DCFS denies newspaper's request to examine files on dead toddler

DCFS denies newspaper's request to examine files on dead toddler

The first attempt to examine confidential case files under a new Illinois law designed to allow public scrutiny of the Department of Children and Family Services in child death cases failed to produce any information.

DCFS spokesman Kendall Marlowe last week denied a request by the News-Democrat to examine case files involving 3-year-old Bianca Starr, who died Sept. 27 of asphyxiation at her family's home in Herrin. Her mother, Karrae Starr, 18, who had been receiving DCFS services, was charged with first-degree murder. She is accused of holding her hand over Bianca's mouth and pinching her nose until the toddler died.