday announced indictments against two former public employees accused of sex crimes against children, one a Phoenix police detective, the other a worker at the state's Child Protective Services.
The Maricopa County Attorney's Office on Tuesday announced indictments against two former public employees accused of sex crimes against children, one a Phoenix police detective, the other a worker at the state's Child Protective Services.
DHS to pay $160,000 in the death of Tulsa boy
DHS to pay $160,000 in the death of Tulsa boy
A DHS child welfare worker's alleged falsification of reports about a child abuse investigation that was never conducted will apparently cost the state $160,000.
A DHS child welfare worker's alleged falsification of reports about a child abuse investigation that was never conducted will apparently cost the state $160,000.
Social worker enters Christian school without cause, tells kids to remove clothing
Social worker enters Christian school without cause, tells kids to remove clothing
Two children who attended a private Christian school in Wisconsin were illegally strip-searched and had their constitutional rights violated by a state social worker, the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals unanimously ruled Monday.
In Michael C. v. Gresbach, the court said state worker Dana Gresbach violated the children’s Fourth Amendment rights to freedom from unreasonable search when she entered Good Hope Christian Academy in Milwaukee, Wis., had the children pulled from the classrooms and told them to remove their clothing when she suspected the parents of spanking in February 2004.
Two children who attended a private Christian school in Wisconsin were illegally strip-searched and had their constitutional rights violated by a state social worker, the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals unanimously ruled Monday.
In Michael C. v. Gresbach, the court said state worker Dana Gresbach violated the children’s Fourth Amendment rights to freedom from unreasonable search when she entered Good Hope Christian Academy in Milwaukee, Wis., had the children pulled from the classrooms and told them to remove their clothing when she suspected the parents of spanking in February 2004.
Too many aboriginal kids in protective care
Too many aboriginal kids in protective care
Aboriginal children make up a greater proportion of neglected or abused Alberta kids in protective care, showing national increases are being seen in Calgary.
Aboriginal children make up a greater proportion of neglected or abused Alberta kids in protective care, showing national increases are being seen in Calgary.
CPS' focus on sect may leave other Texas children unprotected, legislator warns
CPS' focus on sect may leave other Texas children unprotected, legislator warns
The Senate's top social services policy writer says she fears that Child Protective Services is so strapped because of its raid of a polygamist sect last month that horrific child abuse in other parts of the state may go undetected.
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Parents object to ban on books, Jeffs' pics
FLDS parents again objected Tuesday to Texas Child Protective Services' ban on religious literature or photographs of polygamous sect leader Warren S. Jeffs.
During one hearing, Seth Jeffs said he was told he could not mention his brother's name during visits with his children. Other parents have said their children's copies of the Book of Mormon were removed because photographs of Jeffs were taped inside.
The Senate's top social services policy writer says she fears that Child Protective Services is so strapped because of its raid of a polygamist sect last month that horrific child abuse in other parts of the state may go undetected.
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Parents object to ban on books, Jeffs' pics
FLDS parents again objected Tuesday to Texas Child Protective Services' ban on religious literature or photographs of polygamous sect leader Warren S. Jeffs.
During one hearing, Seth Jeffs said he was told he could not mention his brother's name during visits with his children. Other parents have said their children's copies of the Book of Mormon were removed because photographs of Jeffs were taped inside.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Counselor at O.C. home for neglected children is accused of molestation
Counselor at O.C. home for neglected children is accused of molestation
A counselor at the Orangewood home for abused and neglected children was arrested over the weekend on suspicion of molesting a girl under his charge.
A counselor at the Orangewood home for abused and neglected children was arrested over the weekend on suspicion of molesting a girl under his charge.
Judge: CPS can't separate toddler from FLDS parents
Judge: CPS can't separate toddler from FLDS parents
In San Antonio, a judge stopped Texas Department of Child Protective Services (CPS) officials from separating a one-year-old child from its mother.
In San Antonio, a judge stopped Texas Department of Child Protective Services (CPS) officials from separating a one-year-old child from its mother.
State police investigate death of baby in foster care
State police investigate death of baby in foster care
State police are investigating how a 7-month-old boy died while in state foster care Monday night.
State police are investigating how a 7-month-old boy died while in state foster care Monday night.
Father says sons were mistreated in foster care
Father says sons were mistreated in foster care
It was little over a week ago when Troy Police arrested Sharmon "Sherry" Evans for abusing her adopted son. Now, Brian Tenney said Evans neglected his two boys while she was their foster parent.
It was little over a week ago when Troy Police arrested Sharmon "Sherry" Evans for abusing her adopted son. Now, Brian Tenney said Evans neglected his two boys while she was their foster parent.
Further Northern Child Welfare Allegations
Further Northern Child Welfare Allegations
More questions about the possible mismanagement of funds at a northern Manitoba child welfare agency have surfaced.
More questions about the possible mismanagement of funds at a northern Manitoba child welfare agency have surfaced.
Abuse of Power in Texas
Abuse of Power in Texas
Question: What's worse for children than to have parents who are members of a polygamy cult?
Answer: To have the state be their parent.
Question: What's worse for children than to have parents who are members of a polygamy cult?
Answer: To have the state be their parent.
DCS worker arrested for allegedly not reporting sex abuse
DCS worker arrested for allegedly not reporting sex abuse
A social worker with the Department of Children's Services was arrested Thursday and is charged with failing to report a sex abuse case to police, according to a police report.
Althea Cherryl-Ann Bradshaw, 54, who gave a 120 Whitehall Drive address, was booked into the Montgomery County Jail and charged with failing to report sex abuse. Her bond was set at $250.
A social worker with the Department of Children's Services was arrested Thursday and is charged with failing to report a sex abuse case to police, according to a police report.
Althea Cherryl-Ann Bradshaw, 54, who gave a 120 Whitehall Drive address, was booked into the Montgomery County Jail and charged with failing to report sex abuse. Her bond was set at $250.
Foster parents under new watch
Foster parents under new watch
Legislation enhancing a statewide fingerprint database that screens foster parents was signed into law Wednesday by Gov. Ted Strickland.
Legislation enhancing a statewide fingerprint database that screens foster parents was signed into law Wednesday by Gov. Ted Strickland.
Court says foster mom deserves second chance
Court says foster mom deserves second chance
Florida child-welfare administrators must re-license a Miami-area foster home in which a woman who was accused of abusing an adopted foster child and then surrendered the child back to the state, an appeals court has ruled.
Florida child-welfare administrators must re-license a Miami-area foster home in which a woman who was accused of abusing an adopted foster child and then surrendered the child back to the state, an appeals court has ruled.
Second charge of sexual assault of a child filed
Second charge of sexual assault of a child filed
A former foster mother who was accused last year of sexually assaulting her teenage foster son faces a new charge involving a second foster child.
A former foster mother who was accused last year of sexually assaulting her teenage foster son faces a new charge involving a second foster child.
Mom says state using her IQ, lawsuit to keep kids in foster care
Mom says state using her IQ, lawsuit to keep kids in foster care
The mother has fought since November to get her children out of foster care and back to their own beds. Since they were initially removed from her home in 2006, one of the children was molested and exploited while in the state's care.
The mother has fought since November to get her children out of foster care and back to their own beds. Since they were initially removed from her home in 2006, one of the children was molested and exploited while in the state's care.
Riverside County audit of six foster-care providers' finances finds possible violations
Riverside County audit of six foster-care providers' finances finds possible violations
Riverside County's auditor-controller has asked the state to investigate six Inland foster- care providers for potentially misusing at least $3 million in foster-care funding to make improper payments on extra homes, luxury vehicles, credit cards, alcohol and lingerie.
Riverside County's auditor-controller has asked the state to investigate six Inland foster- care providers for potentially misusing at least $3 million in foster-care funding to make improper payments on extra homes, luxury vehicles, credit cards, alcohol and lingerie.
Children in Alabama shouldn't languish in foster care when they can have permanent adoptive homes
Children in Alabama shouldn't languish in foster care when they can have permanent adoptive homes
Their wait for a permanent home was longer than average in Alabama. But average here is still too long. Foster children in Alabama typically wait more than three years for adoption, according to a federal study due out this summer. Alabama's is the second-longest wait time among 47 states covered in the study, The News reported Sunday.
Their wait for a permanent home was longer than average in Alabama. But average here is still too long. Foster children in Alabama typically wait more than three years for adoption, according to a federal study due out this summer. Alabama's is the second-longest wait time among 47 states covered in the study, The News reported Sunday.
People don't trust DoCS, inquiry told
People don't trust DoCS, inquiry told
Welfare groups say the NSW Department of Community Services (DoCS) should not run early intervention programs for children due to its poor image.
An inquiry into child protection services has been told DoCS wasn't trusted by the people who need its services, who fear it will take their children away.
Welfare groups say the NSW Department of Community Services (DoCS) should not run early intervention programs for children due to its poor image.
An inquiry into child protection services has been told DoCS wasn't trusted by the people who need its services, who fear it will take their children away.
Veil of secrecy must be lifted from CPS
Veil of secrecy must be lifted from CPS
Three bills are winding their way through the legislative process that will bring much needed accountability to Child Protective Services.
HB 2453 would open certain court proceedings previously closed to the public. HB 2454 would open up CPS records in cases involving the fatality or near fatality of a child unless prosecutors could establish that the release of such records would cause material harm to a criminal investigation, and HB 2159 would make state employees’ disciplinary records, including an employee’s responses, available to the public.
Three bills are winding their way through the legislative process that will bring much needed accountability to Child Protective Services.
HB 2453 would open certain court proceedings previously closed to the public. HB 2454 would open up CPS records in cases involving the fatality or near fatality of a child unless prosecutors could establish that the release of such records would cause material harm to a criminal investigation, and HB 2159 would make state employees’ disciplinary records, including an employee’s responses, available to the public.
Texas-style child welfare comes to New York
Texas-style child welfare comes to New York
One of the saddest, cruelest parts of the mass round-up of women and children from the FLDS ranch in Texas has been the imposition of a de-facto confiscation-at-birth policy. Some of the women taken away were pregnant, and when two of them gave birth, the state immediately tried to take away the children as well.
Separating a child from a parent always risks traumatizing a child. But there may be no time when the risk is greater than during a child's first days of life, a crucial infant-parent bonding period. This can be seen in a landmark University of Florida Medical Center study I've cited often on this blog and elsewhere.
From NCCPR Child Welfare Blog
One of the saddest, cruelest parts of the mass round-up of women and children from the FLDS ranch in Texas has been the imposition of a de-facto confiscation-at-birth policy. Some of the women taken away were pregnant, and when two of them gave birth, the state immediately tried to take away the children as well.
Separating a child from a parent always risks traumatizing a child. But there may be no time when the risk is greater than during a child's first days of life, a crucial infant-parent bonding period. This can be seen in a landmark University of Florida Medical Center study I've cited often on this blog and elsewhere.
From NCCPR Child Welfare Blog
Now why would anybody want to do that?
Mother detained, children safe, after she barricades self in Norfolk home
A mother who has supervised visitation privileges with her four children locked herself and three of those children into her home today, sparking an hours-long confrontation with police.
A mother who has supervised visitation privileges with her four children locked herself and three of those children into her home today, sparking an hours-long confrontation with police.
Monday, May 19, 2008
FURY AT FOSTER 'ABUSE'
FURY AT FOSTER 'ABUSE'
Sandra Allen first wants to get her son back from the city - then she'll sue.
Allen is part of growing army of irate parents whose kids were abused or injured while in the custody of the Administration for Children's Services.
Sandra Allen first wants to get her son back from the city - then she'll sue.
Allen is part of growing army of irate parents whose kids were abused or injured while in the custody of the Administration for Children's Services.
The Texas Child Grab
The Texas Child Grab
The news was simply too good to hide under a bushel.
Arrow Child and Family Ministries, a foster care and adoption agency with headquarters near Houston, "found out today that they will be receiving 80-100 permanent placement children," exulted the sister of an assistant to Mark A. Tennant, founder and head of the agency. "More than likely, the parental rights of their parents will eventually be terminated and they will be placed in foster homes and/or adopted out."
The news was simply too good to hide under a bushel.
Arrow Child and Family Ministries, a foster care and adoption agency with headquarters near Houston, "found out today that they will be receiving 80-100 permanent placement children," exulted the sister of an assistant to Mark A. Tennant, founder and head of the agency. "More than likely, the parental rights of their parents will eventually be terminated and they will be placed in foster homes and/or adopted out."
NYC Foster Mom Charged In 6-Year-Old Girl's Death
NYC Foster Mom Charged In 6-Year-Old Girl's Death
A foster mother was arrested Monday in the death of a 6-year-old girl after the woman apparently gave the child a prescription pain reliever patch to wear when she'd complained of neck pain.
Given Adult Dose of Pain Killer, Young Girl Dies
A 54-year-old foster mother has been arrested and charged with criminally negligent homicide after she gave her six-year-old charge a prescription pain killer that killed her.
A foster mother was arrested Monday in the death of a 6-year-old girl after the woman apparently gave the child a prescription pain reliever patch to wear when she'd complained of neck pain.
Given Adult Dose of Pain Killer, Young Girl Dies
A 54-year-old foster mother has been arrested and charged with criminally negligent homicide after she gave her six-year-old charge a prescription pain killer that killed her.
VIDEO: Polygamist Custody Hearings
VIDEO: Polygamist Custody Hearings
The largest child custody case in U.S. History is underway today in Texas.
Hundreds of hearings are scheduled over the next few weeks to determine if or when children taken during a raid on a polygamist compound can be returned to their parents.
Texas sect parents complain of vague custody plans
Children from a polygamist sect were the only subjects on the docket Monday at a west Texas courthouse where five judges began handling hundreds of hearings that attorneys for the children's parents decried for their cookie-cutter approach.
The largest child custody case in U.S. History is underway today in Texas.
Hundreds of hearings are scheduled over the next few weeks to determine if or when children taken during a raid on a polygamist compound can be returned to their parents.
Texas sect parents complain of vague custody plans
Children from a polygamist sect were the only subjects on the docket Monday at a west Texas courthouse where five judges began handling hundreds of hearings that attorneys for the children's parents decried for their cookie-cutter approach.
Cop leaves infant, juvenile along dark highway
Cop leaves infant, juvenile along dark highway
A Colorado Highway Patrol officer who arrested a woman on a dog-law violation, leaving her 7-month-old daughter in the custody of a 15-year-old girl alongside a dark Colorado road shortly before midnight, has been dealt with, although officials won't describe their actions.
A Colorado Highway Patrol officer who arrested a woman on a dog-law violation, leaving her 7-month-old daughter in the custody of a 15-year-old girl alongside a dark Colorado road shortly before midnight, has been dealt with, although officials won't describe their actions.
Children's Aid Society Oversight
You are losing your war on secrecy CAS. Children are not your meal ticket. The days of the "predatory professional" and this rogue and criminal agency are coming to an end. Better start altering those documents now and covering your tracks. You know who you are.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
CFS Minister Concerned About Mismanagement of Funds
CFS Minister Concerned About Mismanagement of Funds
Preliminary results from a federal/provincial investigation of a northern child welfare agency launched last year show there has been a mismanagement of funds.
Preliminary results from a federal/provincial investigation of a northern child welfare agency launched last year show there has been a mismanagement of funds.
'If you remove a baby, what does the forlorn mother do next? Go and have another'
'If you remove a baby, what does the forlorn mother do next? Go and have another'
A teenage girl in an anorak with a round puppy-fat face and a ponytail sits in a small courtroom with her social worker. Around her is a posse of dark-suited lawyers and ahead, a bench of three magistrates. Sharon has learning disabilities. Her mother is seriously mentally ill and her father isn't even mentioned. The court is gathered to hear an application for a care order (which allows a child to be removed from its parents and given into the care of the local authority). The order is not for Sharon - it is for her one-week-old baby. Sharon is 17 and already in care.
A teenage girl in an anorak with a round puppy-fat face and a ponytail sits in a small courtroom with her social worker. Around her is a posse of dark-suited lawyers and ahead, a bench of three magistrates. Sharon has learning disabilities. Her mother is seriously mentally ill and her father isn't even mentioned. The court is gathered to hear an application for a care order (which allows a child to be removed from its parents and given into the care of the local authority). The order is not for Sharon - it is for her one-week-old baby. Sharon is 17 and already in care.
Foster dad's new heart full of sadness
Foster dad's new heart full of sadness
Engelman, 55, of the North Side survived a brush with death 16 months ago, thanks to a 30-year-old organ donor. The medical ordeal, however, set in motion events that caused Roy and his wife, Janice, to lose guardianship of a foster child they hoped to adopt after raising him for three years.
Engelman, 55, of the North Side survived a brush with death 16 months ago, thanks to a 30-year-old organ donor. The medical ordeal, however, set in motion events that caused Roy and his wife, Janice, to lose guardianship of a foster child they hoped to adopt after raising him for three years.
D.C. exhibit highlights struggles in foster care
D.C. exhibit highlights struggles in foster care
"The problems of the foster children in this country are largely invisible because most of us don't know who they are and don't see them," says Rep. Jim McDermott, D-Wash., who chairs the House Ways and Means subcommittee that handles federal aid to states for foster care assistance.
"The problems of the foster children in this country are largely invisible because most of us don't know who they are and don't see them," says Rep. Jim McDermott, D-Wash., who chairs the House Ways and Means subcommittee that handles federal aid to states for foster care assistance.
Clock ticks as Alabama Department of Human Resources pushes to quicken pace of placing foster youths in homes
Clock ticks as Alabama Department of Human Resources pushes to quicken pace of placing foster youths in homes
Foster children in Alabama typically wait longer than three years - more than a year longer than the national standard - before they are adopted, according to a federal study to be released this summer.
Foster children in Alabama typically wait longer than three years - more than a year longer than the national standard - before they are adopted, according to a federal study to be released this summer.
Death of a child and no chance to grieve
Death of a child and no chance to grieve
“We suffered the ultimate loss,” Kim Hermance said in an interview in the family’s home. “Then two days later, you have to fight for your life, for your family and for your son.”
“We suffered the ultimate loss,” Kim Hermance said in an interview in the family’s home. “Then two days later, you have to fight for your life, for your family and for your son.”
A comment
This comment was left here earlier, I decided to post it so that it wasn't missed.
My 24 year old son once lived in Altus OK. He was in a relationship during his time there, that resulted in a little girl being born 01-2005. He did not find out about his child until more then a year after the child was born. The past two + years the child's biological mother has been involved in using and selling drugs, and the little girl has been in a foster home. We just received a letter from the State of OK family Court saying that they are searching for family this little girl might have.
My son and I do not live in OK any longer--we live in NY, and we do not know what to do from this distance. Unfortunately we cannot afford an attorney to help us. We would like to do what ever is necessary to bring this little girl to live with us here in NY.
Anyone reading this, please be so kind and refer my email address to anyone (attorney's, etc) who can help us pro-bono, so we get this precious little girl out of the foster care system in OK, and into our home where we can take care of her and love her.
PLEASE HELP US!
My email adress:
MARAKI724@YAHOO.COM
Thank you and godbless
My 24 year old son once lived in Altus OK. He was in a relationship during his time there, that resulted in a little girl being born 01-2005. He did not find out about his child until more then a year after the child was born. The past two + years the child's biological mother has been involved in using and selling drugs, and the little girl has been in a foster home. We just received a letter from the State of OK family Court saying that they are searching for family this little girl might have.
My son and I do not live in OK any longer--we live in NY, and we do not know what to do from this distance. Unfortunately we cannot afford an attorney to help us. We would like to do what ever is necessary to bring this little girl to live with us here in NY.
Anyone reading this, please be so kind and refer my email address to anyone (attorney's, etc) who can help us pro-bono, so we get this precious little girl out of the foster care system in OK, and into our home where we can take care of her and love her.
PLEASE HELP US!
My email adress:
MARAKI724@YAHOO.COM
Thank you and godbless
R.I. woman convicted of killing 3-year-old nephew
R.I. woman convicted of killing 3-year-old nephew
Katherine Bunnell was convicted of second-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder for the Oct. 30, 2004, death of Thomas “T.J” Wright, who was living with her in foster care because his mother was in prison. The jury in Providence Superior Court deliberated for three days.
Katherine Bunnell was convicted of second-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder for the Oct. 30, 2004, death of Thomas “T.J” Wright, who was living with her in foster care because his mother was in prison. The jury in Providence Superior Court deliberated for three days.
DCF Seeks To Sever Ties To Allains' Suit
DCF Seeks To Sever Ties To Allains' Suit
The Department of Children and Families wants a judge to sever the agency's ties to a lawsuit filed against a pair of foster parents doing time in prison for child abuse.
The Department of Children and Families wants a judge to sever the agency's ties to a lawsuit filed against a pair of foster parents doing time in prison for child abuse.
Fix Texas' foster care fix
Fix Texas' foster care fix
As the state labors to find "the best temp-orary placements" for the 463 children recently removed from the Eldorado polygamist compound, Texas' overburdened foster care system is under scrutiny once again.
The influx of so many children at one time is straining a foster care system already struggling with funding shortages, high staff turnover and a patchwork approach to advocating for children already in the system.
As the state labors to find "the best temp-orary placements" for the 463 children recently removed from the Eldorado polygamist compound, Texas' overburdened foster care system is under scrutiny once again.
The influx of so many children at one time is straining a foster care system already struggling with funding shortages, high staff turnover and a patchwork approach to advocating for children already in the system.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Family Stunned By Stabbings
The foster mother of a 13-year-old boy accused of stabbing a teen and toddler says she's stunned by the incident.
A fifth child agency probed
A fifth child agency probed
A fifth Manitoba child welfare agency is under review -- this time for questionable hiring practices.
It emerged this week that Peguis Child and Family Services is facing scrutiny and that revelation has Tory Leader Hugh McFadyen arguing that the province's child welfare system is in crisis.
A fifth Manitoba child welfare agency is under review -- this time for questionable hiring practices.
It emerged this week that Peguis Child and Family Services is facing scrutiny and that revelation has Tory Leader Hugh McFadyen arguing that the province's child welfare system is in crisis.
News On 6 Investigates: Department Of Human Services Under Fire
News On 6 Investigates: Department Of Human Services Under Fire
So many people have complained about the Oklahoma Department of Human Services over the years, DHS may as well be a four-letter word. But now the Department of Human Services is facing more than just complaints. It's the target of a federal lawsuit filed on behalf of the 10,000 children in its foster care system.
So many people have complained about the Oklahoma Department of Human Services over the years, DHS may as well be a four-letter word. But now the Department of Human Services is facing more than just complaints. It's the target of a federal lawsuit filed on behalf of the 10,000 children in its foster care system.
Ex-officials dodge issues
Ex-officials dodge issues
Last month on these pages, I wrote that "accreditation (of child welfare agencies) is a way for agencies to get an unearned seal of approval by keeping their paperwork in order --and then throw it in the face of critics, in order to prevent real change." Turns out I was mistaken. Missouri is only partially accredited, yet prominent leaders of the state's child welfare establishment, from C. Truett Baker, the retired head of an agency that lived off a steady supply of foster children, to Steve Roling, the former head of the Department of Social Services, already are rushing to proclaim this, in Roling's words, "an amazing accomplishment" to be "most excited about." But neither writer denied that accreditors never look at actual foster homes. Neither writer denied that group homes and institutions get advance notice of inspections. And neither writer denied that an agency can provide dreadful care and still pass accreditation.
Last month on these pages, I wrote that "accreditation (of child welfare agencies) is a way for agencies to get an unearned seal of approval by keeping their paperwork in order --and then throw it in the face of critics, in order to prevent real change." Turns out I was mistaken. Missouri is only partially accredited, yet prominent leaders of the state's child welfare establishment, from C. Truett Baker, the retired head of an agency that lived off a steady supply of foster children, to Steve Roling, the former head of the Department of Social Services, already are rushing to proclaim this, in Roling's words, "an amazing accomplishment" to be "most excited about." But neither writer denied that accreditors never look at actual foster homes. Neither writer denied that group homes and institutions get advance notice of inspections. And neither writer denied that an agency can provide dreadful care and still pass accreditation.
Raid, aftermath's early cost: $7.5 million
Raid, aftermath's early cost: $7.5 million
The massive child welfare operation that began in early April with a state raid of a West Texas ranch owned by a polygamous sect cost nearly $7.5 million in the first 19 days, according to records from Gov. Rick Perry's office.
The massive child welfare operation that began in early April with a state raid of a West Texas ranch owned by a polygamous sect cost nearly $7.5 million in the first 19 days, according to records from Gov. Rick Perry's office.
Charges against foster parents dropped
Charges against foster parents dropped
The Newton County prosecutor's office has dropped charges against a Granby couple who were accused last year of regularly smoking marijuana with a state social worker in their foster home.
The Newton County prosecutor's office has dropped charges against a Granby couple who were accused last year of regularly smoking marijuana with a state social worker in their foster home.
Sixth tooth found at Jersey home
Sixth tooth found at Jersey home
A sixth tooth has been found in an underground chamber under a former Jersey children's home at the centre of an abuse investigation, police say.
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More finds at Jersey children's home
Another child's tooth and further bone fragments have been found during digging at a former Jersey children's home at the centre of a long-running abuse inquiry, police said on Thursday.
A sixth tooth has been found in an underground chamber under a former Jersey children's home at the centre of an abuse investigation, police say.
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More finds at Jersey children's home
Another child's tooth and further bone fragments have been found during digging at a former Jersey children's home at the centre of a long-running abuse inquiry, police said on Thursday.
Family sues in death of teenager in Carroll
Family sues in death of teenager in Carroll
The family of an East Baltimore teen who died at a Carroll County school for juvenile offenders filed a multimillion-dollar civil suit in federal court yesterday against the school, several of its employees and the state Department of Juvenile Services.
The family of an East Baltimore teen who died at a Carroll County school for juvenile offenders filed a multimillion-dollar civil suit in federal court yesterday against the school, several of its employees and the state Department of Juvenile Services.
First Nations need to control child welfare
First Nations need to control child welfare
Prime Minister Stephen Harper is expected to stand in the House of Commons on June 11 and apologize for the residential school abuse perpetrated upon generations of aboriginal Canadians.
An apology is great, but it's not going to do much to change conditions for First Nations families who find themselves watching their children being taken away by non-native agencies.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper is expected to stand in the House of Commons on June 11 and apologize for the residential school abuse perpetrated upon generations of aboriginal Canadians.
An apology is great, but it's not going to do much to change conditions for First Nations families who find themselves watching their children being taken away by non-native agencies.
Children of the State
Children of the State
At a Texas airport, federal agents detain state child caseworkers and the undocumented children in their custody. The feds and the state bicker over care of a toddler trapped in a federal immigrant detention center. A foster child fails a mental health assessment and faces deportation as state workers beg the Department of Homeland Security to reconsider.
At a Texas airport, federal agents detain state child caseworkers and the undocumented children in their custody. The feds and the state bicker over care of a toddler trapped in a federal immigrant detention center. A foster child fails a mental health assessment and faces deportation as state workers beg the Department of Homeland Security to reconsider.
Teacher Placed On Administrative Leave After Abuse Allegations
Teacher Placed On Administrative Leave After Abuse Allegations
A Dayton foster mother and teacher accused of endangering children has been placed on administrative leave.
A Dayton foster mother and teacher accused of endangering children has been placed on administrative leave.
Court rejects vouchers for Ariz.'s foster, disabled kids
Court rejects vouchers for Ariz.'s foster, disabled kids
It is unconstitutional for the state to give parents money to help pay private-school tuition for their disabled or foster children, the Arizona Court of Appeals decided Thursday.
It is unconstitutional for the state to give parents money to help pay private-school tuition for their disabled or foster children, the Arizona Court of Appeals decided Thursday.
Foster child accused of stabbing pregnant teen multiple times
Foster child accused of stabbing pregnant teen multiple times
A 13-year-old foster child faces attempted murder charges for stabbing a pregnant teenager while she slept.
A 13-year-old foster child faces attempted murder charges for stabbing a pregnant teenager while she slept.
Foster mother found guilty in slaying of 3-year-old nephew
Foster mother found guilty in slaying of 3-year-old nephew
If Thomas “T.J.” Wright were alive today, he would be in kindergarten or the first grade, an energetic little boy who, when the radio was turned on, would get up and dance around the room.
But, on Oct. 30, 2004, 3-year-old T.J. was beaten so brutally he was taken unconscious to Hasbro Children’s Hospital, where he was declared brain dead and taken off life support a day later.
If Thomas “T.J.” Wright were alive today, he would be in kindergarten or the first grade, an energetic little boy who, when the radio was turned on, would get up and dance around the room.
But, on Oct. 30, 2004, 3-year-old T.J. was beaten so brutally he was taken unconscious to Hasbro Children’s Hospital, where he was declared brain dead and taken off life support a day later.
Foster mother charged with sexual assault
Foster mother charged with sexual assault
A Brownwood woman was arrested this week on an indictment for the sexual assault of a foster child who was in her care.
Phylecia Bien, 26, was indicted May 1 on a charge of sexual assault of a child in a case involving a 16-year-old male foster child in her care in 2005. The incident reportedly occurred in 2005 when he was 16 and lived with her for a month, police said.
A Brownwood woman was arrested this week on an indictment for the sexual assault of a foster child who was in her care.
Phylecia Bien, 26, was indicted May 1 on a charge of sexual assault of a child in a case involving a 16-year-old male foster child in her care in 2005. The incident reportedly occurred in 2005 when he was 16 and lived with her for a month, police said.
Study: Big gaps in foster vs. traditional homes
Study: Big gaps in foster vs. traditional homes
Children in foster care live in poorer, more crowded and less educated homes than kids in other families, often taking them from one disadvantaged environment into another, new research shows.
Children in foster care live in poorer, more crowded and less educated homes than kids in other families, often taking them from one disadvantaged environment into another, new research shows.
Friday, May 16, 2008
State social worker charged with DUI while transporting a child
State social worker charged with DUI while transporting a child
A state social worker has twice been charged with driving under the influence of drugs -- once while transporting a child for a family court hearing.
A state social worker has twice been charged with driving under the influence of drugs -- once while transporting a child for a family court hearing.
Is child agency being run properly?
Is child agency being run properly?
Almost a year ago, the state Legislature confirmed the governor's choice of a new commissioner to head the state Department of Children and Families despite strong misgivings on the part of some lawmakers regarding her qualifications. Those concerns may be very relevant now, as the agency faces renewed complaints rooted in a lawsuit that goes back nearly two decades regarding failures to protect and assist children.
Almost a year ago, the state Legislature confirmed the governor's choice of a new commissioner to head the state Department of Children and Families despite strong misgivings on the part of some lawmakers regarding her qualifications. Those concerns may be very relevant now, as the agency faces renewed complaints rooted in a lawsuit that goes back nearly two decades regarding failures to protect and assist children.
Austin Judge: FLDS man's restraining order against CPS 'not valid'
Austin Judge: FLDS man's restraining order against CPS 'not valid'
An Austin judge had lifted a restraining keeping Child Protective Services from taking a FLDS mother and child back into custody Thursday.
An Austin judge had lifted a restraining keeping Child Protective Services from taking a FLDS mother and child back into custody Thursday.
Update on Troy Child Abuse Case
Update on Troy Child Abuse Case
Fox23 News has some additional information about the ongoing child abuse investigation in Troy.
Fox23 News has some additional information about the ongoing child abuse investigation in Troy.
Native child welfare agency faces probe
Native child welfare agency faces probe
Another aboriginal child welfare agency is under investigation by Ottawa and the province for questionable financial practices that include "unacceptable" travel expenses and a $30,000 van bought for the agency's director.
Another aboriginal child welfare agency is under investigation by Ottawa and the province for questionable financial practices that include "unacceptable" travel expenses and a $30,000 van bought for the agency's director.
Bloggers unite for one day!
Bloggers unite for one day!
I was going to write my own piece for this, but my man Lee said it so well I decided to link to his.
Real parents are humans too. Mom's Dad's and their children.
The right to family is one of the most basic and fundamental of human rights. Social Services, Child Protective, Family Court and all other self-righteous hypocrites....
Stop destroying the family!
I was going to write my own piece for this, but my man Lee said it so well I decided to link to his.
Real parents are humans too. Mom's Dad's and their children.
The right to family is one of the most basic and fundamental of human rights. Social Services, Child Protective, Family Court and all other self-righteous hypocrites....
Stop destroying the family!
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Multi-Million Dollar Lawsuit Filed By Three Foster Children
Multi-Million Dollar Lawsuit Filed By Three Foster Children
SEATTLE - Three young girls just filed a multi-million-dollar lawsuit against Washington State, saying caseworkers didn't work hard enough to get them out of a foster home where they were allegedly raped, fed drugs, and beaten.
SEATTLE - Three young girls just filed a multi-million-dollar lawsuit against Washington State, saying caseworkers didn't work hard enough to get them out of a foster home where they were allegedly raped, fed drugs, and beaten.
Questions surround Troy abuse case
Questions surround Troy abuse case
TROY - Socials services in Rensselaer County says a woman accused of abusing her adopted son was one of the best foster mothers they had.
TROY - Socials services in Rensselaer County says a woman accused of abusing her adopted son was one of the best foster mothers they had.
Law tracks crimes of foster parents
Law tracks crimes of foster parents
Liz Carroll's murder conviction will stand, and state lawmakers hope new legislation prevents other foster parents from taking the lives of those they're meant to protect.
Liz Carroll's murder conviction will stand, and state lawmakers hope new legislation prevents other foster parents from taking the lives of those they're meant to protect.
Parents jailed after children are taken from foster home
Parents jailed after children are taken from foster home
An Alvin couple who sparked an Amber Alert last week were in the Galveston County Jail on Wednesday, accused of abducting their four children from a foster home in defiance of a court order.
An Alvin couple who sparked an Amber Alert last week were in the Galveston County Jail on Wednesday, accused of abducting their four children from a foster home in defiance of a court order.
DCF employee facing New Hampshire sex charge
DCF employee facing New Hampshire sex charge
A state Department of Children and Family Services worker has been charged with exposing himself in a New Hampshire park, officials said.
more stories like thisDuane Fortier, 55, of West Hartford, was among five men arrested May 7 and May 8 by plainclothes officers after the men allegedly approached them near the Boston Lot hiking trails and made suggestive remarks and obscene gestures, according to police in Lebanon, N.H.
A state Department of Children and Family Services worker has been charged with exposing himself in a New Hampshire park, officials said.
more stories like thisDuane Fortier, 55, of West Hartford, was among five men arrested May 7 and May 8 by plainclothes officers after the men allegedly approached them near the Boston Lot hiking trails and made suggestive remarks and obscene gestures, according to police in Lebanon, N.H.
Change your ways or lose your children, Texas to tell mothers in polygamist sect
Change your ways or lose your children, Texas to tell mothers in polygamist sect
Texas, calling a polygamist sect an abusive environment, is poised to tell its mothers they will lose their children unless they distance themselves from portions of their religion.
Texas, calling a polygamist sect an abusive environment, is poised to tell its mothers they will lose their children unless they distance themselves from portions of their religion.
Fears of foster kids put at risk
Fears of foster kids put at risk
A Schenectady woman is concerned her grandchildren, who were foster children in the Fourth Avenue home where an allegedly abused youth was found over the weekend, also were exposed to filth and abuse.
A Schenectady woman is concerned her grandchildren, who were foster children in the Fourth Avenue home where an allegedly abused youth was found over the weekend, also were exposed to filth and abuse.
Report: Abuse of foster kids up in Fulton, Dekalb
Report: Abuse of foster kids up in Fulton, Dekalb
The combined rates of abuse and neglect of foster children continue to rise in Fulton and DeKalb counties, according to a report released Wednesday.
The report, performed by two court-appointed monitors of the 2,500 foster children in those counties, also criticized the system for failing to provide the children with adequate health care services and allowing too many to languish in the custody of the state Division of Family and Children Services.
The combined rates of abuse and neglect of foster children continue to rise in Fulton and DeKalb counties, according to a report released Wednesday.
The report, performed by two court-appointed monitors of the 2,500 foster children in those counties, also criticized the system for failing to provide the children with adequate health care services and allowing too many to languish in the custody of the state Division of Family and Children Services.
Child Welfare Tightens Law on Removal
Child Welfare Tightens Law on Removal
New York City has enacted a tough new policy that allows the authorities to remove newborns from their parents’ homes in all but an “extraordinary instance” if the parents previously had children taken from their custody and their case is still open.
New York City has enacted a tough new policy that allows the authorities to remove newborns from their parents’ homes in all but an “extraordinary instance” if the parents previously had children taken from their custody and their case is still open.
Children's Aid Society BBC News Report
BBC News- Look North -
Fixing the Assessment
Parents who claim children have been wrongly put up for adoption to meet government targets plan to demonstrate outside the Sheffield Law Courts.
News report of the state of child protection money making industry.
Social Worker Sought In Theft Of Wedding Rings
Social Worker Sought In Theft Of Wedding Rings
Atlanta police are looking for a social worker they say stole a woman’s wedding rings from Grady Hospital after her death.
Atlanta police are looking for a social worker they say stole a woman’s wedding rings from Grady Hospital after her death.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Worker accused of faking cancer to steal from state
Worker accused of faking cancer to steal from state
When a state social worker announced she had malignant brain tumors, she received $21,000 in paid leave, lots of time off from work, and extra sick days generously donated by co-workers pulling for her in her fight against a terrifying disease.
Turns out the tumors were only a sick ploy to steal from the state Department of Social and Health Services, prosecutors alleged Tuesday.
Note: How dumb can they be???
When a state social worker announced she had malignant brain tumors, she received $21,000 in paid leave, lots of time off from work, and extra sick days generously donated by co-workers pulling for her in her fight against a terrifying disease.
Turns out the tumors were only a sick ploy to steal from the state Department of Social and Health Services, prosecutors alleged Tuesday.
Note: How dumb can they be???
Expert: Illinois' child protection system can be 'cruel'
Expert: Illinois' child protection system can be 'cruel'
Illinois' child protection system "can be arbitrary, capricious and cruel," even though it has made "significant progress," the executive director of the National Coalition for Child Protection Reform said Monday.
Illinois' child protection system "can be arbitrary, capricious and cruel," even though it has made "significant progress," the executive director of the National Coalition for Child Protection Reform said Monday.
Child with cancer to go home; CAS to oversee treatment
Child with cancer to go home; CAS to oversee treatment
The tug-of-war with an 11-year-old leukemia patient at its centre reached a truce Tuesday in court, as the boy's family regained custody and Children's Aid Society retained control of his health care.
The tug-of-war with an 11-year-old leukemia patient at its centre reached a truce Tuesday in court, as the boy's family regained custody and Children's Aid Society retained control of his health care.
Child Abuse Is Erroneously Over-Diagnosed
Child Abuse Is Erroneously Over-Diagnosed
The loss of a child is one of life's most painful experiences regardless of the cause, whether illness, accident, or injury. Parents describe it as unbearable, never-ending pain.
But how about having your child or children forcibly removed from your home based on suspicion of a crime you didn't commit? Adding insult to injury, the accusations in question are based on an overzealous medical diagnosis. This is a reality faced by far too many parents accused of child abuse.
The loss of a child is one of life's most painful experiences regardless of the cause, whether illness, accident, or injury. Parents describe it as unbearable, never-ending pain.
But how about having your child or children forcibly removed from your home based on suspicion of a crime you didn't commit? Adding insult to injury, the accusations in question are based on an overzealous medical diagnosis. This is a reality faced by far too many parents accused of child abuse.
CBI goes after foster parents in child racket
CBI goes after foster parents in child racket
The CBI Anti-Corruption Bureau in Tamil Nadu, which is investigating a child adoption racket that was busted by the city police in May 2005, will try to contact the foreign foster parents who adopted the children with the help of an illegal agency in Chennai.
The CBI Anti-Corruption Bureau in Tamil Nadu, which is investigating a child adoption racket that was busted by the city police in May 2005, will try to contact the foreign foster parents who adopted the children with the help of an illegal agency in Chennai.
N.Y. Court Rejects Order for Foster Child's Sex-Change Surgery
N.Y. Court Rejects Order for Foster Child's Sex-Change Surgery
A family court does not have the authority to compel New York City's Administration for Children's Services to pay for a foster child's sex-change operation, an appellate court has ruled.
A family court does not have the authority to compel New York City's Administration for Children's Services to pay for a foster child's sex-change operation, an appellate court has ruled.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Cops: Troy foster mother endangered boy
Cops: Troy foster mother endangered boy
A Fourth Avenue woman is facing child endangerment charges for mistreating her 11-year-old foster child, police said.
A Fourth Avenue woman is facing child endangerment charges for mistreating her 11-year-old foster child, police said.
Mental health workers blast CPS for separating polygamist families
Mental health workers blast CPS for separating polygamist families
Removing children from a polygamist sect's West Texas ranch was unnecessary and traumatizing, several mental health workers sent to aid the families wrote.
Chairman says Texas CPS workers mistreated FLDS
John Kight wants is determined to get the word out that Child Protective Services in Texas is out of control.
Removing children from a polygamist sect's West Texas ranch was unnecessary and traumatizing, several mental health workers sent to aid the families wrote.
Chairman says Texas CPS workers mistreated FLDS
John Kight wants is determined to get the word out that Child Protective Services in Texas is out of control.
Bill seeks to lift liability for child protective services workers
Bill seeks to lift liability for child protective services workers
Lawmakers say it will reduce wrongful child removals.
A state bill would remove civil protection for child protective services workers who lie in their job, but it doesn't have the support of the heads of two agencies that try to protect children.
Note: Why would they need to introduce a bill like this?
Lawmakers say it will reduce wrongful child removals.
A state bill would remove civil protection for child protective services workers who lie in their job, but it doesn't have the support of the heads of two agencies that try to protect children.
Note: Why would they need to introduce a bill like this?
CPS stopped in effort to remove baby, his mother
CPS stopped in effort to remove baby, his mother
Child Protective Services tried to whisk a newborn and his mother, in state custody as a minor after being removed from a polygamist sect's ranch, to a different city within hours of childbirth on Monday.
But her husband, saying his wife is 22 and should never have been taken into state custody with the ranch's children last month, rushed to court and prevented it.
Note: Good for him!
Child Protective Services tried to whisk a newborn and his mother, in state custody as a minor after being removed from a polygamist sect's ranch, to a different city within hours of childbirth on Monday.
But her husband, saying his wife is 22 and should never have been taken into state custody with the ranch's children last month, rushed to court and prevented it.
Note: Good for him!
Why Foster Children Run Away and What Foster Parents Can Do About It
Why Foster Children Run Away and What Foster Parents Can Do About It
Why do foster youth runaway? This question plagues our foster parents, GALs and child welfare workers. Youth run away for all sorts of reasons. Things like verbal, physical and/or sexual abuse can trigger running away. But there are also other reasons, some more subtle than others. I have never run away, but I was triggered at times and wanted to. I was in an abusive foster home for about five years. The one thing that prevented me from running away was my foster siblings. I didn’t want to leave them because I felt that I was responsible for their well-being. This is part of my story and just one of the many stories of Hawaii’s amazingly resilient former and current foster youth. Through interviewing former foster youth, whose identities will remain anonymous, I have learned many things about why foster youth run away.
Why do foster youth runaway? This question plagues our foster parents, GALs and child welfare workers. Youth run away for all sorts of reasons. Things like verbal, physical and/or sexual abuse can trigger running away. But there are also other reasons, some more subtle than others. I have never run away, but I was triggered at times and wanted to. I was in an abusive foster home for about five years. The one thing that prevented me from running away was my foster siblings. I didn’t want to leave them because I felt that I was responsible for their well-being. This is part of my story and just one of the many stories of Hawaii’s amazingly resilient former and current foster youth. Through interviewing former foster youth, whose identities will remain anonymous, I have learned many things about why foster youth run away.
Cellar bones found at Jersey home
Cellar bones found at Jersey home
Bone fragments and five teeth have been found in an underground cellar under a former Jersey children's home at the centre of a child abuse investigation.
Bone fragments and five teeth have been found in an underground cellar under a former Jersey children's home at the centre of a child abuse investigation.
Sect Children Face Another World, but Still No TV
Sect Children Face Another World, but Still No TV
A damning 2004 state report found that the system was overwhelmed with caseloads and staff turnover, that children with violent criminal records were being mixed in the general foster-care population, and that medically fragile children were often under served.
A study in 2006 by the Texas Department of Health Services said that more than half of all foster children ages 13 to 17 were being given psychotropic drugs to control behavior. And a dire shortage of foster home beds means that at least 500 foster children were forced to sleep one night or more in a state office building in 2007, according to a report last fall by a nonprofit legal group, Texas Appleseed, which advocates what it calls social and economic justice.
A damning 2004 state report found that the system was overwhelmed with caseloads and staff turnover, that children with violent criminal records were being mixed in the general foster-care population, and that medically fragile children were often under served.
A study in 2006 by the Texas Department of Health Services said that more than half of all foster children ages 13 to 17 were being given psychotropic drugs to control behavior. And a dire shortage of foster home beds means that at least 500 foster children were forced to sleep one night or more in a state office building in 2007, according to a report last fall by a nonprofit legal group, Texas Appleseed, which advocates what it calls social and economic justice.
Girl Scouts prepare emergency diaper bags for foster families
Girl Scouts prepare emergency diaper bags for foster families
Girl Scouts from Fireside Elementary School in Louisville are preparing emergency diaper bags for foster families who take in babies.
Note: Awwww, how sweet of them to suck our children into their belief system. You'd think the state would have all they need for the babies.
Girl Scouts from Fireside Elementary School in Louisville are preparing emergency diaper bags for foster families who take in babies.
Note: Awwww, how sweet of them to suck our children into their belief system. You'd think the state would have all they need for the babies.
Second sect baby born into Texas state custody
Second sect baby born into Texas state custody
A mother taken from a polygamist sect and being held as a minor in state custody gave birth Monday to a baby boy who was immediately taken into child-protective custody.
A mother taken from a polygamist sect and being held as a minor in state custody gave birth Monday to a baby boy who was immediately taken into child-protective custody.
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