Dennis Rodman barred by restraining order from ex-wife, kids
Former NBA standout Dennis Rodman was hit with a temporary restraining order by an Orange County court commissioner Wednesday, according to attorneys for Rodman and his third wife.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
NY court: Custodial parent can be guilty of kidnap
NY court: Custodial parent can be guilty of kidnap
New York's top court says a custodial parent can be convicted of kidnapping, rejecting the argument that it is impossible under state law.
New York's top court says a custodial parent can be convicted of kidnapping, rejecting the argument that it is impossible under state law.
Case worker hearing pushed back
Case worker hearing pushed back
The court hearing of a former youth care worker in Sherwood Park who has been charged with sexual exploitation of a young person was pushed to the end of June.
The court hearing of a former youth care worker in Sherwood Park who has been charged with sexual exploitation of a young person was pushed to the end of June.
Child abuse reports lead to threats
Doctors, school nurses and others required by law to report suspected child abuse said they want better protection from retaliation by people they report, a panel of health care professionals told the Pennsylvania Task Force on Child Protection on Thursday.
Note: Sooner or later these people are going to have to come to terms with the fact that they're pissing people off.
Couple charged with draining adopted son's bank account
Couple charged with draining adopted son's bank account
Federal prosecutors say an Alaska couple stole hundreds of thousands of dollars from their adopted son, who won the money from the state in a settlement.
Adopted victim testifies about Pa. sex assaults
Adopted victim testifies about Pa. sex assaults
A man who was an adopted child says a foster child assigned to his parents by one Pennsylvania county's caseworkers sexually molested him and left him with mental problems he suffers from to this day.
A man who was an adopted child says a foster child assigned to his parents by one Pennsylvania county's caseworkers sexually molested him and left him with mental problems he suffers from to this day.
Leading article: False economies do more harm to children in care
Leading article: False economies do more harm to children in care
The practice of moving children in care to towns where low housing costs make it cheaper to run children's homes may make financial sense. But it has little else to recommend it. Indeed, the leader of Rochdale Council is so concerned about the huge number of privately run homes in his area – 41, compared with just nine in similarly sized Haringey, say – that he believes that children's safety is no longer guaranteed.
The practice of moving children in care to towns where low housing costs make it cheaper to run children's homes may make financial sense. But it has little else to recommend it. Indeed, the leader of Rochdale Council is so concerned about the huge number of privately run homes in his area – 41, compared with just nine in similarly sized Haringey, say – that he believes that children's safety is no longer guaranteed.
DCF official's ouster linked to alleged affair, sexual harassment
DCF official's ouster linked to alleged affair, sexual harassment
A high-ranking Department of Children and Families official who resigned "for personal and family reasons" in January was forced out after being accused of having an affair with and sexually harassing an employee, DCF officials told The Palm Beach Post this week.
Couple turns to Twitter for adoption
A couple from Berkley is using Twitter as a tool as they attempt to adopt.
Okla. governor signs human services bills into law
Okla. governor signs human services bills into law
Legislation that overhauls the Oklahoma Department of Human Services and reorganizes the agency's child welfare division to make it more accountable and effective was signed into law Thursday by Gov. Mary Fallin.
Legislation that overhauls the Oklahoma Department of Human Services and reorganizes the agency's child welfare division to make it more accountable and effective was signed into law Thursday by Gov. Mary Fallin.
Bill would help foster youths with school records
Bill would help foster youths with school records
Federal lawmakers proposed a bill Thursday that would give social workers better access to school records in an effort to improve education for foster children.
Rep. Bass: bill would make it easier for social workers to access education records
Federal lawmakers proposed a bill Thursday that would give social workers better access to school records in an effort to improve education for foster children.
Rep. Bass: bill would make it easier for social workers to access education records
Federal Law Introduced to Ease Transfer of Foster Youth Education Records
Federal Law Introduced to Ease Transfer of Foster Youth Education Records
Four members of the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth submitted a bill today that would ease the movement of a foster youth’s education records by removing his biological parent’s right to prevent the use of those records, and facilitate easier use of such records by child welfare researchers.
Four members of the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth submitted a bill today that would ease the movement of a foster youth’s education records by removing his biological parent’s right to prevent the use of those records, and facilitate easier use of such records by child welfare researchers.
Child's Anti-Gay Song Lyrics Lead to Death Threats For Church Pastor, Members
Child's Anti-Gay Song Lyrics Lead to Death Threats For Church Pastor, Members
Members of the Apostolic Truth Tabernacle Church in Greensburg, Ind., are getting more than they bargained for after posting a video online of a three-year-old congregation member proudly singing, "Ain't no homos gonna make it to heaven."
Couple from Reading tried to shoplift baby formula in Exeter, police say
Couple from Reading tried to shoplift baby formula in Exeter, police say
A Reading couple were arrested after they tried to shoplift 10 cans of baby formula from the Walmart store in Exeter Township, police said Wednesday.
A Reading couple were arrested after they tried to shoplift 10 cans of baby formula from the Walmart store in Exeter Township, police said Wednesday.
Mom discusses alleged child abuse by adopted mother
Mom discusses alleged child abuse by adopted mother
A South Valley mother whose children claim severe child abuse and torture by their adopted mother -- is now fighting to get her children back.
A South Valley mother whose children claim severe child abuse and torture by their adopted mother -- is now fighting to get her children back.
Attorney general: Mandatory abuse reporting law does not apply to adult patients
Attorney general: Mandatory abuse reporting law does not apply to adult patients
Child abuse reporting laws do not apply to adult patients who talk about childhood problems in therapy, the attorney general's office ruled Wednesday.
Child abuse reporting laws do not apply to adult patients who talk about childhood problems in therapy, the attorney general's office ruled Wednesday.
Superior Court judge says Nazi dad can't have his four kids back
Superior Court judge says Nazi dad can't have his four kids back
A Superior Court judge has decided that a self-proclaimed Nazi from Holland Township and his wife cannot take back their four children, three of whom were named in honor of the Nazis, the father said yesterday.
A Superior Court judge has decided that a self-proclaimed Nazi from Holland Township and his wife cannot take back their four children, three of whom were named in honor of the Nazis, the father said yesterday.
Stop using seclusion room, state tells Waupun school
The Waupun Area School District has been told by the state to stop using the seclusion room at Rock River Intermediate School until several corrective actions have been taken.
Stop using seclusion room, state tells Waupun school
Stop using seclusion room, state tells Waupun school
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
California falling behind in child abuse death disclosure
California falling behind in child abuse death disclosure
Imagine a 7-year-old child, starved by a parent, shrinking from 60 to 50 to 25 pounds before dying, despite periodic visits by local social workers. Imagine a child dying from a potentially curable disease whose family is withholding treatment and who is known to local officials. Imagine a child who has been repeatedly and severely beaten, yet remains under the roof of a stepfather with a long record of violent assault.
Imagine a 7-year-old child, starved by a parent, shrinking from 60 to 50 to 25 pounds before dying, despite periodic visits by local social workers. Imagine a child dying from a potentially curable disease whose family is withholding treatment and who is known to local officials. Imagine a child who has been repeatedly and severely beaten, yet remains under the roof of a stepfather with a long record of violent assault.
Assembly adds coaches to mandatory abuse reporters
Assembly adds coaches to mandatory abuse reporters
The state Assembly has unanimously approved a bill that would add athletic coaches and administrators to the list of California workers who are required to report suspected child abuse or neglect to authorities.
The 13th Annual 'Get On The Bus' Event: Uniting Children With Their Mothers and Fathers in Prison
The 13th Annual 'Get On The Bus' Event: Uniting Children With Their Mothers and Fathers in Prison
Center for Restorative Justice Works is again bringing hundreds of children to visit their fathers in prison on Father's Day during this 13th Annual Get On The Bus event.
Center for Restorative Justice Works is again bringing hundreds of children to visit their fathers in prison on Father's Day during this 13th Annual Get On The Bus event.
Jerry Sandusky child sex-abuse trial will go forward next week, judge says
A judge on Wednesday again denied a request from former Penn State assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky to delay the June 5 start of his child sex-abuse trial.
NYPD seeking tips in case of Brooklyn boy missing since 2010
NYPD seeking tips in case of Brooklyn boy missing since 2010
Patrick Kennedy Alford, 7, disappeared January 22, 2010. At about at 9 p.m. he left his foster parents' apartment in East New York, Brooklyn, to take out the garbage. The 4-feet-8-inch tall Patrick has not been seen again by his foster family.
Patrick Kennedy Alford, 7, disappeared January 22, 2010. At about at 9 p.m. he left his foster parents' apartment in East New York, Brooklyn, to take out the garbage. The 4-feet-8-inch tall Patrick has not been seen again by his foster family.
After man's alleged killing by adopted son, family says it was an 'isolated incident'
After man's alleged killing by adopted son, family says it was an 'isolated incident'
George Stevenson grew up in a family that cared for numerous foster children, and after mentoring and coaching boys in youth baseball for years, he decided to adopt a child of his own.
George Stevenson grew up in a family that cared for numerous foster children, and after mentoring and coaching boys in youth baseball for years, he decided to adopt a child of his own.
Foster parent's fate could be in jury's hands by Monday
Foster parent's fate could be in jury's hands by Monday
Both the Crown and defence have concluded the calling of evidence, leaving the gate open for closing submissions followed by what's expected to be a lengthy judge's charge to the jury.
Both the Crown and defence have concluded the calling of evidence, leaving the gate open for closing submissions followed by what's expected to be a lengthy judge's charge to the jury.
Reported Child Abuse Claims Often Difficult to Prove
Reported Child Abuse Claims Often Difficult to Prove
Note: And that's why they're so good at making shit up!
Only a quarter of all reported cases of child abuse are found to have sufficient evidence to take action, with higher-income children in rural areas more likely than their urban counterparts to have a report of child abuse substantiated, according to new research from the Carsey Institute at the University of New Hampshire.
CUMBRIA COUNTY COUNCIL SENDS CHILD WELFARE CASE DETAILS TO WRONG FAMILY
CUMBRIA COUNTY COUNCIL SENDS CHILD WELFARE CASE DETAILS TO WRONG FAMILY
CUMBRIA County Council has apologised after sending confidential details of a child welfare case to the wrong family.
Schoolboy, 11, 'becomes Britain's youngest joyrider after crashing foster parents' car into a tree'
Schoolboy, 11, 'becomes Britain's youngest joyrider after crashing foster parents' car into a tree'
A youngster has become one of Britain’s youngest ever alleged joyriders after he is believed to have driven his parents’ car for two miles, missing pedestrians by millimetres, before crashing into a tree.
Children taken from mom in pot raid inflame Butte County ballot debate
Children taken from mom in pot raid inflame Butte County ballot debate
One of California's more vociferous battles over marijuana was already simmering in the upper Central Valley when an audiotape of a howling, hysterical mother went viral.
"Oh, my God! My baby! My baby! My baby!" screamed Daisy Bram, 30, as Butte County child welfare officers took custody of her newborn infant and 18-month-old toddler during a Sept. 29 marijuana raid on her family's rural house outside Oroville.
Mississippi fights the nation's worst teen pregnancy rate
Mississippi fights the nation's worst teen pregnancy rate
With her hair in a ponytail and her smile quick and wide, it's hard to tell high school junior Donyell Hollins has been pulling all-nighters for most of the semester to take care of her infant daughter.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Jury acquits couple in 'caged kids' trial
Jury acquits couple in 'caged kids' trial
After hearing they had been acquitted late Tuesday afternoon of unlawful imprisonment for keeping two autistic boys locked in a room, John Eckhart collapsed in his attorney’s arms, while Alayna Higdon began weeping.
After hearing they had been acquitted late Tuesday afternoon of unlawful imprisonment for keeping two autistic boys locked in a room, John Eckhart collapsed in his attorney’s arms, while Alayna Higdon began weeping.
Key social workers struggling: groups
Key social workers struggling: groups
Social workers specializing in child protection are being seriously exploited, lawmakers and social groups said yesterday.
Social workers involved in protecting children from abuse face heavy workloads and long working hours and cannot protect themselves from danger, Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) Legislator Alicia Wang (王育敏) said.
Social workers specializing in child protection are being seriously exploited, lawmakers and social groups said yesterday.
Social workers involved in protecting children from abuse face heavy workloads and long working hours and cannot protect themselves from danger, Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) Legislator Alicia Wang (王育敏) said.
Dennis Rodman Child Support Case: Ex-NBA Star Sentenced To Community Service
Dennis Rodman Child Support Case: Ex-NBA Star Sentenced To Community Service
Former NBA star Dennis Rodman might soon find himself working with at-risk teens or cleaning up streets.
Former NBA star Dennis Rodman might soon find himself working with at-risk teens or cleaning up streets.
Sandusky in court meeting; accusers seek anonymity
Sandusky in court meeting; accusers seek anonymity
Former Penn State assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky attended a closed-door meeting with the judge in his child sexual abuse case Tuesday and four of his accusers made formal requests for anonymity, a day before what could be the final hearing before the start of trial.
Former Penn State assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky attended a closed-door meeting with the judge in his child sexual abuse case Tuesday and four of his accusers made formal requests for anonymity, a day before what could be the final hearing before the start of trial.
Hynes Wants to Change Law to Make Rabbis Mandated Reporters
Hynes Wants to Change Law to Make Rabbis Mandated Reporters
The Brooklyn district attorney, Charles J. Hynes, said Wednesday that he would push for state legislation to add rabbis and other religious leaders to the list of professionals required to report allegations of sexual abuse to law enforcement authorities.
The Brooklyn district attorney, Charles J. Hynes, said Wednesday that he would push for state legislation to add rabbis and other religious leaders to the list of professionals required to report allegations of sexual abuse to law enforcement authorities.
Children running away from care need a safety net
Children running away from care need a safety net
Children in care are three times more likely to run away than those living at home; many are being failed by the systems that are supposed to protect them
Children in care are three times more likely to run away than those living at home; many are being failed by the systems that are supposed to protect them
Rate of indigenous child sex abuse exaggerated, Jay Weatherill insists
Rate of indigenous child sex abuse exaggerated, Jay Weatherill insists
SOUTH Australian Premier Jay Weatherill has claimed the rate of child abuse in an Aboriginal community, as revealed by a senior federal government adviser, is "exaggerated".
SOUTH Australian Premier Jay Weatherill has claimed the rate of child abuse in an Aboriginal community, as revealed by a senior federal government adviser, is "exaggerated".
Grandmother who fell carrying baby liable for head injuries after son-in-law sues
Grandmother who fell carrying baby liable for head injuries after son-in-law sues
A GRANDMOTHER sued by her own family after falling down stairs while carrying her baby granddaughter has been found legally liable for the girl's head injuries.
A GRANDMOTHER sued by her own family after falling down stairs while carrying her baby granddaughter has been found legally liable for the girl's head injuries.
On the front lines of change in the risky world of DCF
On the front lines of change in the risky world of DCF
The call for help came from an emergency room nurse. Her patient, the mother of a young son, tried to commit suicide while the boy was home.
DoCS baby stealers Australia Send more pics to Lukey's Army
Just some of the photos of baby stealers on file at Luke's Army. Please continue to send your story and photos of these malicious animals, I thank you all.
Board use of psychic blasted
Board use of psychic blasted
The mother of an autistic girl says the public school board was "completely unprofessional" to formulate a theory that her daughter was being sexually abused based on a psychic's perception.
The mother of an autistic girl says the public school board was "completely unprofessional" to formulate a theory that her daughter was being sexually abused based on a psychic's perception.
Monday, May 28, 2012
Are foster kids helped, harmed by open hearings
Are foster kids helped, harmed by open hearings
A California judge’s decision to open a county’s child welfare hearings earlier this year has energized a debate among advocates in other states about whether greater transparency helps or harms the young victims appearing in family court.
Hart: 'Voluntary' CPS plan has some parents feeling bullied
Hart: 'Voluntary' CPS plan has some parents feeling bullied
Two young families in the Houston area suffered unspeakable tragedies in recent months. In one case, a toddler drowned; in another, a new mother was gunned down in a parking lot and her newborn snatched. Both incidents required investigation by law enforcement officials, who as a matter of course, called Child Protective Services.
Two young families in the Houston area suffered unspeakable tragedies in recent months. In one case, a toddler drowned; in another, a new mother was gunned down in a parking lot and her newborn snatched. Both incidents required investigation by law enforcement officials, who as a matter of course, called Child Protective Services.
Sunday, May 27, 2012
Revealed: Hundreds of words to avoid using online if you don't want the government spying on you (and they include 'pork', 'cloud' and 'Mexico')
Revealed: Hundreds of words to avoid using online if you don't want the government spying on you (and they include 'pork', 'cloud' and 'Mexico')
The Department of Homeland Security has been forced to release a list of keywords and phrases it uses to monitor social networking sites and online media for signs of terrorist or other threats against the U.S.
Note: I know this is a wee bit off topic, but how could I resist?
The Department of Homeland Security has been forced to release a list of keywords and phrases it uses to monitor social networking sites and online media for signs of terrorist or other threats against the U.S.
Note: I know this is a wee bit off topic, but how could I resist?
Killed runaway failed by state
Killed runaway failed by state
BY the time the 10-year-old runaway girl was killed by a car on a dark country road, the "very traumatised child" had been in 21 foster care placements with 11 different carers.
BY the time the 10-year-old runaway girl was killed by a car on a dark country road, the "very traumatised child" had been in 21 foster care placements with 11 different carers.
More Arizona kids stuck in foster care limbo
More Arizona kids stuck in foster care limbo
A recent increase in the number of foster children in Arizona has put mounting pressure on juvenile courts and made it more difficult to quickly resolve such cases.
'Don't Beat Me' Merton Council fostering ad criticised
'Don't Beat Me' Merton Council fostering ad criticised
The sight of a young child wearing boxing gloves above the caption "Now, No One Can Beat Me!" was designed to “grab people’s attention”, Merton Council said.
The sight of a young child wearing boxing gloves above the caption "Now, No One Can Beat Me!" was designed to “grab people’s attention”, Merton Council said.
Joyce Maynard Announces Failure of Her Adoptive Family
Joyce Maynard Announces Failure of Her Adoptive Family
In 2010, Joyce Maynard wrote an article for More magazine announcing her adoption of two girls from Ethiopia. I read it (it’s no longer available online), and although Ms. Maynard and I had never met, I wrote her, congratulating her — and adding, as a parent a little over a year into the adoption of a child (as opposed to a baby) myself, some words of caution. Ms. Maynard had declared herself “happy, happy, happy.” I wrote knowing that even when “happy” didn’t feel like the applicable adjective for our changed family, happiness still appeared in unexpected ways.
In 2010, Joyce Maynard wrote an article for More magazine announcing her adoption of two girls from Ethiopia. I read it (it’s no longer available online), and although Ms. Maynard and I had never met, I wrote her, congratulating her — and adding, as a parent a little over a year into the adoption of a child (as opposed to a baby) myself, some words of caution. Ms. Maynard had declared herself “happy, happy, happy.” I wrote knowing that even when “happy” didn’t feel like the applicable adjective for our changed family, happiness still appeared in unexpected ways.
Arizona's courts overloaded with CPS cases
Arizona's courts overloaded with CPS cases
When the state of Arizona takes custody of a child because of suspected abuse or neglect, authorities ultimately have one goal: finding a safe, permanent home for the child.
When the state of Arizona takes custody of a child because of suspected abuse or neglect, authorities ultimately have one goal: finding a safe, permanent home for the child.
Report urges support for kinship care
Report urges support for kinship care
As more of America’s children are raised by relatives other than their parents, state and local governments need to do better in helping these families cope with an array of financial and emotional challenges, a new report concludes.
Juvenile justice system ineffective: Enforcement agencies
Juvenile justice system ineffective: Enforcement agencies
New Delhi : India's juvenile justice system has not been effective in safeguarding the rights of half a million street children in the capital, according to various enforcement agencies.
Rise in number of foster children in Arizona puts pressure on juvenile courts
Rise in number of foster children in Arizona puts pressure on juvenile courts
A recent increase in the number of foster children in Arizona has put mounting pressure on juvenile courts and made it more difficult to quickly resolve such cases.
Saturday, May 26, 2012
Fla. committee to review all child abuse deaths
Fla. committee to review all child abuse deaths
Department of Children and Families Secretary David Wilkins says his agency will now allow the state child death review team to review all child deaths.
Department of Children and Families Secretary David Wilkins says his agency will now allow the state child death review team to review all child deaths.
Social workers told to return snatched baby to France
Social workers told to return snatched baby to France
Two parallel stories last week highlighted what has become one of the most bizarre features of our “child protection” system – the fanatical determination of our social workers to track down mothers who have fled overseas to escape their clutches, and bring their children back to “care” in England.
FLAVOR FLAV Facing Prison for Not Paying Child Support
FLAVOR FLAV Facing Prison for Not Paying Child Support
List of things Flavor Flav apparently thinks are a joke -- 911 and child support.
Only 8% of Florida foster kids have lawyer
Only 8% of Florida foster kids have lawyer
While more than half of Palm Beach County foster children have attorneys looking out for their legal rights in court, those in the rest of the state are not as lucky.
Reform ASFA 1997
Reform ASFA 1997
***Since the enactment of ASFA in 1997, the number of children placed in, as well as adopted from, foster care has risen at a disturbing rate. Children are being removed from falsely accused parents without tangible evidence of wrongdoing. Nearly 99% of all children in foster care are now deemed 'special needs', which further increases federal funding. The title 'Special Needs' was previously only assigned to children with documented physical, mental or psychological disabilities; it now encompasses children in therapy, those on psychotropic medications and suffering with attachment/abandonment issues as a direct result of being removed from loving parents and homes.
Court rules DHS must provide foster parent information to media
Court rules DHS must provide foster parent information to media
An appeals court has upheld a Tulsa district judge's ruling that the Department of Human Services must provide information on foster parents to the Tulsa World and television station KOKI-23.
Simons: Alberta care system ‘horribly broken,’ brother of slain worker says
Simons: Alberta care system ‘horribly broken,’ brother of slain worker says
Teen accused of murder should have been in hospital, not group home, he argues
Teen accused of murder should have been in hospital, not group home, he argues
GOVERNMENT ACCUSED OF SECRECY OVER CHILD ABUSE FIGURES
GOVERNMENT ACCUSED OF SECRECY OVER CHILD ABUSE FIGURES
The South Australian Government is being accused of excessive secrecy in failing to report accurate numbers of children being sexually abused in remote parts of the state.
The South Australian Government is being accused of excessive secrecy in failing to report accurate numbers of children being sexually abused in remote parts of the state.
Sandusky’s Second Mile charity moves to dissolve
Sandusky’s Second Mile charity moves to dissolve
No longer able to raise money, the charity Jerry Sandusky founded in 1977 for at-risk youth is moving to dissolve and divert its assets to a Texas nonprofit.
No longer able to raise money, the charity Jerry Sandusky founded in 1977 for at-risk youth is moving to dissolve and divert its assets to a Texas nonprofit.
Sask. foster care suit launched
Sask. foster care suit launched
Suggesting the Saskatchewan government failed in its legal responsibilities toward children abused in foster care, a Regina law firm has filed a unique proposed classaction lawsuit.
Suggesting the Saskatchewan government failed in its legal responsibilities toward children abused in foster care, a Regina law firm has filed a unique proposed classaction lawsuit.
UNITY AND RE-UNIFICATION We deserve a second chance!
Sign this petition...
UNITY AND RE-UNIFICATION We deserve a second chance!
This is important for justice of Nydaya I'Lexia Green and regaining relationship, love, and trust with her mother as well as society as a whole. It is also important because it will change the circumstances for thousands of other children and families adversely affected by Judge Bailey's decisions. Nydaya I'Lexia Green has been on supervised visits with her mom since May 2011. There have been no incidents during the visits and in fact mom has been an ideal model parent at visits, and is often asked for new workers to be allowed to observe the visits.
UNITY AND RE-UNIFICATION We deserve a second chance!
This is important for justice of Nydaya I'Lexia Green and regaining relationship, love, and trust with her mother as well as society as a whole. It is also important because it will change the circumstances for thousands of other children and families adversely affected by Judge Bailey's decisions. Nydaya I'Lexia Green has been on supervised visits with her mom since May 2011. There have been no incidents during the visits and in fact mom has been an ideal model parent at visits, and is often asked for new workers to be allowed to observe the visits.
Friday, May 25, 2012
Norway NRI children in new family row
Norway NRI children in new family row
Within a month of their return to India, two NRI children, who were earlier taken into foster-care by the Norwegian Childcare Services, find themselves in a new controversy - their families have filed police complaints against each other alleging threats to kill.
Within a month of their return to India, two NRI children, who were earlier taken into foster-care by the Norwegian Childcare Services, find themselves in a new controversy - their families have filed police complaints against each other alleging threats to kill.
Judge dismisses suit against Cumberland County district attorney
Judge dismisses suit against Cumberland County district attorney
A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit against Cumberland County District Attorney Stephanie Anderson, which was filed in connection with a custody dispute over a 5-year-old girl.
A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit against Cumberland County District Attorney Stephanie Anderson, which was filed in connection with a custody dispute over a 5-year-old girl.
Thousands more children taken into care in wake of Baby Peter case
Thousands more children taken into care in wake of Baby Peter case
Baby Peter's death three years ago has created a fundamental shift in the nature of child protection work, study finds
Baby Peter's death three years ago has created a fundamental shift in the nature of child protection work, study finds
Hanford Woman Accused of Beating Adopted Children
Hanford Woman Accused of Beating Adopted Children
Kings County authorities have arrested a Hanford woman for allegedly beating her four adopted children.
Priest defrocked for child sex abuse now works for TSA, report says
Priest defrocked for child sex abuse now works for TSA, report says
A Catholic priest who was removed from the ministry over sex abuse allegations now holds a sensitive security post at Philadelphia International Airport, CBS Philly reports.
A Catholic priest who was removed from the ministry over sex abuse allegations now holds a sensitive security post at Philadelphia International Airport, CBS Philly reports.
State: 3 foster children removed from home of Knox Commissioner Jeff Ownby
State: 3 foster children removed from home of Knox Commissioner Jeff Ownby
Three foster children have been removed from the home of Knox County Commissioner Jeff Ownby and further admissions of children to the home have been suspended, a state department spokeswoman said Friday.
Three foster children have been removed from the home of Knox County Commissioner Jeff Ownby and further admissions of children to the home have been suspended, a state department spokeswoman said Friday.
Homeless Teens Shelters Impacted by Expiring Law
Homeless Teens Shelters Impacted by Expiring Law
Starting in July. homeless teen shelters throughout the state will only have eight hours to contact a visiting teen's parents, law enforcement or Child Protective Services; instead of the current 72 hour period.
Starting in July. homeless teen shelters throughout the state will only have eight hours to contact a visiting teen's parents, law enforcement or Child Protective Services; instead of the current 72 hour period.
A System-Suckology Case Study: The Death of Ethan Henderson
The state of Maine
has been recognized by the Anne E. Casey Foundation as having a NationalModel Child Welfare System. The
reason for this is that the state has managed to cut the number of kids in
foster care in half over the last 10 years, by utilizing more kinship
placements and doing more to help the family by giving the parents the support
they need, which helps keep children who come to the attention of Maine's Child
Protective Services safe in their own homes.
These reforms happened mostly in response to thedeath of a little girl named Logan Marr.
Then on May 5th, of
this year, there was another horrible act of child abuse committed against a
little baby from Maine named Ethan Henderson.
I have been following this case because I believe it is being used as a springboard
in Maine to turn around the trend of taking less kids into care and instead be
a bit quicker to remove. For this, I
believe there are two reasons. The first
is that the state is broke and the more kids they take into care, the more
federal funding they will receive. The
second reason is that the state's economy is staggering, needs to be able to
provide business to the service providers.
We all know that the minute a kid is taken into foster care an army of
service providers, everybody from the lawyers to the shrinks, get their
contracts. For example, as the state
moves to put less reliance onto group homes the group home providers will fight
to remain afloat by touting their benefits to some news reporter looking for an
expert opinion. Without business, they
close. But we'll get to that later.
Anyway…
I have done
something a little different with this case.
What I have done is collect a number of articles that mention the case
of Ethan Henderson. From these articles,
I pulled out various factors, main points, what have you, and put it all into a
mind mapping software program that I found in the GoogleChrome Web Store. From there I was
able to pick out and organize a few of the patterns that the people who are
fighting for justice against Child Welfare Fraud should be made aware of.
So lets take a look
at this case.
The
mother, had gone to work on Saturday May 5th, leaving her three kids with
Gordon Collins-Faunce. Collins-Faunce
was the father of their 10 week old twins named Ethan and Lucas. At one point the father went out to have a
cigarette, and when he came back Ethan and a 3 year old daughter from the
mothers previous relationship were both crying.
Collins-Faunce became frustrated with the baby crying and picked Ethan
up by the head, holding him dangling for a minute max, then threw him violently
into a chair, causing the infants head to snap back. When being questioned by the police,
Collins-Faunce estimated that on a scale of 1 to 10, the force with which he
threw Ethan was probably an 8 or 9.
Friends also said that Collins-Faunce had been targeting Ethan, and that
they didn't even realize it.
Doctors
said that Ethan presented as dirty with a rash, dirt under the fingernails and
a dirty belly button. They also said
that they had found both New and old brain injuries. He was blinded and one side of his brain had
completely stopped working. Police were
monitoring his condition which was described as "grave" and on May
7th, Ethan died.
Now, this is one of
those cases where Child Protective Services really should have been
involved. This guy is a sicko, and is
obviously not safe to have around children.
Also, if CPS was involved with this family, that is something that we do
not know at this point. What we do know
is that there were prior incidents of abuse.
The
first incident was when Collins-Faunce had broken the babies arm when he was 4
weeks old. He had gotten frustrated
while changing the baby's diaper. The
child was treated by doctors.
Collins-Faunce had originally told them that the baby's arm had got
stuck between the crib and a bumper.
As
for the second incident, court documents show that a daycare provider made the
referral to CPS regarding bruises on the 3 year old daughter whose name was
Neveah The daycare provider also said
that the twins were sick and not receiving medical attention.
Now here's where the
case gets interesting, because Police will not say when this referral to CPS
was made, and although one state worker did confirm that they had received a
referral from the daycare provider, DHHS will not confirm or deny anything. Although we know that the above did happen,
details are rather slim. The State of
Maine's Attorney General's office is not allowing anybody to talk, citing an
ongoing criminal investigation. Nobody
else is being allowed to talk either including the hospital, CPS or anybody
else who may have had contact with the family.
And this is where the $100,000 dollar question comes from… "Why
didn't CPS do anything to protect these kids?"
The newspapers are
going nutty over it. The System Sucks
are demanding answers. The people have a
right to know if there are any flaws in the child welfare system. The legislature Health and Human Services
committee wants to know if more could
have been done to save this child to prevent more kids from falling through the
cracks. I will discuss this in further
detail later, but first there is more to this story. Lets take a look at the parents.
As
for the mother, Christina Henderson, she was at work when the assault took
place. no criminal charges have been filed against her, however Maine CPS
Agents have removed the other two children, Lucas and Neveah from the home and
have placed them in foster care.
Records say that she never knew what was going on, although there has
been a little debate around this, considering the broken arm and her 3 year old
being "covered with bruises" there are those who believe that she
must have done something. She is
planning to petition the court to have the kids returned to her now that
Collins-Faunce is no longer in the home. She also held a vigil at the home,
calling Ethan her "Angel in Heaven."
Not all that much
more is known about the mother. The
father however had a history which should concern us greatly.
Gordon
Collins-Faunce was 23 years old. He was
a high school graduate who worked as a flagger on a road crew. He was discharged from the military after
holding a knife to a roommates throat.
Collins-Faunce was also in foster care in Maine, having gone through six
different homes in 5 years. He was
sexually and physically abused by "various foster parents" and was
taking medication for PTSD because of this.
In 1997, Collins-Faunce was adopted by Irving Faunce and his wife, he
was 8 years old at the time.
Collins-Faunces
PTSD meds had been changed recently, and he was having trouble sleeping. On the day of the assault against Ethan, he
did not take his meds.
Gordon
Collins-Faunce was arrested and charged with Elevated Aggravated Assault of a
Child. After Ethan died, the charges
were upgraded to, "depraved indifference murder" which shows no value
for human life. He is sitting in York
County Jail, on suicide watch, on $100,000 dollars bail. His lawyer is named Amy Fairfield. He will be prosecuted by the State of Maine's
Attorney Generals office. He makes his
first court appearance on May 11th. The
criminal case is expected to last about a year.
The AG doesn't want anybody to talk, citing the ongoing criminal
investigation. The AG also wants a
psychiatric evaluation done by the State Forensic Services.
Now, the way the
newspapers are reporting this, nothing in his past matters. Nor should we be concerned with the
circumstances of his past in any way.
This guy is a monster who killed a child. That is all that matters right? Hang the mother-f*****!!!
I disagree. Here's why.
One article talked about the adoption when Collins Faunce was 8, as
being a happy ending to a troubled childhood.
While that may very well have been true, Gordon Collins-Faunce was
clearly a damaged child who grew up to be a very damaged adult. One so damaged, that he would at the age of
23 commit a horrendous act against a helpless infant.
First of all, if he
was taking medication for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder due to his inability
to get past the sexual abuse that he suffered at the hands of "various
foster parents." This after being
removed from his biological parents for "abuse or neglect." That, and the fact that his medications had
recently changed and causing trouble sleeping, it is quite possible that Gordon
Collins-Faunce was not entirely sane at the time of the crime. Psychiatric medications have been known to
cause people to do some crazy things.
Moving on…
What's most
disturbing in this case is the public and media reaction to it. What is most at issue is all of the secrecy
and nobody talking is driving people absolutely nuts.
DHHS
would not comment citing confidentiality rules.
CPS says there is a state law preventing them from commenting on CPS
cases. Child welfare advocates are
asking if signs of abuse were ignored by CPS.
Nobody is saying whether or not the broken arm incident triggered a call
to the child abuse hotline, however a broken arm on a 4 week old should have
been a bright red flag as should a 3 year old being "covered with
bruises. We do not know when the report
to CPS was made by the daycare provider.
We do not know whether or not CPS acted on that report. We do not know if CPS agents visited the
family or if they had opened an investigation on the family. We do know that they removed the other two
children from the home after the assault.
We do not know of that turned up any further information. Also, the hospital will not comment as to
whether or not they made a report regarding the broken arm.
As a result, lots of
people are asking questions. System
Sucks are crawling out from under their rocks.
The newspapers are demanding that the state release information so that we
may know just where CPS failed this child.
Was it because of a systematic failure?
Is CPS short staffed? Did they
investigate and find nothing wrong? Were
they even investigated at all based on previous reports? Did any doctor, nurse, or anybody else report
the broken arm to CPS? Did CPS act upon
the report of a 3 year old covered with bruises?
Even
Maine's Governor is concerned that, "The pendulum has swung too far in the
opposite direction," suggesting that the state has gone too far in trying
to keep kids in their homes. One could
make the connection that if this is the case, that CPS did in fact investigate
this family. Governor Paul LePage,
however, has also cut funding to DHHS which includes various programs that are
used to keep kids safe in their own homes.
Governor LePage also claims to have been an abused child.
Sadly, Maine's
governor is an idiot. He does not
consider the damage done to kids in Maine's foster care system and is using the
case for a major shift in public policy change, which even Richard Wexler has
thrown his two cents into the ring saying "Using Ethan's case for an excuse for major publicpolicy change would be a mistake." That shift will be for CPS agents to remove
more kids from their homes.
I should also say
that because nobody involved in the case in any way is talking, reporters are
turning to the experts. Questions are
being asked of the states Child Death and Serious Injury Review Board. Most importantly: Is CPS doing enough to
protect children in Maine?
As for the broken
arm, people are suggesting that doctors should have reported such an incident
on a child of such a young age. We
don't know if they did or not, because the AG has told everybody involved not
to talk, but we find out that failure to report cases could hit a mandated
reporter in the wallets with a $500 dollar fine. Dr.Lawrence Ricci of Spurwink's Child Abuse Program says that "a broken
arm should be viewed as a likely sign of abuse on a 10 week old
baby." Ricci also doesn't think
that the state acts fast enough to remove children from their homes when there
are signs of abuse. Ricci also works for
a private organization which provides group home services for foster kids in
Maine as well as other services for abused and neglected children. I'm not saying there is a connection between his opinions or his organization, I'm just sayin.
So what we end up
with is a loud public outcry against a product of Maine's Foster Care System
who was on medication at the age of 23 due to abuse which he suffered in
Maine's Foster Care System, which will lead to more kids getting removed from
their homes and thrown into Maine's Foster Care System. Why people actually believe that if a kid can
be sexually abused by "various foster parents" that throwing kids
into foster care is keeping them safe, is beyond me.
Whenever there is a
child who dies from abuse or neglect, CPS reviews it's policies and procedures
to see if anything could have been done differently so that that child will
still be alive today. Clearly in this particular
case something went wrong. We just don't
know what that is exactly.
There is a lot of
concern around whether or not the broken arm incident was reported. Perhaps it was perhaps it wasn't. Nobody's talking. Lawrence Ricci suggests that doctors are
hesitant to report abuse because it either violates confidentiality. Another doctor suggests that if they report a
family, they never see the kids again so they loose track of how they're
doing. Ricci also suggests that in
some cases, doctors are gullible and can't tell when a parent is lying. Ricci, however can make all the suggestions
and claims that he wants. That doesn't
change the fact that we simply don't know if the broken arm was reported.
You can bet your
sweet ass however that the whole system in Maine is about to go under the
microscope. It will give System Sucks
something to talk about, something to debate and a path to grow their
businesses. It will give the media
something to harp on. The people will
remain stuck on the fact that a baby died.
They won't care about any of the circumstances which led to this. It will not matter that this is the kind of
kid who comes out of Maine's Foster Care System. They will simply demand that CPS do more to
protect children. Because they failed
this one kid, many other children in Maine will pay.
My heart and best wishes go out to Christina Henderson and her family.
LK
-------------------------------
Bibliography: (in no particular order)
Accused mother, grandmother sue state
Accused mother, grandmother sue state
Two more people who apparently were wrongfully implicated in the alleged aggravated rape and incest of three prepubescent girls have filed separate lawsuits against the Louisiana State Police and the state Office of Children and Family Services.
Two more people who apparently were wrongfully implicated in the alleged aggravated rape and incest of three prepubescent girls have filed separate lawsuits against the Louisiana State Police and the state Office of Children and Family Services.
Welfare groups say sorry for injustices
Welfare groups say sorry for injustices
Queensland welfare groups have said sorry to indigenous people for the forced removal of children, and committed to continue healing the hurt that reverberates today.
Queensland welfare groups have said sorry to indigenous people for the forced removal of children, and committed to continue healing the hurt that reverberates today.
Baby P social workers were fairly sacked, tribunal rules
Baby P social workers were fairly sacked, tribunal rules
Two of Baby P's social workers have lost an appeal against an employment tribunal ruling that they were fairly sacked.
Spanish doctor ordered to pay for upkeep of child after failed abortion
Spanish doctor ordered to pay for upkeep of child after failed abortion
Court in Palma de Mallorca tells medic to pay £800 a month for 25 years, and lump sum of £120,000, to mother of boy
Court in Palma de Mallorca tells medic to pay £800 a month for 25 years, and lump sum of £120,000, to mother of boy
Broken promise on foster care
Broken promise on foster care
Two years ago, the California Legislature passed a landmark bill (AB12) that was designed to leverage federal dollars to help support former foster youth until age 21 if they pursue an education or job training.
Two years ago, the California Legislature passed a landmark bill (AB12) that was designed to leverage federal dollars to help support former foster youth until age 21 if they pursue an education or job training.
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Niagara teen charged with attempted murder after foster mom beaten
Niagara teen charged with attempted murder after foster mom beaten
A 16-year-old Niagara Falls youth is facing an attempted murder charge after allegedly assaulting his foster mother with a garden shovel and a frying pan.
A 16-year-old Niagara Falls youth is facing an attempted murder charge after allegedly assaulting his foster mother with a garden shovel and a frying pan.
Homeless DC Parents Fear Loss of Children … And They’re Right
Homeless DC Parents Fear Loss of Children … And They’re Right
I met a father at the Virginia Williams Family Resources Center, the District of Columbia’s central intake for homeless families. He was there with his wife and their baby and toddler because they were running out of money to pay for the motel room they’d been staying in.
I met a father at the Virginia Williams Family Resources Center, the District of Columbia’s central intake for homeless families. He was there with his wife and their baby and toddler because they were running out of money to pay for the motel room they’d been staying in.
At least 24 youths died in care of HSE
At least 24 youths died in care of HSE
AT LEAST 24 children and young adults who were involved with social services have died in the past year and a half, according to health authorities.
Report: MN kids less likely to be raised in "kinship" homes ...
Report: MN kids less likely to be raised in "kinship" homes ...
Minnesota underutilizes the “kinship care” of grandparents and other relatives when foster children are removed from their parents’ homes, according to a new national report from the Anne E. Casey Foundation.
Why toddlers can't remember trauma
Why toddlers can't remember trauma
One question that I was asked though, seemed like an intelligent one and it was more asked of me because I am a psychologist rather than a mother to a child who joined my family via foster care. She wondered if I thought that CD would one day wake up and remember the trauma of her first year and a half of life.
One question that I was asked though, seemed like an intelligent one and it was more asked of me because I am a psychologist rather than a mother to a child who joined my family via foster care. She wondered if I thought that CD would one day wake up and remember the trauma of her first year and a half of life.
Foster Kids on Too Many Meds: Is the Government Taking Action?
Foster Kids on Too Many Meds: Is the Government Taking Action?
The senator who spurred the Government Accountability Office to investigate the startling numbers of foster children being put on powerful, mind-altering drugs is calling on the Obama administration to follow through on its vow to find solutions to the issue.
The senator who spurred the Government Accountability Office to investigate the startling numbers of foster children being put on powerful, mind-altering drugs is calling on the Obama administration to follow through on its vow to find solutions to the issue.
10 year old's school calling child protective services if I don't drug her
10 year old's school calling child protective services if I don't drug her
I had an argument with my 10 year old's teacher. My child is in the 5th grade. Her teacher says she can't focus and I need to put her on drugs (i.e. ritalin, adderall) and I said she won't take them and the teacher said to put the drugs in her soup but she is a picky eater and won't eat most foods.
I had an argument with my 10 year old's teacher. My child is in the 5th grade. Her teacher says she can't focus and I need to put her on drugs (i.e. ritalin, adderall) and I said she won't take them and the teacher said to put the drugs in her soup but she is a picky eater and won't eat most foods.
Pa. 'kids for cash' judge appeals conviction
Pa. 'kids for cash' judge appeals conviction
A northeastern Pennsylvania judge has appealed his conviction and sentence in the juvenile justice scandal known as "kids for cash," claiming the federal judge who presided over his trial allowed himself to be influenced by public opinion and should have removed himself from the case.
A northeastern Pennsylvania judge has appealed his conviction and sentence in the juvenile justice scandal known as "kids for cash," claiming the federal judge who presided over his trial allowed himself to be influenced by public opinion and should have removed himself from the case.
Children’s Services Investigating Alleged Abuses At Group Home For LGBT Teens
City Limits has a worrisome piece on the Gramercy Residence at Ungar House, a group home in Manhattan for queer runaways, now under investigation by the city’s Administration for Children’s Services.
Children’s Services Investigating Alleged Abuses At Group Home For LGBT Teens
Death of Russian-born boy in US reignites adoption debate
Death of Russian-born boy in US reignites adoption debate
A 9-year-old Russian boy adopted by US parents died in a house fire last week, reminding Russians of several incidents of poor treatment of Russian orphans adopted by Americans.
A 9-year-old Russian boy adopted by US parents died in a house fire last week, reminding Russians of several incidents of poor treatment of Russian orphans adopted by Americans.
Auditors find continuing problems at county social service agencies
Auditors find continuing problems at county social service agencies
County social service agencies don’t do a good job of tracking foster children, leave federal funding on the table, have missing files on welfare checks and grant food stamps to too many ineligible people, a new state audit found.
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Houston Child Protective Services made her a zombie
Houston Child Protective Services made her a zombie
Here’s 4-year-old Rachel Harrison before Child Protective Services took her away from her parents.
Once CPS takes over, you can see the drastic changes for yourself.
Here’s 4-year-old Rachel Harrison before Child Protective Services took her away from her parents.
Once CPS takes over, you can see the drastic changes for yourself.
Maryanne Godboldo Case Prompts Congressman to Request Feds Investigate Child Protective Services
Maryanne Godboldo Case Prompts Congressman to Request Feds Investigate Child Protective Services
The 7 Action News Investigators were the first to expose how a local court wasn’t following the law when it came to removing children from their homes.
The 7 Action News Investigators were the first to expose how a local court wasn’t following the law when it came to removing children from their homes.
I was right to flee to save baby from social services, says mother
I was right to flee to save baby from social services, says mother
A mother who fled to Spain to give birth after social services threatened to take her baby has been allowed to keep the youngster.
Foster carers in call for fairer, open system
Foster carers in call for fairer, open system
WHEN it comes to providing love, care and education in bringing up the state's 18,000 foster children, volunteer foster parents are the front line.
WHEN it comes to providing love, care and education in bringing up the state's 18,000 foster children, volunteer foster parents are the front line.
Realities of Child Protection Agency's US Start to Unravel
Realities of Child Protection Agency's US Start to Unravel
American people are not evil. Given information, they will do the right thing. But they're not given the information. Tim Robbins
American people are not evil. Given information, they will do the right thing. But they're not given the information. Tim Robbins
Supervisors admit lingering problems at foster care office
Supervisors admit lingering problems at foster care office
The L.A. County Department of Children and Family Services facility, cited by a whistle-blower nearly a year ago, remains a 'dumping ground' for troubled children, Gloria Molina says.
The L.A. County Department of Children and Family Services facility, cited by a whistle-blower nearly a year ago, remains a 'dumping ground' for troubled children, Gloria Molina says.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Relatives caring for children need more support, charity says
Relatives caring for children need more support, charity says
Across the nation, 2.7 million children are being raised by relatives, yet those families often struggle with limited resources to meet basic needs.
Accidental drink purchase changing Michigan law on emergency child protective services
Accidental drink purchase changing Michigan law on emergency child protective services
The fallout from the accidental purchase of an alcoholic “hard lemonade” at a Detroit Tigers game in 2008 apparently is going to change state law related to parental custody.
The fallout from the accidental purchase of an alcoholic “hard lemonade” at a Detroit Tigers game in 2008 apparently is going to change state law related to parental custody.
Vindicated: Mother, 24, who fled to Spain when social services ruled she was 'unfit' to bring up child is allowed to keep her daughter
Vindicated: Mother, 24, who fled to Spain when social services ruled she was 'unfit' to bring up child is allowed to keep her daughter
A mother who fled to Spain to stop social workers taking her baby has won the right to keep the child, it emerged today.
Social worker pleads guilty to tampering with public records
Social worker pleads guilty to tampering with public records
A former social worker with the Cabinet for Health and Family Services pleaded guilty to nine felony counts of tampering with public records.
Former Social Worker Pleads Guilty To Falsifying Child Abuse And Neglect Reports
Former Social Worker Pleads Guilty To Falsifying Child Abuse And Neglect Reports
Attorney General Jack Conway announced the a guilty plea Tuesday of a former social worker with the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to nine felony counts of tampering with public records.
Attorney General Jack Conway announced the a guilty plea Tuesday of a former social worker with the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to nine felony counts of tampering with public records.
CWC slammed for giving away rape victim's child for adoption
CWC slammed for giving away rape victim's child for adoption
The Child Welfare Committee's act of giving away for adoption a girl child, born to a rape victim and given to it for safekeeping, without biological parents' consent was gross violation of human rights, a Delhi court has held, observing that the rich and poor hold equal rights.
The Child Welfare Committee's act of giving away for adoption a girl child, born to a rape victim and given to it for safekeeping, without biological parents' consent was gross violation of human rights, a Delhi court has held, observing that the rich and poor hold equal rights.
Edward Gavin, Former City Jails Official, Says Child Welfare Authorities Should Investigate Teen Facility
Edward Gavin, Former City Jails Official, Says Child Welfare Authorities Should Investigate Teen Facility
In the wake of a Village Voice report on violence at a troubled city jail, city and state child welfare authorities should investigate whether adolescents are being abused there, a former high ranking Correction Department official says.
In the wake of a Village Voice report on violence at a troubled city jail, city and state child welfare authorities should investigate whether adolescents are being abused there, a former high ranking Correction Department official says.
Parents exiting city in droves, leaving older relatives on their own
Parents exiting city in droves, leaving older relatives on their own
The City’s inability to keep families from fleeing San Francisco also is impacting its growing population of seniors.
Washington Briefs: Supreme Court rejects adoption case involving Cherokee Nation; majority of Oklahoma congressional delegation speaks at level above congressional average Read more: http://newsok.com/washington-briefs-supreme-court-rejects-adoption-case-involving-cherokee-nation-majority-of-oklahoma-congressional-delegation-speaks-at-level-above-congressional-average/article/3677448#ixzz1vbHPrVCk
Washington Briefs: Supreme Court rejects adoption case involving Cherokee Nation; majority of Oklahoma congressional delegation speaks at level above congressional average
The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday declined to hear an unusual adoption case from Utah involving the Cherokee Nation and the question of when a person becomes an Indian.
Foster parent pleads guilty to sexually abusing 17-year-old girl in his care
Foster parent pleads guilty to sexually abusing 17-year-old girl in his care
A Forsyth County man who had served as foster parent to 10 troubled children over the years pleaded guilty Monday to sexually abusing a 17-year-old girl in his care more than two years ago.
A Forsyth County man who had served as foster parent to 10 troubled children over the years pleaded guilty Monday to sexually abusing a 17-year-old girl in his care more than two years ago.
Texas Cuts Efforts To Prevent Child Abuse
Texas Cuts Efforts To Prevent Child Abuse
A CBS 11 News investigation has found that, despite a staggering number of child deaths and injuries due to abuse, the state of Texas last year took away more than $27 million from programs meant to prevent such abuse.
A CBS 11 News investigation has found that, despite a staggering number of child deaths and injuries due to abuse, the state of Texas last year took away more than $27 million from programs meant to prevent such abuse.
Monday, May 21, 2012
Ontario must help Crown wards get on their feet
Ontario must help Crown wards get on their feet
An increasing number of parents consider themselves lucky if their “kids” finish their education, move out of the house and find a decent job much before they turn 30. So why do we put the bar so much higher for our most vulnerable youth?
An increasing number of parents consider themselves lucky if their “kids” finish their education, move out of the house and find a decent job much before they turn 30. So why do we put the bar so much higher for our most vulnerable youth?
Social Worker Admits She Wrote Bogus Time Sheets for Medicaid Money
Social Worker Admits She Wrote Bogus Time Sheets for Medicaid Money
A Paramus social worker admitted Monday to submitting fraudulent time sheets to her employer, the Youth Success Network in Passaic, for counseling services for troubled young people, Attorney General Jeffrey S. Chiesa said.
A Paramus social worker admitted Monday to submitting fraudulent time sheets to her employer, the Youth Success Network in Passaic, for counseling services for troubled young people, Attorney General Jeffrey S. Chiesa said.
A disappearing link
A Forsyth County man who served as a foster parent was convicted Monday on charges that he sexually abused a 17-year-old girl in his care.
Note: This link came up in my news feeds and returned a "Page Not Found". The headline says enough though.
USHER TESTIFIES My Ex-Wife Attacked ... and SPIT on My Girlfriend!!
USHER TESTIFIES My Ex-Wife Attacked ... and SPIT on My Girlfriend!!
Usher blasted his ex-wife in court today -- testifying that Tameka Foster flew into a jealous rage, hitting him, throwing food, and worst of all ... spitting on his girlfriend.
Facebook Apologizes to Mom for Banning Dying Son's Photos
After media attention, thousands of online comments and the work of one Mid-South mother, Facebook is backing off its controversial actions of removing graphic pictures of a terminally ill child.
Cherokee Nation Asking Supreme Court to Review Indian Child Welfare Act Case
Cherokee Nation Asking Supreme Court to Review Indian Child Welfare Act Case
The Cherokee Nation and one of its members are asking the U.S. Supreme Court to review a U.S. 10th Circuit Court of Appeals’ ruling last April that the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) did not apply to what a three-judge panel termed “temporary” tribal citizenship conferred solely for ICWA purposes.
Adoptees Who Reunite With Lost Parent Risk Genetic Sexual Attraction
Adoptees Who Reunite With Lost Parent Risk Genetic Sexual Attraction
Julie DeNeen was raised by her biological mother and a step-father who adopted her after DeNeen's birth father relinquished his legal rights. But she yearned for the father she never knew, wondering why he abandoned her.
Julie DeNeen was raised by her biological mother and a step-father who adopted her after DeNeen's birth father relinquished his legal rights. But she yearned for the father she never knew, wondering why he abandoned her.
Foster care in the United States [infographic]
Foster care in the United States [infographic]
Going through the foster care system can make life a struggle for youth. Frequent placement changes can lead to poor educational and financial outcomes, and foster youth are often unprepared for emancipation leading to high levels of homelessness, incarceration, and mental health problems in early adulthood.
Registry tallies over 2,000 wrongful convictions since 1989
Registry tallies over 2,000 wrongful convictions since 1989
The national database, said to be the largest of its kind, covers the period since DNA testing came into common use. Its sponsors hope to shed light on the legal system's failings.
The national database, said to be the largest of its kind, covers the period since DNA testing came into common use. Its sponsors hope to shed light on the legal system's failings.
Sunday, May 20, 2012
GPS chips: an Orwellian leash for your kid
GPS chips: an Orwellian leash for your kid
If you had the ability to know where your child was at all times, would you want to?
If you had the ability to know where your child was at all times, would you want to?
Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court overwhelmed, causing long delays on cases
Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court overwhelmed, causing long delays on cases
In Cuyahoga County, a parent fighting for custody of a child or support may have to wait until 2013 for their day in court.
Fetuses sold as good luck charms
Fetuses sold as good luck charms
BLACK MAGIC:An undertaker in Taipei reveals the shady underworld of black-magic rituals and its high demand for infant corpses that are used as talismans
BLACK MAGIC:An undertaker in Taipei reveals the shady underworld of black-magic rituals and its high demand for infant corpses that are used as talismans
New Hampshire scores an F
New Hampshire scores an F
IS NEW HAMPSHIRE failing kids? New Hampshire was one of 10 states to earn an F on legal protections for children in a report released last week by two national child advocacy groups.
IS NEW HAMPSHIRE failing kids? New Hampshire was one of 10 states to earn an F on legal protections for children in a report released last week by two national child advocacy groups.
Honouring aboriginal children in care
Honouring aboriginal children in care
Hundreds of Edmontonians are honouring aboriginal children in the care of the child welfare system this weekend.
Two arrested over deadly school bombing
Two arrested over deadly school bombing
Italian police have arrested two suspects over the bombing of a school that killed a 16-year-old girl and seriously injured five more teenagers, it has been reported.
Italy Arrests Two In School Bomb Attack
Italian police have arrested two suspects over the bombing of a school that killed a 16-year-old girl and seriously injured five more teenagers, it has been reported.
Italy Arrests Two In School Bomb Attack
Child Protective Services Drugs Child To Make Her Shut Up
Child Protective Services Drugs Child To Make Her Shut Up
The parents of a 4-year-old girl are outraged after their daughter was placed under the care of Child Protective Services and then heavily medicated with psychotropic drugs.
The parents of a 4-year-old girl are outraged after their daughter was placed under the care of Child Protective Services and then heavily medicated with psychotropic drugs.
Saturday, May 19, 2012
Possible child abuse at foster home
Possible child abuse at foster home
It appears that children were being physically and mentally abused for years at a children's home in the eastern Dutch town of Nieuwleusen. Three people have filed charges with the police, according to a local paper.
It appears that children were being physically and mentally abused for years at a children's home in the eastern Dutch town of Nieuwleusen. Three people have filed charges with the police, according to a local paper.
Heartbreak: Brothers and sisters in care being torn apart due to foster crisis
Heartbreak: Brothers and sisters in care being torn apart due to foster crisis
Brothers and sisters in care are being forced to live apart because of a record shortage of foster families.
Brothers and sisters in care are being forced to live apart because of a record shortage of foster families.
Houston CPS force 4-year-old to take overprescribed psychotropic drugs
Houston CPS force 4-year-old to take overprescribed psychotropic drugs
Here’s 4-year-old Rachel Harrison before Child Protective Services took her away from her parents.
Here’s 4-year-old Rachel Harrison before Child Protective Services took her away from her parents.
University of Southern Maine’s Muskie School to lay off at least 11 because of DHHS changes
University of Southern Maine’s Muskie School to lay off at least 11 because of DHHS changes
A loss of state research and training contracts will trigger at least 11 layoffs at the University of Southern Maine’s Muskie School of Public Service, school officials confirmed this week.
Note: Oh the wonderful things these budget cuts are going to do for Maine. Eh?
A loss of state research and training contracts will trigger at least 11 layoffs at the University of Southern Maine’s Muskie School of Public Service, school officials confirmed this week.
Note: Oh the wonderful things these budget cuts are going to do for Maine. Eh?
Radically re-thinking the child welfare response to substance-abusing families
Radically re-thinking the child welfare response to substance-abusing families
In the US, roughly half of all foster care cases involve children from substance-abusing families. The standard child welfare service response is to protect the child from abuse or neglect by placing them in foster care and referring the substance-abusing parent for drug treatment.
In the US, roughly half of all foster care cases involve children from substance-abusing families. The standard child welfare service response is to protect the child from abuse or neglect by placing them in foster care and referring the substance-abusing parent for drug treatment.
Desmond Hatchett: Man With 30 Kids Requests Child-Support Break
Desmond Hatchett: Man With 30 Kids Requests Child-Support Break
A 33-year-old Knoxville, Tenn. man with 30 children appeared in court this week to ask the state for child-support help, Memphis news station WREG reported Wednesday.
A 33-year-old Knoxville, Tenn. man with 30 children appeared in court this week to ask the state for child-support help, Memphis news station WREG reported Wednesday.
Child foster care license revoked in Cloquet
Child foster care license revoked in Cloquet
A Cloquet woman’s child foster care license has been revoked.
A letter dated Wednesday to Tanya M. Nelson from the Minnesota Department of Human Services said her license was revoked because an individual who would have contact with children had not been able to demonstrate being free from chemical-use problems for the past two years. That’s a requirement by Minnesota rules for child foster care, the letter said.
A Cloquet woman’s child foster care license has been revoked.
A letter dated Wednesday to Tanya M. Nelson from the Minnesota Department of Human Services said her license was revoked because an individual who would have contact with children had not been able to demonstrate being free from chemical-use problems for the past two years. That’s a requirement by Minnesota rules for child foster care, the letter said.
Woman who sent back Russian boy must pay child support
Woman who sent back Russian boy must pay child support
An American woman who adopted a Russian boy and later sent him back to Moscow on a one-way flight has been ordered to pay a sum of $150,000 and an additional $1,000 per month in child support until he's an adult.
An American woman who adopted a Russian boy and later sent him back to Moscow on a one-way flight has been ordered to pay a sum of $150,000 and an additional $1,000 per month in child support until he's an adult.
Maine needs more federal funding - so they're gearing up to snatch more kids!
OUR OPINION: Did systemic flaws contribute to infant's death?
The Department of Health and Human Services has good reasons to keep its records secret, but like all good rules, this one should have its exceptions.
The Department of Health and Human Services has good reasons to keep its records secret, but like all good rules, this one should have its exceptions.
Note: Yes folks! The anti-parent Rhetoric is heating up in the great state of Maine. One high profile child death is about to lead to pure hell for lots of innocent parents. One product of Maine's Foster Care System falls through the cracks on a day he didn't take his meds for PTSD which was due to his being molested by "different foster parents." Because of this one case, all the System Sucks are crawling out from under their rocks, wondering if Maine's reform efforts over the last ten years has gone a little too far in trying to keep children in their homes. Never mind the fact that this product of Maine's foster care system came out of it all fucked up and this is clearly nothing normal even for less than perfect parents. Everybody must suffer!
Just a little more info as to the way things are going in Maine these days...
The state's governor hates the poor even in a struggling economy! The Governor has cut funding to the programs that help to keep children safe in their homes! Yes folks! This is the same Governor who wants the NAACP to kiss his butt! And this total ass of a governor now suggests that the pendulum has swung the wrong way and the state is not quick enough to remove and too quick to return Maine's stolen children. And yes folks, the state gets federal dollars for every kid they take into their foster care system.
Governor Paul LePage, I think that your daddy must have hit you in the head a little too hard, one too many times. You should not mess with that which you clearly have no understanding of.
County hands over $1 million dollars to family whose son was taken by Child Protective Services
County hands over $1 million dollars to family whose son was taken by Child Protective Services
Kern County is handing over one million dollars to a family in the Weldon area for wrongfully taking their son out of their home in 2008. The dispute started between the child's school, South Fork Elementary School and parents over what their kid could eat. While the school can't comment on the case until the settlement is signed; attorneys on both sides are talking about the bigger issues being brought out by this case.
4-year-old Texas girl taken from parents and heavily drugged by Child Protective Services
4-year-old Texas girl taken from parents and heavily drugged by Child Protective Services
The parents of a 4-year-old girl are outraged after their daughter was placed under the care of Child Protective Services and then heavily medicated with psychotropic drugs.
The parents of a 4-year-old girl are outraged after their daughter was placed under the care of Child Protective Services and then heavily medicated with psychotropic drugs.
Protective Services workers in Calista Springer case immune from lawsuit, Michigan Court of Appeals rules
Protective Services workers in Calista Springer case immune from lawsuit, Michigan Court of Appeals rules
Two Child Protective Services workers can’t be sued in connection with the death of 16-year-old Calista Springer because they are government employees immune from civil action, the Michigan Court of Appeals has ruled.
Two Child Protective Services workers can’t be sued in connection with the death of 16-year-old Calista Springer because they are government employees immune from civil action, the Michigan Court of Appeals has ruled.
Richland children services chief put on leave
Richland children services chief put on leave
Randy Parker, executive director of Richland County Children Services, was put on paid administrative leave during a board meeting Wednesday night.
Randy Parker, executive director of Richland County Children Services, was put on paid administrative leave during a board meeting Wednesday night.
Friday, May 18, 2012
Panel finds Mainers wary to report signs of child abuse
Panel finds Mainers wary to report signs of child abuse
The latest report from a state task force that analyzes children's deaths and injuries says the failure of health care workers and other professionals to report suspected child abuse continues to be a major problem in Maine.
The latest report from a state task force that analyzes children's deaths and injuries says the failure of health care workers and other professionals to report suspected child abuse continues to be a major problem in Maine.
Social workers overloaded with paperwork, warn of risks to children
Social workers overloaded with paperwork, warn of risks to children
Social care workers have warned that vulnerable children are being put at risk as cuts to services have left them 'drowning' in paperwork and acting as receptionists.
Note: The more time they spend doing paperwork, the less time they have to f*** with families. Keep em busy people.
Social care workers have warned that vulnerable children are being put at risk as cuts to services have left them 'drowning' in paperwork and acting as receptionists.
Note: The more time they spend doing paperwork, the less time they have to f*** with families. Keep em busy people.
Our View: AG should release facts on child-abuse report
Our View: AG should release facts on child-abuse report
There are good reasons why Department of Health and Human Services records are secret, but like all good rules, this one should have its exceptions.
There are good reasons why Department of Health and Human Services records are secret, but like all good rules, this one should have its exceptions.
He preyed on three girls at Staten Island foster home run by his kin, cops say
He preyed on three girls at Staten Island foster home run by his kin, cops say
A 23-year-old man sexually preyed on three young girls living in a foster home run by his female relative, police allege.
A 23-year-old man sexually preyed on three young girls living in a foster home run by his female relative, police allege.
Blame poverty, not parents
Blame poverty, not parents
Parents these days are open to criticism from all sides. Helicopter parents deprive their children of initiative. Tiger moms are too strict. And now single and unmarried parents, mostly women, are being blamed for child abuse and neglect.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Missing ‘Terminator 3′ Actor Was Reportedly In Child Custody Battle
Missing ‘Terminator 3′ Actor Was Reportedly In Child Custody Battle
“Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines” actor Nick Stahl remained missing Thursday.
“Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines” actor Nick Stahl remained missing Thursday.
S.I. man arraigned on charges of raping young girls in foster care Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/s-i-man-arraigned-charges-raping-young-girls-foster-care-article-1.1080169#ixzz1vBAViyum
S.I. man arraigned on charges of raping young girls in foster care
A Staten Island man was arraigned Thursday on charges of raping three young girls who were in foster care with one of his relatives, law enforcement sources said Thursday.
A Staten Island man was arraigned Thursday on charges of raping three young girls who were in foster care with one of his relatives, law enforcement sources said Thursday.
Foster mother charged in abuse of children
Foster mother charged in abuse of children
A foster mother has been charged with the sexual and physical abuse of two young children in her care between June and September 2011, the same time the two were being sexually assaulted by a foster brother.
Court criticizes DHS for delay in reports
Court criticizes DHS for delay in reports
The agency failed to notify the courts of its actions in a case involving foster care.
Foster Mother Accused of Abuse, Neglect
Foster Mother Accused of Abuse, Neglect
A foster mother in Columbia County is accused of doing some horrible things to her young children.
A foster mother in Columbia County is accused of doing some horrible things to her young children.
Foster mum relives horror knife attack
Foster mum relives horror knife attack
A FOSTER mum was almost stabbed to death by an illegal immigrant teenager placed in her care by city social services.
Children still being abused, dying under state's protection
Children still being abused, dying under state's protection
In spite of state watchdogs and federal oversight, children are still being abused and dying under the state's protection. And the state could face more than a million and a half dollar penalty as a result.
In spite of state watchdogs and federal oversight, children are still being abused and dying under the state's protection. And the state could face more than a million and a half dollar penalty as a result.
Foster Kids Abuse Case: “We Should Be Embarrassed”
Foster Kids Abuse Case: “We Should Be Embarrassed”
This is the story of three courageous children … from the moment they were born to the hopes and heartaches that followed.
This is the story of three courageous children … from the moment they were born to the hopes and heartaches that followed.
Hong Kong crackdowns on Chinese families looking to get around one-child policy
Hong Kong crackdowns on Chinese families looking to get around one-child policy
Over the last decade the number of mainland babies born in Hong Kong has risen from 620 in 2001 to more than 40,000 in 2010 — almost half the total 88,000 births in the territory. Some experts estimate that upwards of 60 per cent of these are second children.
Over the last decade the number of mainland babies born in Hong Kong has risen from 620 in 2001 to more than 40,000 in 2010 — almost half the total 88,000 births in the territory. Some experts estimate that upwards of 60 per cent of these are second children.