The Maryland attorney general's Medicaid fraud control team is investigating LifeLine Inc., the state contractor that managed a group home for disabled foster children where a 10-year-old Baltimore boy died last summer.
Saturday, February 28, 2015
Medicaid fraud team investigates Maryland group home operator
Medicaid fraud team investigates Maryland group home operator
Man accused of trying to kill adopted son gets trail date
Man accused of trying to kill adopted son gets trail date
Jorge Barahona, who's accused of trying to kill his 10-year-old adopted son, Victor, is scheduled to stand trial Sept. 28.
Jorge Barahona, who's accused of trying to kill his 10-year-old adopted son, Victor, is scheduled to stand trial Sept. 28.
Couple accused of holding three adopted children captive and abusing them
Couple accused of holding three adopted children captive and abusing them
Prosecutors say years of abuse to three children finally ended after a brave escape from the two daughters. David Moss and his wife Rejeana Moss had allegedly been abusing their two adopted daughters and their adopted son.
Prosecutors say years of abuse to three children finally ended after a brave escape from the two daughters. David Moss and his wife Rejeana Moss had allegedly been abusing their two adopted daughters and their adopted son.
Foster Dad Sentenced to Prison for Raping, Molesting and Abusing 6 Girls in His Care
Foster Dad Sentenced to Prison for Raping, Molesting and Abusing 6 Girls in His Care
A 68-year-old foster parent was sentenced Friday to 18 years to life in state prison for sexually abusing six young girls during a period of six years before a relative found evidence of the crimes recorded on a memory card and called police.
A 68-year-old foster parent was sentenced Friday to 18 years to life in state prison for sexually abusing six young girls during a period of six years before a relative found evidence of the crimes recorded on a memory card and called police.
Friday, February 27, 2015
Indiana may install 'baby boxes' for those giving up newborns
Indiana may install 'baby boxes' for those giving up newborns
On the outside, the metal box looks like an oversized bread container. But what's inside could save an abandoned newborn's life.
On the outside, the metal box looks like an oversized bread container. But what's inside could save an abandoned newborn's life.
Foster children suffer under for-profit foster care
Foster children suffer under for-profit foster care
Children are the most under-represented among all groups. As minors they are not given the same resources or legitimacy as other groups, and their concerns are often regarded as naïve or unfounded.
Children are the most under-represented among all groups. As minors they are not given the same resources or legitimacy as other groups, and their concerns are often regarded as naïve or unfounded.
Ky program helps drug addicts keep their babies
Ky program helps drug addicts keep their babies
Born into suffering, babies of addicted moms are often torn from their families — compounding the physical pain of drug withdrawal with the lifelong pain of separation.
Born into suffering, babies of addicted moms are often torn from their families — compounding the physical pain of drug withdrawal with the lifelong pain of separation.
Band council forced closure of CYFS office in Sheshatshiu
Band council forced closure of CYFS office in Sheshatshiu
The Child, Youth and Family Services (CYFS) office in Sheshatshiu was forced to close for several hours between Monday and Tuesday, according to a band council member there.
The Child, Youth and Family Services (CYFS) office in Sheshatshiu was forced to close for several hours between Monday and Tuesday, according to a band council member there.
Proposed Bill Could Eliminate Neglect from Utah's Child Welfare Law
Proposed Bill Could Eliminate Neglect from Utah's Child Welfare Law
A state Senator is proposing a minor change that could have far-reaching implications for the state's child welfare laws.
A state Senator is proposing a minor change that could have far-reaching implications for the state's child welfare laws.
SB 261, sponsored by Sen. Al Jackson, R-Highland, eliminates neglect as a reason the state could remove a child from a home.
California Lawmakers Scrutinize Psychotropic Drug Prescriptions to Foster Kids
California Lawmakers Scrutinize Psychotropic Drug Prescriptions to Foster Kids
In California, 63,000 children and teenagers are in foster care in private homes or group homes run by the state.
A quarter of them were prescribed potent psychotropic drugs.
In California, 63,000 children and teenagers are in foster care in private homes or group homes run by the state.
A quarter of them were prescribed potent psychotropic drugs.
Ex-Family Court Judge Steven Jones sentenced to prison for fraud
Ex-Family Court Judge Steven Jones sentenced to prison for fraud
A former longtime Clark County Family Court judge who pleaded guilty to federal fraud charges has been sentenced to more than two years in prison and ordered to pay $2.9 million in restitution to dozens of victims of the investment scheme.
A former longtime Clark County Family Court judge who pleaded guilty to federal fraud charges has been sentenced to more than two years in prison and ordered to pay $2.9 million in restitution to dozens of victims of the investment scheme.
Thursday, February 26, 2015
Two teens to face trial in death at group home
Two teens to face trial in death at group home
Two teens were ordered to stand trial as adults in the beating death of a former Hollidaysburg teenager at a Pittsburgh-area group home for troubled boys last month.
Two teens were ordered to stand trial as adults in the beating death of a former Hollidaysburg teenager at a Pittsburgh-area group home for troubled boys last month.
Foster Father Defends Facebook Photo of Toddler
Foster Father Defends Facebook Photo of Toddler
A photo popped up on Facebook of a little boy in a diaper appearing to be caged. We did some investigating and discovered a Jacksonville foster parent posted the photo. The caption under the photo stated, "I don't think he will get out anymore at night (bed time) and destroy the house and find the older kid's hidden candy and eat it up. Thanks to my wonderful hubby."
A photo popped up on Facebook of a little boy in a diaper appearing to be caged. We did some investigating and discovered a Jacksonville foster parent posted the photo. The caption under the photo stated, "I don't think he will get out anymore at night (bed time) and destroy the house and find the older kid's hidden candy and eat it up. Thanks to my wonderful hubby."
Police Tasers 'drawn on 400 children in 2013'
Police Tasers 'drawn on 400 children in 2013'
Police in England and Wales aimed taser guns at more than 400 children in 2013, firing on 37 of them, according to figures revealed Wednesday, sparking calls for a rethink of their use.
Police in England and Wales aimed taser guns at more than 400 children in 2013, firing on 37 of them, according to figures revealed Wednesday, sparking calls for a rethink of their use.
Investigations into abuse in children’s homes and schools
Investigations into abuse in children’s homes and schools
On 27 March 2014 The Rt Hon Michael Gove MP informed the House about the transfer of information received by the Department for Education relating to Jimmy Savile and several children’s homes and schools in England, dating back to the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. This information was passed to the appropriate organisations for further investigation.
On 27 March 2014 The Rt Hon Michael Gove MP informed the House about the transfer of information received by the Department for Education relating to Jimmy Savile and several children’s homes and schools in England, dating back to the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. This information was passed to the appropriate organisations for further investigation.
Post-Sandusky child protection laws won't work, if state child abuse hotline isn't working well
Post-Sandusky child protection laws won't work, if state child abuse hotline isn't working well
In the wake of the Jerry Sandusky child sexual abuse case, the state Legislature passed 23 new bills aimed at improving protections for children. Some of those laws, including one widening the list of those required to report suspected child abuse, went into effect Dec. 31. Lancaster County Children & Youth Social Service Agency has been deluged with child abuse reports in the past two months.
In the wake of the Jerry Sandusky child sexual abuse case, the state Legislature passed 23 new bills aimed at improving protections for children. Some of those laws, including one widening the list of those required to report suspected child abuse, went into effect Dec. 31. Lancaster County Children & Youth Social Service Agency has been deluged with child abuse reports in the past two months.
Denver Mayor Michael Hancock addresses DHS failures, claims department will 'tighten the reins'
Denver Mayor Michael Hancock addresses DHS failures, claims department will 'tighten the reins'
Denver Mayor Michael Hancock this week said the city's Human Services department will "tighten the reins" after an ongoing CALL7 investigation revealed that department employees had placed children with sex offenders, failed to properly complete hundreds of background checks, and falsified child safety records in the case of a two-month-old child's death.
Denver Mayor Michael Hancock this week said the city's Human Services department will "tighten the reins" after an ongoing CALL7 investigation revealed that department employees had placed children with sex offenders, failed to properly complete hundreds of background checks, and falsified child safety records in the case of a two-month-old child's death.
CPS Worker Arrested for DWI, Resisting Arrest
CPS Worker Arrested for DWI, Resisting Arrest
A worker with Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) is facing serious allegations. The agency is also known as CPS.
A worker with Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) is facing serious allegations. The agency is also known as CPS.
New foster care system proposed for B.C. that keeps neediest kids’ families involved
New foster care system proposed for B.C. that keeps neediest kids’ families involved
When the foster father of a teenager tormented by imaginary voices became too anxious for the safety of his own children, British Columbia's children's ministry approved his plan to move the youth to a rental unit he paid someone else to staff.
When the foster father of a teenager tormented by imaginary voices became too anxious for the safety of his own children, British Columbia's children's ministry approved his plan to move the youth to a rental unit he paid someone else to staff.
SENATE UNANIMOUSLY SUPPORTS CHILD PROTECTION LAW
SENATE UNANIMOUSLY SUPPORTS CHILD PROTECTION LAW
The Senate gave preliminary approval to a hefty child protection reform package, 28-0, in a roll call vote Wednesday.
The Senate gave preliminary approval to a hefty child protection reform package, 28-0, in a roll call vote Wednesday.
Note: And I'll just bet that if you asked any of them what the sustenance of the bill was, more than half wouldn't have a clue, and are just blindly wrapping their arms around something emotional and easy that makes it look like Republicans and Democrats can actually work together.
The Brief Life and Private Death of Alexandria Hill
The Brief Life and Private Death of Alexandria Hill
THE SUN WAS BEATING down on Rockdale, Texas, when Donna Winkler arrived at her sister's ranch-style, clapboard house on the afternoon of July 29, 2013. Winkler was concerned about Sherill. At the age of 54, she had lost her job as a school bus driver after falling and injuring her wrist. Her husband, Clemon Small, a former crack addict, only worked a few days a week as a karaoke DJ. Recently, the Smalls had moved from nearby Austin to Rockdale, population 5,400, to cut costs.
THE SUN WAS BEATING down on Rockdale, Texas, when Donna Winkler arrived at her sister's ranch-style, clapboard house on the afternoon of July 29, 2013. Winkler was concerned about Sherill. At the age of 54, she had lost her job as a school bus driver after falling and injuring her wrist. Her husband, Clemon Small, a former crack addict, only worked a few days a week as a karaoke DJ. Recently, the Smalls had moved from nearby Austin to Rockdale, population 5,400, to cut costs.
Woman Accused of Attacking Officers, Pregnant Social Worker
Woman Accused of Attacking Officers, Pregnant Social Worker
A woman is facing assault charges for allegedly attacking police and a pregnant children and youth worker in Luzerne County.
A woman is facing assault charges for allegedly attacking police and a pregnant children and youth worker in Luzerne County.
Mother on trial, accused of abusing adopted son
Mother on trial, accused of abusing adopted son
Opening statements in the trial of a Jeffersontown mother accused of abusing her special needs adopted son in 2013 focused on the child's medical injuries and the differing narratives of how the 4-year-old sustained his injuries.
Opening statements in the trial of a Jeffersontown mother accused of abusing her special needs adopted son in 2013 focused on the child's medical injuries and the differing narratives of how the 4-year-old sustained his injuries.
Court to lesbian couple: Fatherhood can’t be contractually erased
Court to lesbian couple: Fatherhood can’t be contractually erased
A lesbian couple in New Jersey may be forced to share parental rights with a sperm donor they used to conceive their 1-year-old son.
A lesbian couple in New Jersey may be forced to share parental rights with a sperm donor they used to conceive their 1-year-old son.
Huntsville foster mother indicted on charges she beat, burned foster kids
Huntsville foster mother indicted on charges she beat, burned foster kids
A Huntsville woman was indicted this month on charges that she physically abused two of her foster children, one of whom she allegedly immersed in scalding water.
A Huntsville woman was indicted this month on charges that she physically abused two of her foster children, one of whom she allegedly immersed in scalding water.
New details surface in Department of Child Safety chief's firing
New details surface in Department of Child Safety chief's firing
Gov. Doug Ducey's firing of former Department of Child Safety Director Charles Flanagan came in the wake of a lengthy memo by Flanagan's successor in which he alleged Flanagan had allowed numerous reports of child abuse and neglect to be reviewed without an in-person visit to see if children were safe.
Gov. Doug Ducey's firing of former Department of Child Safety Director Charles Flanagan came in the wake of a lengthy memo by Flanagan's successor in which he alleged Flanagan had allowed numerous reports of child abuse and neglect to be reviewed without an in-person visit to see if children were safe.
UPDATE TO SPECIAL REPORT: Child Welfare, a broken system
UPDATE TO SPECIAL REPORT: Child Welfare, a broken system
Since July 2014, CBS 58 has been staying on top of backlog issues reported at the Bureau of Milwaukee Child Welfare.
CBS 58
Since July 2014, CBS 58 has been staying on top of backlog issues reported at the Bureau of Milwaukee Child Welfare.
CBS 58
State Department's top counterterrorism official arrested in child sex sting
State Department's top counterterrorism official arrested in child sex sting
A U.S. State Department official was jailed Tuesday on a charge of soliciting a minor.
Daniel Rosen was arrested at his home in Washington, D.C., about noon on Tuesday and was in custody at the D.C. jail Tuesday night, said Fairfax County, Virginia, Police Department spokeswoman Lucy Caldwell.
A U.S. State Department official was jailed Tuesday on a charge of soliciting a minor.
Daniel Rosen was arrested at his home in Washington, D.C., about noon on Tuesday and was in custody at the D.C. jail Tuesday night, said Fairfax County, Virginia, Police Department spokeswoman Lucy Caldwell.
Wednesday, February 25, 2015
Foster family could be out of options in fight for girl
Foster family could be out of options in fight for girl
A Tennessee foster family fighting to recover the little girl they raised from infancy could be out of options after a judge ruled that Sonya McCaul no longer needs to be looked after by the state.
A Tennessee foster family fighting to recover the little girl they raised from infancy could be out of options after a judge ruled that Sonya McCaul no longer needs to be looked after by the state.
Social worker struck off for taking guns into Monmouthshire child care home
Social worker struck off for taking guns into Monmouthshire child care home
REGISTERED residential child care worker has been struck off after taking guns into a Monmouthshire home and letting two young people fire them.
REGISTERED residential child care worker has been struck off after taking guns into a Monmouthshire home and letting two young people fire them.
A For-Profit Foster Care Agency, Traded on the Stock Exchange, Deadly to Children
A For-Profit Foster Care Agency, Traded on the Stock Exchange, Deadly to Children
One of the nation’s largest for-profit foster care agencies, Mentor, has recently come under scrutiny after investigation has revealed a string of missteps leading to abuse, mistreatment, and several deaths. While organization executives have dismissed claims that National Mentor Holdings’ negligence has resulted in substandard services, the company has received some of the highest numbers of serious violations in several states, including Massachusetts, Georgia, and Texas.
One of the nation’s largest for-profit foster care agencies, Mentor, has recently come under scrutiny after investigation has revealed a string of missteps leading to abuse, mistreatment, and several deaths. While organization executives have dismissed claims that National Mentor Holdings’ negligence has resulted in substandard services, the company has received some of the highest numbers of serious violations in several states, including Massachusetts, Georgia, and Texas.
Move to expand services for Virginia foster care kids is killed
Move to expand services for Virginia foster care kids is killed
An effort to expand help to young people who age out of the state's foster care system got the axe in the budget deal negotiated by a handful of influential members of the House of Delegates and state Senate.
An effort to expand help to young people who age out of the state's foster care system got the axe in the budget deal negotiated by a handful of influential members of the House of Delegates and state Senate.
After deaths, Vermont Senate to debate child safety bill
The bill up for action Wednesday contains a new section of law saying a failure to protect a child by someone who knew or should have known the child was in danger can be prosecuted as a felony, with penalties up 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine.
Note: Now they'll report every little scrape on the knee, just to be safe.
Note: Now they'll report every little scrape on the knee, just to be safe.
Father speaks out about foster parent allegedly abusing daughter
Child protection bills roll through New Mexico Legislature
Child protection bills roll through New Mexico Legislature
The hot-button issues of abortion, right-to-work and driver's licenses for people suspected of being in the country illegally have led to a string of largely party-line votes during the first half of what has been a rancorous legislative session.
But Republicans and Democrats in New Mexico have been able to find common ground on at least one key issue: keeping children safe and cracking down on those who hurt them.
Note: Yes, they can always come together around this issue. Like good little sheep.
The hot-button issues of abortion, right-to-work and driver's licenses for people suspected of being in the country illegally have led to a string of largely party-line votes during the first half of what has been a rancorous legislative session.
But Republicans and Democrats in New Mexico have been able to find common ground on at least one key issue: keeping children safe and cracking down on those who hurt them.
Note: Yes, they can always come together around this issue. Like good little sheep.
Denver Human Services caseworker claims she was forced to lie about placing child with sex offender
Denver Human Services caseworker claims she was forced to lie about placing child with sex offender
A Denver Human Services caseworker has claimed under oath that she was forced to place a child in a home where he was later abused. She claims that she expressed concerns about the decision, but her supervisor told her she would be fired if she went "against the department."
Failing the children
Failing the children
“CLEARLY, this is a situation that is unacceptable,” says George Sheldon, the brand new director of the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). He was referring to the scandalous treatment of children by the institutions and people paid by the agency to look after them.
“CLEARLY, this is a situation that is unacceptable,” says George Sheldon, the brand new director of the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). He was referring to the scandalous treatment of children by the institutions and people paid by the agency to look after them.
Bradford social worker struck off for failings
Bradford social worker struck off for failings
A senior social worker has been struck off for misconduct over multiple failings in the care of vulnerable children and families.
A senior social worker has been struck off for misconduct over multiple failings in the care of vulnerable children and families.
Woman accused of kidnapping tells police her kids are safe
Woman accused of kidnapping tells police her kids are safe
Pittsburgh police said an East Hills woman accused of taking her three children from their foster parents’ home has been in contact with authorities.
Pittsburgh police said an East Hills woman accused of taking her three children from their foster parents’ home has been in contact with authorities.
Hair drug tests: A mother’s anguish over losing her girls
Hair drug tests: A mother’s anguish over losing her girls
An unknown number of parents lost their children based, in part, on the Sick Kids’ hair drug tests now under review. Christine Rupert is one of them.
Lawmakers fear overuse of psychiatric drugs on foster kids
At a hearing Tuesday, California lawmakers will examine why the state's foster children are being prescribed psychiatric drugs at three times the rate of other youth.Note: This story has generated some interesting, and might I say, dramatic headlines that are designed to grab the attention of the stupid people just long enough to increase the value of the newspaper advertising slots. Let's look at a few.
- Lawmakers fear overuse of psychiatric drugs on foster kids
- Lawmakers blast overuse of psychiatric drugs on foster kids
- Senate panel examines why California foster care system 'addicted' to psychiatric drugs
- State Senate questions why so many foster kids are being drugged (Because once a kid is labeled as special needs while in the foster care system the overall price on their heads goes way up. They qualify for more services including med's for behaviors and have a legal right to the mental health treatment that they "need." And it's easier to keep a chemically restrained kid quiet while you railroad them and their parents through the system.)
- Legislators delve into why many foster children are on psych drugs
- Responding to reports of drugged foster youth, California lawmakers propose greater oversight (which costs more money!)
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Legislature OKs $7 million emergency transfer for child welfare system
Legislature OKs $7 million emergency transfer for child welfare system
A $7 million emergency transfer to keep Nebraska’s child welfare system running through June won approval from state lawmakers Tuesday.
Attorney General to appeal N.J. mom's case against 'DYFS'
Attorney General to appeal N.J. mom's case against 'DYFS'
A Phillipsburg mom's case against the state child services workers and police who "pursued her as a child abuser," will face delay due to an appeal filed by the Attorney General's Office, according to her attorney Kenneth Rosellini.
A Phillipsburg mom's case against the state child services workers and police who "pursued her as a child abuser," will face delay due to an appeal filed by the Attorney General's Office, according to her attorney Kenneth Rosellini.
Police: 'Kidnapped' foster children returned, mom at-large
Police: 'Kidnapped' foster children returned, mom at-large
The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Missing Persons Unit is asking the public to be on the lookout for an East Hills woman who is wanted for kidnapping her three biological daughters.
The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Missing Persons Unit is asking the public to be on the lookout for an East Hills woman who is wanted for kidnapping her three biological daughters.
How To Make Money From CPS - Pizza fundraiser to benefit kids in foster care
With National Child Abuse Awareness (Propaganda) Month coming up barely over a month away (April), you can bet your sweet ass that all of the agencies who make their money off of the nations vulnerable children and families will be planning their fun awareness campaigns, award ceremonies, events and fundraisers.
They will fluff the numbers and stand around telling the most horrific child abuse stories in a desperate attempt to tug on your heartstrings enough to move you to action to donate your hard earned money so they can steal and service more kids. There will be dinners where the proceeds are donated to a CASA chapter. There will be day long awareness events and even road races and games with prizes, where the proceeds and entry fees will benefit some child abuse program. There blue pinwheel's and ribbons for sale all across the good old USA! You'll be able to write your name on a paper blue ribbon cut out and stick it up in the window of a store for a dollar!
With that said, small business owners can also benefit from the activities of the Child Protective Industry. By simply offering to donate a small portion of their profits to an agency or a program that deals with abused or neglected children, they are often granted free advertising in newspaper articles like this one which set off this whole little rant here...
... where you even buy a lottery ticket to win a free pizza for a dollar, and get a pizza while you're there (how can you resist once the smell of pizza hits you?) Thus increasing overall sales and profitability in the process.
And the best part is that the normal people fall for it!
They will fluff the numbers and stand around telling the most horrific child abuse stories in a desperate attempt to tug on your heartstrings enough to move you to action to donate your hard earned money so they can steal and service more kids. There will be dinners where the proceeds are donated to a CASA chapter. There will be day long awareness events and even road races and games with prizes, where the proceeds and entry fees will benefit some child abuse program. There blue pinwheel's and ribbons for sale all across the good old USA! You'll be able to write your name on a paper blue ribbon cut out and stick it up in the window of a store for a dollar!
With that said, small business owners can also benefit from the activities of the Child Protective Industry. By simply offering to donate a small portion of their profits to an agency or a program that deals with abused or neglected children, they are often granted free advertising in newspaper articles like this one which set off this whole little rant here...
... where you even buy a lottery ticket to win a free pizza for a dollar, and get a pizza while you're there (how can you resist once the smell of pizza hits you?) Thus increasing overall sales and profitability in the process.
And the best part is that the normal people fall for it!
Use of Medication On Foster Youth Investigated
Use of Medication On Foster Youth Investigated
Democratic Senator Jim Beall says nearly a quarter of adolescents in the California foster care system are being prescribed mood or behavior altering drugs. And he says it’s not clear who is in charge of tracking the medications foster children take.
Democratic Senator Jim Beall says nearly a quarter of adolescents in the California foster care system are being prescribed mood or behavior altering drugs. And he says it’s not clear who is in charge of tracking the medications foster children take.
Judge: State can't hold foster kids at mental hospital for indefinite stretches
Facing allegations that it improperly warehoused foster children at North Star psychiatric hospital in Anchorage, the Alaska Office of Children’s Services has been ordered by a state Superior Court judge not to keep children at the facility for indefinite periods of time.
Pittsburgh police search for mom wanted for kidnapping her biological children
Pittsburgh police search for mom wanted for kidnapping her biological children
The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Missing Persons Unit is asking the public to be on the lookout for an East Hills woman who is wanted for kidnapping her three biological daughters.
The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Missing Persons Unit is asking the public to be on the lookout for an East Hills woman who is wanted for kidnapping her three biological daughters.
Monday, February 23, 2015
DCF hotline counselor suspended for mistakes made in Jonchuck abuse case
DCF hotline counselor suspended for mistakes made in Jonchuck abuse case
A Florida Department of Children and Families employee has been suspended for her actions in connection with the shocking death of Phoebe Jonchuck.
A Florida Department of Children and Families employee has been suspended for her actions in connection with the shocking death of Phoebe Jonchuck.
Fostering Profits
Fostering Profits
A BuzzFeed News investigation identified deaths, sex abuse, and blunders in screening, training, and overseeing foster parents at the nation’s largest for-profit foster care company.
A BuzzFeed News investigation identified deaths, sex abuse, and blunders in screening, training, and overseeing foster parents at the nation’s largest for-profit foster care company.
Families SA social worker denies lying in court to protect herself
Families SA social worker denies lying in court to protect herself
A social worker recalled to give evidence at the inquest into the death of Adelaide girl Chloe Valentine has denied lying in court to protect herself.
A social worker recalled to give evidence at the inquest into the death of Adelaide girl Chloe Valentine has denied lying in court to protect herself.
Lawmakers seek changes at foster group homes
Lawmakers seek changes at foster group homes
Sen. Nancy Detert, a Venice Republican who has long worked on issues involving foster children, is seeking to reduce the use of group homes that employ workers in shifts rather than as live-in house-parents.
Sen. Nancy Detert, a Venice Republican who has long worked on issues involving foster children, is seeking to reduce the use of group homes that employ workers in shifts rather than as live-in house-parents.
East Hills woman charged with kidnapping biological children
East Hills woman charged with kidnapping biological children
Police are looking for a woman accused of kidnapping her biological children from a foster home Sunday afternoon.
Police are looking for a woman accused of kidnapping her biological children from a foster home Sunday afternoon.
Family's murder shocks Ky. social workers
Family's murder shocks Ky. social workers
Dr. Sarah Hendrix built what seemed, to her closest friends, a perfect family.
She was a prominent social worker and professor at Union College, dedicated to mending Kentucky's broken families. She and her husband, Kevin, were hobby beekeepers, a regular presence at their small-town farmer's market, who fell in love with two foster children, adopted them and raised them alongside their own biological children.
Dr. Sarah Hendrix built what seemed, to her closest friends, a perfect family.
She was a prominent social worker and professor at Union College, dedicated to mending Kentucky's broken families. She and her husband, Kevin, were hobby beekeepers, a regular presence at their small-town farmer's market, who fell in love with two foster children, adopted them and raised them alongside their own biological children.
Oklahoma Legislature Puts Parental and Family Rights Over Politics with HB 1598
Oklahoma Legislature Puts Parental and Family Rights Over Politics with HB 1598
First Stone Ministries applauds Rep. Sally Kern and Sen. Josh Brecheen for introducing HB 1598, the Parental and Family Rights in Counseling Protection Act, to protect the right of parents and families to seek counseling from a mental health provider and/or faith-based counselor to overcome unwanted same-sex attractions (SSA) and/or sexual/gender identity confusion.
First Stone Ministries applauds Rep. Sally Kern and Sen. Josh Brecheen for introducing HB 1598, the Parental and Family Rights in Counseling Protection Act, to protect the right of parents and families to seek counseling from a mental health provider and/or faith-based counselor to overcome unwanted same-sex attractions (SSA) and/or sexual/gender identity confusion.
E-cigarette smoker banned from adopting children by social worker
E-cigarette smoker banned from adopting children by social worker
A childless couple "desperate for a family" has been barred from adopting after the would-be-father was seen smoking an e-cigarette.
A childless couple "desperate for a family" has been barred from adopting after the would-be-father was seen smoking an e-cigarette.
Men Accused of Luring Boys From Park to Make Child Porn
Men Accused of Luring Boys From Park to Make Child Porn
A trio of men, including a Southern California foster care provider, are accused of making child pornography using boys they lured from parks by telling the children they would work as child models, authorities announced Tuesday.
A trio of men, including a Southern California foster care provider, are accused of making child pornography using boys they lured from parks by telling the children they would work as child models, authorities announced Tuesday.
Commentary: DCF’s Orwellian response to child thrown from bridge
Commentary: DCF’s Orwellian response to child thrown from bridge
It’s not every day that a divorce lawyer reports her own client to the state’s child abuse hotline. But that’s what John Jonchuck’s lawyer did on Jan. 7, when Jonchuck showed up at the firm’s office dressed in pajamas and toting 5-year-old daughter Phoebe, along with a Bible which he incorrectly believed to be written in Swedish. Jonchuck’s lawyer told the Hotline that her client was “out of his mind delusional,” and that Phoebe was in danger.
It’s not every day that a divorce lawyer reports her own client to the state’s child abuse hotline. But that’s what John Jonchuck’s lawyer did on Jan. 7, when Jonchuck showed up at the firm’s office dressed in pajamas and toting 5-year-old daughter Phoebe, along with a Bible which he incorrectly believed to be written in Swedish. Jonchuck’s lawyer told the Hotline that her client was “out of his mind delusional,” and that Phoebe was in danger.
Social services workers bear heavy caseloads despite state recommendations
Social services workers bear heavy caseloads despite state recommendations
Some county-level human services and social workers employed by the Department of Health and Human Resources are handling twice as many cases as the caseload standards outlined by the agency several years ago, despite promises from the agency to alleviate the heavy caseloads.
Some county-level human services and social workers employed by the Department of Health and Human Resources are handling twice as many cases as the caseload standards outlined by the agency several years ago, despite promises from the agency to alleviate the heavy caseloads.
Sunday, February 22, 2015
OFFICIAL OPPRESSION TRIAL BEGINS AGAINST TEXAS CPS WORKER
OFFICIAL OPPRESSION TRIAL BEGINS AGAINST TEXAS CPS WORKER
The criminal trial for a Texas Child Protective Services (CPS) worker is set to start this week. The CPS worker has been charged with official oppression for subjecting a person under CPS investigation “to search and seizure that the defendant knew as unlawful.” Criminal charges against CPS employees related to their actions in child protective services cases are rare.
The criminal trial for a Texas Child Protective Services (CPS) worker is set to start this week. The CPS worker has been charged with official oppression for subjecting a person under CPS investigation “to search and seizure that the defendant knew as unlawful.” Criminal charges against CPS employees related to their actions in child protective services cases are rare.
Thousands of grandparents launch court battles so they can see their grandkids
Thousands of grandparents launch court battles so they can see their grandkids
Thousands of grandparents are being forced to take on costly court battles in a desperate attempt to continue seeing their grandchildren following family breakdowns.
Thousands of grandparents are being forced to take on costly court battles in a desperate attempt to continue seeing their grandchildren following family breakdowns.
Shhh... It's CPS in disguise...
Shhh... It's CPS in disguise...
Kansas receives $10M grant for home visits to at-risk families
A $10 million grant will allow the Kansas Department of Health and Environment to provide home visits to more than 800 low-income families with young children.
Kansas receives $10M grant for home visits to at-risk families
A $10 million grant will allow the Kansas Department of Health and Environment to provide home visits to more than 800 low-income families with young children.
$1M grant to benefit Maternal, Infant and Early Childhood program
$1M grant to benefit Maternal, Infant and Early Childhood program
Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia M. Burwell has announced $1 million in grant awards to Maine to support the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program.
Nationally, $386 million was awarded to states, territories, and nonprofit organizations to support the Home Visiting Program.
Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia M. Burwell has announced $1 million in grant awards to Maine to support the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program.
Nationally, $386 million was awarded to states, territories, and nonprofit organizations to support the Home Visiting Program.
Four more Baby Ps: Boys from same city suffer horrific deaths within year after social services failings
Four more Baby Ps: Boys from same city suffer horrific deaths within year after social services failings
Four children from the same city suffered horrific deaths within a year of each other after a series of failings by social services.
Four children from the same city suffered horrific deaths within a year of each other after a series of failings by social services.
Opinion: At-risk children shouldn’t be an industry
Opinion: At-risk children shouldn’t be an industry
Once upon a time – a couple of decades ago – one of California’s sweetest deals was the creation of a supposedly nonprofit corporation to operate “group homes” for at-risk youths.
Once upon a time – a couple of decades ago – one of California’s sweetest deals was the creation of a supposedly nonprofit corporation to operate “group homes” for at-risk youths.
Saturday, February 21, 2015
California foster care: Push to curb medication has failed in past
California foster care: Push to curb medication has failed in past
Over the course of a decade, California lawmakers have considered a dozen bills to regulate the use of psychiatric drugs in the nation's largest foster care system. Yet, despite the alarm over children medicated as young as 4 and teens so doped they drooled and became obese, just one became law: a bill to speed up court approval so foster children could get drugs more quickly.
Over the course of a decade, California lawmakers have considered a dozen bills to regulate the use of psychiatric drugs in the nation's largest foster care system. Yet, despite the alarm over children medicated as young as 4 and teens so doped they drooled and became obese, just one became law: a bill to speed up court approval so foster children could get drugs more quickly.
Former Denver Human Services caseworker facing charges
Former Denver Human Services caseworker facing charges
A former Denver Human Services caseworker has been charged with official misconduct following accusations that she falsified reports in a case involving a woman whose 2-month-old daughter was hospitalized with skull fractures and later died.
A former Denver Human Services caseworker has been charged with official misconduct following accusations that she falsified reports in a case involving a woman whose 2-month-old daughter was hospitalized with skull fractures and later died.
Arizona Senate hears stories of restraint at schools
Arizona Senate hears stories of restraint at schools
The emotional stories from parents who had children physically restrained at school kept coming at the State Senate Thursday.
Report: California schools fall short at helping foster youth under state plan
Report: California schools fall short at helping foster youth under state plan
A majority of California’s largest school districts missed crucial steps needed to help foster kids in the first year of a state funding plan designed to target disadvantaged students.
A majority of California’s largest school districts missed crucial steps needed to help foster kids in the first year of a state funding plan designed to target disadvantaged students.
‘Leave It To Beaver’ Foster Families To Become Kansas Law
‘Leave It To Beaver’ Foster Families To Become Kansas Law
Imagine a land of wheat and sunflowers where ultra-good families win the state foster care jackpot, while “bad” families lose out. That could easily be “Brownbackistan” (a.k.a. Kansas).
Imagine a land of wheat and sunflowers where ultra-good families win the state foster care jackpot, while “bad” families lose out. That could easily be “Brownbackistan” (a.k.a. Kansas).
Bill would increase number of children allowed in foster homes
Bill would increase number of children allowed in foster homes
The maximum number of foster children permitted to be in one foster home in the State of Utah had been three; however, HB139 calls for that number to rise to four and, in the case of sibling groups, five.
ACLU asks federal judge to force DCFS to improve conditions for kids
ACLU asks federal judge to force DCFS to improve conditions for kids
The American Civil Liberties Union took the Department of Children and Family Services to court Thursday, arguing the state agency has failed the children it looks after.
The American Civil Liberties Union took the Department of Children and Family Services to court Thursday, arguing the state agency has failed the children it looks after.
No jeans or sneakers for N.J. child welfare workers, new dress code says
No jeans or sneakers for N.J. child welfare workers, new dress code says
New Jersey's child welfare system this month imposed a stricter dress code that bars most of its 6,600 employees from wearing t-shirts, sneakers, jeans, flip-flops, hats, sweat pants and other items "that could jeopardize the Department's efforts to engage children, families and family team members," according to the new policy.
New Jersey's child welfare system this month imposed a stricter dress code that bars most of its 6,600 employees from wearing t-shirts, sneakers, jeans, flip-flops, hats, sweat pants and other items "that could jeopardize the Department's efforts to engage children, families and family team members," according to the new policy.
Chloe Valentine inquest: Social workers not adequately trained to work with children, expert says
Social workers are not adequately trained how to work and communicate with children, a child protection expert has told an inquest into Chloe Valentine's death.
Child Abuse Register Ordered to Remove Father's Name
Child Abuse Register Ordered to Remove Father's Name
An appellate court has ordered removed from the state's Central Register of Child Abuse and Maltreatment the name of an aspiring pediatrician who was reported for striking his 2-year-old son once on the buttock.
An appellate court has ordered removed from the state's Central Register of Child Abuse and Maltreatment the name of an aspiring pediatrician who was reported for striking his 2-year-old son once on the buttock.
Cops Stop Teens for Shoveling Snow, Stirring A Heap Of Controversy
It’s a practice that’s about as common as setting up a lemonade stand. In central New Jersey, local residents would hardly balk at two teenagers knocking on the door with snow shovels and offering to shovel a driveway for a buck or two.
More >> Cops Stop Teens for Shoveling Snow, Stirring A Heap Of ControversyNote: When I was a kid, I used to shovel driveways, mow lawns, set up lemonade stands, you name it. If one person said no, you moved on to the next. There was never a problem and I rarely got paid before the job was done.
So now, what articles like this tell me is that I've been a hardened criminal since I was like ten. So all I can say is: 'Fuck you, you stupid idiot cops!' You should all be glad that these kids are learning the value of work instead of welfare. I don't see you getting out there helping grandma shovel her driveway.
We all need to live and work together. The fact that some people are assholes doesn't change that and shouldn't ruin it for the rest. However, due to recent events such as the kids getting busted for running lemonade stands, parents getting reported for letting their kids play alone outside or the schools ratting parents out for every little scrape on the knee, and now a kid can't shovel driveways without it being a crime?
The normal people really need to pull their heads out of their asses. And whoever called the cops on these kids should be beaten just for doing so. Some people really do deserve it you know.
Friday, February 20, 2015
American Children Wrongfully Taken From Loving Families. Why?
This video starts a discussion about how an Industry has been created from unintended consequences of a Federal Funding program that was intended to prevent child abuse and protect children. Instead, an industry has been born by which State governments across America have become dependent on the funding that has lead to what data is showing a high rate of non-abused children being wrongfully removed from loving, good parents who simply don't have money to fight the system. These hearings are secret and confidential so that patterns of unethical, inhumane, unconstitutional, and criminal activity are not seen by the public. That is how they get away with it, they hide under the "confidentiality" of child welfare. NO CHILD SHOULD EVER BE ABUSED, not by a parent and certainly not by the state. It is apparent in the available data that many states are keeping quotas to maximize their entitlements under the many Federal Funding programs. But how do they get away with it? Simple, there are too many people that are benefiting and/or profiting off of the industry and that includes state budgets. But the numbers are growing and more and more victims are coming together to save their children, or when their children have already been take, to help future victim families. One thing is certain, in order for states to continue to feed this beast of an industry, they must keep their stock up. Their stock is the children of unsuspecting parents. We need laws to make these matters transparent and to require independent auditing and a complaint process to safeguard children and families. Know this, nearly every good, loving parent that has encountered this fraud has said this "I would have never believed it before I found myself in this nightmare. I thought that if CPS or the state had your kids it was because they had evidence of abuse but now I know that is just not true. They don't need anything but an anonymous complaint to take your children away."
Thursday, February 19, 2015
Police: Foster dad recruited boys into child porn ring
Police: Foster dad recruited boys into child porn ring
A foster parent who works at a high school is one of three suspects arrested in a child pornography investigation that spanned from Los Angeles to Las Vegas.
A foster parent who works at a high school is one of three suspects arrested in a child pornography investigation that spanned from Los Angeles to Las Vegas.
Gruesome Sexual Assault Lawsuit Linked to Citrus Health Network
Gruesome Sexual Assault Lawsuit Linked to Citrus Health Network
A recent lawsuit that dropped in a Miami district court spells out a sad tale of sexual assault at a foster home -- a situation that could have been prevented had responsible adults paid attention. According to the detailed unveiled in the lawsuit filed by the mother, Precious Sharpe, the plaintiff's daughter entered the state's child custody system in 2002. Instead of protecting the child, the young girl was placed in a situation that teed her up for further sexual assault -- sexual assault that continued under the noses of a foster parent and the non-profit tasked with her care. According to the lawsuit, the assault continued under the watch of Citrus Health Network, an organization we've written about plenty here at New Times.
A recent lawsuit that dropped in a Miami district court spells out a sad tale of sexual assault at a foster home -- a situation that could have been prevented had responsible adults paid attention. According to the detailed unveiled in the lawsuit filed by the mother, Precious Sharpe, the plaintiff's daughter entered the state's child custody system in 2002. Instead of protecting the child, the young girl was placed in a situation that teed her up for further sexual assault -- sexual assault that continued under the noses of a foster parent and the non-profit tasked with her care. According to the lawsuit, the assault continued under the watch of Citrus Health Network, an organization we've written about plenty here at New Times.
Is Kate Gosselin Being Investigated by Child Protective Services?
Is Kate Gosselin Being Investigated by Child Protective Services?
Kate Gosselin seems to find herself dealing with vicious rumors every few months, thanks in great part to comments made by her ex Jon Gosselin. He has alleged that she has been abusive toward their eight children at various points in time, but no charges have ever been filed against her. Supposedly, child protective services have once again been called on the reality star, and it seems that her ex may once again be responsible.
Kate Gosselin seems to find herself dealing with vicious rumors every few months, thanks in great part to comments made by her ex Jon Gosselin. He has alleged that she has been abusive toward their eight children at various points in time, but no charges have ever been filed against her. Supposedly, child protective services have once again been called on the reality star, and it seems that her ex may once again be responsible.
Night shift groper gets probation
Night shift groper gets probation
A city man has been given a suspended sentence concerning an incident involving a female coworker at a Copper Cliff group home almost five years ago.
A city man has been given a suspended sentence concerning an incident involving a female coworker at a Copper Cliff group home almost five years ago.
Activists want to see changes to foster care system in wake of child porn case
Activists want to see changes to foster care system in wake of child porn case
Activists looking for reform in the foster care system were canvassing cars parked outside Desert Hot Springs High School today.
Activists looking for reform in the foster care system were canvassing cars parked outside Desert Hot Springs High School today.
Fairfield mother found guilty of kidnapping her children
Fairfield mother found guilty of kidnapping her children
A Fairfield woman who fled the state with two of her children not in her legal custody was found guilty of two counts of felony criminal restraint by a parent after a jury trial Wednesday in Kennebec County Superior Court.
A Fairfield woman who fled the state with two of her children not in her legal custody was found guilty of two counts of felony criminal restraint by a parent after a jury trial Wednesday in Kennebec County Superior Court.
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
DCF Employees Facing Consequences over Phoebe Jonchuck Case
DCF Employees Facing Consequences over Phoebe Jonchuck Case
Child abuse hot line employees will face unspecified "consequences" as a result of not following established procedures and accepting a call hours before 5-year-old Phoebe Jonchuck was thrown from a Tampa Bay bridge.
Child abuse hot line employees will face unspecified "consequences" as a result of not following established procedures and accepting a call hours before 5-year-old Phoebe Jonchuck was thrown from a Tampa Bay bridge.
Social worker who admitted to child neglect has been suspended
Social worker who admitted to child neglect has been suspended
A Coventry social worker who received a police caution for “child cruelty” has been banned from practising for 12 months.
A Coventry social worker who received a police caution for “child cruelty” has been banned from practising for 12 months.
Butler County sued over erroneous child abuse finding
Butler County sued over erroneous child abuse finding
Butler County has been sued in federal court by a former teacher who claims Butler County Children Services Director Bill Morrison erroneously declared her a child abuser when he was the agency ombudsman.
Butler County has been sued in federal court by a former teacher who claims Butler County Children Services Director Bill Morrison erroneously declared her a child abuser when he was the agency ombudsman.
Judge criticises council after toddler taken into care over father's links to English Defence League
Judge criticises council after toddler taken into care over father's links to English Defence League
Senior managers at a local authority have been criticised by the most senior family court judge in England and Wales over the way they handled a case involving a toddler who had been placed in foster care at birth because of the father's links to the English Defence League.
Senior managers at a local authority have been criticised by the most senior family court judge in England and Wales over the way they handled a case involving a toddler who had been placed in foster care at birth because of the father's links to the English Defence League.
Anonymous "Hactivist" Group Targets Child Protective Services
Anonymous "Hactivist" Group Targets Child Protective Services
The "hactivist" group Anonymous, known for attacks on Visa, Mastercard, PayPal and high level cyber security firms, has announced "Operation: Expose CPS" against Child Protective Services and are calling it an attack on the legal kidnapping and trafficking of children for profit.
The "hactivist" group Anonymous, known for attacks on Visa, Mastercard, PayPal and high level cyber security firms, has announced "Operation: Expose CPS" against Child Protective Services and are calling it an attack on the legal kidnapping and trafficking of children for profit.
DHS man among 3 arrested for sexual assaulting children, human trafficking
DHS man among 3 arrested for sexual assaulting children, human trafficking
A Special Education aid at Desert Hot Springs High School has been arrested along with two other men on multiple charges of human trafficking and child pornography, according to the Riverside County District Attorney's Office.
A Special Education aid at Desert Hot Springs High School has been arrested along with two other men on multiple charges of human trafficking and child pornography, according to the Riverside County District Attorney's Office.
Police: Foster Parent Involved In One Of State’s Worst Child-Exploitation Schemes
Police: Foster Parent Involved In One Of State’s Worst Child-Exploitation Schemes
Authorities in the Inland Empire said they have busted one of the worst child-exploitation schemes in Southern California in recent years, allegedly involving a teaching assistant and foster parent.
Authorities in the Inland Empire said they have busted one of the worst child-exploitation schemes in Southern California in recent years, allegedly involving a teaching assistant and foster parent.
Florida Lawmakers Discuss DCF Report On 5-Year-Old's Tragic Death
Florida Lawmakers Discuss DCF Report On 5-Year-Old's Tragic Death
A panel of Florida lawmakers got an update Tuesday on a report, detailing what led to the tragic death of a little girl last month.
Seven of 11 New Governors Change Up Child Welfare Bosses
Seven of 11 New Governors Change Up Child Welfare Bosses
It is the second month of the year, which means it also the second month in the mansion for the 11 new governors sworn in for 2015. Here’s a look at three new state child welfare leaders who are stepping into some sticky situations: Illinois It surprised YSI that, in the majority of articles about George Sheldon taking over the Illinois Department of Children and Families, the focus was on Sheldon’s experience running the Florida Department of Children and Families from 2008 to 2011. We would have thought Sheldon’s employer after the Florida gig would be of interest since he’s an Illinois guy: Barack Obama. Sheldon lead the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which is the senior child welfare position in the Obama administration.
It is the second month of the year, which means it also the second month in the mansion for the 11 new governors sworn in for 2015. Here’s a look at three new state child welfare leaders who are stepping into some sticky situations: Illinois It surprised YSI that, in the majority of articles about George Sheldon taking over the Illinois Department of Children and Families, the focus was on Sheldon’s experience running the Florida Department of Children and Families from 2008 to 2011. We would have thought Sheldon’s employer after the Florida gig would be of interest since he’s an Illinois guy: Barack Obama. Sheldon lead the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which is the senior child welfare position in the Obama administration.
Illinois' child welfare system leaves kids stuck in jail
Illinois' child welfare system leaves kids stuck in jail
There’s a kid in the Cook County juvenile jail right now who isn’t supposed to be there. A judge ordered his release on January 29.
There’s a kid in the Cook County juvenile jail right now who isn’t supposed to be there. A judge ordered his release on January 29.
EDITORIAL: CPS must rethink focus on keeping families intact to protect kids better
EDITORIAL: CPS must rethink focus on keeping families intact to protect kids better
Being a case worker for Child Protective Services has to be one of the most difficult and draining jobs out there. Case workers routinely see children who are abused and neglected, sometimes in terrible ways. Their anguish and frustration must be unbearable at times, but of course society needs case workers to meet this challenge and protect as many children as possible. These threatened children also might need a new approach by Child Protective Services to the focus on keeping the families they serve intact.
Being a case worker for Child Protective Services has to be one of the most difficult and draining jobs out there. Case workers routinely see children who are abused and neglected, sometimes in terrible ways. Their anguish and frustration must be unbearable at times, but of course society needs case workers to meet this challenge and protect as many children as possible. These threatened children also might need a new approach by Child Protective Services to the focus on keeping the families they serve intact.
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
New KFC advert ruffles feathers
New KFC advert ruffles feathers
Foster carers and adoptive families who took exception to the new KFC TV advert took to social media to express their views as it hit their screens this week. The ad shows a boy with his social worker, arriving in a foster/adoptive family for the first time to a KFC dinner, and then whizzes through the highlights of his growing up in that family, playing football, getting a girlfriend, graduating... and then returning as an adult to visit his family for another KFC bargain bucket.
Foster carers and adoptive families who took exception to the new KFC TV advert took to social media to express their views as it hit their screens this week. The ad shows a boy with his social worker, arriving in a foster/adoptive family for the first time to a KFC dinner, and then whizzes through the highlights of his growing up in that family, playing football, getting a girlfriend, graduating... and then returning as an adult to visit his family for another KFC bargain bucket.
Her Foster Father Raped Her When She Was 11, Then Forced Her to Have an Abortion
Her Foster Father Raped Her When She Was 11, Then Forced Her to Have an Abortion
In the late 1970’s, Esther Grace was repeatedly raped by her foster father in England. Her father, who she’s agreed not to name, was a former serviceman who abused her as well as other children by groups of military officers. Tragically, when Esther was 11 her father got her pregnant and then forced her to have a “backstreet abortion.” Now Esther is 46-years-old and her claims are being investigated by police. Authorities are also investigating historical VIP pedophile rings at military bases.
Policy may reunite immigrants, endangered children
Policy may reunite immigrants, endangered children
Federal officials are rolling out a new refugee program that could reunite thousands of children facing danger in Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador with their immigrant parents in the United States.
Ontario may collect race-based data on kids in care
Ontario may collect race-based data on kids in care
Ontario’s children’s minister, Tracy MacCharles, will look at having all children’s aid societies in the province collect race-based data on the kids in their care.
Ontario’s children’s minister, Tracy MacCharles, will look at having all children’s aid societies in the province collect race-based data on the kids in their care.
Data: Indiana has highest rate in U.S. of teens who considered suicide
Data: Indiana has highest rate in U.S. of teens who considered suicide
Indiana has the highest rate in the country of teens who have considered suicide and the second-highest rate of those who attempted it, according to a report from the Indiana Youth Institute.
Indiana has the highest rate in the country of teens who have considered suicide and the second-highest rate of those who attempted it, according to a report from the Indiana Youth Institute.
‘Let’s protect rights of orphans, foster children’
‘Let’s protect rights of orphans, foster children’
The Children’s Act Act, 1998 (Act 560) envisages a situation where children will find themselves in a condition where temporary homes will be the option for their maintenance and rehabilitation.
The Children’s Act Act, 1998 (Act 560) envisages a situation where children will find themselves in a condition where temporary homes will be the option for their maintenance and rehabilitation.
Rampant medication use found among L.A. County foster, delinquent kids
Rampant medication use found among L.A. County foster, delinquent kids
Los Angeles County officials are allowing the use of powerful psychiatric drugs on far more children in the juvenile delinquency and foster care systems than they had previously acknowledged, according to data obtained by The Times through a Public Records Act request.
Los Angeles County officials are allowing the use of powerful psychiatric drugs on far more children in the juvenile delinquency and foster care systems than they had previously acknowledged, according to data obtained by The Times through a Public Records Act request.
Raising our children on fear
Raising our children on fear
We all want what is best for our children. We want them to be happy and successful, and we want to protect them from harm. But what if we are protecting them from extremely remote threats while ignoring the things that most endanger their well-being?
We all want what is best for our children. We want them to be happy and successful, and we want to protect them from harm. But what if we are protecting them from extremely remote threats while ignoring the things that most endanger their well-being?
ACLU asks judge to order Illinois reforms for child services
ACLU asks judge to order Illinois reforms for child services
The American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois has asked a federal judge to order the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services to start enacting court-ordered reforms.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois has asked a federal judge to order the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services to start enacting court-ordered reforms.
Rauner faces pressure from ACLU to overhaul child services
Rauner faces pressure from ACLU to overhaul child services
First-term Gov. Bruce Rauner has come under increasing pressure to overhaul Illinois' troubled child welfare system after a leading civil rights group asked for quick federal court action over "dangerously inadequate" care and services.
First-term Gov. Bruce Rauner has come under increasing pressure to overhaul Illinois' troubled child welfare system after a leading civil rights group asked for quick federal court action over "dangerously inadequate" care and services.
Monday, February 16, 2015
Orphan Trains were precursor to child foster system
Orphan Trains were precursor to child foster system
An estimated 250,000 orphaned, abandoned and homeless children were placed with families throughout the United States and Canada during the Orphan Train Movement from 1854 to 1929. The majority of these children lived in New York City and found themselves destitute for a number of reasons.
An estimated 250,000 orphaned, abandoned and homeless children were placed with families throughout the United States and Canada during the Orphan Train Movement from 1854 to 1929. The majority of these children lived in New York City and found themselves destitute for a number of reasons.
Woman stabbed to death by foster child 'very sweet', inquiry hears
Woman stabbed to death by foster child 'very sweet', inquiry hears
A woman killed by her 13-year-old foster child was a kind and caring person who had an affinity with children, her husband has told an inquiry.
A woman killed by her 13-year-old foster child was a kind and caring person who had an affinity with children, her husband has told an inquiry.
Michael Beer Indicted On 1st Degree Murder Charge In Death Of Foster Child Trysten Adams
Michael Beer Indicted On 1st Degree Murder Charge In Death Of Foster Child Trysten Adams
48-year-old Michael Beer of Port St. Lucie has been indicted on 1st degree murder and aggravated child abuse charges following the death of his 2-year-old foster child, Trysten Adams, court records show.
48-year-old Michael Beer of Port St. Lucie has been indicted on 1st degree murder and aggravated child abuse charges following the death of his 2-year-old foster child, Trysten Adams, court records show.
Connecticut Schools Pin Down and Restrain "Staggering" Number of Kids
Connecticut Schools Pin Down and Restrain "Staggering" Number of Kids
Connecticut public schools are far too quick to restrain or isolate unruly children against their will, leaving hundreds with injuries and many others with unmet educational needs, a state report released last week found.
Connecticut public schools are far too quick to restrain or isolate unruly children against their will, leaving hundreds with injuries and many others with unmet educational needs, a state report released last week found.
Woman stabbed to death by her foster child 'wanted to help kids'
Woman stabbed to death by her foster child 'wanted to help kids'
A woman killed by her 13-year-old foster child was a kind and caring person who had an affinity with children, her husband has told an inquiry.
A woman killed by her 13-year-old foster child was a kind and caring person who had an affinity with children, her husband has told an inquiry.
$558 per hour paid out in child-welfare case
$558 per hour paid out in child-welfare case
A state agency is bypassing state attorneys and paying a private law firm $558 an hour in an aggressive effort to try to end court oversight of Michigan’s child-welfare system.
A state agency is bypassing state attorneys and paying a private law firm $558 an hour in an aggressive effort to try to end court oversight of Michigan’s child-welfare system.
Sunday, February 15, 2015
Texas’ 2015 Valentine Weekend Massacre of the CPS Handbook
For the better part of the last decade, Texas has had the honor of having the most complete and comprehensive Child Protection Handbook nationwide. A handbook that family advocates from all 50 states used as a learning tool. That all changes February 15, 2015, when the Department of Family and Protective Services strips out close to 450 pages of functionality.
In 2010, Angel Eyes over Texas was founded to “Watch (CPS) while others can’t.“. They tracked all handbook changes on their blog www.aeovrt.org providing caseworkers, attorneys, advocates and other stakeholders quick easy access to the monthly changes starting in 2011. Their post reflecting the most recent changes is located here.
An effective handbook must contain both policy and procedures. It appears that a huge chuck of procedures were stripped away with this revision greatly reducing its effectiveness as a field manual. Case work is primarily field work. Field workers need to be able to work independent of direct supervision, therefore they need ready reference materials; preferably updated real time.
These changes were made with intent to simplify and improve efficiency while claiming to improve transparency and accountability have in fact done just the opposite.
Former DCFS worker harasses mother after government kidnapped and sexually abused her son
17-year-old Isaiah Rider was taken from his mother and is now a ward of the state, with new foster parents, following state orders for all his medical "decisions." The true mother, Michelle Rider, has been trying to regain custody of Isaiah for 11 months now.
Saturday, February 14, 2015
INSIGHT KANSAS: Social engineering the foster care system
INSIGHT KANSAS: Social engineering the foster care system
Every child deserves a family. I know this as well as anyone. Had the Rackaways not adopted me as a baby, I may never have known what it means to be part of a family.
Every child deserves a family. I know this as well as anyone. Had the Rackaways not adopted me as a baby, I may never have known what it means to be part of a family.
Tevlin: 25 years later foster mom still hopes a killer is found
Tevlin: 25 years later foster mom still hopes a killer is found
The memories come back to Mary McKenna in odd ways. She’ll bump into a special-education teacher or a social worker who once helped her foster daughter, Deltrece Benson.
Why don’t the family courts obey the law?
Why don’t the family courts obey the law?
For two years, Lord Justice Munby, the head of our family courts, has been heroically fighting to restore some semblance of justice and common sense to our horribly secretive and corrupted “child protection” system, which I have been reporting on here since 2009 as one of the most shocking scandals in Britain today.
For two years, Lord Justice Munby, the head of our family courts, has been heroically fighting to restore some semblance of justice and common sense to our horribly secretive and corrupted “child protection” system, which I have been reporting on here since 2009 as one of the most shocking scandals in Britain today.
Children in care: We reveal horrifying allegations about foster homes and residential centres housing Ireland’s most vulnerable youngsters
Children in care: We reveal horrifying allegations about foster homes and residential centres housing Ireland’s most vulnerable youngsters
Sexual and physical abuse of children, staff turning a blind eye to drug use and an incident that left one youth hospitalised for days are just some of the shocking allegations made against foster homes and residential care centres
Sexual and physical abuse of children, staff turning a blind eye to drug use and an incident that left one youth hospitalised for days are just some of the shocking allegations made against foster homes and residential care centres
What is a Conspiracy Theory? What is the Truth?
According to Paul Craig Roberts (2011), the conspiracy theory concept “has undergone Orwellian redefinition”…
A “conspiracy theory” no longer means an event explained by a conspiracy. Instead, it now means any explanation, or even a fact, that is out of step with the government’s explanation and that of its media pimps….
In other words, as truth becomes uncomfortable for government and its Ministry of Propaganda, truth is redefined as conspiracy theory, by which is meant an absurd and laughable explanation that we should ignore.
Fiction becomes fact.
Questions raised about foster care process after girl, 12, reports sexual abuse
Questions raised about foster care process after girl, 12, reports sexual abuse
A case of alleged child sex abuse in Marion County is raising questions about the Department of Children and Families and the foster care process.
A case of alleged child sex abuse in Marion County is raising questions about the Department of Children and Families and the foster care process.
Juvenile justice system treats victims as criminals
Juvenile justice system treats victims as criminals
“I’m angry,” 14-year-old Nikki told the judge. Sitting in a special juvenile court for commercially sexually exploited children, the diminutive teen slouched in her seat looking lost in her oversize county-issued sweat suit.
“I’m angry,” 14-year-old Nikki told the judge. Sitting in a special juvenile court for commercially sexually exploited children, the diminutive teen slouched in her seat looking lost in her oversize county-issued sweat suit.
Convicted of killing her foster child, Lamie gets life in prison
Convicted of killing her foster child, Lamie gets life in prison
Moments before Heather Lamie was sentenced to life in prison Friday, she told the judge she loved Kianna Rudesill, the 4-year-old foster child she was convicted of killing.
Moments before Heather Lamie was sentenced to life in prison Friday, she told the judge she loved Kianna Rudesill, the 4-year-old foster child she was convicted of killing.
Detroit woman arraigned on charges of punching CPS worker, biting police officer at Bay County McDonald's
Detroit woman arraigned on charges of punching CPS worker, biting police officer at Bay County McDonald's
Prosecutors allege a Detroit woman visiting her children inside a Bay County McDonald's restaurant hit a fever pitch of rage so high, she battered a Child Protective Services worker, bit a police officer, and fought through the pain of being stunned by a Taser.
Prosecutors allege a Detroit woman visiting her children inside a Bay County McDonald's restaurant hit a fever pitch of rage so high, she battered a Child Protective Services worker, bit a police officer, and fought through the pain of being stunned by a Taser.
Police use stun gun on mother at McDonald's
Police use stun gun on mother at McDonald's
A woman remains behind bars after being arrested during an alleged assault at an area McDonald's restaurant on Thursday.
A woman remains behind bars after being arrested during an alleged assault at an area McDonald's restaurant on Thursday.
Friday, February 13, 2015
Children with history of institutional care have increased risk for autism, shows study
Study published in JAACAP shows that abandoned children placed in child-centered foster care environments improves social behaviors
Single mum gets child back from caretaker who 'adopted' the girl
Single mum gets child back from caretaker who 'adopted' the girl
It will be a sweet Chinese New Year reunion for single mother Lee Xie Li as the Children's Court here has granted her custody of her five-year-old daughter after a three-year ordeal.
It will be a sweet Chinese New Year reunion for single mother Lee Xie Li as the Children's Court here has granted her custody of her five-year-old daughter after a three-year ordeal.
Foster Mom Has Her Kids Drink Bleach To Pass Drug Test
New article on an old story...
Foster Mom Has Her Kids Drink Bleach To Pass Drug Test
54 year old Pam from Bunker Hill, Kansas is being charged with felony aggravated endangerment of a child and several other charges after she forced her foster children to drink a mixed solution of bleach and milk, according to KSNT in Topeka. She knew her children had marijuana in their system and used the diluted bleach to try to beat the social workers’ drug test.
Foster Mom Has Her Kids Drink Bleach To Pass Drug Test
54 year old Pam from Bunker Hill, Kansas is being charged with felony aggravated endangerment of a child and several other charges after she forced her foster children to drink a mixed solution of bleach and milk, according to KSNT in Topeka. She knew her children had marijuana in their system and used the diluted bleach to try to beat the social workers’ drug test.
'Anonymous' Hackers To Expose Child Sex Abusers
'Anonymous' Hackers To Expose Child Sex Abusers
Activist network Anonymous is planning a day of action to expose establishment child abuse and cover ups.
Activist network Anonymous is planning a day of action to expose establishment child abuse and cover ups.
Proposed stricter guidelines for KS foster parents met with criticism
Proposed stricter guidelines for KS foster parents met with criticism
The Kansas Legislature is considering a measure that puts a premium on cleaner living standards for foster parents, but Senate Bill 158 is not without controversy.
The Kansas Legislature is considering a measure that puts a premium on cleaner living standards for foster parents, but Senate Bill 158 is not without controversy.
California attorney general rolls out plan to target foster care abuse
California attorney general rolls out plan to target foster care abuse
California Atty. Gen. Kamala Harris launched a new initiative focused on protecting children — especially those in the foster system, who she said are vulnerable to unscrupulous caregivers and identity thieves.
California Atty. Gen. Kamala Harris launched a new initiative focused on protecting children — especially those in the foster system, who she said are vulnerable to unscrupulous caregivers and identity thieves.
Thursday, February 12, 2015
One Way To Reduce Foster Runaways: Have Fewer Foster Teens
One Way To Reduce Foster Runaways: Have Fewer Foster Teens
Washington’s Department of Social and Health Services now has a team of social workers whose sole job is to find foster youth who run away.
Washington’s Department of Social and Health Services now has a team of social workers whose sole job is to find foster youth who run away.
Parents whose children were taken away stage protest against Liverpool family court judge Robert Dodds
Parents whose children were taken away stage protest against Liverpool family court judge Robert Dodds
PARENTS whose children have been taken away at the hands of a Liverpool family court judge staged a protest outside court today.
PARENTS whose children have been taken away at the hands of a Liverpool family court judge staged a protest outside court today.
Sen. Kane to CT DCF Commissioner Katz: “You failed on the first four years.”
Sen. Kane to CT DCF Commissioner Katz: “You failed on the first four years.”
Two Republican senators roundly criticized her leadership, but Joette Katz held firm against independent oversight and at the end of a long afternoon was unanimously endorsed in a bi-partisan vote of the legislature’s nominating committee for a second term as child-protection commissioner.
Two Republican senators roundly criticized her leadership, but Joette Katz held firm against independent oversight and at the end of a long afternoon was unanimously endorsed in a bi-partisan vote of the legislature’s nominating committee for a second term as child-protection commissioner.
New child-welfare chief: Stop 'potential law breaking'
New child-welfare chief: Stop 'potential law breaking'
New child-welfare director Greg McKay suggests his predecessors at the Department of Child Safety may have been close to breaking the law, according to a memo McKay sent to staff Tuesday evening.
New child-welfare director Greg McKay suggests his predecessors at the Department of Child Safety may have been close to breaking the law, according to a memo McKay sent to staff Tuesday evening.
Dead UK mother loses Australian custody fight
Dead UK mother loses Australian custody fight
An English woman who did not want her two children to live with her ex-husband in Australia has lost a fight from beyond the grave in a British court.
An English woman who did not want her two children to live with her ex-husband in Australia has lost a fight from beyond the grave in a British court.
ACLU sues for records on abuse of immigrant children
ACLU sues for records on abuse of immigrant children
The Arizona branch of the American Civil Liberties Union filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on Wednesday, demanding that the agency hand over records detailing mistreatment of children held by the Border Patrol.
The Arizona branch of the American Civil Liberties Union filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on Wednesday, demanding that the agency hand over records detailing mistreatment of children held by the Border Patrol.
Juvenile corrections officer in Orange charged with abuse for rubbing kids' shoes in urine
Juvenile corrections officer in Orange charged with abuse for rubbing kids' shoes in urine
A former corrections officer at the Juvenile Hall in Orange was charged Tuesday on suspicion of child abuse after prosecutors say she rubbed the shoes of three minors in urine while on duty, the Orange County District Attorney's Office announced.
A former corrections officer at the Juvenile Hall in Orange was charged Tuesday on suspicion of child abuse after prosecutors say she rubbed the shoes of three minors in urine while on duty, the Orange County District Attorney's Office announced.
Police force apologises to 59 alleged victims in 30 child abuse cases over bungled investigations
Police force apologises to 59 alleged victims in 30 child abuse cases over bungled investigations
Essex Police has been forced to apologise to 59 alleged victims after a major investigation was launched into its handling of dozens of child abuse investigations, including cases of rape.
Essex Police has been forced to apologise to 59 alleged victims after a major investigation was launched into its handling of dozens of child abuse investigations, including cases of rape.
Child welfare officials on defensive over child death 'transparency'
Child welfare officials on defensive over child death 'transparency'
Florida’s top child welfare officials were on the defensive before a House committee on Wednesday as they defended an annual report on child deaths that had been stripped of data and embarrassing details about the state’s role in failing to protect the children whose lives were lost.
Florida’s top child welfare officials were on the defensive before a House committee on Wednesday as they defended an annual report on child deaths that had been stripped of data and embarrassing details about the state’s role in failing to protect the children whose lives were lost.
This Mom Got Charged With Child Neglect For Taking Her Son on an Adoption Trip
This Mom Got Charged With Child Neglect For Taking Her Son on an Adoption Trip
How much missed school is cause for legal concern? For Washington DC mom Jessica Smith, it only took 20 days of absence for her son's school to send her to court for criminal child neglect. However, the missed days of school weren't due to oversleeping or laziness — rather, Smith had brought her son Ziggy along on an adoption trip to Mongolia. Ziggy, who was adopted from Mongolia himself, had been begging his mom for a younger sibling, so when the same orphanage alerted Smith that they found a match for their little family, it seemed like a no-brainer.
How much missed school is cause for legal concern? For Washington DC mom Jessica Smith, it only took 20 days of absence for her son's school to send her to court for criminal child neglect. However, the missed days of school weren't due to oversleeping or laziness — rather, Smith had brought her son Ziggy along on an adoption trip to Mongolia. Ziggy, who was adopted from Mongolia himself, had been begging his mom for a younger sibling, so when the same orphanage alerted Smith that they found a match for their little family, it seemed like a no-brainer.
Life As A Foster Runaway: Drugs, Danger And Pregnancy
Life As A Foster Runaway: Drugs, Danger And Pregnancy
Rural Thurston County in Washington is the kind of place people move to for a little elbow room. But if you’re a teenager from the suburbs, life can be less than exciting.
Rural Thurston County in Washington is the kind of place people move to for a little elbow room. But if you’re a teenager from the suburbs, life can be less than exciting.
Harsh judgment for a harsh care system
Harsh judgment for a harsh care system
Switzerland is going through a process of atonement for historic wrongs committed against children in care. The players are often reduced to simple stereotypes: cruel authorities and exploitative foster parents, with little mention of the other main culprit – poverty.
Switzerland is going through a process of atonement for historic wrongs committed against children in care. The players are often reduced to simple stereotypes: cruel authorities and exploitative foster parents, with little mention of the other main culprit – poverty.
Alert canceled: Teen mom, infant son found safe in Seattle
Alert canceled: Teen mom, infant son found safe in Seattle
An Endangered Missing Person's alert has been issued out of Tacoma for a 6-month-old boy who was taken from foster care by his teen mother.
An Endangered Missing Person's alert has been issued out of Tacoma for a 6-month-old boy who was taken from foster care by his teen mother.
Mother sentenced for kidnapping son
Mother sentenced for kidnapping son
Denise Michelle Shaver, 39, of Keswick pleaded guilty Tuesday to the July 7, 2014, abduction of her 15-year-old son from his foster home in Level Run.
Denise Michelle Shaver, 39, of Keswick pleaded guilty Tuesday to the July 7, 2014, abduction of her 15-year-old son from his foster home in Level Run.
Mother 'failed by' social services
Mother 'failed by' social services
A troubled social services department has been accused of placing a child at risk by failing to prevent a convicted paedophile having unrestricted access to a five-year-old girl.
A troubled social services department has been accused of placing a child at risk by failing to prevent a convicted paedophile having unrestricted access to a five-year-old girl.
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Teen girl charged in barn fire at group foster home gets probation
Teen girl charged in barn fire at group foster home gets probation
The second of two teenage girls charged in connection with a barn fire has been sentenced to probation.
The second of two teenage girls charged in connection with a barn fire has been sentenced to probation.
Could children in prisons be the next abuse scandal?
Could children in prisons be the next abuse scandal?
If the last few years taught us anything, it's that child abuse thrives in institutions where they can't speak out, are unwilling to do so, or won't be believed when they do.
If the last few years taught us anything, it's that child abuse thrives in institutions where they can't speak out, are unwilling to do so, or won't be believed when they do.
Ontario slow to fix child protection system, critics say
Ontario slow to fix child protection system, critics say
The Ministry of Children and Youth Services is dragging its feet on making significant improvements to Ontario’s child protection system, critics argued on the day the ministry responded to recommendations from the Jeffrey Baldwin inquest.
The Ministry of Children and Youth Services is dragging its feet on making significant improvements to Ontario’s child protection system, critics argued on the day the ministry responded to recommendations from the Jeffrey Baldwin inquest.
Renewed push for an Adoptee Bill of Rights in NY
There's a renewed push for an Adoptee Bill of Rights in New York State. Versions of this bill have been introduced in previous sessions, but never made it to the floor for a vote.
Inquiry into Nottingham police finds serious child protection failings
Inquiry into Nottingham police finds serious child protection failings
Nottinghamshire police has been criticised by inspectors after an inquiry found serious failings in its child protection work, including one case where detectives took eight months to arrest a suspected paedophile who groomed a 14-year-old girl online.
Nottinghamshire police has been criticised by inspectors after an inquiry found serious failings in its child protection work, including one case where detectives took eight months to arrest a suspected paedophile who groomed a 14-year-old girl online.
Zug: SC must close loophole that endangers children through ‘re-homing’
Zug: SC must close loophole that endangers children through ‘re-homing’
‘Re-homing” is the practice of placing one’s adopted child with a new family. Frequently, these new families are strangers, and unlike the initial adoption, re-homing occurs without any judicial or other governmental oversight. Child-welfare advocates estimate that at least 10 percent of all foreign children are re-homed and that this percentage increases for older adoptees. South Carolina families adopted 122 foreign children last year, and nearly half of them were older adoptees. So it’s likely that at least a dozen children in our state are re-homed every year. This practice needs to end.
Person of interest in foster child rape is found
Person of interest in foster child rape is found
Police have found a man they’re calling a “person of interest” in the gang rape of a 17-year-old foster girl that reportedly took place in the Carver Heights section of Leesburg last month.
Police have found a man they’re calling a “person of interest” in the gang rape of a 17-year-old foster girl that reportedly took place in the Carver Heights section of Leesburg last month.
U.S. considers detaining more mother, child migrants
U.S. considers detaining more mother, child migrants
An almost-abandoned practice of holding migrant mothers and children in prisonlike settings is not only back but also is surging as the U.S. government continues to struggle with the wave of migrants fleeing violence in Central America.
An almost-abandoned practice of holding migrant mothers and children in prisonlike settings is not only back but also is surging as the U.S. government continues to struggle with the wave of migrants fleeing violence in Central America.
Kansas bill would reward foster parents who are married, faithful, church-going and alcohol-free
Kansas bill would reward foster parents who are married, faithful, church-going and alcohol-free
Married couples who refrain from extramarital sex, keep a home free of liquor and tobacco, and regularly participate in a church or similar social organization could qualify as providers of a higher tier of foster care under a bill proposed by a Republican lawmaker from southern Kansas.
Married couples who refrain from extramarital sex, keep a home free of liquor and tobacco, and regularly participate in a church or similar social organization could qualify as providers of a higher tier of foster care under a bill proposed by a Republican lawmaker from southern Kansas.
Ducey shakes up child welfare department
Ducey shakes up child welfare department
Gov.Doug Ducey continues to shake up state agencies. His latest move was the firing of Arizona Department of Child Safety Director Charles Flanagan, an appointee of former Gov. Jan Brewer, and the appointment of former Phoenix police Det. Greg McKay to lead the child welfare agency.
Gov.Doug Ducey continues to shake up state agencies. His latest move was the firing of Arizona Department of Child Safety Director Charles Flanagan, an appointee of former Gov. Jan Brewer, and the appointment of former Phoenix police Det. Greg McKay to lead the child welfare agency.
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Virginia Passes Bill to Rein in Restraints of School Kids
Virginia lawmakers have passed a bill requiring state leaders to set limits on how public schools can restrain or isolate students.
DCF acknowledges failures in its handling of Phoebe Jonchuck case
DCF acknowledges failures in its handling of Phoebe Jonchuck case
Florida's child welfare agency acknowledged Monday that it failed to protect a 5-year-old girl before she was dropped to her death last month, missing opportunities to respond to concerns for her well-being.
Florida's child welfare agency acknowledged Monday that it failed to protect a 5-year-old girl before she was dropped to her death last month, missing opportunities to respond to concerns for her well-being.
‘Similar to Nazi foster care’: Czech president slams Norwegian child welfare
‘Similar to Nazi foster care’: Czech president slams Norwegian child welfare
Note: You think that's bad, you should see what they got going on in England or the USA.
Czech President Miloš Zeman has blasted Norway’s foster care system, comparing it with Lebensborn, the Nazi Germany’s program to ‘breed true Arians’. Norway takes children and strips them of their national identity, he said.
Note: You think that's bad, you should see what they got going on in England or the USA.
Czech President Miloš Zeman has blasted Norway’s foster care system, comparing it with Lebensborn, the Nazi Germany’s program to ‘breed true Arians’. Norway takes children and strips them of their national identity, he said.
Three joy-riding teenagers injured in a crash may have been given keys to the car by a social worker
Three joy-riding teenagers injured in a crash may have been given keys to the car by a social worker
THREE joy-riding teenagers who were injured in a crash near Katherine last week may have been given keys to the car by a social worker, the NT News understands.
THREE joy-riding teenagers who were injured in a crash near Katherine last week may have been given keys to the car by a social worker, the NT News understands.
We didn’t understand Rotherham child grooming problem, Ofsted boss admits
We didn’t understand Rotherham child grooming problem, Ofsted boss admits
A FORMER senior official at children’s care watchdog Ofsted has apologised for the organisation’s failure to uncover widespread sexual exploitation in Rotherham.
A FORMER senior official at children’s care watchdog Ofsted has apologised for the organisation’s failure to uncover widespread sexual exploitation in Rotherham.
2 local children awarded $1.1 million after county social workers removed them from home
2 local children awarded $1.1 million after county social workers removed them from home
Two children removed from their home by county social workers will receive more than a million dollars as part of a just-inked settlement deal.
Two children removed from their home by county social workers will receive more than a million dollars as part of a just-inked settlement deal.
DHS Worker's Assault Case Dropped
DHS Worker's Assault Case Dropped
A child protective services worker will not stand trial in Linn County for allegedly assaulting two children. 38-year-old Virginia Jones was accused of striking an 8-year-old girl and 13-year-old boy last year.
A child protective services worker will not stand trial in Linn County for allegedly assaulting two children. 38-year-old Virginia Jones was accused of striking an 8-year-old girl and 13-year-old boy last year.
Monday, February 09, 2015
IS YOUR CHILD A TERRORIST? U.S. GOVERNMENT QUESTIONNAIRE RATES FAMILIES AT RISK FOR EXTREMISM
IS YOUR CHILD A TERRORIST? U.S. GOVERNMENT QUESTIONNAIRE RATES FAMILIES AT RISK FOR EXTREMISM
Are you, your family or your community at risk of turning to violent extremism? That’s the premise behind a rating system devised by the National Counterterrorism Center, according to a document marked For Official Use Only and obtained by The Intercept.
Coventry social worker given 12-month ban over child cruelty allegation
A social worker who was responsible for supporting some of the most vulnerable children in Coventry has been served with a temporary ban on practising after receiving a police caution for child cruelty.
Paedophile foster carer Michael Sharman jailed for 18 years for raping boy in his care and abusing three others
Paedophile foster carer Michael Sharman jailed for 18 years for raping boy in his care and abusing three others
A 71-year-old paedophile foster carer who raped a boy in his care and abused three others has been jailed for 18 years.
A 71-year-old paedophile foster carer who raped a boy in his care and abused three others has been jailed for 18 years.
Texas CPS underreported 655 children killed under its ‘care’
Texas CPS underreported 655 children killed under its ‘care’
‘Child Protective Services (CPS) in Texas is under serious scrutiny these days as investigative reporters dig deeper into findings that the agency significantly faltered in their duties to help protect and save children.
‘Child Protective Services (CPS) in Texas is under serious scrutiny these days as investigative reporters dig deeper into findings that the agency significantly faltered in their duties to help protect and save children.
CPS won’t save the kids, but it can destroy them
CPS won’t save the kids, but it can destroy them
Since the late 1970s, the debate over child protective services has been driven by horror stories that have become a meta-narrative: social workers screw up by missing the telltale signs of abuse, kids get hurt, laws are reformed, and thus more at-risk children are taken out of their homes and given to loving adoptive families.
Since the late 1970s, the debate over child protective services has been driven by horror stories that have become a meta-narrative: social workers screw up by missing the telltale signs of abuse, kids get hurt, laws are reformed, and thus more at-risk children are taken out of their homes and given to loving adoptive families.
Bringing up baby behind bars: Poignant photos of inmates who give birth in prison - and the children who live with them IN JAIL
Bringing up baby behind bars: Poignant photos of inmates who give birth in prison - and the children who live with them IN JAIL
A photographer has documented the struggles of California women who give birth while in jail and others who are bringing up their children in prison.
A photographer has documented the struggles of California women who give birth while in jail and others who are bringing up their children in prison.
Study Dings Nebraska's Attempt to Privatize Child Welfare
Study Dings Nebraska's Attempt to Privatize Child Welfare
A new study at the request of Nebraska lawmakers says Nebraska's attempt to privatize its child welfare system has produced no measurable benefits.
A new study at the request of Nebraska lawmakers says Nebraska's attempt to privatize its child welfare system has produced no measurable benefits.
N.J. gay couple's custody battle with sperm donor could set precedent
N.J. gay couple's custody battle with sperm donor could set precedent
A lesbian couple from Salem County are locked in a custody battle over their son after a sperm donor sued them for parenting time.
A lesbian couple from Salem County are locked in a custody battle over their son after a sperm donor sued them for parenting time.
Arizona Foster Care Class Action Lawsuit Gets Mixed Reactions
Arizona Foster Care Class Action Lawsuit Gets Mixed Reactions
Since the news of a lawsuit about Arizona's "dangerous, severely deficient foster care system" broke on last Tuesday, the story has made headlines around the nation. It's been reported in the Wall Street Journal and USA Today, and if the past week is any indication, Beth K. v Flanagan appears to be a case many will follow closely in the upcoming months.
Since the news of a lawsuit about Arizona's "dangerous, severely deficient foster care system" broke on last Tuesday, the story has made headlines around the nation. It's been reported in the Wall Street Journal and USA Today, and if the past week is any indication, Beth K. v Flanagan appears to be a case many will follow closely in the upcoming months.
Group-home supervision questioned after three girls reported sexual assaults
Group-home supervision questioned after three girls reported sexual assaults
Twyine Littlejohn misses the bubbly girls who lived in the modest home on her street.
Twyine Littlejohn misses the bubbly girls who lived in the modest home on her street.
Mother's deportation overshadows teen's 15th birthday
Mother's deportation overshadows teen's 15th birthday
Brianna Ceren, 15, has no desire to grow up.
Brianna Ceren, 15, has no desire to grow up.
She doesn’t want her driver’s license, and the thought of going to college on her own is unsettling. If the next three years are anything like her first two as a teenager, growing up is of no interest to Brianna — especially without her mother.
Clark County & State Argue Over Foster Child
Clark County & State Argue Over Foster Child
The Clark County Department of Family Services is fighting to keep a 5-year-old girl with her foster parents instead of her birth parents.
The Clark County Department of Family Services is fighting to keep a 5-year-old girl with her foster parents instead of her birth parents.
Warning to the Parents of Stamford Ct. - Stamford schools' DCF reports skyrocket
Stamford schools' DCF reports skyrocket
The Stamford school district made double the number of child abuse or neglect reports in the six months after the teacher-student sex case as it did in the entire year before.
Note: Your kids teachers are CPS rats!
The Stamford school district made double the number of child abuse or neglect reports in the six months after the teacher-student sex case as it did in the entire year before.
Note: Your kids teachers are CPS rats!
DCS: Family case manager didn’t lie in court
DCS: Family case manager didn’t lie in court
The Indiana Department of Child Services has cleared one of its employees of wrongdoing in his handling of a case involving suspected child abuse.
Note: Liars.
Survey: Minnesota child protection workers swamped
Survey: Minnesota child protection workers swamped
Almost half of Minnesota’s county child protection directors say they are so short-staffed that they cannot respond to reports of child abuse in the time required by law.
Almost half of Minnesota’s county child protection directors say they are so short-staffed that they cannot respond to reports of child abuse in the time required by law.
Some say Pennsylvania not prepared to handle new child protection laws
Some say Pennsylvania not prepared to handle new child protection laws
In the wake of number of new child protection laws that went into effect this year, advocates and state workers say the system that’s now in place to process all the new clearances and potential child abuse complaints is completely overwhelmed.
In the wake of number of new child protection laws that went into effect this year, advocates and state workers say the system that’s now in place to process all the new clearances and potential child abuse complaints is completely overwhelmed.
Sunday, February 08, 2015
Saturday, February 07, 2015
Three people spent years in prison over a horrible crime against children – that never happened
Three people spent years in prison over a horrible crime against children – that never happened
A week before Christmas in 1992, Buffalo police rounded up three suspects. They handcuffed a machine operator at Rich Products on Niagara Street, a chemist working his second job at a downtown hotel, and later a federal employee living near City Hall. The three were named in an appalling crime. Two 8-year-old girls, twin daughters of the machine operator, said their father raped them on three occasions during the previous year – when they were 6 and 7 – and the other defendants joined in the assaults. The girls said they had been tied to mattresses or chairs, then violated as their mouths were sealed with duct tape. Afterward, life would go on as normal. Prosecutors could offer no scientific proof and only dubious physical evidence of rape and molestation. But they had the girls’ statements. As the suspects fought the charges and rejected plea deals, prosecutors placed the sympathetic victims in front of the jury. The verdict: guilty on all counts. The years passed, and the three convicted sex offenders refused to back down. From prison cells they filed appeal after appeal. All were long shots. But the three insisted they were innocent. As it turns out, they were.
A week before Christmas in 1992, Buffalo police rounded up three suspects. They handcuffed a machine operator at Rich Products on Niagara Street, a chemist working his second job at a downtown hotel, and later a federal employee living near City Hall. The three were named in an appalling crime. Two 8-year-old girls, twin daughters of the machine operator, said their father raped them on three occasions during the previous year – when they were 6 and 7 – and the other defendants joined in the assaults. The girls said they had been tied to mattresses or chairs, then violated as their mouths were sealed with duct tape. Afterward, life would go on as normal. Prosecutors could offer no scientific proof and only dubious physical evidence of rape and molestation. But they had the girls’ statements. As the suspects fought the charges and rejected plea deals, prosecutors placed the sympathetic victims in front of the jury. The verdict: guilty on all counts. The years passed, and the three convicted sex offenders refused to back down. From prison cells they filed appeal after appeal. All were long shots. But the three insisted they were innocent. As it turns out, they were.
Clergy sexual abuse victim criticizes pope over spanking remark
Clergy sexual abuse victim criticizes pope over spanking remark
A victim of child sexual abuse by clergy criticized Pope Francis on Saturday for appearing to endorse parents who spanked their children.
10-day-old baby taken by CPS, lawsuit filed
10-day-old baby taken by CPS, lawsuit filed
The League of United Latin American Citizens filed a federal lawsuit on Feb. 6 against Child Protective Services, alleging the department abused its power.
The League of United Latin American Citizens filed a federal lawsuit on Feb. 6 against Child Protective Services, alleging the department abused its power.
Feds: State Wrongly Took Mom's Child 2 Days After Birth
Feds: State Wrongly Took Mom's Child 2 Days After Birth
She was 19, a brand-new mother with a developmental disability. Two days after giving birth to her daughter, the state took the infant away and placed her in foster care.
Pope Francis Says Parents May Spank Children, But Must Give Them 'Dignity'
Pope Francis Says Parents May Spank Children, But Must Give Them 'Dignity'
Pope Francis weighed in on corporal punishment for children this week, pronouncing that spanking is fine, as long as parents do it with "dignity."