New rules under consideration at the Texas Juvenile Justice Department would expand the authority of county juvenile probation agencies to use pepper spray on aggressive youth offenders in secure facilities.
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Proposed Rules Could Increase Use of Pepper Spray on Youths
Proposed Rules Could Increase Use of Pepper Spray on Youths
New rules under consideration at the Texas Juvenile Justice Department would expand the authority of county juvenile probation agencies to use pepper spray on aggressive youth offenders in secure facilities.
New rules under consideration at the Texas Juvenile Justice Department would expand the authority of county juvenile probation agencies to use pepper spray on aggressive youth offenders in secure facilities.
Homewood family therapist accused of abusing adopted son
Homewood family therapist accused of abusing adopted son
A family therapist accused of abusing his adopted son was set to receive a foster child on the night of his arrest, Pittsburgh police said on Thursday.
A family therapist accused of abusing his adopted son was set to receive a foster child on the night of his arrest, Pittsburgh police said on Thursday.
Mother claims foster father abused her children
Mother claims foster father abused her children
The man accused of severely injuring a 15 month old girl was released from custody just nine hours after being arrested for child abuse.
The man accused of severely injuring a 15 month old girl was released from custody just nine hours after being arrested for child abuse.
No need for underground adoption
No need for underground adoption
As a former member of the National Advisory Board on Adoptions and retired Executive Director of the Jewish Child and Family Services I want to wholeheartedly endorse Rep. Sara Feigenholtz’s (D-Chicago) position on Internet adoptions. Children are not chattel to be bargained, traded or sold in any manner. There are scores of outstanding social service agencies licensed for adoption services. There are hundreds of qualified families waiting to adopt a child. There is no need for the underground adoption trade. It should be terminated immediately.
As a former member of the National Advisory Board on Adoptions and retired Executive Director of the Jewish Child and Family Services I want to wholeheartedly endorse Rep. Sara Feigenholtz’s (D-Chicago) position on Internet adoptions. Children are not chattel to be bargained, traded or sold in any manner. There are scores of outstanding social service agencies licensed for adoption services. There are hundreds of qualified families waiting to adopt a child. There is no need for the underground adoption trade. It should be terminated immediately.
Juveniles serving life sentences not entitled to new hearings
Juveniles serving life sentences not entitled to new hearings
Pennsylvania's Supreme Court on Wednesday ruled a U.S. Supreme Court decision that declared sentences of life without parole for juveniles unconstitutional cannot be applied retroactively, striking a significant blow to hundreds of inmates statewide, including a notorious child killer from Lackawanna County.
Pennsylvania's Supreme Court on Wednesday ruled a U.S. Supreme Court decision that declared sentences of life without parole for juveniles unconstitutional cannot be applied retroactively, striking a significant blow to hundreds of inmates statewide, including a notorious child killer from Lackawanna County.
Parents of tortured Port Charlotte boy suing DCF and other agencies
Parents of tortured Port Charlotte boy suing DCF and other agencies
The adoptive parents of a boy left in a Port Charlotte home for several months despite telling child welfare officials he was being trapped and tortured by his stepmother are suing three agencies for failing to protect him.
Authorities: Maria to be placed with foster family in Bulgaria
Authorities: Maria to be placed with foster family in Bulgaria
A blond girl found in Greece whose birth parents were traced to a Bulgarian Roma village will be cared for by a foster family when she's returned to Bulgaria, the government's social services agency said
A blond girl found in Greece whose birth parents were traced to a Bulgarian Roma village will be cared for by a foster family when she's returned to Bulgaria, the government's social services agency said
Police: Goodyear man abused 1-year-old foster child
Police: Goodyear man abused 1-year-old foster child
A Goodyear man is in custody for allegedly injuring his 1-year-old foster daughter for throwing her sippy cup and spilling its contents.
A Goodyear man is in custody for allegedly injuring his 1-year-old foster daughter for throwing her sippy cup and spilling its contents.
Del City Dad Accused Of Lewd Acts With Foster Child
Del City Dad Accused Of Lewd Acts With Foster Child
A Del City man is behind bars, accused of performing lewd acts with a young child. What's worse is he was the child's designated foster parent.
A Del City man is behind bars, accused of performing lewd acts with a young child. What's worse is he was the child's designated foster parent.
Ohio teen in foster care accused of setting house on fire, trying to kill everyone inside
Ohio teen in foster care accused of setting house on fire, trying to kill everyone inside
A 14-year-old Ohio boy has been arrested on juvenile charges of attempted murder and arson after authorities say he tried to kill his foster family by setting their house on fire.
Federal Reform Should Reward Kin Who Prevent Child Welfare Cases Too
Federal Reform Should Reward Kin Who Prevent Child Welfare Cases Too
By “US,” I am referring to the more than 1.8 million children in the United States who are being raised by grandparents or other relatives outside the child welfare system. Only one out of 26 such families is receiving any government support, other than what they qualify for under federal poverty guidelines.
By “US,” I am referring to the more than 1.8 million children in the United States who are being raised by grandparents or other relatives outside the child welfare system. Only one out of 26 such families is receiving any government support, other than what they qualify for under federal poverty guidelines.
DCS will no longer remove kids from homes without a hearing
DCS will no longer remove kids from homes without a hearing
Late on a warm August evening in 2008, Robert Andrews was standing in his yard when three caseworkers with the Department of Children’s Services and two Hickman County deputies drove up, got out of their cars and asked to go inside.
State addresses child welfare issues
State addresses child welfare issues
9NEWS forensic psychologist Max Wachtel knows the difficulty of being a mandatory reporter in this state when it comes to allegations of child abuse.
9NEWS forensic psychologist Max Wachtel knows the difficulty of being a mandatory reporter in this state when it comes to allegations of child abuse.
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Increase in foster deaths troubling
Increase in foster deaths troubling
When children are placed in foster care, there should be little doubt about their safety and well-being. That is, after all, what foster care is supposed to be about.
When children are placed in foster care, there should be little doubt about their safety and well-being. That is, after all, what foster care is supposed to be about.
Maine man to serve 20 years in infant son’s 2012 death
Maine man to serve 20 years in infant son’s 2012 death
An Arundel man who killed his infant son last year pleaded guilty Wednesday to manslaughter and assault charges and was sentenced to 20 years in prison.
An Arundel man who killed his infant son last year pleaded guilty Wednesday to manslaughter and assault charges and was sentenced to 20 years in prison.
Delaware panel eyes Family Court transparency
Delaware panel eyes Family Court transparency
Members of a task force studying limitations on public access to Family Court proceedings are recommending that some proceedings currently closed be presumed open to the public.
Members of a task force studying limitations on public access to Family Court proceedings are recommending that some proceedings currently closed be presumed open to the public.
Lawmakers demand stop to parents giving away adopted kids on internet
Lawmakers demand stop to parents giving away adopted kids on internet
U.S. lawmakers called Tuesday for federal action to prevent parents from giving unwanted adopted children to strangers met on the Internet, and the Illinois attorney general urged Facebook and Yahoo to police online groups where children may be advertised.
U.S. lawmakers called Tuesday for federal action to prevent parents from giving unwanted adopted children to strangers met on the Internet, and the Illinois attorney general urged Facebook and Yahoo to police online groups where children may be advertised.
$5 Million Verdict Against DCF in Sex Abuse Case Could Go to Lawmakers
$5 Million Verdict Against DCF in Sex Abuse Case Could Go to Lawmakers
A Palm Beach County jury on Friday found that the state Department of Children and Families should pay $5 million in the sexual assault of a 9-year-old boy by a slightly older foster child -- but collecting the money will be easier said than done.
A Palm Beach County jury on Friday found that the state Department of Children and Families should pay $5 million in the sexual assault of a 9-year-old boy by a slightly older foster child -- but collecting the money will be easier said than done.
Tackling the Problem of Human Trafficking of Runaway and Foster Youth
Tackling the Problem of Human Trafficking of Runaway and Foster Youth
In my former life, I was a criminal court judge for 22 years and spent 8 years as a prosecutor in Texas. Child abusers are the worst criminals in our society. But too often the justice system ignores the victim. So Congressman Jim Costa (D-CA) and I founded the Victims' Rights Caucus. The VRC is currently focused on combating human trafficking.
In my former life, I was a criminal court judge for 22 years and spent 8 years as a prosecutor in Texas. Child abusers are the worst criminals in our society. But too often the justice system ignores the victim. So Congressman Jim Costa (D-CA) and I founded the Victims' Rights Caucus. The VRC is currently focused on combating human trafficking.
DCS making progress in caring for foster children who 'age out'
DCS making progress in caring for foster children who 'age out'
Tennessee made significant progress last year caring for foster children who “aged out” of state custody when they turned 18, and a funding boost could accomplish even more in the coming year.
Tennessee made significant progress last year caring for foster children who “aged out” of state custody when they turned 18, and a funding boost could accomplish even more in the coming year.
Neighbour 'too scared to report child abuse'
Neighbour 'too scared to report child abuse'
A witness who saw a man beating a child near his house considered calling authorities but was afraid for his own safety, a Sydney murder trial has heard.
A witness who saw a man beating a child near his house considered calling authorities but was afraid for his own safety, a Sydney murder trial has heard.
Couple given long sentences for death of adopted girl
Couple given long sentences for death of adopted girl
Despite pleas from their attorneys and even their pastor, the judge showed no mercy to Skagit County couple Larry and Carri Williams for the death of their adopted daughter. The two received the maximum sentences allowable under the law.
Despite pleas from their attorneys and even their pastor, the judge showed no mercy to Skagit County couple Larry and Carri Williams for the death of their adopted daughter. The two received the maximum sentences allowable under the law.
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Stopping the Foster Care to Child Trafficking Pipeline
Stopping the Foster Care to Child Trafficking Pipeline
The crisis of child trafficking and exploitation in the U.S. is finally capturing our attention. But a critical part of the story has not been told. Most of the children who are being bought and sold for sex in our nation are foster care children. In the states that are tracking these children the following, devastating numbers reveal that:
The crisis of child trafficking and exploitation in the U.S. is finally capturing our attention. But a critical part of the story has not been told. Most of the children who are being bought and sold for sex in our nation are foster care children. In the states that are tracking these children the following, devastating numbers reveal that:
Mother of Maria has five children taken into care
Mother of Maria has five children taken into care
Sasha Ruseva, Maria's mother, has five children taken into care by social services, as Bulgaria insists they want Greece to hand four-year-old over
Sasha Ruseva, Maria's mother, has five children taken into care by social services, as Bulgaria insists they want Greece to hand four-year-old over
Parents sentenced for adopted daughter's death
Parents sentenced for adopted daughter's death
A Washington couple accused of starving, beating and forcing their adopted daughter outside as punishment were sentenced Tuesday to decades in prison for her death.
A Washington couple accused of starving, beating and forcing their adopted daughter outside as punishment were sentenced Tuesday to decades in prison for her death.
Cleared of abuse, father sues to get off state list
Cleared of abuse, father sues to get off state list
The nightmare for Kenneth Lalley started when a state social worker showed up at his door on a late April 2012 night to take away his children, for whom he had sole custody.
The nightmare for Kenneth Lalley started when a state social worker showed up at his door on a late April 2012 night to take away his children, for whom he had sole custody.
Six figure payout for social worker fired after Baby P tragedy
Six figure payout for social worker fired after Baby P tragedy
Former child protection boss Sharon Shoesmith is to receive a six figure payout for being unfairly dismissed following the Baby P tragedy, it has been reported.
Former child protection boss Sharon Shoesmith is to receive a six figure payout for being unfairly dismissed following the Baby P tragedy, it has been reported.
Keeping foster children off the streets of Humboldt; county receives fund to focus on homelessness
Keeping foster children off the streets of Humboldt; county receives fund to focus on homelessness
Rochelle Trochtenberg knows far too well the challenges of being raised in foster care.
She was rotated in and out of the system for eight years due to an abusive home, before being permanently taken away at 13 to live in a group residence for youth labeled “severely emotionally disturbed.” When Trochtenberg turned 18, she found herself out on the streets.
Medical marijuana-using parents get baby back
Medical marijuana-using parents get baby back
Baby Bree is back home.
Baby Bree is back home.
In a case that galvanized Michigan supporters of medical marijuana, custody of an infant seized by Child Protective Services workers last month was awarded to the child's parents Friday in a Lansing courtroom.
Bail set at $500,000 for Santa Cruz County child-welfare advocate charged with child molestation
Bail set at $500,000 for Santa Cruz County child-welfare advocate charged with child molestation
A Santa Cruz County Superior Court judge set bail at $500,000 Wednesday for a local youth wrestling coach accused of molesting two minors he worked with as a child-welfare advocate.
A Santa Cruz County Superior Court judge set bail at $500,000 Wednesday for a local youth wrestling coach accused of molesting two minors he worked with as a child-welfare advocate.
Monday, October 28, 2013
Woman And Partner Charged With Abusing Foster Kids
Woman And Partner Charged With Abusing Foster Kids
A Lexington woman and her partner face charges stemming from abuse of foster children.
Lawsuit Proceeds for Canada’s Lost Generation of Stolen Babies
Lawsuit Proceeds for Canada’s Lost Generation of Stolen Babies
A class-action lawsuit against the Canadian government on behalf of tens of thousands of indigenous children who were seized and moved to white families in an adoption wave known as the “Sixties Scoop” can now proceed after being approved by an Ontario judge.
A class-action lawsuit against the Canadian government on behalf of tens of thousands of indigenous children who were seized and moved to white families in an adoption wave known as the “Sixties Scoop” can now proceed after being approved by an Ontario judge.
Uncle gets 75 years for raping orphan
Uncle gets 75 years for raping orphan
A man received three consecutive life sentences in the Nelspruit Regional Court on Friday for raping his orphaned 14-year-old niece on three occasions.
A man received three consecutive life sentences in the Nelspruit Regional Court on Friday for raping his orphaned 14-year-old niece on three occasions.
Top Texas CPS official orders more home visits in wake of abuse-related deaths
Top Texas CPS official orders more home visits in wake of abuse-related deaths
The state’s child welfare chief has ordered more unannounced home visits and other steps to halt a spike of abuse-related deaths among Texas’ foster children.
The state’s child welfare chief has ordered more unannounced home visits and other steps to halt a spike of abuse-related deaths among Texas’ foster children.
Former Tulsa Foster Parents Charged With Child Neglect
Former Tulsa Foster Parents Charged With Child Neglect
Prosecutors filed charges of child neglect Monday against two former foster parents after police found their house infested with roaches, bed bugs and lice for the second time.
Prosecutors filed charges of child neglect Monday against two former foster parents after police found their house infested with roaches, bed bugs and lice for the second time.
Turnover hampers protection of children at ND’s Spirit Lake
Turnover hampers protection of children at ND’s Spirit Lake
Turnover of staff to investigate suspected child abuse and neglect cases has hampered efforts by the Bureau of Indian Affairs to improve child protection services on the Spirit Lake reservation.
Turnover of staff to investigate suspected child abuse and neglect cases has hampered efforts by the Bureau of Indian Affairs to improve child protection services on the Spirit Lake reservation.
Parents hampered in efforts to hold onto their children
Parents hampered in efforts to hold onto their children
Parents have hit a judiciary brick wall in their attempt to keep their family intact.
An Ontario Court judge has ruled evidence allegedly gathered by private investigators hired by the Chatham-Kent Children's Services to watch the parents does not need to be shared with the couple unless they can show they are somehow prejudiced by the information being withheld.
Parents have hit a judiciary brick wall in their attempt to keep their family intact.
An Ontario Court judge has ruled evidence allegedly gathered by private investigators hired by the Chatham-Kent Children's Services to watch the parents does not need to be shared with the couple unless they can show they are somehow prejudiced by the information being withheld.
Top judge’s war on secret courts: Family hearings must be exposed to ‘glare of publicity’
Top judge’s war on secret courts: Family hearings must be exposed to ‘glare of publicity’
One of Britain’s most senior judges vowed yesterday to expose family courts to ‘the glare of publicity’ after decades of obsessive secrecy.
One of Britain’s most senior judges vowed yesterday to expose family courts to ‘the glare of publicity’ after decades of obsessive secrecy.
Father Shot And Killed As Police Try To Take Child
Father Shot And Killed As Police Try To Take Child
William Reddie, a 32-year-old single father from Michigan, was shot and killed as local Child Protective Services (CPS) officials and police officers attempted to remove his 3-year-old son from the home.
William Reddie, a 32-year-old single father from Michigan, was shot and killed as local Child Protective Services (CPS) officials and police officers attempted to remove his 3-year-old son from the home.
Kids ‘sold’ not adopted: Guardians
Kids ‘sold’ not adopted: Guardians
The guardians of two boys, who are to be given away in adoption without their knowledge, have alleged that the children’s home has sold the kids for money.
The guardians of two boys, who are to be given away in adoption without their knowledge, have alleged that the children’s home has sold the kids for money.
Would you adopt an embryo?
Would you adopt an embryo?
Evangelical Christian organisations and pro-life groups in the US match leftover IVF embryos with married couples who are desperate to have children but incapable of doing so, writes Rob Blackhurst
Evangelical Christian organisations and pro-life groups in the US match leftover IVF embryos with married couples who are desperate to have children but incapable of doing so, writes Rob Blackhurst
Kansas officials investigate complaints about Wichita child welfare group
Kansas officials investigate complaints about Wichita child welfare group
State officials say they are investigating a faith-based group’s role in some child welfare cases after a Wichita legislator raised concerns that the organization might be undercutting efforts to reunite some of the children with their parents.
State officials say they are investigating a faith-based group’s role in some child welfare cases after a Wichita legislator raised concerns that the organization might be undercutting efforts to reunite some of the children with their parents.
Sunday, October 27, 2013
Foundations Call for Overhaul of Federal Child Welfare Financing
Foundations Call for Overhaul of Federal Child Welfare Financing
Federal funding for child welfare should be overhauled to enable more children to live with families while reducing the amount of time kids spend in state care, two major foundations have recommended in a proposal.
Federal funding for child welfare should be overhauled to enable more children to live with families while reducing the amount of time kids spend in state care, two major foundations have recommended in a proposal.
Irish ombudsman given special powers to investigate seizure of two Roma children
Irish ombudsman given special powers to investigate seizure of two Roma children
An investigation is being launched by Ireland's ombudsman for children into the seizure of two Roma children who were taken from the their parents by Irish police and placed into the care of the Health Service Executive.
An investigation is being launched by Ireland's ombudsman for children into the seizure of two Roma children who were taken from the their parents by Irish police and placed into the care of the Health Service Executive.
Take better care of foster children
Take better care of foster children
Recent sting operations revealed that more than half of the children being traded for sex come from foster care. The same children identified by our courts as most in need of protection from abuse and neglect are being bought and sold everywhere from truck stops and cheap motels to wealthy suburbs. They are being used, reused, and then discarded like trash.
Recent sting operations revealed that more than half of the children being traded for sex come from foster care. The same children identified by our courts as most in need of protection from abuse and neglect are being bought and sold everywhere from truck stops and cheap motels to wealthy suburbs. They are being used, reused, and then discarded like trash.
Inside Story: Interviewing a former case worker
Inside Story: Interviewing a former case worker
The warning appeared to be quite direct. Should 9NEWS air an interview with a former case worker of the Denver Department of Human Services and should the interview contain "confidential" information, both the interviewee and the interviewer risked the possibility of criminal prosecution.
The warning appeared to be quite direct. Should 9NEWS air an interview with a former case worker of the Denver Department of Human Services and should the interview contain "confidential" information, both the interviewee and the interviewer risked the possibility of criminal prosecution.
Saturday, October 26, 2013
DCFS Failing Kids in Western Utah
DCFS Failing Kids in Western Utah
In a report released Tuesday, lawmakers were shocked to discover that the Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) a dramatic under-performance in the Western Region of the state.
In a report released Tuesday, lawmakers were shocked to discover that the Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) a dramatic under-performance in the Western Region of the state.
Daycare worker charged with abuse toward foster children
Daycare worker charged with abuse toward foster children
A co-worker at a daycare center turned a Huntsville woman in to authorities on suspicion of child abuse of two of her foster children.
A co-worker at a daycare center turned a Huntsville woman in to authorities on suspicion of child abuse of two of her foster children.
State agency reacts to increase in foster care deaths
State agency reacts to increase in foster care deaths
Reacting to a recent spate of deaths of children in foster care in Texas, including a fourfold increase in the last fiscal year, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services announced new safety measures Friday.
Reacting to a recent spate of deaths of children in foster care in Texas, including a fourfold increase in the last fiscal year, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services announced new safety measures Friday.
Native child welfare case triggers alarms
Native child welfare case triggers alarms
A legal setback in Elise Mallory’s child custody dispute with the state of Nebraska last February nearly drove the young Omaha Native woman from her alcohol treatment program.
A legal setback in Elise Mallory’s child custody dispute with the state of Nebraska last February nearly drove the young Omaha Native woman from her alcohol treatment program.
Shackled and pregnant: Wis. case challenges 'fetal protection' law
Shackled and pregnant: Wis. case challenges 'fetal protection' law
When Alicia Beltran was 12 weeks pregnant, she took herself to a health clinic about a mile from her home in Jackson, Wis., for a prenatal checkup. But what started as a routine visit ended with Beltran eventually handcuffed and shackled in government custody – and at the center of a first-of-its-kind federal lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of a state’s fetal protection law.
When Alicia Beltran was 12 weeks pregnant, she took herself to a health clinic about a mile from her home in Jackson, Wis., for a prenatal checkup. But what started as a routine visit ended with Beltran eventually handcuffed and shackled in government custody – and at the center of a first-of-its-kind federal lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of a state’s fetal protection law.
Friday, October 25, 2013
Kansas judge hears arguments in case of sperm donor sued for child support
Kansas judge hears arguments in case of sperm donor sued for child support
A Kansas district court heard arguments Friday in the case of a man who is being sued for thousands of dollars in child support by the state after donating his sperm to a same-sex couple he found through a Craigslist ad.
A Kansas district court heard arguments Friday in the case of a man who is being sued for thousands of dollars in child support by the state after donating his sperm to a same-sex couple he found through a Craigslist ad.
Jury awards $5 million over sexual assault by foster child
Jury awards $5 million over sexual assault by foster child
The father argued two social service agencies failed in their duty to warn about a 10-year-old foster child's violent background and sexually aggressive nature, leading to a life-altering 2003 attack on the dad's natural son in Wellington.
I-Team: CPS Worker Fired After Boy's Death Wins Back Job
I-Team: CPS Worker Fired After Boy's Death Wins Back Job
The Department of Family Services worker fired for his role in the death of 7-year-old Roderick "RJ" Arrington will get his job back.
The Department of Family Services worker fired for his role in the death of 7-year-old Roderick "RJ" Arrington will get his job back.
Child protection in the spotlight
Child protection in the spotlight
Amid criticism of the Child Protection system, the Tasmanian Government has promised changes are on the way.
Amid criticism of the Child Protection system, the Tasmanian Government has promised changes are on the way.
Federal lawsuit adds to allegations of excessive force by family court marshals
Federal lawsuit adds to allegations of excessive force by family court marshals
A federal lawsuit alleging that Nevada family court marshals threw a man headfirst onto the concrete floor of the Las Vegas courthouse for no good reason is the latest development in an ongoing saga of allegations of excessive force and improper conduct at the court.
A federal lawsuit alleging that Nevada family court marshals threw a man headfirst onto the concrete floor of the Las Vegas courthouse for no good reason is the latest development in an ongoing saga of allegations of excessive force and improper conduct at the court.
Two child welfare workers lose jobs in toddler's death investigation
Two child welfare workers lose jobs in toddler's death investigation
A child welfare case manager and supervisor were fired Thursday after a case they handled ended in the homicide of an east Lee County 3-year-old. This week, three of Michael McMullen’s caregivers were arrested on manslaughter charges.
A child welfare case manager and supervisor were fired Thursday after a case they handled ended in the homicide of an east Lee County 3-year-old. This week, three of Michael McMullen’s caregivers were arrested on manslaughter charges.
Maria: Bulgarian Couple Are Roma Girl's Parents
Maria: Bulgarian Couple Are Roma Girl's Parents
DNA tests have confirmed that a Bulgarian couple are the biological parents of a mystery girl found in a Greek Roma camp.
DNA tests have confirmed that a Bulgarian couple are the biological parents of a mystery girl found in a Greek Roma camp.
Keeping Foster Kids Safe From Prostitution
Keeping Foster Kids Safe From Prostitution
Chances are, if you're a victim of human trafficking in the United States, you were a foster child first. According to arrest records of juveniles arrested for prostitution-related crimes in Los Angeles County, 59 percent were in the foster care system.
Chances are, if you're a victim of human trafficking in the United States, you were a foster child first. According to arrest records of juveniles arrested for prostitution-related crimes in Los Angeles County, 59 percent were in the foster care system.
Oklahoma Adoption Attorney Approves Baby Deseray Removal for Friend
Oklahoma Adoption Attorney Approves Baby Deseray Removal for Friend
Next week, South Carolina Judge Marsh Robertson has a hearing scheduled for the finalization of the adoption of Oklahoma-born infant, Merry Rejoice Bixler, better known as “Baby Deseray,” in Greenville County family court. The hearing, on Monday, October 28, comes a little over a month after Oklahoma County Judge Allen Welch granted custody of the girl to the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma and ordered her return to that state.
Next week, South Carolina Judge Marsh Robertson has a hearing scheduled for the finalization of the adoption of Oklahoma-born infant, Merry Rejoice Bixler, better known as “Baby Deseray,” in Greenville County family court. The hearing, on Monday, October 28, comes a little over a month after Oklahoma County Judge Allen Welch granted custody of the girl to the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma and ordered her return to that state.
Bulgarian woman gets DNA test as possible mother of ‘Maria’
Bulgarian woman gets DNA test as possible mother of ‘Maria’
A Roma woman in a remote town in central Bulgaria has undergone DNA testing as authorities investigate whether she is the mother of a suspected abduction victim in neighboring Greece.
A Roma woman in a remote town in central Bulgaria has undergone DNA testing as authorities investigate whether she is the mother of a suspected abduction victim in neighboring Greece.
Report shows DHS needs help to improve child welfare practices
Report shows DHS needs help to improve child welfare practices
THREE out-of-state experts who are monitoring the state's child welfare reform efforts rapped the Department of Human Services pretty good in their first progress report Wednesday. The report also included this message for the Legislature and the general public: Their help is also needed.
THREE out-of-state experts who are monitoring the state's child welfare reform efforts rapped the Department of Human Services pretty good in their first progress report Wednesday. The report also included this message for the Legislature and the general public: Their help is also needed.
Child protection - We shouldn’t jump to wild conclusions
Oh Glory Be....
Child protection - We shouldn’t jump to wild conclusions
There have been widespread calls for an inquiry into the manner in which the two Roma children were taken by gardaí from their parents in Dublin and Athlone while their parentage was being checked out.
Child protection - We shouldn’t jump to wild conclusions
There have been widespread calls for an inquiry into the manner in which the two Roma children were taken by gardaí from their parents in Dublin and Athlone while their parentage was being checked out.
Greek police arrest 2 suspected of buying baby
Greek police arrest 2 suspected of buying baby
Greek police said Friday they have arrested a childless couple in Athens on suspicion of buying an 8-month-old Roma girl and trying to register her as their own, amid international uproar over another little girl who was found living with unrelated Gypsies in Greece.
Greek police said Friday they have arrested a childless couple in Athens on suspicion of buying an 8-month-old Roma girl and trying to register her as their own, amid international uproar over another little girl who was found living with unrelated Gypsies in Greece.
Jail social workers who take children without telling parents why, says Britain's top family judge
Jail social workers who take children without telling parents why, says Britain's top family judge
The country’s most senior family judge yesterday launched a furious attack on social workers who failed to tell parents why their children were being adopted – and suggested that in future the same offence could carry a jail term.
The country’s most senior family judge yesterday launched a furious attack on social workers who failed to tell parents why their children were being adopted – and suggested that in future the same offence could carry a jail term.
Woman fined Dh10k for illegal baby adoption
Woman fined Dh10k for illegal baby adoption
The court found the woman guilty of failing to follow official regulations when she adopted the baby
The court found the woman guilty of failing to follow official regulations when she adopted the baby
Lawmaker hosts town halls across the state to highlight CPS experiences
Lawmaker hosts town halls across the state to highlight CPS experiences
Almost six months since the taking of Baby Sammy Nikolayev shined a spotlight on Child Protective Services, the push to change how children in California are protected is gaining momentum.
Almost six months since the taking of Baby Sammy Nikolayev shined a spotlight on Child Protective Services, the push to change how children in California are protected is gaining momentum.
Report says foster children receive too many medications
Report says foster children receive too many medications
One kid called it "the brainwash pill." Some said it made them put on weight or provoked teasing from schoolmates when they were called to the nurse's office.
One kid called it "the brainwash pill." Some said it made them put on weight or provoked teasing from schoolmates when they were called to the nurse's office.
Denver Human Services defends actions
Denver Human Services defends actions
A spokesperson for the Denver Department of Human Services defended the agency's strict confidentiality policies on Thursday following last week's announcement from the Denver Auditor's Office that it intends to sue DDHS in an effort to gain access to DDHS records.
A spokesperson for the Denver Department of Human Services defended the agency's strict confidentiality policies on Thursday following last week's announcement from the Denver Auditor's Office that it intends to sue DDHS in an effort to gain access to DDHS records.
Foster Care and Sex Trafficking Survivor Testifies on Hill
Foster Care and Sex Trafficking Survivor Testifies on Hill
This afternoon on the Hill a 24-year-old college student and sex trafficking survivor, Withelma “T” Ortiz Walker Pettigrew, shared her experiences growing up in the U.S., where she was used for money in the foster care system and ultimately forced into sex trafficking.
This afternoon on the Hill a 24-year-old college student and sex trafficking survivor, Withelma “T” Ortiz Walker Pettigrew, shared her experiences growing up in the U.S., where she was used for money in the foster care system and ultimately forced into sex trafficking.
Woman accused of molesting foster sister when she channeled male spirit
Woman accused of molesting foster sister when she channeled male spirit
A Black River Falls woman is accused of sexually assaulting her younger foster sister when the girl reportedly would channel a male spirit.
A Black River Falls woman is accused of sexually assaulting her younger foster sister when the girl reportedly would channel a male spirit.
"Sorry, but DHR is robbing foster children": A reply to agency's defense in taking children's assets
"Sorry, but DHR is robbing foster children": A reply to agency's defense in taking children's assets
In my last diary, I wrote about the practice of state foster care agencies taking foster children's social security benefits as government revenue. I wrote a commentary in the Baltimore Sun about the practice in Maryland, available here. The Maryland Department of Human Resources Secretary Ted Dallas wrote a response defending the practice - and my reply to the Secretary is in today's Baltimore Sun, available here: "Sorry, but DHR is robbing foster children." (which includes a link to the agency's defense of practice). Below is an excerpt responding to the Secretary's assertions/defenses:
In my last diary, I wrote about the practice of state foster care agencies taking foster children's social security benefits as government revenue. I wrote a commentary in the Baltimore Sun about the practice in Maryland, available here. The Maryland Department of Human Resources Secretary Ted Dallas wrote a response defending the practice - and my reply to the Secretary is in today's Baltimore Sun, available here: "Sorry, but DHR is robbing foster children." (which includes a link to the agency's defense of practice). Below is an excerpt responding to the Secretary's assertions/defenses:
Attorney: Victim of sexual abuse at hand of foster brother deserves $16.6M for emotional damage
Attorney: Victim of sexual abuse at hand of foster brother deserves $16.6M for emotional damage
A 20-year-old deserves $16.6 million for the emotional damage he suffered when he was sexually assaulted at age 9 by a foster child who the Florida Department of Children & Families placed in his family’s Wellington home.
Thursday, October 24, 2013
Woman threatens to shoot caseworker, blow up Northampton County Children, Youth and Families Division, records say
Woman threatens to shoot caseworker, blow up Northampton County Children, Youth and Families Division, records say
An Easton woman — who was found with a BB gun in her bra — threatened to blow up the Northampton County Children, Youth and Families Division and shoot her caseworker, according to court records.
An Easton woman — who was found with a BB gun in her bra — threatened to blow up the Northampton County Children, Youth and Families Division and shoot her caseworker, according to court records.
Kansas DCF halts placements with foster-home operator Faith Builders pending review
Kansas DCF halts placements with foster-home operator Faith Builders pending review
In a letter to state legislators, the secretary of the Kansas Department for Children and Families said her agency wouldn’t place children at foster homes operated by Faith Builders until a review of ongoing concerns is completed.
In a letter to state legislators, the secretary of the Kansas Department for Children and Families said her agency wouldn’t place children at foster homes operated by Faith Builders until a review of ongoing concerns is completed.
Roma Face Persecution Across Europe In New Baby Stealing Panic
Roma Face Persecution Across Europe In New Baby Stealing Panic
From Ireland to Italy, Roma are facing a new wave of persecution and harassment in Europe—including having their children taken in for genetic testing—in the wake of the discovery of little Maria. By Tom Sykes and Barbie Latza Nadeau.
From Ireland to Italy, Roma are facing a new wave of persecution and harassment in Europe—including having their children taken in for genetic testing—in the wake of the discovery of little Maria. By Tom Sykes and Barbie Latza Nadeau.
Women wage campaign to impeach New Jersey judge
Women wage campaign to impeach New Jersey judge
A group of women who say they've been discriminated against by a judge in Monmouth County, New Jersey are now trying to get him impeached. They've filed a petition with the state assembly to have the judge removed.
A group of women who say they've been discriminated against by a judge in Monmouth County, New Jersey are now trying to get him impeached. They've filed a petition with the state assembly to have the judge removed.
Initial Oklahoma DHS reform report cites shortcomings
Initial Oklahoma DHS reform report cites shortcomings
Oklahoma has gotten off to a rocky start in its initial efforts to implement child welfare reforms agreed upon as part of a settlement agreement to a federal class action lawsuit.
Oklahoma has gotten off to a rocky start in its initial efforts to implement child welfare reforms agreed upon as part of a settlement agreement to a federal class action lawsuit.
Watchdogs to review Roma removals
Watchdogs to review Roma removals
Ireland's police and children's watchdogs will review the cases of two Roma families having children removed from their homes amid claims they could not prove their identity.
CPS: Foster mom of dead infant misled caseworker
CPS: Foster mom of dead infant misled caseworker
State Child Protective Services says it accepted the promises of a Central Texas foster mother that a man with a violent history was not living in her home where an infant suffered fatal injuries.
State Child Protective Services says it accepted the promises of a Central Texas foster mother that a man with a violent history was not living in her home where an infant suffered fatal injuries.
Father of dead foster child warned officials about baby’s alleged killer
Father of dead foster child warned officials about baby’s alleged killer
The father of a baby recently killed in a Cedar Park foster home had warned Child Protective Services more than a month ago that his daughter was in danger, but he says that caseworkers refused to believe him.
The father of a baby recently killed in a Cedar Park foster home had warned Child Protective Services more than a month ago that his daughter was in danger, but he says that caseworkers refused to believe him.
Boonville woman arrested for falsely reporting child abuse
Boonville woman arrested for falsely reporting child abuse
A Boonville woman was arrested this week after police say she phoned in a case of child abuse she knew wasn’t true.
A Boonville woman was arrested this week after police say she phoned in a case of child abuse she knew wasn’t true.
Foster death probed
(KXAN) A Texas man is facing charges following the death of an 11-month-old girl in foster care.
Congressional Hearing Targets Failures in Foster Care
Congressional Hearing Targets Failures in Foster Care
Failures in the foster care system put children in Texas and across the nation at greater risk of falling into the sex trade, activists and lawmakers asserted Wednesday on Capitol Hill.
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
Protect foster children from sex trafficking: Column
Protect foster children from sex trafficking: Column
Recent sting operations revealed that more than half of the children being traded for sex come from foster care. The same children identified by our courts as most in need of protection from abuse and neglect are being bought and sold everywhere from truck stops and cheap motels to wealthy suburbs. They are being used, reused, and then discarded like trash.
Recent sting operations revealed that more than half of the children being traded for sex come from foster care. The same children identified by our courts as most in need of protection from abuse and neglect are being bought and sold everywhere from truck stops and cheap motels to wealthy suburbs. They are being used, reused, and then discarded like trash.
Irish authorities take second child in Roma inquiry
Irish authorities take second child in Roma inquiry
Dublin: Irish authorities briefly removed a toddler from a family due to concerns about his identity, a day after taking a child from a Roma family in a case which echoes of the Greek ‘mystery girl’ inquiry, police said on Wednesday.
Dublin: Irish authorities briefly removed a toddler from a family due to concerns about his identity, a day after taking a child from a Roma family in a case which echoes of the Greek ‘mystery girl’ inquiry, police said on Wednesday.
Mystery girl in Gypsy camp triggers investigations into welfare fraud in Greece
Mystery girl in Gypsy camp triggers investigations into welfare fraud in Greece
Prosecutors across Greece were ordered Tuesday to conduct emergency checks of birth records from the past six years after the arrest of a Gypsy couple on suspicion of abducting a little girl triggered fears of widespread welfare fraud.
Prosecutors across Greece were ordered Tuesday to conduct emergency checks of birth records from the past six years after the arrest of a Gypsy couple on suspicion of abducting a little girl triggered fears of widespread welfare fraud.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Foster parent charged with sexual offences
Foster parent charged with sexual offences
An Airdrie man is facing multiple charges in connection with an alleged sexual assault of a youth that was once in his care.
Legislators object to DCF withholding foster care findings
Legislators object to DCF withholding foster care findings
Legislators here are objecting to the state's decision to not to release the results of an investigation into allegations that the Wichita office of the Department for Children and Families mismanaged some foster care cases and violated confidentiality laws.
Legislators here are objecting to the state's decision to not to release the results of an investigation into allegations that the Wichita office of the Department for Children and Families mismanaged some foster care cases and violated confidentiality laws.
Former Tulsa Foster Parents Arrested After Kids Found In Filthy Home
Former Tulsa Foster Parents Arrested After Kids Found In Filthy Home
Tulsa Police arrested two former foster parents Monday for child neglect, after finding their house infested with roaches, bed bugs and lice, for the second time.
Tulsa Police arrested two former foster parents Monday for child neglect, after finding their house infested with roaches, bed bugs and lice, for the second time.
Could Missing Mo. Child be Connected to Found Gypsy Girl?
A Missouri family is reaching out to greek authorities regarding a little girl found in a gypsy settlement.
Weekend foster child death is Texas' 5th in weeks
Weekend foster child death is Texas' 5th in weeks
The weekend death of an 11-month-old foster child near Austin is the fifth in Texas in the handful of weeks since the end of a troubled fiscal year for the state's foster care system.
The weekend death of an 11-month-old foster child near Austin is the fifth in Texas in the handful of weeks since the end of a troubled fiscal year for the state's foster care system.
New protection options coming for CPS workers
New protection options coming for CPS workers
New efforts are underway to improve safety for field workers with Child Protective Services in West Virginia.
Note: You see folks, all their lies, fraud and bullshit pisses people off so much that they need to protect themselves.
New efforts are underway to improve safety for field workers with Child Protective Services in West Virginia.
Note: You see folks, all their lies, fraud and bullshit pisses people off so much that they need to protect themselves.
New U.S. Waiver To Give DCS More Flexibility To Help Children
New U.S. Waiver To Give DCS More Flexibility To Help Children
The Tennessee Department of Children’s Services has been selected to participate in a groundbreaking demonstration project that promises to keep more kids safely in their homes, rather than having them come into foster care.
The Tennessee Department of Children’s Services has been selected to participate in a groundbreaking demonstration project that promises to keep more kids safely in their homes, rather than having them come into foster care.
Moms for Marijuana: Time to End the War on Families
Moms for Marijuana: Time to End the War on Families
When Billy Fisher asked the state of Washington for help in removing his infant daughter from a dangerous living situation while in the care of her mother, he never imagined that CPS would place his child into foster care because of his use of medical marijuana.
When Billy Fisher asked the state of Washington for help in removing his infant daughter from a dangerous living situation while in the care of her mother, he never imagined that CPS would place his child into foster care because of his use of medical marijuana.
CPS Imposes Tremendous Stress Upon Children and Parents by Acting on Anonymous, Falsified Reports
CPS Imposes Tremendous Stress Upon Children and Parents by Acting on Anonymous, Falsified Reports
Why filing falsified CPS reports is “legal” (not really, it’s just never investigated)
CPS will tell you they must protect the “integrity” of anonymous reporting, even if the report is falsified. They claim that in many cases, they don’t even know who made the report (untrue, because every telephone number is recorded in the file).
Why filing falsified CPS reports is “legal” (not really, it’s just never investigated)
CPS will tell you they must protect the “integrity” of anonymous reporting, even if the report is falsified. They claim that in many cases, they don’t even know who made the report (untrue, because every telephone number is recorded in the file).
AARP wants help for grandparents who raise children
AARP wants help for grandparents who raise children
State officials and the AARP will hold a gathering Tuesday to tout an effort to give grandparents and other caregivers many of the same rights foster parents enjoy when caring for children.
State officials and the AARP will hold a gathering Tuesday to tout an effort to give grandparents and other caregivers many of the same rights foster parents enjoy when caring for children.
Children’s Services Directors respond to Ofsted’s criticisms of children’s services
Children’s Services Directors respond to Ofsted’s criticisms of children’s services
The Association of Directors of Children's Service has responded to Ofsted's National Social Care Report in which it described a lack of stable leadership in may authorities' children's services.
The Association of Directors of Children's Service has responded to Ofsted's National Social Care Report in which it described a lack of stable leadership in may authorities' children's services.
Former foster mom to spend six months in jail for child's death
Former foster mom to spend six months in jail for child's death
A woman convicted in 2008 of child abuse in the death of her foster child has been sentenced to four years’ probation and six months in Pima County jail.
A woman convicted in 2008 of child abuse in the death of her foster child has been sentenced to four years’ probation and six months in Pima County jail.
Another child death raises concern about safety of Texas foster children
Another child death raises concern about safety of Texas foster children
A weekend head-injury death of an 11-month-old girl in foster care in Austin has heightened child welfare workers’ worries about a spike in suspicious deaths among Texas foster children, officials said Monday.
A weekend head-injury death of an 11-month-old girl in foster care in Austin has heightened child welfare workers’ worries about a spike in suspicious deaths among Texas foster children, officials said Monday.
Monday, October 21, 2013
Unapproved caregiver was watching girl, 11 months
Unapproved caregiver was watching girl, 11 months
An 11-month-old girl in foster care died from head injuries on Monday and a 32-year-old man is charged with injury to a child and family violence.
Sunday, October 20, 2013
DCF No Longer Under Federal Review
DCF No Longer Under Federal Review
The state agency has successfully completed a “program improvement plan” prescribed in 2009.
The state agency has successfully completed a “program improvement plan” prescribed in 2009.
Former foster care advocate arrested on suspicion of child sex abuse
Former foster care advocate arrested on suspicion of child sex abuse
A Santa Cruz man who served as a court-appointed advocate for children in the foster care system in Santa Cruz County was arrested Friday on suspicion of child sex abuse, indecent exposure and possessing child pornography, authorities reported.
A Santa Cruz man who served as a court-appointed advocate for children in the foster care system in Santa Cruz County was arrested Friday on suspicion of child sex abuse, indecent exposure and possessing child pornography, authorities reported.
'Police gunman told me to ignore paedophiles’, says ex-child protection officer
'Police gunman told me to ignore paedophiles’, says ex-child protection officer
A FORMER child protection officer claimed last night a Special Branch detective held a gun to his head to stop him investigating a VIP paedophile ring.
A FORMER child protection officer claimed last night a Special Branch detective held a gun to his head to stop him investigating a VIP paedophile ring.
Facebook Will No Longer Protect Teens From Their Own Bad Judgment
Facebook Will No Longer Protect Teens From Their Own Bad Judgment
On Wednesday, Facebook FB +3.85% announced a present for its teen users: the gift of greater publicity. Moving forward, Facebook’s many under-18 users will be able to kick their privacy to the curb just as easily as the site’s older users. Until now, Facebook restrained teens from posting status messages or photos “publicly,” a.k.a. to the whole world. The greatest publicity setting they could previously achieve was to share their content with “friends of friends.” Facebook has decided to stop playing privacy nanny, and let kids share as widely as they want.
On Wednesday, Facebook FB +3.85% announced a present for its teen users: the gift of greater publicity. Moving forward, Facebook’s many under-18 users will be able to kick their privacy to the curb just as easily as the site’s older users. Until now, Facebook restrained teens from posting status messages or photos “publicly,” a.k.a. to the whole world. The greatest publicity setting they could previously achieve was to share their content with “friends of friends.” Facebook has decided to stop playing privacy nanny, and let kids share as widely as they want.
Greece riveted by mystery of 'blonde angel'
Greece riveted by mystery of 'blonde angel'
Greek police have asked Interpol to help them track down the real parents of a blonde girl with green eyes who was found in a Roma camp in central Greece.
Greek police have asked Interpol to help them track down the real parents of a blonde girl with green eyes who was found in a Roma camp in central Greece.
Saturday, October 19, 2013
FBI investigating possible courthouse cover-ups
FBI investigating possible courthouse cover-ups
FBI agents quietly have interviewed current and former courthouse employees in a stepped-up investigation into allegations of excessive force by Family Court marshals and possible cover-ups of their actions.
FBI agents quietly have interviewed current and former courthouse employees in a stepped-up investigation into allegations of excessive force by Family Court marshals and possible cover-ups of their actions.
Film tells true story of a forced adoption
Film tells true story of a forced adoption
There are lots of Philomena Lees in Ireland, writes Conall Ó Fátharta. As is so often the case with Irish scandals, it takes Hollywood to bring them into to the public consciousness.
There are lots of Philomena Lees in Ireland, writes Conall Ó Fátharta. As is so often the case with Irish scandals, it takes Hollywood to bring them into to the public consciousness.
Florida Orphan's Appeal Prompts 10,000 Inquiries
Florida Orphan's Appeal Prompts 10,000 Inquiries
The adoption agency handling the case of a Florida orphan whose church plea for a family to "love me until I die" has garnered national attention has received about 10,000 requests from people asking to adopt him.
Note: And if he does finally find his forever home, they got plenty more. I'll bet DCF is sucking this one right up.
The adoption agency handling the case of a Florida orphan whose church plea for a family to "love me until I die" has garnered national attention has received about 10,000 requests from people asking to adopt him.
Note: And if he does finally find his forever home, they got plenty more. I'll bet DCF is sucking this one right up.
Out to seize their children, courts hound a reformed family
Out to seize their children, courts hound a reformed family
A disturbing case reveals the remorseless way social workers and courts seek to track down families who have fled to a new life abroad
A disturbing case reveals the remorseless way social workers and courts seek to track down families who have fled to a new life abroad
Iran lawmakers pass bill allowing men to marry adopted daughters
Iran lawmakers pass bill allowing men to marry adopted daughters
Human rights activists say approved bill, making girls vulnerable to the ruling from age 13, 'legalises paedophilia'
Human rights activists say approved bill, making girls vulnerable to the ruling from age 13, 'legalises paedophilia'
Foster mother convicted of 2nd-degree murder in girl's beating death
Foster mother convicted of 2nd-degree murder in girl's beating death
A foster mother was convicted of second-degree murder Friday in the beating death of a 2-year-old girl she had been trying to adopt.
A foster mother was convicted of second-degree murder Friday in the beating death of a 2-year-old girl she had been trying to adopt.
Kansas School Implement New Use Of Force Policy
Kansas School Implement New Use Of Force Policy
A newly-outlined physical restraint and seclusion policy at schools across Kansas has some area parents concerned. Parents in Pittsburg have received letters describing a new physical restraint policy involving their kids.
A newly-outlined physical restraint and seclusion policy at schools across Kansas has some area parents concerned. Parents in Pittsburg have received letters describing a new physical restraint policy involving their kids.
Red-haired British kids say they were attacked during 'Kick a Ginger Day'
Red-haired British kids say they were attacked during 'Kick a Ginger Day'
Note: I say we adopt a National Kick A CPS Agent Day!
British authorities are investigating whether red-headed children were targeted during a so-called “Kick a Ginger Day” that may have been inspired by a similar prank portrayed on the television show “South Park,” the Daily Telegraph reported.
Note: I say we adopt a National Kick A CPS Agent Day!
Man separated from his family for 25 years is reunited after tracing them on Google Earth
Man separated from his family for 25 years is reunited after tracing them on Google Earth
A man who was accidentally separated from his family at five years old managed to locate them a quarter of a century later using his memory – and Google Earth.
Report: Tavares DCF worker was drunk, naked when she bashed boyfriend's van
Report: Tavares DCF worker was drunk, naked when she bashed boyfriend's van
A Lake County Department of Children and Families worker has found herself on the other side of the law, accused of attacking her boyfriend and bashing in the windows of his van while she was drunk and naked.
A Lake County Department of Children and Families worker has found herself on the other side of the law, accused of attacking her boyfriend and bashing in the windows of his van while she was drunk and naked.
Man gets life in prison for killing foster family
Man gets life in prison for killing foster family
A man convicted of killing his foster parents and their son after they had taken him in when he was released from prison in 2008 has been sentenced to life in prison plus 75 years, according to prosecutors and records.
A man convicted of killing his foster parents and their son after they had taken him in when he was released from prison in 2008 has been sentenced to life in prison plus 75 years, according to prosecutors and records.
Man gets life in prison for killing foster family
Man gets life in prison for killing foster family
A man convicted of killing his foster parents and their son after they had taken him in when he was released from prison in 2008 has been sentenced to life in prison plus 75 years, according to prosecutors and records.
A man convicted of killing his foster parents and their son after they had taken him in when he was released from prison in 2008 has been sentenced to life in prison plus 75 years, according to prosecutors and records.
Teenage mother found hanged days after discovering her baby had been adopted
Teenage mother found hanged days after discovering her baby had been adopted
A tragic teenage mother's body was found hanged days after she discovered her baby had been adopted by another family.
A tragic teenage mother's body was found hanged days after she discovered her baby had been adopted by another family.
Scrutiny of state child welfare system intensifies
Scrutiny of state child welfare system intensifies
As the three CEOs of Florida’s privatized child welfare agencies faced lawmakers last week, the stakes were high. The House Healthy Families Committee was looking into a recent wave of children’s deaths – children already known to the Florida Department of Children and Families.
As the three CEOs of Florida’s privatized child welfare agencies faced lawmakers last week, the stakes were high. The House Healthy Families Committee was looking into a recent wave of children’s deaths – children already known to the Florida Department of Children and Families.
Friday, October 18, 2013
School Social Work Referral Form
I'm posting this for educational purposes. So that you will know the kind of crap your kids teachers like to say about you.
| School Social Work Referral Form Referral Date |
| powered by GoBookee.org |
Camps for troubled kids can be magnets for abuse
Camps for troubled kids can be magnets for abuse
The mother of a former student at the New Mexico camp for troubled kids that was raided by police amid abuse allegations this weekend said she thought “John Wayne” had come to her rescue when she entrusted her son to ranch owner Scott Chandler.
The mother of a former student at the New Mexico camp for troubled kids that was raided by police amid abuse allegations this weekend said she thought “John Wayne” had come to her rescue when she entrusted her son to ranch owner Scott Chandler.
Firms tied to kids-for-cash settle lawsuit
Firms tied to kids-for-cash settle lawsuit
The companies that owned and operated the two detention centers at the heart of the Luzerne County kids-for-cash judicial scandal have agreed to settle a civil lawsuit for $2.5 million.
The companies that owned and operated the two detention centers at the heart of the Luzerne County kids-for-cash judicial scandal have agreed to settle a civil lawsuit for $2.5 million.
Scathing Report: Turkish Kids 'Put in State Care Illegally'
Scathing Report: Turkish Kids 'Put in State Care Illegally'
Politicians in Ankara have accused several European countries -- including Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands -- of illegally taking children of Turkish origin from their families and putting them into foster care. The children are being alienated from Turkish culture, the report claims.
Politicians in Ankara have accused several European countries -- including Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands -- of illegally taking children of Turkish origin from their families and putting them into foster care. The children are being alienated from Turkish culture, the report claims.
Father suing children's mother, Children Services for alleged false report
Father suing children's mother, Children Services for alleged false report
A father has filed a lawsuit against the mother of his children, Lorain County Children Services and a caseworker for a report he says contains alleged false claims and statements about him.
A father has filed a lawsuit against the mother of his children, Lorain County Children Services and a caseworker for a report he says contains alleged false claims and statements about him.
Judge calls for press access to closed courts
Judge calls for press access to closed courts
Britain’s most secretive court has made a further step towards transparency after its top judge called for the attendance of journalists to be its default position.
Britain’s most secretive court has made a further step towards transparency after its top judge called for the attendance of journalists to be its default position.
Social Services warned of 'miracle baby' trafficking risk
Social Services warned of 'miracle baby' trafficking risk
Social services have been warned to watch out for couples returning from Africa with "miracle babies" as they could be a cover for trafficking.
Social services have been warned to watch out for couples returning from Africa with "miracle babies" as they could be a cover for trafficking.
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Cherokee Nation, Brown drop fight for Veronica
Cherokee Nation, Brown drop fight for Veronica
The biological father of a Cherokee girl adopted by a South Carolina couple has dropped his custody claims.
CPS gets tongue lashing from local judge over handling of dead-infant case
CPS gets tongue lashing from local judge over handling of dead-infant case
Bexar County Children’s Court Judge Charles Montemayor did not mince words when it came to how Child Protective Services handled 9-month-old Michael Sanchez’s case.
Bexar County Children’s Court Judge Charles Montemayor did not mince words when it came to how Child Protective Services handled 9-month-old Michael Sanchez’s case.
Florida church flooded with calls after 15-year-old orphan asks for family to adopt him
Florida church flooded with calls after 15-year-old orphan asks for family to adopt him
The Florida church where an 15-year-old orphan pleaded for a family to adopt him has been "flooded" with phone calls.
Note: I hope it all works out for the kid. I really do. It's just sad that CPS gets so much positive PR out of the deal.
The Florida church where an 15-year-old orphan pleaded for a family to adopt him has been "flooded" with phone calls.
Note: I hope it all works out for the kid. I really do. It's just sad that CPS gets so much positive PR out of the deal.
Lawsuit a test of adoption system
Lawsuit a test of adoption system
It began, Beverly Hilger said, with a mission trip to Russia in the 1990s, when she was appalled with the plight of orphans she saw there.
Conman who duped trusting foster carer into believing he was a homeless vulnerable teenager and then falsely accused him of rape has been jailed
Conman who duped trusting foster carer into believing he was a homeless vulnerable teenager and then falsely accused him of rape has been jailed
A kind-hearted charity boss had his life 'torn apart' after he was conned and falsely accused of rape by a man who pretended to be a vulnerable 17-year-old.
A kind-hearted charity boss had his life 'torn apart' after he was conned and falsely accused of rape by a man who pretended to be a vulnerable 17-year-old.
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Lufkin PD: Woman punched, pushed officer assisting with CPS welfare check
Lufkin PD: Woman punched, pushed officer assisting with CPS welfare check
Lufkin Police officers arrested a 37-year-old woman for assaulting a public servant after she allegedly punched and pushed an officer that was helping a Child Protective Services employee who was conducting a child welfare check Tuesday afternoon.
Lufkin Police officers arrested a 37-year-old woman for assaulting a public servant after she allegedly punched and pushed an officer that was helping a Child Protective Services employee who was conducting a child welfare check Tuesday afternoon.
Girl dies after foster parents give her liquor
Girl dies after foster parents give her liquor
In a shocking incident, an 18-month-old girl died after she was forcibly fed cheap liquor by her foster parents on Monday.
In a shocking incident, an 18-month-old girl died after she was forcibly fed cheap liquor by her foster parents on Monday.
Judge calls emergency hearing after 9Wants to Know investigates custody case
Judge calls emergency hearing after 9Wants to Know investigates custody case
Denver Juvenile Court Judge Donna Schmalberger called an emergency hearing on Tuesday afternoon to address a 9Wants to Know investigation of Joey and Pedro Vasquez, two American born boys who are 1,700 miles away in Mexico.
Child protection 'failings' slammed
Child protection 'failings' slammed
More than half of councils are failing to protect the nation's most vulnerable children, a damning report has found.
More than half of councils are failing to protect the nation's most vulnerable children, a damning report has found.
Sexual abuse stems from dishonesty in adoption process
Sexual abuse stems from dishonesty in adoption process
Beverly Hilger of Shelbyville filed a lawsuit in Jefferson County after her adopted daughter was allegedly sexually abused by boys the Hilger family adopted from the state’s foster care program.
Beverly Hilger of Shelbyville filed a lawsuit in Jefferson County after her adopted daughter was allegedly sexually abused by boys the Hilger family adopted from the state’s foster care program.
1 year after creation, CPS oversight committee set to meet
1 year after creation, CPS oversight committee set to meet
A committee charged with recommending fixes to Arizona’s embattled child-welfare agency will meet Thursday for the first time, more than a year after it was created.
A committee charged with recommending fixes to Arizona’s embattled child-welfare agency will meet Thursday for the first time, more than a year after it was created.
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Indian Child Caravan – Remembering the Thanksgiving direct action of 1980
Indian Child Caravan – Remembering the Thanksgiving direct action of 1980
This past Thanksgiving weekend marked the 33rd anniversary of the Indian Child Caravan, a direct action highlighting the devastating impacts of the growing child welfare industry on First Nation children living on reserves. An archive with videos, articles and photos from the Indian Child Caravan has been compiled by the Union of BC Indian Chiefs
This past Thanksgiving weekend marked the 33rd anniversary of the Indian Child Caravan, a direct action highlighting the devastating impacts of the growing child welfare industry on First Nation children living on reserves. An archive with videos, articles and photos from the Indian Child Caravan has been compiled by the Union of BC Indian Chiefs
Rodney Marcynuik charged with sexually abusing foster care child
Rodney Marcynuik charged with sexually abusing foster care child
The Calgary Police Service has charged 39-year old Rodney James Marcynuik of Airdrie with sexually assaulting a youth who was once in his care at a family operated foster home.
The Calgary Police Service has charged 39-year old Rodney James Marcynuik of Airdrie with sexually assaulting a youth who was once in his care at a family operated foster home.
Biological father of Cherokee girl at center of custody battle honored in Tulsa
Biological father of Cherokee girl at center of custody battle honored in Tulsa
The biological father of a Cherokee girl at the center of a lengthy custody dispute was honored in an elaborate ceremony Tuesday by the National Congress of American Indians.
The biological father of a Cherokee girl at the center of a lengthy custody dispute was honored in an elaborate ceremony Tuesday by the National Congress of American Indians.
Prosecuting all child porn offenders in Britain would take 20 years: Protection experts say 300million images have been seized in two years
Prosecuting all child porn offenders in Britain would take 20 years: Protection experts say 300million images have been seized in two years
The toll of child porn offences is now so high it would take police and the courts nearly 20 years to prosecute even those currently operating in Britain, it was claimed yesterday.
The toll of child porn offences is now so high it would take police and the courts nearly 20 years to prosecute even those currently operating in Britain, it was claimed yesterday.
Former foster parent charged with sex assault
Former foster parent charged with sex assault
An Airdrie man is accused of sexually assaulting a youth who was once in his care and is now facing charges.
Former Foster Parent Charged
An Airdrie man is accused of sexually assaulting a youth who was once in his care and is now facing charges.
Former Foster Parent Charged
Family sues over alleged sexual abuse by adopted sons
Family sues over alleged sexual abuse by adopted sons
A Shelbyville family is suing three current or former Kentucky social-service workers, alleging they concealed a history of sexual abuse involving two boys from the parents who adopted them — and that the boys allegedly went on to molest their adoptive sisters.
A Shelbyville family is suing three current or former Kentucky social-service workers, alleging they concealed a history of sexual abuse involving two boys from the parents who adopted them — and that the boys allegedly went on to molest their adoptive sisters.
Has DHHS Really Changed Since the Death of Logan Marr? Part 1
Has DHHS Really Changed Since the Death of Logan Marr? Part 1
In the past two years of following Ayla's case, I was surprised I never did a story on Logan Marr's case. The two stories are very different but both very tragic and heartbreaking but there are some similarities to the case at least in regards to DHHS.
In the past two years of following Ayla's case, I was surprised I never did a story on Logan Marr's case. The two stories are very different but both very tragic and heartbreaking but there are some similarities to the case at least in regards to DHHS.
Social care crisis in UK: Birmingham City Council's child protection record branded 'a national disgrace'
Social care crisis in UK: Birmingham City Council's child protection record branded 'a national disgrace'
Birmingham City Council’s record at protecting children was branded “a national disgrace” by Ofsted’s Chief Inspector today, in an extraordinary outburst which catalogued a decade of failure.
Birmingham City Council’s record at protecting children was branded “a national disgrace” by Ofsted’s Chief Inspector today, in an extraordinary outburst which catalogued a decade of failure.
MPs off the hook for now as DoCS the first to face inquiry into caseworker numbers
MPs off the hook for now as DoCS the first to face inquiry into caseworker numbers
Senior bureaucrats at the NSW Department of Community Services will face the first day of hearings at a parliamentary inquiry into whether Family and Community Services Minister Pru Goward misled Parliament.
Senior bureaucrats at the NSW Department of Community Services will face the first day of hearings at a parliamentary inquiry into whether Family and Community Services Minister Pru Goward misled Parliament.
Understanding children's behaviour key to foster care support
Understanding children's behaviour key to foster care support
Providing foster carers with accurate information about the behaviour of children in their care could reduce "placement drift" and encourage stronger family connections.
Providing foster carers with accurate information about the behaviour of children in their care could reduce "placement drift" and encourage stronger family connections.
Monday, October 14, 2013
Head DCF official in Wichita resigns abruptly
Head DCF official in Wichita resigns abruptly
Diane Bidwell, the head of the Wichita regional office of the Kansas Department for Children and Families, resigned today effective immediately.
Diane Bidwell, the head of the Wichita regional office of the Kansas Department for Children and Families, resigned today effective immediately.
Students in foster care face 'invisible achievement gap,' study says
Students in foster care face 'invisible achievement gap,' study says
California students in foster care do worse academically and have a higher dropout rate than their statewide peers, study says.
California students in foster care do worse academically and have a higher dropout rate than their statewide peers, study says.
New parental law does nothing for children’s interests
New parental law does nothing for children’s interests
California passed a new law giving courts the right to recognize three or more legal parents for a child. SB 274, signed by Governor Jerry Brown and crafted by Senator Mark Leno, is designed for instances when two or more parents share custody, visitation rights and responsibilities of the child. Randy Thomasson, president of SaveCalifornia.com, tells OneNewsNow that judges do not need this new law to protect the best interests of children.
California passed a new law giving courts the right to recognize three or more legal parents for a child. SB 274, signed by Governor Jerry Brown and crafted by Senator Mark Leno, is designed for instances when two or more parents share custody, visitation rights and responsibilities of the child. Randy Thomasson, president of SaveCalifornia.com, tells OneNewsNow that judges do not need this new law to protect the best interests of children.
Close to 15 000 orphans in limbo
Close to 15 000 orphans in limbo
Close to 15 000 orphans and vulnerable children do not qualify for the N$200 state grant due to the untraced death certificates of their parents.
Close to 15 000 orphans and vulnerable children do not qualify for the N$200 state grant due to the untraced death certificates of their parents.
“Babies Can’t Wait” – Fast-Tracking Family Reunions
“Babies Can’t Wait” – Fast-Tracking Family Reunions
It's called Babies Can't Wait, and the next phase of the one-month-old program in Nassau County starts with meetings Tuesday aimed at speeding along the cases of maltreated infants and toddlers taken away from the parents.
It's called Babies Can't Wait, and the next phase of the one-month-old program in Nassau County starts with meetings Tuesday aimed at speeding along the cases of maltreated infants and toddlers taken away from the parents.
North Middlesex Hospital apologises for role in Child T abuse case
North Middlesex Hospital apologises for role in Child T abuse case
A hospital has apologised for its role in a child abuse case that echoes that of Baby P.
A hospital has apologised for its role in a child abuse case that echoes that of Baby P.
Sunday, October 13, 2013
Foster Children Are at Risk of Being Drawn Into Human Trafficking
Foster Children Are at Risk of Being Drawn Into Human Trafficking
The saga began when Wendy was living in a foster home in Polk County. Feeling unloved and unappreciated as a teenager, she began sneaking out at night and meeting truck drivers, who paid her for sexual encounters.
The saga began when Wendy was living in a foster home in Polk County. Feeling unloved and unappreciated as a teenager, she began sneaking out at night and meeting truck drivers, who paid her for sexual encounters.
DCS kept foster parents in dark about children with drug exposure
DCS kept foster parents in dark about children with drug exposure
When a Department of Children's Services caseworker first placed Jonathan in Janie Cunningham's arms, he was just 2 weeks old — a tiny thing, born three months premature — with a swirl of thick brown hair that seemed to swallow up his face.
When a Department of Children's Services caseworker first placed Jonathan in Janie Cunningham's arms, he was just 2 weeks old — a tiny thing, born three months premature — with a swirl of thick brown hair that seemed to swallow up his face.
Who would give up an adopted child?
Who would give up an adopted child?
It had been three years since Beth and Tom Remboldt had adopted Galina, a little girl from Russia.
It had been three years since Beth and Tom Remboldt had adopted Galina, a little girl from Russia.
CPS Whistleblower Exposes CPS's Corruption, Kidnapping, and Drugging of Children.
Former Child Protective Investigator, Carlos Morales, Exposes CPS's Corruption, Kidnapping, and Drugging of Children. He explains the incentives that the State gives to destroy families, and what to do if CPS comes after you, your friends, and your community
Audit: More oversight needed for foster care placement agencies
Audit: More oversight needed for foster care placement agencies
State foster care placement agencies need increased oversight and financial tracking, according to a new state audit that came out Wednesday morning.
Colorado native uses Facebook to try to find brother she says was taken by Child Protective Services
Colorado native uses Facebook to try to find brother she says was taken by Child Protective Services
A Colorado native is hoping a Facebook post will help her reunite with her little brother, who was removed from their home by Child Protective Services.
A Colorado native is hoping a Facebook post will help her reunite with her little brother, who was removed from their home by Child Protective Services.
Cases highlight what many consider a broken child welfare system
Cases highlight what many consider a broken child welfare system
Two high-profile child-welfare cases are raising questions about the safety of Colorado kids.
Two high-profile child-welfare cases are raising questions about the safety of Colorado kids.
Making money from babies Why orphanage ‘business’ thrives in South-East
Making money from babies Why orphanage ‘business’ thrives in South-East
The arrests of owners of illegal foster homes who engage in sale of babies to those who need them for one reason or the other has brought to the fore the continuous trend of the criminal act. JUDE OSSAI reports on why selling of babies has continued to flourish in the South-East.
The arrests of owners of illegal foster homes who engage in sale of babies to those who need them for one reason or the other has brought to the fore the continuous trend of the criminal act. JUDE OSSAI reports on why selling of babies has continued to flourish in the South-East.
Op-Ed: Strip-searching a child — 'What’s the big deal?'
Op-Ed: Strip-searching a child — 'What’s the big deal?'
Supreme Court justices wondering why a young girl wouldn't want to be strip searched, family law judges gagging domestic violence victims to prevent them from telling anyone they were beaten and long prison terms for women trying to stay alive. Justice?
Note: Sigh...
Supreme Court justices wondering why a young girl wouldn't want to be strip searched, family law judges gagging domestic violence victims to prevent them from telling anyone they were beaten and long prison terms for women trying to stay alive. Justice?
Note: Sigh...
Mother of missing Maine toddler preserves the right to sue Maine DHHS
Mother of missing Maine toddler preserves the right to sue Maine DHHS
An attorney for the mother of a toddler who disappeared from the father's home in December 2011 says a court filing preserves the right to sue the state, but that there's been no decision on whether to do so.
An attorney for the mother of a toddler who disappeared from the father's home in December 2011 says a court filing preserves the right to sue the state, but that there's been no decision on whether to do so.
Man killed 21 years after slaying his foster parents
Man killed 21 years after slaying his foster parents
An Oregon man has been fatally shot more than two decades after he killed his foster parents in a highly publicized double murder.
An Oregon man has been fatally shot more than two decades after he killed his foster parents in a highly publicized double murder.
Teen charged with killing foster dad in hunting camp
Teen charged with killing foster dad in hunting camp
A 14-year-old boy faces two juvenile counts of aggravated murder in the shootings of his foster father and another man at a deer camp in northeastern Oregon, authorities said Wednesday.
A 14-year-old boy faces two juvenile counts of aggravated murder in the shootings of his foster father and another man at a deer camp in northeastern Oregon, authorities said Wednesday.
Hamilton CAS workers protest cuts that ‘hurt’ children
Hamilton CAS workers protest cuts that ‘hurt’ children
They said it many different ways.
But the message delivered by Hamilton Children's Aid Society workers Friday was clear. They feel government cuts to their agency are hurting Hamilton's most vulnerable children. About 100 of the CAS staff and their supporters gathered Friday outside their Hamilton headquarters to protest a budget-driven shutdown.
They said it many different ways.
But the message delivered by Hamilton Children's Aid Society workers Friday was clear. They feel government cuts to their agency are hurting Hamilton's most vulnerable children. About 100 of the CAS staff and their supporters gathered Friday outside their Hamilton headquarters to protest a budget-driven shutdown.
Exclusive: Area DCF can't keep its staff onboard
Exclusive: Area DCF can't keep its staff onboard
Half of Southwest Florida's child abuse investigators left last year, creating a revolving door at the Department of Children and Families that could be dangerous for children.
Half of Southwest Florida's child abuse investigators left last year, creating a revolving door at the Department of Children and Families that could be dangerous for children.
Teen arrested, accused of sexually abusing another child at group home
Teen arrested, accused of sexually abusing another child at group home
Serious allegations tonight about a foster home on the northwest side.
Serious allegations tonight about a foster home on the northwest side.
Tribal Leaders Worry 'Baby Veronica' Case Sets Precedent Against ICWA
Tribal Leaders Worry 'Baby Veronica' Case Sets Precedent Against ICWA
Leaders from Oklahoma's Five Civilized Tribes met in Tulsa Thursday. The Indian Child Welfare Act was a huge topic of discussion.
Leaders from Oklahoma's Five Civilized Tribes met in Tulsa Thursday. The Indian Child Welfare Act was a huge topic of discussion.
Sen. Rob Cowles raising questions about settlement in foster-care case
Sen. Rob Cowles raising questions about settlement in foster-care case
When news first broke in February that a Middleton foster-care agency was facing the loss of its license for allegedly overbilling the state $6.1 million, some lawmakers were aghast, including state Sen. Rob Cowles, co-chairman of the Joint Legislative Audit Committee.
When news first broke in February that a Middleton foster-care agency was facing the loss of its license for allegedly overbilling the state $6.1 million, some lawmakers were aghast, including state Sen. Rob Cowles, co-chairman of the Joint Legislative Audit Committee.
Amber Alert issued for youth-ranch boys
Amber Alert issued for youth-ranch boys
Staff and kids state officials said were missing from a youth ranch under investigation were actually on a previously scheduled activity, the attorney representing Tierra Blanca Ranch said late Friday.
Staff and kids state officials said were missing from a youth ranch under investigation were actually on a previously scheduled activity, the attorney representing Tierra Blanca Ranch said late Friday.
Friday, October 11, 2013
Rep. Kirkton Wants Comments On Child Protective Services
Rep. Kirkton Wants Comments On Child Protective Services
State Representative Jeanne Kirkton will hold a listening session to hear comments on Missouri's children's protective services, including the child abuse hotline, and the removal, investigations and placement of children by the Department of Social Services.
State Representative Jeanne Kirkton will hold a listening session to hear comments on Missouri's children's protective services, including the child abuse hotline, and the removal, investigations and placement of children by the Department of Social Services.
I Hate Child Protective Services
I Hate Child Protective Services
To make a long story short, my children were removed from my care. My boyfriend's brother lived with us and my younger three children. The brother offered my son, 14 years old at the time, alcohol. My son came to us and told us. My boyfriend kicked his brother out of the house permanently. This wasn't good enough for the state and they petitioned the court for jurisdiction and my children were placed in foster homes.
To make a long story short, my children were removed from my care. My boyfriend's brother lived with us and my younger three children. The brother offered my son, 14 years old at the time, alcohol. My son came to us and told us. My boyfriend kicked his brother out of the house permanently. This wasn't good enough for the state and they petitioned the court for jurisdiction and my children were placed in foster homes.
SOUTH CAROLINA: CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES FUDGING THE FIGURES ON CHILDREN AT RISK
SOUTH CAROLINA: CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES FUDGING THE FIGURES ON CHILDREN AT RISK
In South Carolina, children who’ve had contact with Child Protective Services are dying at an unprecedented rate this year, while CPS channels serious abuse cases to private contractors that aren’t trained to handle them. That’s the disturbing word from this article (Free Times, 10/2/13). Meanwhile, the state agency that runs Child Protective Services is covering up the tragic facts with bureaucratic maneuvering.
In South Carolina, children who’ve had contact with Child Protective Services are dying at an unprecedented rate this year, while CPS channels serious abuse cases to private contractors that aren’t trained to handle them. That’s the disturbing word from this article (Free Times, 10/2/13). Meanwhile, the state agency that runs Child Protective Services is covering up the tragic facts with bureaucratic maneuvering.
Haringey Council failed to prevent another child being abused
Haringey Council failed to prevent another child being abused
The council responsible for Baby Peter and Victoria Climbie has failed another child, a serious case review has found.
Note: Translation: take more kids, take more kids, take more kids, take more kids, take more kids, after all they're too stupid to tell the difference between child abuse and a hole in the ground. Take more kids. take more kids, take more kids etc.
The council responsible for Baby Peter and Victoria Climbie has failed another child, a serious case review has found.
Note: Translation: take more kids, take more kids, take more kids, take more kids, take more kids, after all they're too stupid to tell the difference between child abuse and a hole in the ground. Take more kids. take more kids, take more kids etc.
Bill to deny LGBT parents custody of their children advances in Russian parliament
Bill to deny LGBT parents custody of their children advances in Russian parliament
A bill that would strip same-sex couples and LGBT individuals of custody of their children has advanced in the Russian parliament.
A bill that would strip same-sex couples and LGBT individuals of custody of their children has advanced in the Russian parliament.
Thursday, October 10, 2013
DCF Plans Secure Facility For Girls In Middletown
DCF Plans Secure Facility For Girls In Middletown
The state Department of Children and Families plans to open a secure treatment facility for teenage girls adjacent to the Connecticut Juvenile Training School in January, officials said Thursday.
The state Department of Children and Families plans to open a secure treatment facility for teenage girls adjacent to the Connecticut Juvenile Training School in January, officials said Thursday.
Father testifies about years of battling DCF to remove abusive child from their Wellington home
Father testifies about years of battling DCF to remove abusive child from their Wellington home
For more than two years, Junior kept a terrible secret from his parents: He had been sexually assaulted by Jerald, a 10-year-old neighborhood kid whom his mother and father brought into their Wellington home after the boy’s own mother was declared unfit.
Broward child protective investigator accused of falsifying reports
Broward child protective investigator accused of falsifying reports
A Broward Sheriff's child protective investigator has been accused of filing bogus reports stating she checked on children in person, but instead asked parents to send her cellphone photos of them, authorities said.
A Broward Sheriff's child protective investigator has been accused of filing bogus reports stating she checked on children in person, but instead asked parents to send her cellphone photos of them, authorities said.
Note: She kind of looks like a deer caught in the headlights. Eh?
Foster carer criticised at case review
Foster carer criticised at case review
A FOSTER mother who carried out a decade-long catalogue of abuse against children in her care has been criticised for her attitude towards her punishment.
A FOSTER mother who carried out a decade-long catalogue of abuse against children in her care has been criticised for her attitude towards her punishment.
Colorado child ombudsman to investigate why boys not rescued sooner
Colorado child ombudsman to investigate why boys not rescued sooner
Colorado's child protection ombudsman will investigate why it took so long for authorities to rescue four small boys from a filthy Denver apartment filled with flies and feces when concerns about the family were registered more than a year ago.
Colorado's child protection ombudsman will investigate why it took so long for authorities to rescue four small boys from a filthy Denver apartment filled with flies and feces when concerns about the family were registered more than a year ago.
Psychiatrists Drugging Children For ‘Social Justice’
Psychiatrists Drugging Children For ‘Social Justice’
It’s the latest thing. Psychiatrists are now giving children in poor neighborhoods Adderall, a dangerous stimulant, by making false diagnoses of ADHD, or no diagnoses at all. Their aim? To “promote social justice,” to improve academic performance in school.
It’s the latest thing. Psychiatrists are now giving children in poor neighborhoods Adderall, a dangerous stimulant, by making false diagnoses of ADHD, or no diagnoses at all. Their aim? To “promote social justice,” to improve academic performance in school.
Biological father to discuss next legal steps in disputed adoption of Cherokee girl
Biological father to discuss next legal steps in disputed adoption of Cherokee girl
The next legal steps in the case of an Oklahoma girl adopted by a South Carolina couple are to be discussed at a news conference by the girl's biological father and Cherokee Nation officials.
The next legal steps in the case of an Oklahoma girl adopted by a South Carolina couple are to be discussed at a news conference by the girl's biological father and Cherokee Nation officials.
A Painful Decision To Give Up Two Adopted Children
A Painful Decision To Give Up Two Adopted Children
Writer Joyce Maynard has been very open with her readers about her life. When she adopted two girls from Ethiopia in 2010, she wrote about it in More magazine.
Writer Joyce Maynard has been very open with her readers about her life. When she adopted two girls from Ethiopia in 2010, she wrote about it in More magazine.
Oregon man who killed foster parents as a 12-year-old meets same fate
Oregon man who killed foster parents as a 12-year-old meets same fate
An Oregon man has been fatally shot more than two decades after he killed his foster parents in a high-profile double murder.
An Oregon man has been fatally shot more than two decades after he killed his foster parents in a high-profile double murder.
State audit cites improper spending by private foster care agencies
State audit cites improper spending by private foster care agencies
Private placement agencies for foster children, including one in Milwaukee, used taxpayer funds to make nearly $130,000 in questionable charges for parties, a board meeting and charitable contributions, a new state audit has found.
Private placement agencies for foster children, including one in Milwaukee, used taxpayer funds to make nearly $130,000 in questionable charges for parties, a board meeting and charitable contributions, a new state audit has found.
Wednesday, October 09, 2013
Group sues ex-Texas judge for returning teen to home of sex offender who then committed murder
Group sues ex-Texas judge for returning teen to home of sex offender who then committed murder
An anti-abortion group is suing a Texas judge who ordered a 15-year-old girl to be returned to a home with her legal guardian, even though she claimed the guardian's convicted sex-offender boyfriend made aggressive advances.
An anti-abortion group is suing a Texas judge who ordered a 15-year-old girl to be returned to a home with her legal guardian, even though she claimed the guardian's convicted sex-offender boyfriend made aggressive advances.
Are We Overmedicating Foster Care Children?
Are We Overmedicating Foster Care Children?
Mental health issues are front and center in human services. Every day, caseworkers work in an environment where mental health services aren't as robust as they should be and where medication for kids in custody sometimes serves as a substitute for more appropriate care.
Mental health issues are front and center in human services. Every day, caseworkers work in an environment where mental health services aren't as robust as they should be and where medication for kids in custody sometimes serves as a substitute for more appropriate care.
County fires, suspends and removes CPS workers over death of 5-year-old boy
County fires, suspends and removes CPS workers over death of 5-year-old boy
Two Child Protective Service caseworkers have been fired for mishandling child abuse complaints against Matthew Kuzdzal, the 26-year-old man accused of beating to death his girlfriend’s 5-year-old son last month at their West Side home, The Buffalo News has learned.
Two Child Protective Service caseworkers have been fired for mishandling child abuse complaints against Matthew Kuzdzal, the 26-year-old man accused of beating to death his girlfriend’s 5-year-old son last month at their West Side home, The Buffalo News has learned.
Foster carer filmed children naked
Foster carer filmed children naked
A FOSTER carer and founder of a national children’s charity wore a wristwatch fitted with a secret camera to film children naked, a court heard.
A FOSTER carer and founder of a national children’s charity wore a wristwatch fitted with a secret camera to film children naked, a court heard.
Man files $20M suit against Family Court marshals for excessive force
Man files $20M suit against Family Court marshals for excessive force
A former Henderson man has filed a lawsuit alleging he was the victim of excessive force in a videotaped February 2012 confrontation with Family Court marshals.
A former Henderson man has filed a lawsuit alleging he was the victim of excessive force in a videotaped February 2012 confrontation with Family Court marshals.
Court-appointed guardian faces charges of stealing from clients
Court-appointed guardian faces charges of stealing from clients
She was appointed by Family Court to help those who couldn’t help themselves.
She was appointed by Family Court to help those who couldn’t help themselves.
Police locate missing child
Police locate missing child
Police say Crystal's mother, Christine Reimer, snuck Crystal out the back door of the Children's Network of Southwest Florida during a supervised visit.
Police say Crystal's mother, Christine Reimer, snuck Crystal out the back door of the Children's Network of Southwest Florida during a supervised visit.
Federal monitor: DCF 'staffing levels are inadequate'
Federal monitor: DCF 'staffing levels are inadequate'
The state agency responsible for caring for thousands of abused and neglected children would finally be on the right path to ending 20 years of federal court oversight if not for its "inadequate" staffing levels, the court monitor overseeing the agency reports. Because there are too few social workers and every case they receive now is complex, "the system is stressed," he reports.
The state agency responsible for caring for thousands of abused and neglected children would finally be on the right path to ending 20 years of federal court oversight if not for its "inadequate" staffing levels, the court monitor overseeing the agency reports. Because there are too few social workers and every case they receive now is complex, "the system is stressed," he reports.
Fury as Baby P's mum set to be released from prison as early as today after just four years inside
Fury as Baby P's mum set to be released from prison as early as today after just four years inside
The wicked 32-year-old is set to be freed despite her involvement in one of the most appalling child cruelty cases in criminal history
Foster boy leaves San Dimas home to find biological mother
Foster boy leaves San Dimas home to find biological mother
An 11-year-old San Dimas foster boy went missing Monday after he set out on a search to find his biological mother, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s officials said.
An 11-year-old San Dimas foster boy went missing Monday after he set out on a search to find his biological mother, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s officials said.
Tuesday, October 08, 2013
Spanking With Wooden Spoon Not Considered Child Abuse, Appellate Court Rules
Spanking With Wooden Spoon Not Considered Child Abuse, Appellate Court Rules
A state appeals court on Tuesday tossed out child abuse findings against a frustrated Northern California mother who spanked her 12-year-old daughter hard enough with a wooden spoon to cause bruising.
The pro-lifers adopting 'spare' embryos created during IVF
The pro-lifers adopting 'spare' embryos created during IVF
For pro-lifers, America’s 650,000 or so ‘spare’ embryos – created during IVF and now in cold storage – merit the same rights as any child in need of loving care. Rob Blackhurst talks to some of the agencies and families deciding the fate of these ‘snowflake babies’.
For pro-lifers, America’s 650,000 or so ‘spare’ embryos – created during IVF and now in cold storage – merit the same rights as any child in need of loving care. Rob Blackhurst talks to some of the agencies and families deciding the fate of these ‘snowflake babies’.
Court asks if DHS keeps kids in foster care safe
Court asks if DHS keeps kids in foster care safe
The state was back in court today so a federal judge could make sure the Department of Human Services is complying with a consent agreement having to do with Michigan's child welfare system.
The state was back in court today so a federal judge could make sure the Department of Human Services is complying with a consent agreement having to do with Michigan's child welfare system.
Ex-DCF worker goes to prison for sexual abuse of EH girl
Ex-DCF worker goes to prison for sexual abuse of EH girl
A former children’s services worker at a state psychiatric hospital, who plea-bargained an East Hartford child sexual assault case in which the evidence was made murky by discussions of money between him and his accuser’s aunt, has been sentenced to 15 months in prison.
A former children’s services worker at a state psychiatric hospital, who plea-bargained an East Hartford child sexual assault case in which the evidence was made murky by discussions of money between him and his accuser’s aunt, has been sentenced to 15 months in prison.
Man testifies DCF failed to warn him about abusive past of child he took into home
Man testifies DCF failed to warn him about abusive past of child he took into home
In the weeks before 10-year-old Jerald came to live with a Wellington couple, he had been repeatedly raped by a 19-year-old in a house where state officials sent him after they rescued him from his neglectful mother.
In the weeks before 10-year-old Jerald came to live with a Wellington couple, he had been repeatedly raped by a 19-year-old in a house where state officials sent him after they rescued him from his neglectful mother.
Tracey Connelly, the mother who allowed Baby P to be tortured to death, to be released on parole
Tracey Connelly, the mother who allowed Baby P to be tortured to death, to be released on parole
Tracey Connelly – the mother who allowed her son to be tortured to death by her boyfriend – will be released on parole, it has today been confirmed.
Tracey Connelly – the mother who allowed her son to be tortured to death by her boyfriend – will be released on parole, it has today been confirmed.
Boys report being shackled and beaten at remote New Mexico ranch for troubled teens
Boys report being shackled and beaten at remote New Mexico ranch for troubled teens
Police, child welfare authorities are investigating abuse claims from boys who say they were held in chains and hit with batons. Staff at The Tierra Blanca Ranch north of Las Cruces, N.M., also ordered boys to beat each other, residents claim.
Police, child welfare authorities are investigating abuse claims from boys who say they were held in chains and hit with batons. Staff at The Tierra Blanca Ranch north of Las Cruces, N.M., also ordered boys to beat each other, residents claim.
Foster mother pleads guilty in accidental death of 8-month-old
Foster mother pleads guilty in accidental death of 8-month-old
A foster mother in northwest Arizona has agreed to a plea deal in the accidental drowning death of a 8-month-old boy.
A foster mother in northwest Arizona has agreed to a plea deal in the accidental drowning death of a 8-month-old boy.
Child protection: serious case reviews feed the blame culture
Child protection: serious case reviews feed the blame culture
The reviews describe rather than analyse what happened, and so the outcomes are of limited value
The reviews describe rather than analyse what happened, and so the outcomes are of limited value
Rockford man accused of molesting children was DCFS employee
Rockford man accused of molesting children was DCFS employee
The former Rockford School District substitute teacher who was accused last week of molesting two students also worked for the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services for nearly 18 years.
The former Rockford School District substitute teacher who was accused last week of molesting two students also worked for the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services for nearly 18 years.
Kaiser Had No Right to Sterilize Mom, She Says
Kaiser Had No Right to Sterilize Mom, She Says
While she was in labor, under sedation and on her way to a C-section, Kaiser staff coerced a woman into signing a consent form for a tubal ligation, she and her fiancé allege in a civil rights complaint filed in Alameda County Superior Court.
While she was in labor, under sedation and on her way to a C-section, Kaiser staff coerced a woman into signing a consent form for a tubal ligation, she and her fiancé allege in a civil rights complaint filed in Alameda County Superior Court.
Monday, October 07, 2013
Fort Bragg man found guilty in death of infant foster daughter
Fort Bragg man found guilty in death of infant foster daughter
A Mendocino County jury Monday found a Fort Bragg man guilty in the beating death of his infant foster daughter, who’d suffered dozens of bruises as well as skull fractures and brain injuries.
A Mendocino County jury Monday found a Fort Bragg man guilty in the beating death of his infant foster daughter, who’d suffered dozens of bruises as well as skull fractures and brain injuries.
Foster mother pleads guilty to child abuse
Foster mother pleads guilty to child abuse
A former foster parent in Phoenix has pleaded guilty to two counts of child abuse.
A former foster parent in Phoenix has pleaded guilty to two counts of child abuse.
Lily Choy Sentence Appeal: Alberta Court Increases Penalty For Woman Who Killed Foster Child
Lily Choy Sentence Appeal: Alberta Court Increases Penalty For Woman Who Killed Foster Child
The Alberta Court of Appeal has increased the sentence handed to an Edmonton woman convicted in the death of her three-year-old foster child.
The Alberta Court of Appeal has increased the sentence handed to an Edmonton woman convicted in the death of her three-year-old foster child.
Staff crisis leaves foster children in limbo
Staff crisis leaves foster children in limbo
Up to 60 foster children and their carers have been left in limbo after a caseworker staffing crisis at a Family and Community Services centre in northern NSW.
Financial issues cost foster care agency its L.A. County contract
Financial issues cost foster care agency its L.A. County contract
Wings of Refuge lost its contract not because of lapses in care it had been cited for, but because it mismanaged millions in taxpayer dollars.
Wings of Refuge lost its contract not because of lapses in care it had been cited for, but because it mismanaged millions in taxpayer dollars.
Sunday, October 06, 2013
Jefferson County judge to investigate 1988 drowning of foster child
Jefferson County judge to investigate 1988 drowning of foster child
A Jefferson County judge will hold a secret hearing to determine if criminal charges could be filed in the 1988 death of an 8-year-old boy previously attributed to accidental drowning.
A Jefferson County judge will hold a secret hearing to determine if criminal charges could be filed in the 1988 death of an 8-year-old boy previously attributed to accidental drowning.
Nebraska Court Says Teen Must Obey Religious Beliefs Of Foster Parents And Not Have An Abortion
Nebraska Court Says Teen Must Obey Religious Beliefs Of Foster Parents And Not Have An Abortion
A 16-year-old girl has been denied her constitutional right to choose to have an abortion by the Nebraska Supreme Court. The judges ruled that the unnamed defendant is “not mature or well-informed enough” to make her own reproductive decisions, though the court apparently believes she is mature enough to give birth to and raise a baby as a young single mother. It’s certainly a ruling that defies logic.
A 16-year-old girl has been denied her constitutional right to choose to have an abortion by the Nebraska Supreme Court. The judges ruled that the unnamed defendant is “not mature or well-informed enough” to make her own reproductive decisions, though the court apparently believes she is mature enough to give birth to and raise a baby as a young single mother. It’s certainly a ruling that defies logic.
Suffer the children at State's hands
Suffer the children at State's hands
How can the HSE's procedures and policies for dealing with abuse be so damaging, asks Shane Dunphy
How can the HSE's procedures and policies for dealing with abuse be so damaging, asks Shane Dunphy
Separated by foster care, siblings reunite
Separated by foster care, siblings reunite
For 15-year-old Kalia, the past two months have been tough.
The aspiring photographer and high school sophomore was separated from her four brothers when she entered foster care in Tucson. Her siblings were placed separately, with a relative.
Failed adoptions stir outrage; reforms are elusive
Failed adoptions stir outrage; reforms are elusive
Half a world away from her birthplace in Ethiopia, teenager Hana Williams died on a rainy night in the backyard of what a prosecutor called a "house of horrors" — the rural home of her adoptive family in Washington state.
Half a world away from her birthplace in Ethiopia, teenager Hana Williams died on a rainy night in the backyard of what a prosecutor called a "house of horrors" — the rural home of her adoptive family in Washington state.
Saturday, October 05, 2013
Surrogate mom can seek child custody
Surrogate mom can seek child custody
The Nevada Supreme Court says a lesbian woman who gave birth to a child conceived from a fertilized egg provided by her companion can argue for parental rights in the wake of the couple's breakup.
Children who report abuse are often ignored, says NSPCC
Children who report abuse are often ignored, says NSPCC
Note: That's because in the UK they're only interested in the cute little babies who will fetch a good price on the adoption block.
When children tell adults they are being abused, their confidants only take action in just over half of cases, according to a study by the NSPCC. Eight out of 10 abused under-18s tried to tell an adult, according to research based on interviews with 60 young adults. But adults acted in only 58 per cent of cases.
Note: That's because in the UK they're only interested in the cute little babies who will fetch a good price on the adoption block.
When children tell adults they are being abused, their confidants only take action in just over half of cases, according to a study by the NSPCC. Eight out of 10 abused under-18s tried to tell an adult, according to research based on interviews with 60 young adults. But adults acted in only 58 per cent of cases.
2 Oregon hunters killed, 14-year-old foster son suspected
2 Oregon hunters killed, 14-year-old foster son suspected
Michael Piete and his uncle, Kenneth Gilliland, had hunted deer together and with other relatives for years from a remote log cabin in the Blue Mountains of northeastern Oregon.
Their last hunting trip ended with them both being shot dead. Authorities said Piete's 14-year-old foster son shot them both, then ran off, but came back after accidentally shooting himself in the leg. Another of the hunting party held him at gunpoint and taped him to a chair until deputies arrived.
Michael Piete and his uncle, Kenneth Gilliland, had hunted deer together and with other relatives for years from a remote log cabin in the Blue Mountains of northeastern Oregon.
Their last hunting trip ended with them both being shot dead. Authorities said Piete's 14-year-old foster son shot them both, then ran off, but came back after accidentally shooting himself in the leg. Another of the hunting party held him at gunpoint and taped him to a chair until deputies arrived.
Man held for raping foster daughter
Man held for raping foster daughter
Bowenpally police on Friday arrested a 45-year-old man on charge of raping his adopted daughter and making her pregnant.
Bowenpally police on Friday arrested a 45-year-old man on charge of raping his adopted daughter and making her pregnant.
British courts fail child abuse victims
British courts fail child abuse victims
Child sexual abuse victims in Britain do not get the support they need to give evidence in courts, NSPCC warns.
Child sexual abuse victims in Britain do not get the support they need to give evidence in courts, NSPCC warns.