Safe haven law used to leave ward of state
Nebraska's safe haven law has been taken into a new direction when a teen left at a hospital already was a state ward, Nebraska officials said.
State Department of Health and Human Services officials said they were helping the family of the 17-year-old when his grandmother dropped him off at an Omaha hospital earlier this week, the Omaha World-Herald reported Friday.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Some of ex-caseworker's convictions overturned
Some of ex-caseworker's convictions overturned
The Court of Appeals of Indiana today overturned part of the conviction of former Child Protective Services caseworker Cory Heinzman.
Hamilton County Superior Court Judge Daniel J. Pfleging sentenced Heinzman, 39, Arcadia, on Sept. 5, 2007, to 106.5 years in prison after a jury found him guilty that June of 17 sex-related charges. At the time, Deputy Prosecutor Stephanie Smith said it was likely he would serve 53 years with credit for good behavior.
The Court of Appeals of Indiana today overturned part of the conviction of former Child Protective Services caseworker Cory Heinzman.
Hamilton County Superior Court Judge Daniel J. Pfleging sentenced Heinzman, 39, Arcadia, on Sept. 5, 2007, to 106.5 years in prison after a jury found him guilty that June of 17 sex-related charges. At the time, Deputy Prosecutor Stephanie Smith said it was likely he would serve 53 years with credit for good behavior.
Couple Rejected as Adoptive Parents over Support for Spanking
Couple Rejected as Adoptive Parents over Support for Spanking
Despite the fact that it remains lawful in the UK for parents to spank their children as a disciplinary measure, couples who support the practice are being discriminated against by council officials in charge of foster parenting and adoptions, a recent case has revealed.
Despite the fact that it remains lawful in the UK for parents to spank their children as a disciplinary measure, couples who support the practice are being discriminated against by council officials in charge of foster parenting and adoptions, a recent case has revealed.
Yuba CPS Worker Arrested for Extortion, Bribery
Yuba CPS Worker Arrested for Extortion, Bribery
Bail has been set at half a million dollars for a Yuba County Child Protective Services worker accused of extortion and bribery, say Placer authorities.
Bail has been set at half a million dollars for a Yuba County Child Protective Services worker accused of extortion and bribery, say Placer authorities.
DSS reviewing all children's group homes
DSS reviewing all children's group homes
The state's social services department is reviewing all of the children's group homes licensed by the state after receiving complaints that many of the children weren't being protected properly.
Criticism of the facilities ranges from accusations of sexual abuse and neglect to claims some of the homes were structurally unsafe.
The state's social services department is reviewing all of the children's group homes licensed by the state after receiving complaints that many of the children weren't being protected properly.
Criticism of the facilities ranges from accusations of sexual abuse and neglect to claims some of the homes were structurally unsafe.
Ontario man avoids retrial in boy's death
Ontario man avoids retrial in boy's death
The Supreme Court of Canada ruled Friday that a Northern Ontario man will not be retried for manslaughter in connection with the beating death of his foster child.
The Supreme Court of Canada ruled Friday that a Northern Ontario man will not be retried for manslaughter in connection with the beating death of his foster child.
Supreme Court overturns manslaughter charge in child’s death
Supreme Court overturns manslaughter charge in child’s death
The Supreme Court of Canada acquitted an Ontario man of killing his four-year-old foster child in a ruling Friday that overturned an "incomprehensible" jury verdict of manslaughter caused by criminal negligence.
The Supreme Court of Canada acquitted an Ontario man of killing his four-year-old foster child in a ruling Friday that overturned an "incomprehensible" jury verdict of manslaughter caused by criminal negligence.
Waterford police say month-old baby abducted
Waterford police say month-old baby abducted
Waterford police say a 22-year-old woman abducted her month-old baby during a supervised visit with a child welfare official, and authorities are searching for both of them.
Waterford police say a 22-year-old woman abducted her month-old baby during a supervised visit with a child welfare official, and authorities are searching for both of them.
Investigating Social Services
Investigating Social Services
Before Erin Maxwell died August 30th, before State Police discovered she was often locked in her room without food in a home full of animals with piles of garbage and feces, before her stepbrother was charged with her murder and before her father and stepmother were accused of endangering the welfare of a child, Oswego County child protective workers were called to the Palermo home three times to investigate complaints that Erin was in potential danger. Yet according to Oswego County Social Services Cvommissioner Fran Lanigan, "that was not an immediate threat to the child as far as removal of the child."
Before Erin Maxwell died August 30th, before State Police discovered she was often locked in her room without food in a home full of animals with piles of garbage and feces, before her stepbrother was charged with her murder and before her father and stepmother were accused of endangering the welfare of a child, Oswego County child protective workers were called to the Palermo home three times to investigate complaints that Erin was in potential danger. Yet according to Oswego County Social Services Cvommissioner Fran Lanigan, "that was not an immediate threat to the child as far as removal of the child."
Voters Asked To Decide Fate Of Adopted, Foster Children
Voters Asked To Decide Fate Of Adopted, Foster Children
Volunteers and churches put the Arkansas Adoption and Foster Care Act on Tuesday's ballot, according to the president of the Family Council Action Committee.
The act, Proposed Initiative Act No. 1, prevents adoptive or foster care children from being placed in homes with individuals who have a live-in boyfriend or girlfriend.
The end result is a ban on homosexual adoptions and foster care, said Jerry Cox, the president of the Family Council Committee in Little Rock.
Volunteers and churches put the Arkansas Adoption and Foster Care Act on Tuesday's ballot, according to the president of the Family Council Action Committee.
The act, Proposed Initiative Act No. 1, prevents adoptive or foster care children from being placed in homes with individuals who have a live-in boyfriend or girlfriend.
The end result is a ban on homosexual adoptions and foster care, said Jerry Cox, the president of the Family Council Committee in Little Rock.
Washington State Supreme Court
Oral Arguments: In re the Dependency of A.L.S.B. (Did the court unconstitutionally terminate a father's parental rights without finding him unfit?)
Nanny tells tale of horror at foster mother trial
Nanny tells tale of horror at foster mother trial
An Edmonton foster mother left a toddler to sleep in an unheated garage in only a pullup diaper, the woman's live-in nanny, Julia Gee, testified in court today.
An Edmonton foster mother left a toddler to sleep in an unheated garage in only a pullup diaper, the woman's live-in nanny, Julia Gee, testified in court today.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Polygamist child custody case winds down
Polygamist child custody case winds down
The massive custody case that swept 439 children from a polygamist sect's West Texas ranch into foster care has largely evaporated, with Texas authorities dropping all but a few dozen cases against parents.
All but 37 children from the Yearning For Zion Ranch in Eldorado have been released from court oversight after Child Protective Services found they had not been abused or that their parents could protect them from the risk of future abuse. Only one girl has been returned to foster care.
The massive custody case that swept 439 children from a polygamist sect's West Texas ranch into foster care has largely evaporated, with Texas authorities dropping all but a few dozen cases against parents.
All but 37 children from the Yearning For Zion Ranch in Eldorado have been released from court oversight after Child Protective Services found they had not been abused or that their parents could protect them from the risk of future abuse. Only one girl has been returned to foster care.
Child abuse, neglect complaints rise but confirmed cases decline
Child abuse, neglect complaints rise but confirmed cases decline
The number of complaints of possible child abuse or neglect is rising in Oklahoma but the number of confirmed cases of abuse and neglect is falling.
A Department of Human Services spokesman says he believes more people are reporting possible abuse and neglect because it gets media attention.
The number of complaints of possible child abuse or neglect is rising in Oklahoma but the number of confirmed cases of abuse and neglect is falling.
A Department of Human Services spokesman says he believes more people are reporting possible abuse and neglect because it gets media attention.
CAS worker denies allegations
CAS worker denies allegations
A local Children's Aid Society worker denied she ever told David Silmser the agency wasn't interested in hearing his allegations of sexual abuse.
A local Children's Aid Society worker denied she ever told David Silmser the agency wasn't interested in hearing his allegations of sexual abuse.
Jail foster parents who abused boy: prosecutors
Jail foster parents who abused boy: prosecutors
Prosecutors have called for a lengthy jail term for a Perth couple who severely mistreated a boy under their care because they thought he had an eating disorder.
The couple, who can not be identified, pleaded guilty to mistreating the six-year-old boy over two years.
Prosecutors have called for a lengthy jail term for a Perth couple who severely mistreated a boy under their care because they thought he had an eating disorder.
The couple, who can not be identified, pleaded guilty to mistreating the six-year-old boy over two years.
Foster father convicted in Ore. girl's death
Foster father convicted in Ore. girl's death
A Multnomah County jury found a foster father guilty of first-degree manslaughter for recklessly failing to seek medical care for 2-year-old Keyana Bravo-Hamilton.
A Multnomah County jury found a foster father guilty of first-degree manslaughter for recklessly failing to seek medical care for 2-year-old Keyana Bravo-Hamilton.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
CPS disciplines three caseworkers
CPS disciplines three caseworkers
Child Protective Services is pointing a finger at three of its own workers as a result of what happened in the weeks before the death of a 3-year-old girl.
Child Protective Services is pointing a finger at three of its own workers as a result of what happened in the weeks before the death of a 3-year-old girl.
State investigated foster mom before pot bust
State investigated foster mom before pot bust
The foster mom found with 11 pounds of marijuana in her Portland home was warned by the state in June to keep her adult children away from the house or she would lose her foster care certification.
The foster mom found with 11 pounds of marijuana in her Portland home was warned by the state in June to keep her adult children away from the house or she would lose her foster care certification.
Child welfare institute focuses on families, overwhelmed caseworkers
Child welfare institute focuses on families, overwhelmed caseworkers
Gary Anderson remembers those middle-of-the-night runs to the emergency room, trips to the police station, and breaking families apart to keep children safe -- experiences he called "rewarding, meaningful and horrifying."
Gary Anderson remembers those middle-of-the-night runs to the emergency room, trips to the police station, and breaking families apart to keep children safe -- experiences he called "rewarding, meaningful and horrifying."
Neb. governor accelerates fix of safe-haven law
Neb. governor accelerates fix of safe-haven law
Deciding he could wait no longer to address what has become a state embarrassment, Gov. Dave Heineman said Wednesday he will call a special legislative session to amend Nebraska's loosely worded safe-haven law, which in just a few months has allowed parents to abandon nearly two dozen children as old as 17.
Heineman had planned to wait until the next regular legislative session convened in January, but changed his mind as the number of children dropped off at hospitals grew. Two teenagers were abandoned Tuesday night alone, and three children dropped off previously did not even live in Nebraska.
Deciding he could wait no longer to address what has become a state embarrassment, Gov. Dave Heineman said Wednesday he will call a special legislative session to amend Nebraska's loosely worded safe-haven law, which in just a few months has allowed parents to abandon nearly two dozen children as old as 17.
Heineman had planned to wait until the next regular legislative session convened in January, but changed his mind as the number of children dropped off at hospitals grew. Two teenagers were abandoned Tuesday night alone, and three children dropped off previously did not even live in Nebraska.
Trial delayed in foster girl’s abuse death
Trial delayed in foster girl’s abuse death
A Marion Superior Court judge today delayed an Indianapolis man’s trial in the abuse death of 3-year-old TaJanay Bailey.
The girl died in November, less than a month after the state Department of Child Services had sent her home for a trial reunification, along with her younger brother.
A Marion Superior Court judge today delayed an Indianapolis man’s trial in the abuse death of 3-year-old TaJanay Bailey.
The girl died in November, less than a month after the state Department of Child Services had sent her home for a trial reunification, along with her younger brother.
13 foster homes closed
13 foster homes closed
The state has “designated for closure” 13 foster homes because of suspected abuse or neglect over the last two weeks, Department of Human Services spokesperson Julie Munsell confirmed Tuesday. All foster and biological children have been removed from the homes during the agency's investigation, she said.
The state has “designated for closure” 13 foster homes because of suspected abuse or neglect over the last two weeks, Department of Human Services spokesperson Julie Munsell confirmed Tuesday. All foster and biological children have been removed from the homes during the agency's investigation, she said.
Public should know why abused toddler was returned to parents
Public should know why abused toddler was returned to parents
The state Department of Human Resources continues to withhold information on the fate of little Adrianna Swain; she was critically beaten last month after a Cobb County juvenile judge returned the toddler to her parents over the objections of a court-appointed advocate and a citizen’s review panel.
The state contends that it can’t share details about Adrianna because of confidentiality laws. But the laws don’t protect Adrianna; they protect the adults who bungled this case and put the child into a dangerous home. It’s time to stop shielding the adults in child welfare under the pretense of safeguarding the children.
The state Department of Human Resources continues to withhold information on the fate of little Adrianna Swain; she was critically beaten last month after a Cobb County juvenile judge returned the toddler to her parents over the objections of a court-appointed advocate and a citizen’s review panel.
The state contends that it can’t share details about Adrianna because of confidentiality laws. But the laws don’t protect Adrianna; they protect the adults who bungled this case and put the child into a dangerous home. It’s time to stop shielding the adults in child welfare under the pretense of safeguarding the children.
Mom snatches kids from CPS
Mom snatches kids from CPS
Phoenix Police were searching Tuesday for a woman accused of taking her children -- who were under protection of Child Protective Services -- and fleeing to Florida.
Phoenix Police were searching Tuesday for a woman accused of taking her children -- who were under protection of Child Protective Services -- and fleeing to Florida.
13 year old Childrens Aid runaway exposes fraud.
While this 13 year old was hiding from the Kingston Childrens Aid Societys abuse he speaks of the fraudulent misuse of taxpayers money and abuses in the system. CAS worker Kelly DeWolfe was forced to resign after the release of this video.
Sex-abuse retrial opens for former Nogales cop
Sex-abuse retrial opens for former Nogales cop
The lawyer for a former Nogales police officer accused of sexually abusing three teenage girls told jurors Tuesday that one of the incidents was consensual and the other two could not have happened.
----
Note: Get this....
"He told her, 'Do not tell anybody about this or I will have your mother deported. I will break up your family and you will go into foster care,'" Ortiz said.
The lawyer for a former Nogales police officer accused of sexually abusing three teenage girls told jurors Tuesday that one of the incidents was consensual and the other two could not have happened.
----
Note: Get this....
"He told her, 'Do not tell anybody about this or I will have your mother deported. I will break up your family and you will go into foster care,'" Ortiz said.
Foster runaways risk prostitution
Foster runaways risk prostitution
DCFS taking steps to prevent sexual victimization of state wards in group homes
The foster child who brought down a suburban prostitution ring this summer has pale skin, pink cheeks, laughs often while visiting her biological family and wears a gold butterfly charm on black string around her neck.
Her life, however, has been anything but carefree. On July 8, the 13-year-old girl and two other teens ran away from a suburban Chicago group home for foster children and made their way to a Lombard hotel to meet up with a 25-year-old pimp. The teens were advertised on the Internet as prostitutes, and prices were quoted to potential johns, according to state records.
DCFS taking steps to prevent sexual victimization of state wards in group homes
The foster child who brought down a suburban prostitution ring this summer has pale skin, pink cheeks, laughs often while visiting her biological family and wears a gold butterfly charm on black string around her neck.
Her life, however, has been anything but carefree. On July 8, the 13-year-old girl and two other teens ran away from a suburban Chicago group home for foster children and made their way to a Lombard hotel to meet up with a 25-year-old pimp. The teens were advertised on the Internet as prostitutes, and prices were quoted to potential johns, according to state records.
6 Local Kids Rescued From Human Trafficking Operation
6 Local Kids Rescued From Human Trafficking Operation
One became a prostitute at age 12.
All six Tampa Bay teens rescued in a law enforcement operation last week worked prostitution hotspots such as Nebraska Avenue or were pimped on the Internet.
----
Four of the six area children rescued were categorized as endangered runaways by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The teens are typically runaways who come from foster care or broken homes, Couvertier said.
One became a prostitute at age 12.
All six Tampa Bay teens rescued in a law enforcement operation last week worked prostitution hotspots such as Nebraska Avenue or were pimped on the Internet.
----
Four of the six area children rescued were categorized as endangered runaways by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The teens are typically runaways who come from foster care or broken homes, Couvertier said.
Jersey Care Home Of Horrors - Latest (ITV Evening News)
Jersey Police focus on cellar (ITV News)26-02-08
Police are continuing their excavation of a bricked-up cellar at a Jersey property where they found a child's skull.
Officers were alerted to the former children's home Haut de la Garenne after a child abuse investigation launched last November uncovered allegations dating back to the 1960s.
Intelligence from the investigation led police to search the property, and on Saturday the remains of a child were discovered within the former Victorian school and orphanage in St Martin.
A further six sites are to be looked at, including a number of hotspots at the cellar which were identified by a sniffer dog.
All care agencies in Jersey are now being investigated for failing to act over allegations of child abuse.
The island's deputy chief police officer Lenny Harper said: "We are looking at allegations that a number of agencies didn't deal with things as perhaps they should."
The state's ex-health minister Senator Stuart Seyvret has accused the government of a cover-up.
Jersey's Chief Minister Senator Frank Walker promised an investigation but said: "There is no evidence of a high-level cover-up, as alleged by our former health minister."
It has also emerged that paedophile Edward Paisnel - dubbed the Beast of Jersey - used to visit Haut de la Garenne dressed as Father Christmas to deliver toys and sweets to the children.
He was jailed for thirty years in 1971 after being convicted of 13 counts of assault, rape and sodomy.
Paisnel avoided capture for ten years because he was a respected businessman, husband and guardian of several foster children.
Police have said they are not connecting Paisnel - who died in 1994 - to the current inquiry.
The only person to be charged so far is Gordon Wateridge, a 76-year-old who worked at Haut de la Garenne between 1969 and 1979 and is charged with three offences of indecent assault on girls under 16.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Foster mom busted drying pot in 13-year-old's bedroom
Foster mom busted drying pot in 13-year-old's bedroom
Multnomah County detectives report a substantial illegal marijuana bust in southeast Portland following an anonymous tip.
Multnomah County detectives report a substantial illegal marijuana bust in southeast Portland following an anonymous tip.
Foster Mom Accused Of Selling Marijuana
Foster Mom Accused Of Selling Marijuana
Detectives found a marijuana-growing operation at a children's foster care home Monday, Multnomah County authorities said.
Note: Now isn't that just the shining example of parenthood that foster parents should be displaying.
Detectives found a marijuana-growing operation at a children's foster care home Monday, Multnomah County authorities said.
Note: Now isn't that just the shining example of parenthood that foster parents should be displaying.
Top court upholds removal of NY family court judge
Top court upholds removal of NY family court judge
New York's top court ordered a state judge removed for misconduct Tuesday, finding he seriously compromised the rights of five people by holding child support and custody proceedings while they were jailed or by refusing to assign them attorneys.
New York's top court ordered a state judge removed for misconduct Tuesday, finding he seriously compromised the rights of five people by holding child support and custody proceedings while they were jailed or by refusing to assign them attorneys.
Indonesian child-abuse police to investigate wealthy Muslim cleric
Indonesian child-abuse police to investigate wealthy Muslim cleric
The Indonesian Child Protection Commission is planning to report to the police a rich Muslim cleric in Semarang, Central Java, who married a 12-year-old girl.
He is being accused of having illegal sex with a minor.
Note: Indonesian Child Abuse Police. That sounds scary.
The Indonesian Child Protection Commission is planning to report to the police a rich Muslim cleric in Semarang, Central Java, who married a 12-year-old girl.
He is being accused of having illegal sex with a minor.
Note: Indonesian Child Abuse Police. That sounds scary.
More caseworkers to oversee foster care
More caseworkers to oversee foster care
A recent lawsuit settlement is expected to boost the number of foster care caseworkers in Jackson County, thereby strengthening the safety net for hundreds of children.
A recent lawsuit settlement is expected to boost the number of foster care caseworkers in Jackson County, thereby strengthening the safety net for hundreds of children.
Social Workers Are Bullied by District Attorneys Office
Sedgwick County KS DA Office Bully's Social Workers. District Attorney states not her intention to fly over Sedgwick County on a broom and remove children from their homes. Sedgwick County DA says they use "Boilerplate paragraphs" in CINC petitions. boilerplate is basically a "one size fits all". Sedgwick County's system is corrupt. Children are removed from their homes and loving families over non-abuse/neglect. Examples of reasons for removal: runaway, truancy, out of control behavior. Just another way to OVER medicate our children!
Jail for child porn social worker
Jail for child porn social worker
A social worker has been jailed for 15 months for owning hundreds of photographs and videos of child porn.
Kevin Glancy, who worked with children and families for Edinburgh City Council, had 239 pictures and 70 video clips of children being abused.
A social worker has been jailed for 15 months for owning hundreds of photographs and videos of child porn.
Kevin Glancy, who worked with children and families for Edinburgh City Council, had 239 pictures and 70 video clips of children being abused.
Foster carousel harming children
Foster carousel harming children
HUNDREDS of vulnerable children who cannot live with their parents are being shifted around the foster care system, creating greater instability for children who may already be traumatised.
Some children move between three or more homes in foster care, residential care or with relatives in just one year, according to State Government figures obtained by The Age under freedom of information laws.
HUNDREDS of vulnerable children who cannot live with their parents are being shifted around the foster care system, creating greater instability for children who may already be traumatised.
Some children move between three or more homes in foster care, residential care or with relatives in just one year, according to State Government figures obtained by The Age under freedom of information laws.
San Carlos Park man gets 10 years in sex abuse case
San Carlos Park man gets 10 years in sex abuse case
Defendant had sex with foster daughter, 16
A former foster father was sentenced to 10 years behind bars Monday for sexually abusing his then-16-year-old foster daughter.
Lee Circuit Judge Mark Steinbeck also handed Robert Jackson 20 years on sex-offender probation and ruled that he be tagged as a sex offender.
Defendant had sex with foster daughter, 16
A former foster father was sentenced to 10 years behind bars Monday for sexually abusing his then-16-year-old foster daughter.
Lee Circuit Judge Mark Steinbeck also handed Robert Jackson 20 years on sex-offender probation and ruled that he be tagged as a sex offender.
Nebraska's safe-haven fiasco
Nebraska's safe-haven fiasco
For the last few weeks, the nation has watched, appalled, as parents exploited Nebraska's poorly written safe-haven law -- meant to safeguard newborn babies -- using it to discard their young children and teenagers at hospitals without fear of prosecution. By now, the stories are well known: One mother drove for hours from Michigan to abandon an unruly teen; a bereaved widower turned over nine of his children, saying he could no longer care for them. In all, at least 20 children have been abandoned in Nebraska since the law took effect in July. The unicameral Legislature reconvenes in January, and Gov. Dave Heineman and a majority of legislators already say the first order of business will be to amend the law.
For the last few weeks, the nation has watched, appalled, as parents exploited Nebraska's poorly written safe-haven law -- meant to safeguard newborn babies -- using it to discard their young children and teenagers at hospitals without fear of prosecution. By now, the stories are well known: One mother drove for hours from Michigan to abandon an unruly teen; a bereaved widower turned over nine of his children, saying he could no longer care for them. In all, at least 20 children have been abandoned in Nebraska since the law took effect in July. The unicameral Legislature reconvenes in January, and Gov. Dave Heineman and a majority of legislators already say the first order of business will be to amend the law.
Family Services checks on 'Joe'
Family Services checks on 'Joe'
Ohio's inspector general is investigating why a state agency director approved checking the child-support computer system for information on "Joe the Plumber."
Ohio's inspector general is investigating why a state agency director approved checking the child-support computer system for information on "Joe the Plumber."
Monday, October 27, 2008
Exclusive: Mom Accused of Murder Speaks Out
Exclusive: Mom Accused of Murder Speaks Out
When 4-year-old Andrew Burd arrived at a hospital in critical condition in the fall of 2006, doctors didn't have a clue as to what was wrong with him. Blood tests soon revealed that he had salt poisoning, or hypernatremia. Andrew's levels were off the charts -- almost double the norm and among the highest ever recorded.
When 4-year-old Andrew Burd arrived at a hospital in critical condition in the fall of 2006, doctors didn't have a clue as to what was wrong with him. Blood tests soon revealed that he had salt poisoning, or hypernatremia. Andrew's levels were off the charts -- almost double the norm and among the highest ever recorded.
Police probe child protection concerns at a North Wales autism school
Police probe child protection concerns at a North Wales autism school
POLICE and social services officers have confirmed that they are investigating child protection concerns at a North Wales school for children with autism.
Officers were called in to investigate emails from a concerned member of staff at Ysgol Plas Brondyffryn in Denbigh late last week.
POLICE and social services officers have confirmed that they are investigating child protection concerns at a North Wales school for children with autism.
Officers were called in to investigate emails from a concerned member of staff at Ysgol Plas Brondyffryn in Denbigh late last week.
Dept places over 490 000 vulnerable children in foster care
Dept places over 490 000 vulnerable children in foster care
The Department of Social Development has placed over 490 000 children in foster care and has provided over eight million children with Child Support Grants.
Addressing the media on Monday on the department's progress in assisting orphans and vulnerable children, Social Development Minister, Zola Skweyiya said the country has done incredibly well to provide a social safety net for the poor, especially children.
"According to the South African Social Security Agency's (SASSA) statistics, as of September 2008, a total of 494 992 children were in foster care and were also receiving the foster care grant.
Note: The South African Baby Trade is chugging right along in this economic downturn I see.
The Department of Social Development has placed over 490 000 children in foster care and has provided over eight million children with Child Support Grants.
Addressing the media on Monday on the department's progress in assisting orphans and vulnerable children, Social Development Minister, Zola Skweyiya said the country has done incredibly well to provide a social safety net for the poor, especially children.
"According to the South African Social Security Agency's (SASSA) statistics, as of September 2008, a total of 494 992 children were in foster care and were also receiving the foster care grant.
Note: The South African Baby Trade is chugging right along in this economic downturn I see.
Adoptive Mom Previously Charged With Child Abuse
Adoptive Mom Previously Charged With Child Abuse
A Spring Hill woman who cared for two children found malnourished by police last week has already been convicted of child abuse.
An officer found a 12-year-old boy and 13-year-old girl with bruises all over them last week walking on a busy Spring Hill road. The woman with whom the children were living with was Shelley Blair, who was put under investigation for child abuse for the second time.
A Spring Hill woman who cared for two children found malnourished by police last week has already been convicted of child abuse.
An officer found a 12-year-old boy and 13-year-old girl with bruises all over them last week walking on a busy Spring Hill road. The woman with whom the children were living with was Shelley Blair, who was put under investigation for child abuse for the second time.
The Life of a Citizen Soldier fighting against CPS
My life as a refugee soldier fighting against terrorists
Social workers ordered to step up procedures after complaint
Social workers ordered to step up procedures after complaint
THE city's social work department has been ordered to introduce more "robust" procedures for reviewing cases after a mother's complaint about the care given to her autistic son was upheld.
Social workers will now have to review cases on a minimum of an annual basis, following a series of delays – including one ten-month setback – faced by the mother, who was trying to get additional support for her child.
THE city's social work department has been ordered to introduce more "robust" procedures for reviewing cases after a mother's complaint about the care given to her autistic son was upheld.
Social workers will now have to review cases on a minimum of an annual basis, following a series of delays – including one ten-month setback – faced by the mother, who was trying to get additional support for her child.
Campaign on foster siblings' role
Campaign on foster siblings' role
A new campaign to highlight the role sons and daughters of foster carers play in making fostering work is being launched.
A new campaign to highlight the role sons and daughters of foster carers play in making fostering work is being launched.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Two babies who went to sleep and never woke up
Two babies who went to sleep and never woke up
Carson Wolfe and JaVaughn Palmer were born 18 months apart, but they shared a dangerous medical condition. Both had methamphetamine coursing through their systems. Their mothers admitted using the drug; the boys were taken from them and placed in foster care.
Carson Wolfe and JaVaughn Palmer were born 18 months apart, but they shared a dangerous medical condition. Both had methamphetamine coursing through their systems. Their mothers admitted using the drug; the boys were taken from them and placed in foster care.
Petition to oust DSS Commissioner
Petition to oust DSS Commissioner
A group of Erin Maxwell supporters are gathering signatures on a petition, calling for the firing of the commissioner of Oswego County's Department of Social Services.
A group of Erin Maxwell supporters are gathering signatures on a petition, calling for the firing of the commissioner of Oswego County's Department of Social Services.
Study finds foster kids lack permanent homes
Study finds foster kids lack permanent homes
A statewide study on the foster care system has suggested that some counties have a lack of permanency in the placement of children who are brought into the system.
"People think the children living in foster care are living down the street with Mary Jones, but the truth is that about a quarter of them are living in (state care) institutions or group homes," said Joan L. Benso, president and chief executive officer of Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children (PPC), an independent and privately funded organization that strives to be the voice of children on the state and federal levels.
A statewide study on the foster care system has suggested that some counties have a lack of permanency in the placement of children who are brought into the system.
"People think the children living in foster care are living down the street with Mary Jones, but the truth is that about a quarter of them are living in (state care) institutions or group homes," said Joan L. Benso, president and chief executive officer of Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children (PPC), an independent and privately funded organization that strives to be the voice of children on the state and federal levels.
Information exchange essential in foster kids' placement transfers
Information exchange essential in foster kids' placement transfers
The death of Alayna Sams raised questions about how the system communicates when it moves a child with medical problems from one placement to another.
The death of Alayna Sams raised questions about how the system communicates when it moves a child with medical problems from one placement to another.
Foster care group lacks funds for Christmas party
Foster care group lacks funds for Christmas party
When children in Porter County are placed in foster care, the goal is to give them a safe, loving environment.
Unfortunately, siblings are sometimes separated, making a difficult situation even more challenging for families, especially during the holidays.
When children in Porter County are placed in foster care, the goal is to give them a safe, loving environment.
Unfortunately, siblings are sometimes separated, making a difficult situation even more challenging for families, especially during the holidays.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Foster dad cleared in tot's death
Foster dad cleared in tot's death
No evidence of neglect, state decides; baby's relative thinks there's a cover-up
The Department of Child Services has ruled there was no evidence of neglect in the April death of a foster child, even though her foster father may have waited up to 90 minutes to seek medical help after finding the baby unconscious.
No evidence of neglect, state decides; baby's relative thinks there's a cover-up
The Department of Child Services has ruled there was no evidence of neglect in the April death of a foster child, even though her foster father may have waited up to 90 minutes to seek medical help after finding the baby unconscious.
Foster carer added to Sex Offenders’ list
Foster carer added to Sex Offenders’ list
A FOSTER carer who admitted a catalogue of abuse against four young boys – some of the attacks took place at his former home in Perth – faces a lengthy jail term when he appears for sentence next month.
A FOSTER carer who admitted a catalogue of abuse against four young boys – some of the attacks took place at his former home in Perth – faces a lengthy jail term when he appears for sentence next month.
Oregon foster children often end up lost in the system
Oregon foster children often end up lost in the system
Number of kids in need rises while funds, foster parents retreat
Number of kids in need rises while funds, foster parents retreat
Arkansas\' Adoption Ballot Measure Under Fire
Thirteen retired state judges are fighting the measure, which would provide children with both a mom and dad.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Federal judge approves Michigan foster-care deal
Federal judge approves Michigan foster-care deal
A federal judge has approved a settlement aimed at improving Michigan's foster-care system.
The state will hire hundreds of people to ease the caseloads of workers who oversee children in foster care or in protective services.
Note: Parents in Michigan... Run.
A federal judge has approved a settlement aimed at improving Michigan's foster-care system.
The state will hire hundreds of people to ease the caseloads of workers who oversee children in foster care or in protective services.
Note: Parents in Michigan... Run.
How DCSF draws the wrong conclusions from the memory of an abused child
How DCSF draws the wrong conclusions from the memory of an abused child
It’s worth saying at the outset that Victoria was already known to social services and had a social worker. There is a serious shortage of child and family social workers and unfortunately the social worker allocated had only been qualified for 18 months, and the supervision she was receiving was inadequate. The evidence is that her supervision sessions were taken up largely with administrative tasks, and she did not take her case notes to those sessions. The supervisor did not question this.
“Victoria’s Aunt was claiming child benefit and had registered Victoria with two GPs. On both counts, Victoria’s details would have been supplied to ContactPoint and so would have been available to authorised users, regardless of any cause for concern.”
It’s worth saying at the outset that Victoria was already known to social services and had a social worker. There is a serious shortage of child and family social workers and unfortunately the social worker allocated had only been qualified for 18 months, and the supervision she was receiving was inadequate. The evidence is that her supervision sessions were taken up largely with administrative tasks, and she did not take her case notes to those sessions. The supervisor did not question this.
“Victoria’s Aunt was claiming child benefit and had registered Victoria with two GPs. On both counts, Victoria’s details would have been supplied to ContactPoint and so would have been available to authorised users, regardless of any cause for concern.”
Probe shouldn’t detract from child advocacy effort
Probe shouldn’t detract from child advocacy effort
AN investigation into potential financial and other wrongdoing at a nonprofit group geared toward helping children is troubling news.
Directors of the Oklahoma CASA Association fired Executive Director Anna Naukam earlier this month. Naukam had been on medical leave since September and in her absence, possible financial problems apparently surfaced. A state investigative audit is set to begin next month.
AN investigation into potential financial and other wrongdoing at a nonprofit group geared toward helping children is troubling news.
Directors of the Oklahoma CASA Association fired Executive Director Anna Naukam earlier this month. Naukam had been on medical leave since September and in her absence, possible financial problems apparently surfaced. A state investigative audit is set to begin next month.
Former CAS head unaware of pregnancies at group home
Former CAS head unaware of pregnancies at group home
The former head of the local Children's Aid Society told the Cornwall Public Inquiry he couldn't recall learning that two teenage girls assigned to a Martintown group home in the 1970s had been impregnated by the sons of the foster parents.
Thomas O'Brien testified that had he known that first Larry Lapensee, and then his brother Brian, had children with the two girls, the home would have been closed long before allegations of sexual abuse against Brian Lapensee came to light in December 1982.
The former head of the local Children's Aid Society told the Cornwall Public Inquiry he couldn't recall learning that two teenage girls assigned to a Martintown group home in the 1970s had been impregnated by the sons of the foster parents.
Thomas O'Brien testified that had he known that first Larry Lapensee, and then his brother Brian, had children with the two girls, the home would have been closed long before allegations of sexual abuse against Brian Lapensee came to light in December 1982.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Children & Family Services holds job fair on Saturday
Children & Family Services holds job fair on Saturday
County of Los Angeles
DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN AND FAMILY SERVICES
The perfect place to protest. Well this and foster parent informational meetings. That would effect their recruitment operations.
County of Los Angeles
DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN AND FAMILY SERVICES
The perfect place to protest. Well this and foster parent informational meetings. That would effect their recruitment operations.
Foster child allegedly molested
Foster child allegedly molested
A NORTHERN Tasmanian man has denied he maintained a long-term sexual relationship with his 11-year- old foster daughter.
The 51-year-old, who cannot be identified, is alleged to have molested the girl on more than 50 occasions between 2003 and 2004.
A NORTHERN Tasmanian man has denied he maintained a long-term sexual relationship with his 11-year- old foster daughter.
The 51-year-old, who cannot be identified, is alleged to have molested the girl on more than 50 occasions between 2003 and 2004.
Child welfare change pondered
Child welfare change pondered
The province will review whether its child-welfare advocate should report directly to MLAs after government reports surfaced showing some children were getting inadequate care.
The province will review whether its child-welfare advocate should report directly to MLAs after government reports surfaced showing some children were getting inadequate care.
Activists say social workers are too quick to place kids into care
Activists say social workers are too quick to place kids into care
Social Welfare Services are too quick to remove children from their homes, according to the hundreds of parents and social activists who gathered Thursday evening in Tel Aviv to spotlight what they call "the heavy-handedness of the authorities."
They suggest changes to the current legislation that they claim affords social workers free rein in deciding the fate of thousands of Israeli children.
Note: Yeah! These mean old social workers, they kind of spread like a plague around the world. They have the same problems with them in Isreal as we do over here. Some of them are even breeding I'll bet. Filthy sadistic creatures they are.
Social Welfare Services are too quick to remove children from their homes, according to the hundreds of parents and social activists who gathered Thursday evening in Tel Aviv to spotlight what they call "the heavy-handedness of the authorities."
They suggest changes to the current legislation that they claim affords social workers free rein in deciding the fate of thousands of Israeli children.
Note: Yeah! These mean old social workers, they kind of spread like a plague around the world. They have the same problems with them in Isreal as we do over here. Some of them are even breeding I'll bet. Filthy sadistic creatures they are.
Reforms threaten family courts
Reforms threaten family courts
Government plans to save costs are putting the system under heavy pressure, says Britain’s top family judge
Government plans to save costs are putting the system under heavy pressure, says Britain’s top family judge
Blow that killed foster boy was sudden, hard, court hears
Blow that killed foster boy was sudden, hard, court hears
The blow was sudden and hard and the foster boy's brain spun in his skull; the veins in his head ripped open and the blood pooled into a subdural hematoma that ultimately killed him, a jury heard Wednesday.
The blow was sudden and hard and the foster boy's brain spun in his skull; the veins in his head ripped open and the blood pooled into a subdural hematoma that ultimately killed him, a jury heard Wednesday.
California's low payments to foster parents violate federal Child Welfare Act, judge rules
California's low payments to foster parents violate federal Child Welfare Act, judge rules
California's payments to foster parents are so low that the state is in violation of the federal Child Welfare Act, a federal judge in San Francisco ruled Wednesday.
Ruling in favor of three groups of foster caregivers who brought suit against the state, U.S. District Judge William Alsup noted the state's compensation rate has fallen to as little as 60% of the costs the state is obliged to cover to be eligible for federal matching funds.
California's payments to foster parents are so low that the state is in violation of the federal Child Welfare Act, a federal judge in San Francisco ruled Wednesday.
Ruling in favor of three groups of foster caregivers who brought suit against the state, U.S. District Judge William Alsup noted the state's compensation rate has fallen to as little as 60% of the costs the state is obliged to cover to be eligible for federal matching funds.
Man accused of molesting boys ordered to trial
Man accused of molesting boys ordered to trial
A San Diego judge has determined that there is enough evidence for a man accused of molesting boys in the late 1990s to stand trial on felony charges.
Steven Bimson faces a total of 31 charges involving three boys.
A prosecutor says Bimson was acting as a father figure to the boys between 1996 and 2000 when the crimes allegedly occurred.The San Diego Union Tribune reported Wednesday that Bimson became a licensed foster-care provider in 2003.
A San Diego judge has determined that there is enough evidence for a man accused of molesting boys in the late 1990s to stand trial on felony charges.
Steven Bimson faces a total of 31 charges involving three boys.
A prosecutor says Bimson was acting as a father figure to the boys between 1996 and 2000 when the crimes allegedly occurred.The San Diego Union Tribune reported Wednesday that Bimson became a licensed foster-care provider in 2003.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Agency’s proposed budget is criticized
Agency’s proposed budget is criticized
Legislators grumbled Tuesday about the proposed state police budget, most notably Gov. Mike Beebe’s recommending no more officers for the division that investigates complaints of child abuse.
Sen. Percy Malone, D-Arkadelphia, told Arkansas State Police Col. Winford Phillips during budget hearings that not helping the Crimes Against Children Division didn’t make sense especially with recent cases of “horrendous” abuse by foster parents.
Legislators grumbled Tuesday about the proposed state police budget, most notably Gov. Mike Beebe’s recommending no more officers for the division that investigates complaints of child abuse.
Sen. Percy Malone, D-Arkadelphia, told Arkansas State Police Col. Winford Phillips during budget hearings that not helping the Crimes Against Children Division didn’t make sense especially with recent cases of “horrendous” abuse by foster parents.
John Hemming close to family law ruling victory
John Hemming close to family law ruling victory
A Birmingham MP’s long-running campaign to end the secrecy in family law courts appears set for victory, following reports that the Government is to allow the media to report on hearings.
John Hemming (Lib Dem Yardley) has come under fire from fellow politicians and senior judges for claiming that family courts sometimes remove children from their families for no good reason.
A Birmingham MP’s long-running campaign to end the secrecy in family law courts appears set for victory, following reports that the Government is to allow the media to report on hearings.
John Hemming (Lib Dem Yardley) has come under fire from fellow politicians and senior judges for claiming that family courts sometimes remove children from their families for no good reason.
Colborne resident hid CAS runaway
Colborne resident hid CAS runaway
A 44-year-old Colborne resident will serve 14 days in jail for hiding a 14-year-old runaway ward of the Children's Aid Society of Northumberland from both police and children's aid workers last year.
The accused, who cannot be named in order to protect the identity of the girl, pleaded guilty Aug. 18 to obstructing a peace officer. His sentence came Oct. 20 in the Ontario Court of Justice in Cobourg.
A 44-year-old Colborne resident will serve 14 days in jail for hiding a 14-year-old runaway ward of the Children's Aid Society of Northumberland from both police and children's aid workers last year.
The accused, who cannot be named in order to protect the identity of the girl, pleaded guilty Aug. 18 to obstructing a peace officer. His sentence came Oct. 20 in the Ontario Court of Justice in Cobourg.
FAMILY COURT: Judge's removal ordered
FAMILY COURT: Judge's removal ordered
Clark County Family Court Judge Nicholas Del Vecchio was removed from office Tuesday by the Commission on Judicial Discipline after he admitted to numerous sexual improprieties, including having sex in hotels with a staff member during working hours.
Clark County Family Court Judge Nicholas Del Vecchio was removed from office Tuesday by the Commission on Judicial Discipline after he admitted to numerous sexual improprieties, including having sex in hotels with a staff member during working hours.
Man, 53, held for raping foster child
Man, 53, held for raping foster child
A JOUBERTINA man has been arrested on a charge of raping his 16-year-old mentally disabled foster child.
Note: A South African Foster Molester. When are they going to admit that this problem is wide spread, and when are they going realize that the whole concept of foster care is flawed? It has something to do with putting children with unrelated adults.
A JOUBERTINA man has been arrested on a charge of raping his 16-year-old mentally disabled foster child.
Note: A South African Foster Molester. When are they going to admit that this problem is wide spread, and when are they going realize that the whole concept of foster care is flawed? It has something to do with putting children with unrelated adults.
He Gave Them A Life Sentence
He Gave Them A Life Sentence
THERE is only one place for foster carers such as Paul Nacha O'Mairthini - jail. And for a very long time.
He was entrusted to look after young vulnerable boys and he abused that trust when he systematically molested and degraded them.
In some instances, he used drugs to weaken their resistance to his vile and depraved desires.
THERE is only one place for foster carers such as Paul Nacha O'Mairthini - jail. And for a very long time.
He was entrusted to look after young vulnerable boys and he abused that trust when he systematically molested and degraded them.
In some instances, he used drugs to weaken their resistance to his vile and depraved desires.
Alberta leaving children at risk, says NDP
Alberta leaving children at risk, says NDP
Mould was not available for comment on Monday, but Linda Golding, the advocate office's manager of advocacy support services, said the quarterly reports are meant to be a statistical summary of the issues young people bring to the office.
The lack of placement options has been an ongoing issue, she said.
"It's really a familiar systemic issue for child welfare systems across the country," Golding said. "There just isn't sufficient or appropriate places for children and youth in care."
Mould was not available for comment on Monday, but Linda Golding, the advocate office's manager of advocacy support services, said the quarterly reports are meant to be a statistical summary of the issues young people bring to the office.
The lack of placement options has been an ongoing issue, she said.
"It's really a familiar systemic issue for child welfare systems across the country," Golding said. "There just isn't sufficient or appropriate places for children and youth in care."
Federal millions fuel Texas CPS’ child-snatching habit
Federal millions fuel Texas CPS’ child-snatching habit
How many kids will Texas CPS steal for $4 million? Joyce James and Darrell Azar appear to have answer the question in the April 5, 2007 minutes of the DFPS Advisory Council Meeting, one year — almost to the day — before CPS raided the Eldorado’s YFZ Ranch:
How many kids will Texas CPS steal for $4 million? Joyce James and Darrell Azar appear to have answer the question in the April 5, 2007 minutes of the DFPS Advisory Council Meeting, one year — almost to the day — before CPS raided the Eldorado’s YFZ Ranch:
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Former social worker catches break on drug charges
Former social worker catches break on drug charges
A former Child Protective Services worker for Shenandoah Valley Social Services who was caught trading drugs in 2007 saw her charges reduced Tuesday in Waynesboro Circuit Court and could see the charges dismissed altogether.
Note: I wonder if she got away with it because she was a babystealer.
A former Child Protective Services worker for Shenandoah Valley Social Services who was caught trading drugs in 2007 saw her charges reduced Tuesday in Waynesboro Circuit Court and could see the charges dismissed altogether.
Note: I wonder if she got away with it because she was a babystealer.
Protecting children
Protecting children
THE TRAGIC death of 17-year-old David Foley while in the care of the State is a graphic example of how our dysfunctional child protection system is failing to protect some of the most vulnerable children in the community. David, whose story was told by social affairs correspondence Carl O'Brien in this newspaper over recent days, was placed in care at the age of 14 following problems in his family home. Social workers remember an innocent youngster with no real involvement in crime or drugs. His needs were relatively simple: some intensive family support to address problems at home, a care placement in his community in west Dublin or, at least, a negotiated return home.
THE TRAGIC death of 17-year-old David Foley while in the care of the State is a graphic example of how our dysfunctional child protection system is failing to protect some of the most vulnerable children in the community. David, whose story was told by social affairs correspondence Carl O'Brien in this newspaper over recent days, was placed in care at the age of 14 following problems in his family home. Social workers remember an innocent youngster with no real involvement in crime or drugs. His needs were relatively simple: some intensive family support to address problems at home, a care placement in his community in west Dublin or, at least, a negotiated return home.
Eye On Child Abandonment Law
Nebraska became the last of 50 states to adopt a Safe Haven law, which decriminalizes the act of abandoning unwanted infants. But, as Kelly Wallace reports, there is a critical loop hole in this law.
Missing 20-month old found in cornfield
Missing 20-month old found in cornfield
A 20-month-old boy who wandered away from his foster parents' rural home was found in a cornfield Monday with a few scratches on his face but otherwise unharmed after spending a freezing night outdoors.
Note: Any real parent would get screwed for that. They will probably call this a mistake, because of the double standard.
A 20-month-old boy who wandered away from his foster parents' rural home was found in a cornfield Monday with a few scratches on his face but otherwise unharmed after spending a freezing night outdoors.
Note: Any real parent would get screwed for that. They will probably call this a mistake, because of the double standard.
Paedophile tracked down by Daily Record facing jail sentence
Paedophile tracked down by Daily Record facing jail sentence
A PAEDOPHILE foster carer who was tracked down by the Daily Record has finally been brought to justice.
Lying conman Paul O'Mairthini yesterday admitted sexually assaulting four teenage boys.
A PAEDOPHILE foster carer who was tracked down by the Daily Record has finally been brought to justice.
Lying conman Paul O'Mairthini yesterday admitted sexually assaulting four teenage boys.
Inquiry after boy (17) dies while in care
Inquiry after boy (17) dies while in care
HEALTH AUTHORITIES are finalising an internal inquiry into circumstances surrounding the death of a 17-year-old boy who died while in the care of the State.
David Foley from Clondalkin in Dublin died three years ago from a suspected drugs overdose.
HEALTH AUTHORITIES are finalising an internal inquiry into circumstances surrounding the death of a 17-year-old boy who died while in the care of the State.
David Foley from Clondalkin in Dublin died three years ago from a suspected drugs overdose.
Child Protective Services doing more
Child Protective Services doing more
The number of people reporting suspected child abuse in Mesa County, and the number of cases being investigated by the county, have increased in the past couple of months.
The increases show that some of the county’s recent efforts have paid off, Mesa County Commissioner Janet Rowland said. People are becoming more aware of the issue and more comfortable with the county’s system of child protective services, she said.
Note: But that will change once enough people experience an investigation.
The number of people reporting suspected child abuse in Mesa County, and the number of cases being investigated by the county, have increased in the past couple of months.
The increases show that some of the county’s recent efforts have paid off, Mesa County Commissioner Janet Rowland said. People are becoming more aware of the issue and more comfortable with the county’s system of child protective services, she said.
Note: But that will change once enough people experience an investigation.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Are Drugs Being Misused On Foster Kids?
Are Drugs Being Misused On Foster Kids?
Colby Holcomb's mom concedes that the 8-year-old, who's been diagnosed with attention deficit disorder, can be a handful at home. But does such behavior merit the treatment Colby received in foster care?
Andrea Holcomb lost custody of her son when he was 7, after her ex-husband made allegations of sexual abuse, CBS News national correspondent Byron Pittsreports. These allegations later proved false — but in the meantime, Colby was placed in the Texas foster care system. For 18 months, he was in at least five foster homes. It's a time that still haunts Colby and his family.
Andrea says Colby was on at least 20 different drugs when he was in foster care. Yet, she says she has "no idea" why and says it was never explained to her.
Colby Holcomb's mom concedes that the 8-year-old, who's been diagnosed with attention deficit disorder, can be a handful at home. But does such behavior merit the treatment Colby received in foster care?
Andrea Holcomb lost custody of her son when he was 7, after her ex-husband made allegations of sexual abuse, CBS News national correspondent Byron Pittsreports. These allegations later proved false — but in the meantime, Colby was placed in the Texas foster care system. For 18 months, he was in at least five foster homes. It's a time that still haunts Colby and his family.
Andrea says Colby was on at least 20 different drugs when he was in foster care. Yet, she says she has "no idea" why and says it was never explained to her.
Neb. auditors seek more checks of state drivers
Neb. auditors seek more checks of state drivers
State auditors are pressing Nebraska Health and Human Services officials to do more background checks of drivers that transport foster kids.
State auditors are pressing Nebraska Health and Human Services officials to do more background checks of drivers that transport foster kids.
Abused children deserve better than what the system has provided
Abused children deserve better than what the system has provided
Now, let "Raffy" have closure.
The state Court of Appeals last week upheld the homicide by abuse conviction of Maribel Gomez, an Ephrata woman convicted of killing 2-year-old Rafael "Raffy" Gomez. With that, the final legal chapter has been written in this story about unbelievable cruelty to a child and a state system that failed to protect him from his own mother.
Now, let "Raffy" have closure.
The state Court of Appeals last week upheld the homicide by abuse conviction of Maribel Gomez, an Ephrata woman convicted of killing 2-year-old Rafael "Raffy" Gomez. With that, the final legal chapter has been written in this story about unbelievable cruelty to a child and a state system that failed to protect him from his own mother.
THE Family Court missed all of its performance targets last year, causing delays and added stress for families involved in litigation in the court.
THE Family Court missed all of its performance targets last year, causing delays and added stress for families involved in litigation in the court.
The court finalised just 31 per cent of applications for final orders within six months, according to its annual report released yesterday.
Note: It's actually in their best interest to drag things out. That way, they can destroy parent child bonds and have that much more reason to keep the kids.
The court finalised just 31 per cent of applications for final orders within six months, according to its annual report released yesterday.
Note: It's actually in their best interest to drag things out. That way, they can destroy parent child bonds and have that much more reason to keep the kids.
Child-welfare system unsafe for some: NDP
Child-welfare system unsafe for some: NDP
The Alberta government is knowingly leaving some of its most vulnerable children in unsafe situations, the provincial New Democrats said this morning.
The New Democrats released a series of quarterly reports from the province's child and youth advocate that had previously been secret.
The Alberta government is knowingly leaving some of its most vulnerable children in unsafe situations, the provincial New Democrats said this morning.
The New Democrats released a series of quarterly reports from the province's child and youth advocate that had previously been secret.
Attorney General calls for sweeping reform, partial breakup of DCF
Attorney General calls for sweeping reform, partial breakup of DCF
Attorney General Richard Blumenthal today called for sweeping reform of the Department of Children and Families (DCF), including a partial breakup of the agency, restructuring its administration and creating a reliable system for investigation of all complaints.
Attorney General Richard Blumenthal today called for sweeping reform of the Department of Children and Families (DCF), including a partial breakup of the agency, restructuring its administration and creating a reliable system for investigation of all complaints.
Anonymous just left a comment.
Anonymous left me a comment on this post.
1. she's not a baby stealer and 2.What happened to innocent until proven guilty ? vyou piece of trash
My response:
1. That's a matter of opinion.
2. How many parents who have been involved with DCF are wondering the same thing?
And finally, there's no v in the word you.
1. she's not a baby stealer and 2.What happened to innocent until proven guilty ? vyou piece of trash
My response:
1. That's a matter of opinion.
2. How many parents who have been involved with DCF are wondering the same thing?
And finally, there's no v in the word you.
Teacher Smokes Pot in Front of Child
Teacher Smokes Pot in Front of Child
An Elmira Free Academy teacher has been charged after police say she smoked pot in front of her two children.
An Elmira Free Academy teacher has been charged after police say she smoked pot in front of her two children.
Conn. AG calls for overhaul of child welfare dept.
Conn. AG calls for overhaul of child welfare dept.
Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal is calling for major changes at the state's child welfare agency, including a partial breakup of the department and a complete overhaul of its management.
Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal is calling for major changes at the state's child welfare agency, including a partial breakup of the department and a complete overhaul of its management.
Former foster carer admits abusing teenage boys
Former foster carer admits abusing teenage boys
A former foster carer who went on the run has finally faced justice after he admitted sexually assaulting four teenage boys.
Forty-two-year-old Paul O'Mairthini's campaign of terror spanned more than five years from January 1994 to November 1999. He had been a foster carer with Perth and Kinross Council and also helped out with voluntary groups.
A former foster carer who went on the run has finally faced justice after he admitted sexually assaulting four teenage boys.
Forty-two-year-old Paul O'Mairthini's campaign of terror spanned more than five years from January 1994 to November 1999. He had been a foster carer with Perth and Kinross Council and also helped out with voluntary groups.
State Lawmakers Investigate Child Welfare Agency
State Lawmakers Investigate Child Welfare Agency
Connecticut lawmakers will be questioning the commissioner of the state's child welfare agency and other officials in an investigation spurred by an infant's death and other incidents.
Connecticut lawmakers will be questioning the commissioner of the state's child welfare agency and other officials in an investigation spurred by an infant's death and other incidents.
Foreign adoptees are living in legal limbo
Almost 17 years after Nick and Alice Zizzo adopted a brown-eyed, chubby-cheeked baby girl through San Diego County's child welfare system, she came home one day bubbling that her high school choir was going to Europe.
The Rancho San Diego couple helped their daughter, Stephanie, apply for a passport in fall 2006, then waited for it to arrive. What they received instead was a piece of stupefying news from the federal government: Stephanie wasn't a U.S. citizen. She wasn't even in the country legally.
The Rancho San Diego couple helped their daughter, Stephanie, apply for a passport in fall 2006, then waited for it to arrive. What they received instead was a piece of stupefying news from the federal government: Stephanie wasn't a U.S. citizen. She wasn't even in the country legally.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
2,000 children put into State care in 2006
2,000 children put into State care in 2006
ALMOST 2,000 children were admitted into State care in 2006 due to abuse or neglect in their families, according to an unpublished report compiled by the Health Service Executive (HSE).
The figures are contained in a national review of child and family services for 2006, which is expected to be published shortly.
The report, seen by The Irish Times , also shows that some 449 children came to the attention of health authorities as being homeless. A total of 41 of these homeless children were under the age of 12.
ALMOST 2,000 children were admitted into State care in 2006 due to abuse or neglect in their families, according to an unpublished report compiled by the Health Service Executive (HSE).
The figures are contained in a national review of child and family services for 2006, which is expected to be published shortly.
The report, seen by The Irish Times , also shows that some 449 children came to the attention of health authorities as being homeless. A total of 41 of these homeless children were under the age of 12.
2008 House Bill 5757 (Increase Medicaid false claim penalty ) (House Roll Call 175)
2008 House Bill 5757 (Increase Medicaid false claim penalty ) (House Roll Call 175)
Passed in the House (105 to 0) on March 13, 2008, to add a civil fine of at least $5,000 and up to $10,000 to the existing penalty for making a false Medicaid claim, which is triple the damages suffered by the state for the false claim. The bill would also prohibit using a false record or statement to conceal, avoid, or decrease an obligation to make a payment to the state related to a Medicaid claim.
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State False Claims Act Reviews
As enacted by section 6031 of the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005, section 1909 of the Social Security Act (Act) provides a financial incentive for States to enact false claims acts that establish liability to the State for the submission of false or fraudulent claims to the State’s Medicaid program. If a State false claims act is determined to meet certain enumerated requirements, the State is entitled to an increase of 10 percentage points in the State medical assistance percentage, as determined by section 1905(b) of the Social Security Act, with respect to any amounts recovered under a State action brought under such a law.
Passed in the House (105 to 0) on March 13, 2008, to add a civil fine of at least $5,000 and up to $10,000 to the existing penalty for making a false Medicaid claim, which is triple the damages suffered by the state for the false claim. The bill would also prohibit using a false record or statement to conceal, avoid, or decrease an obligation to make a payment to the state related to a Medicaid claim.
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State False Claims Act Reviews
As enacted by section 6031 of the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005, section 1909 of the Social Security Act (Act) provides a financial incentive for States to enact false claims acts that establish liability to the State for the submission of false or fraudulent claims to the State’s Medicaid program. If a State false claims act is determined to meet certain enumerated requirements, the State is entitled to an increase of 10 percentage points in the State medical assistance percentage, as determined by section 1905(b) of the Social Security Act, with respect to any amounts recovered under a State action brought under such a law.
In Open Court
In Open Court
Sir Mark Potter, President of the Family Division, makes an important call in today's Times for greater openness in the family courts (see page 1). The interview ranges more widely than this topic alone and he believes that many criticisms of the family justice system, including some made by this newspaper, have been unfair and misleading. But Sir Mark is quite clear: the balance has now come down in favour of greater openness. It seems likely that the Justice Secretary, Jack Straw, is set to act to allow the public to see what is being done in their name. It will be a salutary change.
Sir Mark Potter, President of the Family Division, makes an important call in today's Times for greater openness in the family courts (see page 1). The interview ranges more widely than this topic alone and he believes that many criticisms of the family justice system, including some made by this newspaper, have been unfair and misleading. But Sir Mark is quite clear: the balance has now come down in favour of greater openness. It seems likely that the Justice Secretary, Jack Straw, is set to act to allow the public to see what is being done in their name. It will be a salutary change.
Foster teen missing 9 years found alive and well
Foster teen missing 9 years found alive and well
Jennifer Carbonell's foster mother dropped her off at the local Steak n Shake nine years ago and never saw the 17-year-old again.
Jennifer Carbonell's foster mother dropped her off at the local Steak n Shake nine years ago and never saw the 17-year-old again.
Judge to DCF: Teenage mom can be good parent, despite wanting abortion
Judge to DCF: Teenage mom can be good parent, despite wanting abortion
A Lee County judge warned child protection officials against letting a possible abortion attempt taint their views of whether a 16-year-old could be a good mother.
"Don't take the position that we're just going to continue to assume without doing any kind of discerning as to whether or not she poses any kind of risk of doing something voluntarily criminal to the child," said Judge James Seals at a hearing to reunite the teenager and her infant son under supervision.
A Lee County judge warned child protection officials against letting a possible abortion attempt taint their views of whether a 16-year-old could be a good mother.
"Don't take the position that we're just going to continue to assume without doing any kind of discerning as to whether or not she poses any kind of risk of doing something voluntarily criminal to the child," said Judge James Seals at a hearing to reunite the teenager and her infant son under supervision.
CPS staffer's vulgar talk didn't bar his promotion
CPS staffer's vulgar talk didn't bar his promotion
A Child Protective Services investigator shocked his co-workers two years ago when he made explicit and graphic comments about a young girl who may have been sexually abused.
A few weeks later, though, CPS promoted him to head its child-abuse investigations. He continues to hold a key role in the agency, often working on sensitive cases with little supervision.
A Child Protective Services investigator shocked his co-workers two years ago when he made explicit and graphic comments about a young girl who may have been sexually abused.
A few weeks later, though, CPS promoted him to head its child-abuse investigations. He continues to hold a key role in the agency, often working on sensitive cases with little supervision.
Plumbers and electricians trained as council child abuse 'spies'
Plumbers and electricians trained as council child abuse 'spies'
Tradesmen working for local authorities are to be asked to report signs of child abuse and neglect as they visit the homes of council tenants.
The plumbers, electricians and carpenters will be issued with a checklist of signs to look out for, including ‘unexplained bruising’ and ‘scalds’. Training will last just half a day.
Tradesmen working for local authorities are to be asked to report signs of child abuse and neglect as they visit the homes of council tenants.
The plumbers, electricians and carpenters will be issued with a checklist of signs to look out for, including ‘unexplained bruising’ and ‘scalds’. Training will last just half a day.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Court hears foster mom call 9-1-1 as three-year-old lies on floor
Court hears foster mom call 9-1-1 as three-year-old lies on floor
The second-degree murder trial of a former Edmonton foster mother accused of killing a three-year-old boy in her care began yesterday with a recording of her 9-1-1 call.
The second-degree murder trial of a former Edmonton foster mother accused of killing a three-year-old boy in her care began yesterday with a recording of her 9-1-1 call.
Custody of local baby in dispute
Custody of local baby in dispute
A newborn girl is at the center of a dispute that has found its way into a Ventura County courtroom.
A newborn girl is at the center of a dispute that has found its way into a Ventura County courtroom.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Parents lose custody of kids after teen left in Nebraska
Parents lose custody of kids after teen left in Nebraska
The parents of the 13-year-old Southfield boy left in Nebraska under the state's expansive and controversial safe haven law have temporarily lost custody of their three other children, an Oakland County probate referee ruled Thursday.
Note: See it was a trap all along.
The parents of the 13-year-old Southfield boy left in Nebraska under the state's expansive and controversial safe haven law have temporarily lost custody of their three other children, an Oakland County probate referee ruled Thursday.
Note: See it was a trap all along.
CAS to inspect foster homes
CAS to inspect foster homes
The local Children's Aid Society branch will begin randomly inspecting its foster homes by the end of 2008. Former CAS supervisor Ian MacLean told the Cornwall Public Inquiry the decision came after a number of CAS wards took the stand and testified about abuse they'd suffered while in foster care.
The local Children's Aid Society branch will begin randomly inspecting its foster homes by the end of 2008. Former CAS supervisor Ian MacLean told the Cornwall Public Inquiry the decision came after a number of CAS wards took the stand and testified about abuse they'd suffered while in foster care.
Aww How Sweet!!!
Somebody named blessedmomto7 left the following comment on this post...
http://www.legallykidnapped.blogspot.com/
It read
"Stop by my blog, I'm a fighter for kids :)"
Well... here it is.
Our Journey to be a Blessed Family of NINE!
I'm really really sorry.
http://www.legallykidnapped.blogspot.com/
It read
"Stop by my blog, I'm a fighter for kids :)"
Well... here it is.
Our Journey to be a Blessed Family of NINE!
I'm really really sorry.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Love child returned to biological mom
Love child returned to biological mom
Tossing out the claim by a couple that they had adopted a child born out of wedlock, a Delhi court on Thursday handed his custody to the biological parents, who are now married.
Tossing out the claim by a couple that they had adopted a child born out of wedlock, a Delhi court on Thursday handed his custody to the biological parents, who are now married.
We have a State Senator on our side
New Blog Exposes Foster Adopt Parent
Apparently she is having it out with a foster parent.
You go Pam!!!
Here's her blog feed. Check it out.
Apparently she is having it out with a foster parent.
You go Pam!!!
Here's her blog feed. Check it out.
State Worker Accused Of Child Abandonment
State Worker Accused Of Child Abandonment
A state worker was arrested Wednesday on charges of child abandonment after her three children were found left alone at home, the Twin Rivers District Police Department said.
A state worker was arrested Wednesday on charges of child abandonment after her three children were found left alone at home, the Twin Rivers District Police Department said.
Turnover among state caseworkers still high, report says
Turnover among state caseworkers still high, report says
Nearly a third of the caseworkers at the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services left their jobs in the first six months of fiscal 2008, according to a state report.
Nearly a third of the caseworkers at the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services left their jobs in the first six months of fiscal 2008, according to a state report.
Border Patrol official charged with sexual assault of foster child
Border Patrol official charged with sexual assault of foster child
One of the state's ranking border patrol officials has been changed with sexual assault by the Whatcom County Prosecuting Attorney's Office, which alleges the man had a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl in his care as a foster child.
One of the state's ranking border patrol officials has been changed with sexual assault by the Whatcom County Prosecuting Attorney's Office, which alleges the man had a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl in his care as a foster child.
Biological, foster parents fight over child
Biological, foster parents fight over child
Who does Abhay belong to? That's what a Delhi court will decide on Thursday. The one-year-old spent a tough day in court on Wednesday with both his biological and his foster parents fighting over his custody.
Who does Abhay belong to? That's what a Delhi court will decide on Thursday. The one-year-old spent a tough day in court on Wednesday with both his biological and his foster parents fighting over his custody.
Former foster mother pleads not guilty in death of boy
Former foster mother pleads not guilty in death of boy
A former Edmonton foster mother accused of killing a three-year-old boy in her care pleaded not guilty today to a charge of second-degree murder.
A former Edmonton foster mother accused of killing a three-year-old boy in her care pleaded not guilty today to a charge of second-degree murder.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Wichita Falls Police File Another Charge For Man With Long List of Child Sex Crime Charges
Wichita Falls Police File Another Charge For Man With Long List of Child Sex Crime Charges
Diaz was already charged with 28-counts of sex crimes against at least six children back in July 2007.
He's a former employee of the Wichita Falls Independent School District and Children's Aid Society.
Diaz was already charged with 28-counts of sex crimes against at least six children back in July 2007.
He's a former employee of the Wichita Falls Independent School District and Children's Aid Society.
$270,000 a year for child in crisis care
$270,000 a year for child in crisis care
THE State Government is spending an average of $270,000 a year for each child in crisis accommodation, a parliamentary committee has heard.
In the Budget and Finance Committee yesterday, senior executives from the Families and Communities Department revealed more than $16 million was spent on placing children in motel, hotel, bed and breakfast and serviced apartment accommodation last financial year.
THE State Government is spending an average of $270,000 a year for each child in crisis accommodation, a parliamentary committee has heard.
In the Budget and Finance Committee yesterday, senior executives from the Families and Communities Department revealed more than $16 million was spent on placing children in motel, hotel, bed and breakfast and serviced apartment accommodation last financial year.
Prosecutors say new victims emerge in ex-DCF spokesman's child porn case
Prosecutors say new victims emerge in ex-DCF spokesman's child porn case
Federal prosecutors say they have identified at least a half-dozen additional victims of a former Florida Department of Children & Families spokesman in jail on child pornography charges.
Federal prosecutors say they have identified at least a half-dozen additional victims of a former Florida Department of Children & Families spokesman in jail on child pornography charges.
Oklahoma No. 2 for removing kids from homes
Oklahoma No. 2 for removing kids from homes
An audit has found Oklahoma has the second-highest per capita rate in the nation for taking children from their homes and putting them in state custody.
An audit has found Oklahoma has the second-highest per capita rate in the nation for taking children from their homes and putting them in state custody.
Woman under arrest for alleged maltreatment of foster child
Woman under arrest for alleged maltreatment of foster child
Unimpeachable sources have revealed to the Daily Observer that one Mariama Sarr, a Senegalese citizen residing in Juffereh, was last Wednesday, October 1st, arrested with her husband, Ebrima Sarr, for maltreating their adopted daughter. They were subsequently detained at the Barra Police Station.
According to our sources, Mariama Sarr allegedly cut her adopted daughter’s genital parts using a hot knife, as punishment for her ‘disobeying commands’. Sources further indicated that the 7 year-old adopted girl (name withheld) could not survive the pains inflicted on her through such a crude punishment, and was reported to have died on Monday, September 29, 2008. She was said to have been secretly buried that same day, in Juffereh.
Unimpeachable sources have revealed to the Daily Observer that one Mariama Sarr, a Senegalese citizen residing in Juffereh, was last Wednesday, October 1st, arrested with her husband, Ebrima Sarr, for maltreating their adopted daughter. They were subsequently detained at the Barra Police Station.
According to our sources, Mariama Sarr allegedly cut her adopted daughter’s genital parts using a hot knife, as punishment for her ‘disobeying commands’. Sources further indicated that the 7 year-old adopted girl (name withheld) could not survive the pains inflicted on her through such a crude punishment, and was reported to have died on Monday, September 29, 2008. She was said to have been secretly buried that same day, in Juffereh.
State failures allowed abuse by Ark. foster parent
State failures allowed abuse by Ark. foster parent
Three times, the foster boys told state case workers their host father gave them alcohol and wanted them to sleep in his bed. However, case workers initially only removed one child from the home of Brian Bergthold, who had told the state he felt a call from God to the work.
Note: Another foster molester gets caught.
Three times, the foster boys told state case workers their host father gave them alcohol and wanted them to sleep in his bed. However, case workers initially only removed one child from the home of Brian Bergthold, who had told the state he felt a call from God to the work.
Note: Another foster molester gets caught.
Bogus Social Services woman got mother to undress child
Bogus Social Services woman got mother to undress child
POLICE have released an e-fit of a woman wanted in connection with a suspicious call to the home of a mother and her child in Jubilee Crescent, Louth on Wednesday July 9 this year.
The incident was only reported to Lincolnshire Police on October 2 as until that time the victim believed the caller to be genuine.
POLICE have released an e-fit of a woman wanted in connection with a suspicious call to the home of a mother and her child in Jubilee Crescent, Louth on Wednesday July 9 this year.
The incident was only reported to Lincolnshire Police on October 2 as until that time the victim believed the caller to be genuine.
Detailed Information on Munchausen By Proxy Syndrome
Note: Here's an article I found in an article directory. This is one of the UK's favorite excuses to use against new moms in the forced adoption scandal over there. This diagnosis, BTW, is highly disputed.
By: Juliet Cohen
Munchausen syndrome by proxy (MSBP) is a form of child abuse in which a parent induces real or apparent symptoms of a disease in a child. The caregiver almost always is a mother, and the victim, her child. Because children are the victims, MSBP is considered a form of child abuse. There are different intensities and manifestations of this disorder. Symptoms of MSBP are hard to identify but are most prevalent when the child only becomes sick in the presence of his or her mother. The mother maintains a dynamic relationship with the physician, as the whole disorder is centered upon her need for attention from the doctor.
It is most widely agreed that MBPS is caused by a need for attention and compassion to placate self-doubt in the sufferer. This condition is related to Munchausen syndrome, a similar disorder in which a person causes or reports symptoms in him or herself. Children who are victims of MSBP may later develop Munchausen syndrome as adults. Most symptoms are physical complaints, whereas feigning of mental symptoms occurs to a lesser extent. Physical presentations include vomiting, diarrhea, respiratory arrest, asthma, seizure, recurrent conjunctivitis, clumsiness, syncope, fever, infection, bleeding, failure to thrive, or electrolytic disturbance.
People with MSP believe the role of a sick person indirectly by producing or laying about illness in other person under their care, generally a child under 6 years of age. In general, MSP occurs more often in women than in men. Approximately 98% of persons with Munchausen syndrome by proxy are women. The causes of MSP are both biological and psychological factors play a role in the development of this disorder. A history of abuse or neglect as a child or the early loss of a parent might be factors in its development. Some evidence suggests that major stress, such as marital problems, can trigger an MSP episode.
Successful treatment of people with MSBP is difficult because those with the disorder frequently deny there is a problem. Treatment of MSBP involves treating the child (victim), the patient, and the family. Individual therapy is aimed at decreasing anxiety, stressors, and other problems that perpetuate the illness. Psychotherapy generally focuses on changing the thinking and behavior of the individual with the disorder (cognitive-behavioral therapy). The goal of therapy for MSP is to help the person identify the thoughts and feelings that are contributing to the behavior, and to learn to form relationships that are not associated with being ill.
Juliet Cohen writes articles for http://www.healthatoz.info/, http://www.health-disease.org/ . She also writes articles for http://www.makeup-care.info/ .
By: Juliet Cohen
Munchausen syndrome by proxy (MSBP) is a form of child abuse in which a parent induces real or apparent symptoms of a disease in a child. The caregiver almost always is a mother, and the victim, her child. Because children are the victims, MSBP is considered a form of child abuse. There are different intensities and manifestations of this disorder. Symptoms of MSBP are hard to identify but are most prevalent when the child only becomes sick in the presence of his or her mother. The mother maintains a dynamic relationship with the physician, as the whole disorder is centered upon her need for attention from the doctor.
It is most widely agreed that MBPS is caused by a need for attention and compassion to placate self-doubt in the sufferer. This condition is related to Munchausen syndrome, a similar disorder in which a person causes or reports symptoms in him or herself. Children who are victims of MSBP may later develop Munchausen syndrome as adults. Most symptoms are physical complaints, whereas feigning of mental symptoms occurs to a lesser extent. Physical presentations include vomiting, diarrhea, respiratory arrest, asthma, seizure, recurrent conjunctivitis, clumsiness, syncope, fever, infection, bleeding, failure to thrive, or electrolytic disturbance.
People with MSP believe the role of a sick person indirectly by producing or laying about illness in other person under their care, generally a child under 6 years of age. In general, MSP occurs more often in women than in men. Approximately 98% of persons with Munchausen syndrome by proxy are women. The causes of MSP are both biological and psychological factors play a role in the development of this disorder. A history of abuse or neglect as a child or the early loss of a parent might be factors in its development. Some evidence suggests that major stress, such as marital problems, can trigger an MSP episode.
Successful treatment of people with MSBP is difficult because those with the disorder frequently deny there is a problem. Treatment of MSBP involves treating the child (victim), the patient, and the family. Individual therapy is aimed at decreasing anxiety, stressors, and other problems that perpetuate the illness. Psychotherapy generally focuses on changing the thinking and behavior of the individual with the disorder (cognitive-behavioral therapy). The goal of therapy for MSP is to help the person identify the thoughts and feelings that are contributing to the behavior, and to learn to form relationships that are not associated with being ill.
Juliet Cohen writes articles for http://www.healthatoz.info/, http://www.health-disease.org/ . She also writes articles for http://www.makeup-care.info/ .
Anybody Want A Kid???
100 children at Rutherford?s library are waiting
Adoption is no longer the taboo it once was, as average Americans and, more publicly, celebrities, are embracing the special benefits the practice brings to families and communities.
But there are still more parentless kids than there are adoptive mothers and fathers to raise them, and many children can linger in foster care, their chances of being successfully adopted decrease as they grow older.
For years, the Heart Gallery of New Jersey has been working tirelessly on behalf of such children, and is bringing its unique talents for building families to the Rutherford Public Library with its "100 Waiting Children" photo exhibit.
Adoption is no longer the taboo it once was, as average Americans and, more publicly, celebrities, are embracing the special benefits the practice brings to families and communities.
But there are still more parentless kids than there are adoptive mothers and fathers to raise them, and many children can linger in foster care, their chances of being successfully adopted decrease as they grow older.
For years, the Heart Gallery of New Jersey has been working tirelessly on behalf of such children, and is bringing its unique talents for building families to the Rutherford Public Library with its "100 Waiting Children" photo exhibit.
Former CAS employee denies allegations
Former CAS employee denies allegations
A former Children’s Aid Society employee testifying at the Cornwall Public Inquiry denied he prevented foster children access to their files out of fears the agency could be sued.
Before retiring in 2006, Bill Carriere spent 33 years with the local CAS branch, and for a time was the agency’s director of protection services.
A former Children’s Aid Society employee testifying at the Cornwall Public Inquiry denied he prevented foster children access to their files out of fears the agency could be sued.
Before retiring in 2006, Bill Carriere spent 33 years with the local CAS branch, and for a time was the agency’s director of protection services.
Charges Dropped Because Trooper No-Show For Court
Charges Dropped Because Trooper No-Show For Court
Charges have been dropped against a Fayette County woman accused of child endangerment after the drowning death of her 2-year-old boy. The reason -- a state trooper failed to show up for court.
Charges have been dropped against a Fayette County woman accused of child endangerment after the drowning death of her 2-year-old boy. The reason -- a state trooper failed to show up for court.
Too many kids on psych drugs
Pt 1
Your Turn with Kathy Fountain - Weekdays on FOX 13
Thursday, October 9
Topic: Too many kids on meds?
Guests:
Peter Breggin, M.D. author Medication Madness
Bruce Levine, Ph.D. clinical psychologist
Dominick Riccio, Ph.D. Psychologist & psychoanalyst
James B. Gottstein, attorney
pt 2
pt 3
Your Turn with Kathy Fountain - Weekdays on FOX 13
Thursday, October 9
Topic: Too many kids on meds?
Guests:
Peter Breggin, M.D. author Medication Madness
Bruce Levine, Ph.D. clinical psychologist
Dominick Riccio, Ph.D. Psychologist & psychoanalyst
James B. Gottstein, attorney
pt 2
pt 3
Court documents reveal mistake in adoption case
Court documents reveal mistake in adoption case
Did the Department of Health and Human Services intentionally try to deceive a Lincoln County court judge in a local child-custody case, or was it a case of trying to sidestep a law that protected the parental rights of a sexual predator?
Did the Department of Health and Human Services intentionally try to deceive a Lincoln County court judge in a local child-custody case, or was it a case of trying to sidestep a law that protected the parental rights of a sexual predator?
S.F. welfare department chief suspended
S.F. welfare department chief suspended
The personnel director for San Francisco's welfare department was escorted out of her office the other day and put on unpaid leave as part of an investigation into whether she has been using city workers and city equipment to run her private business.
The personnel director for San Francisco's welfare department was escorted out of her office the other day and put on unpaid leave as part of an investigation into whether she has been using city workers and city equipment to run her private business.
Group says hearing on Ark. gay foster ban a 'sham'
A conservative group on Friday accused Arkansas officials of holding a "sham" hearing and ignoring public comments before deciding to allow unmarried and same-sex couples to become foster parents.
Anoka County to pick up legal tab in some child protection cases
Anoka County to pick up legal tab in some child protection cases
Juvenile court cases involving Child in Need of Protection petitions can be excruciating for children and parents. Now, they're proving costly to counties, thanks to the budget shortfall that has the state's courts scrambling.
The estimated 1,200 hearings a year involving Child in Need of Protection or Services (CHIPS) petitions in Anoka County will cost the county an estimated $160,000 to $180,000 -- money that was not previously budgeted, it was announced at Tuesday's county board meeting.
Juvenile court cases involving Child in Need of Protection petitions can be excruciating for children and parents. Now, they're proving costly to counties, thanks to the budget shortfall that has the state's courts scrambling.
The estimated 1,200 hearings a year involving Child in Need of Protection or Services (CHIPS) petitions in Anoka County will cost the county an estimated $160,000 to $180,000 -- money that was not previously budgeted, it was announced at Tuesday's county board meeting.
Audit faults computer monitoring of foster kids
Audit faults computer monitoring of foster kids
The troubled and costly implementation of "Chessie," a statewide computer system to monitor child services, hampered the Department of Human Resources' ability to ensure compliance with state and federal foster care service requirements, according to a legislative audit released yesterday.
Chessie - the Children's Electronic Social Services Information Exchange - is designed to help keep track of nearly 10,000 foster children and 6,000 child protective services investigations. It cost more than $67 million in state and federal funds, including about $10 million to fix flaws.
The troubled and costly implementation of "Chessie," a statewide computer system to monitor child services, hampered the Department of Human Resources' ability to ensure compliance with state and federal foster care service requirements, according to a legislative audit released yesterday.
Chessie - the Children's Electronic Social Services Information Exchange - is designed to help keep track of nearly 10,000 foster children and 6,000 child protective services investigations. It cost more than $67 million in state and federal funds, including about $10 million to fix flaws.
L.A. County OKs $62 million to treat children in foster care
L.A. County OKs $62 million to treat children in foster care
Los Angeles County's Board of Supervisors passed a 5-year, $62-million plan Tuesday to improve mental health services, taking a step toward fulfilling a 5-year-old settlement in a class-action lawsuit brought on behalf of children in foster care.
Note: Headline should have read, "State Gets More Money To Medicate Foster Kids" because you know that's what's going to happen.
Los Angeles County's Board of Supervisors passed a 5-year, $62-million plan Tuesday to improve mental health services, taking a step toward fulfilling a 5-year-old settlement in a class-action lawsuit brought on behalf of children in foster care.
Note: Headline should have read, "State Gets More Money To Medicate Foster Kids" because you know that's what's going to happen.
Documents: CPS first learned of 'horrendous' case of abuse in 2005
Documents: CPS first learned of 'horrendous' case of abuse in 2005
Child Protective Services dismissed early warning signs of what could be one of the worst cases of abuse in the county's history.
The parents of a 14-year-old girl have been charged after she was found badly malnourished.
Child Protective Services dismissed early warning signs of what could be one of the worst cases of abuse in the county's history.
The parents of a 14-year-old girl have been charged after she was found badly malnourished.
Baby's mom appears in court
Baby's mom appears in court
A Midvale woman accused of kidnapping her infant daughter, sparking an endangered person alert that ended in Tennessee, made her first appearance in a Utah courtroom regarding her case Tuesday.
A Midvale woman accused of kidnapping her infant daughter, sparking an endangered person alert that ended in Tennessee, made her first appearance in a Utah courtroom regarding her case Tuesday.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
The Katrina Kidnapper got away with it!!!!
Houston woman who took Katrina evacuee's kids no-billed
A Harris County grand jury this morning declined to indict a Houston woman accused of kidnapping five children in her care.
Rhonda Laine Tavey, 44, told authorities she was forced to leave Houston with the five children out of concern for their welfare.
Note: She got away with it because she was a foster parent.
A Harris County grand jury this morning declined to indict a Houston woman accused of kidnapping five children in her care.
Rhonda Laine Tavey, 44, told authorities she was forced to leave Houston with the five children out of concern for their welfare.
Note: She got away with it because she was a foster parent.
Department of Human Services reviews Springer case, recommends changes
Department of Human Services reviews Springer case, recommends changes
The state's watchdog for the Michigan Department of Human Services has criticized the agency's handling of abuse and neglect complaints involving Calista Springer and her two sisters.
The state's Office of Children's Ombudsman recommends training and policy changes in the report released Friday, more than seven months after Calista, 16, was killed in a Feb. 27 fire at her Centreville home while chained to her bed.
The state's watchdog for the Michigan Department of Human Services has criticized the agency's handling of abuse and neglect complaints involving Calista Springer and her two sisters.
The state's Office of Children's Ombudsman recommends training and policy changes in the report released Friday, more than seven months after Calista, 16, was killed in a Feb. 27 fire at her Centreville home while chained to her bed.
Texas officials say they want to help at-risk girls and sexual-abuse victims face emotional issues
Texas officials say they want to help at-risk girls and sexual-abuse victims face emotional issues
Texas authorities are asking parents from a polygamous sect to send daughters ages 10 to 17 to counseling sessions designed to teach them about sexual abuse and marriage laws.
The individual "therapeutic education" sessions are being offered to 63 girls who were among 439 children at the Yearning For Zion Ranch in Eldorado when it was raided in April. The ranch is home to members of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
Texas authorities are asking parents from a polygamous sect to send daughters ages 10 to 17 to counseling sessions designed to teach them about sexual abuse and marriage laws.
The individual "therapeutic education" sessions are being offered to 63 girls who were among 439 children at the Yearning For Zion Ranch in Eldorado when it was raided in April. The ranch is home to members of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
Mother sentenced in adopted son's death
Mother sentenced in adopted son's death
A judge has ordered a Tooele mother to spend up to 15 years in prison for the death of her adopted, 14-month-old Russian son.
Kimberly K. Emelyantsev pleaded guilty to second-degree felony child-abuse homicide in June.
A judge has ordered a Tooele mother to spend up to 15 years in prison for the death of her adopted, 14-month-old Russian son.
Kimberly K. Emelyantsev pleaded guilty to second-degree felony child-abuse homicide in June.
Gays urged to be foster carers
Gays urged to be foster carers
SAME-SEX couples are being encouraged to care for some of the state's most troubled children — but are not permitted to adopt a child of their own.
SAME-SEX couples are being encouraged to care for some of the state's most troubled children — but are not permitted to adopt a child of their own.
System failed teen
System failed teen
Calista Springer, a Centreville teen who died in a house fire in February was failed by the system that was supposed to protect her.
Calista Springer, a Centreville teen who died in a house fire in February was failed by the system that was supposed to protect her.
Child dumped under Nebraska law
Child dumped under Nebraska law
A mother has driven for 12 hours across the US to abandon her teenage son in Nebraska, under a law allowing adults to leave children at state hospitals.
A mother has driven for 12 hours across the US to abandon her teenage son in Nebraska, under a law allowing adults to leave children at state hospitals.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Community wants DSS commissioner to resign
Community wants DSS commissioner to resign
As the father and stepmother of Erin Maxwell sit in jail, charged with endangering the welfare of a child, the focus has shifted to social services and their role in Erin's case. Many are angry that Erin wasn't taken from the home despite three visits from case workers and the community has started a petition asking commissioner Frances Lanigan to resign.
As the father and stepmother of Erin Maxwell sit in jail, charged with endangering the welfare of a child, the focus has shifted to social services and their role in Erin's case. Many are angry that Erin wasn't taken from the home despite three visits from case workers and the community has started a petition asking commissioner Frances Lanigan to resign.
Arrest ‘foster parents’ of love child: court to cops
Arrest ‘foster parents’ of love child: court to cops
A city court on Monday issued non-bailable warrants against a couple who refused to hand over custody of a one-year-old boy to his biological mother, who had given them the love child last September to escape “social stigma”.
The court also directed police to trace the child within 48 hours and produce him in court on Wednesday.
Note: I'd love to see something like this happen over here.
A city court on Monday issued non-bailable warrants against a couple who refused to hand over custody of a one-year-old boy to his biological mother, who had given them the love child last September to escape “social stigma”.
The court also directed police to trace the child within 48 hours and produce him in court on Wednesday.
Note: I'd love to see something like this happen over here.
New law meant to improve stability for foster care
New law meant to improve stability for foster care
For many thousands of America's foster children, prospects for a permanent home and stronger support will be brighter under a new law that bridged Washington's partisan divide and is touted as the most significant child-welfare reform in decades.
Its title is a mouthful — the Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act. And it has raised some questions: Will budget-strapped states embrace some of the options it offers? Why didn't it include initiatives to help curtail child neglect in the first place?
Nonetheless, the bill — signed with little fanfare last week by President Bush — is widely viewed throughout the child-welfare community as a remarkable achievement by a Congress often incapacitated by partisanship.
Note: Achievement my ass. This is nothing more then an election year photo opportunity for congress. "See I support children." Perhaps we should start reporting them.
For many thousands of America's foster children, prospects for a permanent home and stronger support will be brighter under a new law that bridged Washington's partisan divide and is touted as the most significant child-welfare reform in decades.
Its title is a mouthful — the Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act. And it has raised some questions: Will budget-strapped states embrace some of the options it offers? Why didn't it include initiatives to help curtail child neglect in the first place?
Nonetheless, the bill — signed with little fanfare last week by President Bush — is widely viewed throughout the child-welfare community as a remarkable achievement by a Congress often incapacitated by partisanship.
Note: Achievement my ass. This is nothing more then an election year photo opportunity for congress. "See I support children." Perhaps we should start reporting them.
Social services may use pay-to-stay plan to curb turnover
Social services may use pay-to-stay plan to curb turnover
Desperate to keep burned-out workers on the job, Durham's social services department soon could offer some employees $500 bonuses for staying put through the end of the fiscal year.
Desperate to keep burned-out workers on the job, Durham's social services department soon could offer some employees $500 bonuses for staying put through the end of the fiscal year.
A blog post worth mentioning.
Child Protective Services With Too Much Autonomy
I've been on the fringe of a Gestapo-styled Child Protective Services (CPS) case for the past year, and I've been told by someone who should know that my name is probably listed on a "Child Abuse" list somewhere. I've been advised to sue the state over it, if I can discover the list.
I've been on the fringe of a Gestapo-styled Child Protective Services (CPS) case for the past year, and I've been told by someone who should know that my name is probably listed on a "Child Abuse" list somewhere. I've been advised to sue the state over it, if I can discover the list.
Intervention should continue, but with reform: report
Intervention should continue, but with reform: report
The federal intervention into Northern Territory Aboriginal communities must continue but with the reinstatement of the Racial Discrimination Act and other reforms, a report has urged.
The federal intervention into Northern Territory Aboriginal communities must continue but with the reinstatement of the Racial Discrimination Act and other reforms, a report has urged.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Protecting Our Children: Child welfare system needs overhaul to more effectively help kids
Protecting Our Children: Child welfare system needs overhaul to more effectively help kids
May Erin Maxwell rest in peace.
The adults who are charged with protecting children, however, must not rest until New York state corrects the deficiencies in a child welfare system that might have not only have spared Erin from death, but saved her from a wretched life.
Note: They'll use this for a plea to pump more money into the system.
May Erin Maxwell rest in peace.
The adults who are charged with protecting children, however, must not rest until New York state corrects the deficiencies in a child welfare system that might have not only have spared Erin from death, but saved her from a wretched life.
Note: They'll use this for a plea to pump more money into the system.
Mother's 15-year struggle to keep her children
Mother's 15-year struggle to keep her children
A SYDNEY mother who has been on the run for five years has been found in Moree in the state's north and her young son removed from her care because NSW authorities believe she suffers from the widely-discredited disorder "Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy".
A SYDNEY mother who has been on the run for five years has been found in Moree in the state's north and her young son removed from her care because NSW authorities believe she suffers from the widely-discredited disorder "Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy".
DCF fears kids will be cut loose
DCF fears kids will be cut loose
As state agencies struggle with major budget cuts, child advocates are alarmed about the future of hundreds of teens who “age out” of social services when they turn 18 and are let loose with little support to start perilous new lives.
“I worry it will be on the chopping block,” said Erik Pitchal, a Suffolk University Law professor and co-author of a June report on teens who outgrow the Department of Children and Families.
As state agencies struggle with major budget cuts, child advocates are alarmed about the future of hundreds of teens who “age out” of social services when they turn 18 and are let loose with little support to start perilous new lives.
“I worry it will be on the chopping block,” said Erik Pitchal, a Suffolk University Law professor and co-author of a June report on teens who outgrow the Department of Children and Families.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Bodies in Freezer Tentatively Identified
Police in Maryland say they are confident two girls found encased in ice in a basement freezer are the adopted daughters of a woman suspected of killing them.
Hastings CAS projects $2.1M deficit
Hastings CAS projects $2.1M deficit
The Hastings Children's Aid Society is projecting a $2.1 million deficit by the end of this fiscal year -- a fact it attributes to a lack of provincial support.
Note: Parents of Hastings County, HIDE YOUR CHILDREN!
Hastings CAS will be on the lookout to legally snatch your children to get their "Funding"
--- From Sender W&C
The Hastings Children's Aid Society is projecting a $2.1 million deficit by the end of this fiscal year -- a fact it attributes to a lack of provincial support.
Note: Parents of Hastings County, HIDE YOUR CHILDREN!
Hastings CAS will be on the lookout to legally snatch your children to get their "Funding"
--- From Sender W&C
Russel Means of the Lakota nation blasting CPS
Russel Means on 01-04-08 answers a callers question about how CPS hurts the Lakota Children and Mistreats the Wemon. Russel was a guest on the Michael Herzog show on www.republicbroadcasting.com
Family Council: DHS Policy Change Suspicious
Family Council: DHS Policy Change Suspicious
State lawmakers should investigate what led to the Department of Human Services' decision to drop a policy banning unmarried couples living together from serving as foster parents, the conservative Family Council said Friday.
State lawmakers should investigate what led to the Department of Human Services' decision to drop a policy banning unmarried couples living together from serving as foster parents, the conservative Family Council said Friday.
Defense attorney asks for exam of foster daughter in Menifee child rape case
Defense attorney asks for exam of foster daughter in Menifee child rape case
A jury should not convict a Menifee man of child rape charges when an examination of his former foster daughter could prove him innocent, a defense attorney told a jury Friday.
A jury should not convict a Menifee man of child rape charges when an examination of his former foster daughter could prove him innocent, a defense attorney told a jury Friday.
'Foster children could be at risk'
'Foster children could be at risk'
FOSTER children could be at risk as social workers struggle to deal with almost double their recommended workload, it is claimed.
High levels of staff turnover within Hartlepool Borough Council over recent months means social workers are working "above and beyond" to juggle high case loads.
FOSTER children could be at risk as social workers struggle to deal with almost double their recommended workload, it is claimed.
High levels of staff turnover within Hartlepool Borough Council over recent months means social workers are working "above and beyond" to juggle high case loads.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Health and social care services still failing to learn from complaints
Health and social care services still failing to learn from complaints
There is little evidence that health and social care services take on board the feedback they receive from complaints, says the public spending watchdog, the National Audit Office (NAO), in a report published today.
There is little evidence that health and social care services take on board the feedback they receive from complaints, says the public spending watchdog, the National Audit Office (NAO), in a report published today.
CANDLELIGHT VIGIL
CANDLELIGHT VIGIL
Please bring a warm jacket and candle to help us honor children who have died of abuse and neglect while under the care of social service agencies.
Give these Children what they never had in Life warmth, honor, love and respect. Meet us by the Carousel Wheel in Riverfront Park, Spokane WA.
Donations will be accepted to help us fight for Children’s Rights.
Sponsored by
Washington Families United & National Committee of Grandparents for Children’s Rights
OCTOBER 22, 2008
At 6 P.M.
RIVERFRONT PARK, SPOKANE WA.,
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