TV news was no friend to those of us who had small children in the 1980s. Allegations of child sexual abuse in day-care centers swept the nation, with high-profile cases in California, North Carolina, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Minnesota and other states, leading to empty playgrounds, hyper-vigilant parents and the implication that behind every tree lurked a pedophile waiting to snatch our children. Sexual abuse is an awful crime, but the perpetrators are usually relatives or family friends, and less than 1 percent of cases take place in day-care centers. Nonetheless, 30 years ago America was described as experiencing an “epidemic” of sexual abuse in day care.
Friday, July 31, 2015
How the daycare child abuse hysteria of the 1980s became a witch hunt
How the daycare child abuse hysteria of the 1980s became a witch hunt
TV news was no friend to those of us who had small children in the 1980s. Allegations of child sexual abuse in day-care centers swept the nation, with high-profile cases in California, North Carolina, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Minnesota and other states, leading to empty playgrounds, hyper-vigilant parents and the implication that behind every tree lurked a pedophile waiting to snatch our children. Sexual abuse is an awful crime, but the perpetrators are usually relatives or family friends, and less than 1 percent of cases take place in day-care centers. Nonetheless, 30 years ago America was described as experiencing an “epidemic” of sexual abuse in day care.
TV news was no friend to those of us who had small children in the 1980s. Allegations of child sexual abuse in day-care centers swept the nation, with high-profile cases in California, North Carolina, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Minnesota and other states, leading to empty playgrounds, hyper-vigilant parents and the implication that behind every tree lurked a pedophile waiting to snatch our children. Sexual abuse is an awful crime, but the perpetrators are usually relatives or family friends, and less than 1 percent of cases take place in day-care centers. Nonetheless, 30 years ago America was described as experiencing an “epidemic” of sexual abuse in day care.
Officials: DCYF to undergo overhaul following mismanagement
Officials: DCYF to undergo overhaul following mismanagement
Officials said the troubled Department of Children, Youth and Families will undergo an overhaul following years of mismanagement that led to budget deficits.
Officials said the troubled Department of Children, Youth and Families will undergo an overhaul following years of mismanagement that led to budget deficits.
Audit finds many DCF workers consistently late for work
Audit finds many DCF workers consistently late for work
Some workers for the Department of Children and Families had been regularly showing up late for work at the four regional offices around the state, including Waterbury.
Some workers for the Department of Children and Families had been regularly showing up late for work at the four regional offices around the state, including Waterbury.
Georgia Is Illegally Segregating Students With Behavioral Problems. There's a Better Way.
Georgia Is Illegally Segregating Students With Behavioral Problems. There's a Better Way.
A US Department of Justice investigation has found that the state of Georgia is illegally segregating students with behavioral and emotional disabilities. The probe found not only that this sorting has resulted in an estimated 5,000 kids getting an inferior education—often in the same deteriorating buildings that were used during the Jim Crow days for black students—but that the segregated system limits the special education and behavioral resources available for students in integrated settings.
A US Department of Justice investigation has found that the state of Georgia is illegally segregating students with behavioral and emotional disabilities. The probe found not only that this sorting has resulted in an estimated 5,000 kids getting an inferior education—often in the same deteriorating buildings that were used during the Jim Crow days for black students—but that the segregated system limits the special education and behavioral resources available for students in integrated settings.
Family says Indiana Department of Child Services is tearing them apart
Family says Indiana Department of Child Services is tearing them apart
Facing an illegal number of caseloads burdening case managers and leading to overworked staff, the Indiana Department of Child Services is facing a class action lawsuit by the ACLU.
Facing an illegal number of caseloads burdening case managers and leading to overworked staff, the Indiana Department of Child Services is facing a class action lawsuit by the ACLU.
Auditors find history of chaos at R.I. Department of Children, Youth and Families
Auditors find history of chaos at R.I. Department of Children, Youth and Families
When state auditors set out to review the inner workings of the Department of Children, Youth and Families this year at the request of Governor Raimondo's administration, they found an agency in chaos.
When state auditors set out to review the inner workings of the Department of Children, Youth and Families this year at the request of Governor Raimondo's administration, they found an agency in chaos.
Critics: Child Agency Shouldn't Focus on Law Enforcement
Critics: Child Agency Shouldn't Focus on Law Enforcement
The Arizona Auditor General released a new report Wednesday that highlights the increasing number of abused and neglected children entering state care.
The Arizona Auditor General released a new report Wednesday that highlights the increasing number of abused and neglected children entering state care.
2 claim hotline system unfair
2 claim hotline system unfair
Two lawmakers Thursday told a legislative committee that innocent parents have been the target of child abuse investigations and that many of them lack legal counsel as they fight to clear their names.
Two lawmakers Thursday told a legislative committee that innocent parents have been the target of child abuse investigations and that many of them lack legal counsel as they fight to clear their names.
IT glitch hides Qld child abuse complaints
IT glitch hides Qld child abuse complaints
WHAT WENT WRONG WITH QUEENSLAND'S CHILD ABUSE REPORTING SYSTEM?
WHAT WENT WRONG WITH QUEENSLAND'S CHILD ABUSE REPORTING SYSTEM?
Poloncarz plays down problems at CPS
Poloncarz plays down problems at CPS
For workers at Erie County Child Protective Services, high caseloads and missed deadlines have become the norm. But Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz is adamant that the department no longer has any serious problems.
For workers at Erie County Child Protective Services, high caseloads and missed deadlines have become the norm. But Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz is adamant that the department no longer has any serious problems.
Arizona child welfare agency head unveils new strategy
Arizona child welfare agency head unveils new strategy
The director of the Arizona's child welfare agency on Thursday rolled out a new strategic plan that he hopes will set a path to correcting longstanding problems and cut the number of backlogged cases.
Thursday, July 30, 2015
12 EXPLANATIONS FOR ARIZONA’S CHILD-WELFARE PROBLEMS
12 EXPLANATIONS FOR ARIZONA’S CHILD-WELFARE PROBLEMS
A new report on child welfare in Arizona reveals some startling statistics that help explain why the state’s child-welfare system is overwhelmed and why an unprecedented number of children are in foster care or group homes. This report, technically a supplement to the independent audit conducted by the University of Chicago's Chapin Hall and released late last month, tells much of the same story, but it highlights a few key areas where state programs fell — and continue to fall — short, or where institutional priorities may be misdirected.
A new report on child welfare in Arizona reveals some startling statistics that help explain why the state’s child-welfare system is overwhelmed and why an unprecedented number of children are in foster care or group homes. This report, technically a supplement to the independent audit conducted by the University of Chicago's Chapin Hall and released late last month, tells much of the same story, but it highlights a few key areas where state programs fell — and continue to fall — short, or where institutional priorities may be misdirected.
Audit finds repeated errors at child welfare agency
Audit finds repeated errors at child welfare agency
Connecticut’s state auditors released a report Thursday that found repeated financial and administrative mistakes have been made at the Department of Children and Families and its various facilities.
Second lawsuit alleges foster kids abuse
Second lawsuit alleges foster kids abuse
A second lawsuit alleges abuse against two foster children at the hands of two foster parents who last year were sued for similar allegations in a case termed "the San Bernardino County 8."
A second lawsuit alleges abuse against two foster children at the hands of two foster parents who last year were sued for similar allegations in a case termed "the San Bernardino County 8."
Families, counselors demand changes in child abuse cases
Families, counselors demand changes in child abuse cases
Mental health counselors and families of children involved with child protective services are demanding wholesale changes within the agency.
Mental health counselors and families of children involved with child protective services are demanding wholesale changes within the agency.
Alabama Moves To Deny Inmate Parental Rights So She Can't Have Abortion
Alabama Moves To Deny Inmate Parental Rights So She Can't Have Abortion
A fight over an incarcerated Alabama woman's ability to have an abortion took a strange turn as the state moved to terminate the woman's parental rights in order to prevent her from accessing the procedure.
Mismanagement at DHHS result in a 35 million bill from Uncle Sam
Mismanagement at DHHS result in a 35 million bill from Uncle Sam
More troubles for the NC Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). The Federal government says they botched the paperwork in the reimbursement claims it made under the Children's Health Insurance Program. The Inspector General says the state (that's us taxpayers) owe the Feds $34.8 million.
More troubles for the NC Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). The Federal government says they botched the paperwork in the reimbursement claims it made under the Children's Health Insurance Program. The Inspector General says the state (that's us taxpayers) owe the Feds $34.8 million.
Editorial: DCF audit is an opportunity missed
Editorial: DCF audit is an opportunity missed
The Legislative Post Audit Committee on Wednesday declined on a party line vote to conduct a limited audit of the state’s foster care system under the Kansas Department of Children and Families. Committee members should have approved the audit, which could have been completed in time for the 2016 Legislature to act, if necessary, on the audit’s findings.
The Legislative Post Audit Committee on Wednesday declined on a party line vote to conduct a limited audit of the state’s foster care system under the Kansas Department of Children and Families. Committee members should have approved the audit, which could have been completed in time for the 2016 Legislature to act, if necessary, on the audit’s findings.
Medical Director of LA Child Welfare Testifies Under Oath That He Does Not Know the Law Regarding Seizure of Children
Medical Director of LA Child Welfare Testifies Under Oath That He Does Not Know the Law Regarding Seizure of Children
Dr. Charles Sophy is the Medical Director for Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Los Angeles County DCFS reportedly has the largest amount of children taken away from their families and put into foster homes of any other agency in the United States. Dr. Sophy reportedly earns a salary of over a quarter of a million dollars as the Medical Director of DCFS.
Dr. Charles Sophy is the Medical Director for Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Los Angeles County DCFS reportedly has the largest amount of children taken away from their families and put into foster homes of any other agency in the United States. Dr. Sophy reportedly earns a salary of over a quarter of a million dollars as the Medical Director of DCFS.
More Pathetic PR From The Only Scrutiny Free Department in Maine's DHHS
More Pathetic PR From The Only Scrutiny Free Department in Maine's DHHS
I swear to God if there was a fake sob story telling contest, Maine's DHHS Commissioner Mary Mayhew would be a shoo-in. Especially after this little video from WCSH 6 where she continues this whiny foster parent recruitment drive that has been going on for the last few months.
Wednesday, July 29, 2015
Grandparent group demands changes in child protective services
Grandparent group demands changes in child protective services
Gov. Steve Bullock met Wednesday with a group of grandparents and counselors demanding the resignation of top Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services officials and Great Falls staff.
Gov. Steve Bullock met Wednesday with a group of grandparents and counselors demanding the resignation of top Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services officials and Great Falls staff.
Children 'not lab-rats' - Anne Tolley intervenes in child abuse experiment
Children 'not lab-rats' - Anne Tolley intervenes in child abuse experiment
A plan to treat vulnerable newborns as "lab rats" by sitting back for two years to see if they were abused has been blocked by the Government.
A plan to treat vulnerable newborns as "lab rats" by sitting back for two years to see if they were abused has been blocked by the Government.
Overdue Foster Care Reform Coming Soon
Overdue Foster Care Reform Coming Soon
Mississippi's foster-care system has long left children without medical care and living in limbo without a proper home, but state officials have largely ignored a seven-year court order to overhaul the state's foster-care system. The dragged-out lawsuit against the State of Mississippi for not complying with the court order, filed on behalf of thousands of children in the state's foster-care system, is finally in motion again.
Former civil servant Bob Plecas named to review botched B.C. child welfare case
Former civil servant Bob Plecas named to review botched B.C. child welfare case
A well-respected former civil servant has agreed to lead an independent review into the botched handling of a B.C. child welfare case in which a mother’s warnings were ignored and her children were returned to an abusive father.
A well-respected former civil servant has agreed to lead an independent review into the botched handling of a B.C. child welfare case in which a mother’s warnings were ignored and her children were returned to an abusive father.
Monday's papers: Finns Party under scrutiny again, probe into foster home killing and shelters call for cash
Monday's papers: Finns Party under scrutiny again, probe into foster home killing and shelters call for cash
Finnish dailies engage in tortured navel-gazing Monday morning as a furore continues over an anti-multiculturalism Facebook post by Finns Party MP Olli Immonen. The spotlight also turns on the shocking murder of a foster care worker at the hands of some of his young charges, and the cash crunch facing foster homes and shelters.
Legislative committee votes down measure to audit DCF after foster care deaths
Legislative committee votes down measure to audit DCF after foster care deaths
The Legislative Post Audit Committee on Wednesday voted down an attempt to audit the Kansas Department of Children and Families following the death of several foster care children in recent years.
The Legislative Post Audit Committee on Wednesday voted down an attempt to audit the Kansas Department of Children and Families following the death of several foster care children in recent years.
Judge rules Joshua Burns should keep his parental rights
Judge rules Joshua Burns should keep his parental rights
A Brighton father jailed after being convicted of abusing his then-11-week-old daughter will not lose his parental rights to his daughter, a judge ruled today.
A Brighton father jailed after being convicted of abusing his then-11-week-old daughter will not lose his parental rights to his daughter, a judge ruled today.
Brighton and Hove social workers will learn from judge’s criticisms in ‘tragic’ adoption case
Brighton and Hove social workers will learn from judge’s criticisms in ‘tragic’ adoption case
Social workers in Brighton and Hove will learn the lessons from an adoption case described as “tragic” in the High Court.
Social workers in Brighton and Hove will learn the lessons from an adoption case described as “tragic” in the High Court.
Man locked social workers inside his home
Man locked social workers inside his home
A SINISTER ‘death threat’ man who locked two terrified women social workers in his flat had to be wrestled from the dock of Greenock Sheriff Court after refusing to accept a jail sentence.
Lawsuit accuses child-care worker of abuse
Lawsuit accuses child-care worker of abuse
A lawsuit filed this month alleges that a Children’s Home Society of West Virginia employee sexually abused a boy while he was in her care at a Logan County facility.
A lawsuit filed this month alleges that a Children’s Home Society of West Virginia employee sexually abused a boy while he was in her care at a Logan County facility.
Connecticut legislative leaders call for hearings on DCF
Connecticut legislative leaders call for hearings on DCF
Legislative leaders asked the co-chairs of the Appropriations, Children’s and Human Services Committees on Tuesday to hold legislative hearings on the conditions and practices at the Department of Children and Families’ two locked facilities for juveniles.
Legislative leaders asked the co-chairs of the Appropriations, Children’s and Human Services Committees on Tuesday to hold legislative hearings on the conditions and practices at the Department of Children and Families’ two locked facilities for juveniles.
Foster mom pleads guilty
Foster mom pleads guilty
A Pueblo foster mother pleaded guilty Tuesday to a charge of child abuse resulting in death.
A Pueblo foster mother pleaded guilty Tuesday to a charge of child abuse resulting in death.
Forced Adoption: UK families flee to Ireland to keep their children
Forced Adoption: UK families flee to Ireland to keep their children
UK families are fleeing to Ireland as social workers continue to use false allegations and vague definitions of abuse to forcibly remove children from their parents and boost adoption statistics. RT’s documentary crew spoke to several of those families.
UK families are fleeing to Ireland as social workers continue to use false allegations and vague definitions of abuse to forcibly remove children from their parents and boost adoption statistics. RT’s documentary crew spoke to several of those families.
Mothers affected by forced adoption policies call for royal commission into medical professionals
Mothers affected by forced adoption policies call for royal commission into medical professionals
Mothers affected by Australia's forced adoption policy want a royal commission into the medical profession for what they say were illegal and heinous practices.
Mothers affected by Australia's forced adoption policy want a royal commission into the medical profession for what they say were illegal and heinous practices.
Policing parenting: is the Family Court going to punish you for having a drink?
Policing parenting: is the Family Court going to punish you for having a drink?
News outlets have pounced on a Family Court “order” for parents of a six-year-old boy to not smoke around the child and to limit their alcohol consumption while caring for him. Readers commented that the case represents an unacceptable “intervention by the courts into the personal space of the individual”, and that it was an attempt at “social engineering".
Suspected Family Court murderer arrested
Suspected Family Court murderer arrested
Leonard John Warwick was arrested in Campbelltown this morning, suspected of committing a number of shootings and bombings that became known as the Family Law Court murders in the 1980s.
Leonard John Warwick was arrested in Campbelltown this morning, suspected of committing a number of shootings and bombings that became known as the Family Law Court murders in the 1980s.
Family Court bombings: Arrest brings back painful memories for relatives of victims
Family Court bombings: Arrest brings back painful memories for relatives of victims
SUE Chapman was at her Lane Cove home preparing breakfast for two of the youngest of her four children when the phone rang.
SUE Chapman was at her Lane Cove home preparing breakfast for two of the youngest of her four children when the phone rang.
Kansas reviewing foster care policies; advocates uneasy
Kansas reviewing foster care policies; advocates uneasy
Kansas officials are reviewing foster care policies, sparking concerns among some advocates that the state will stop placing abused and neglected children with gay couples, even after the U.S. Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage.
Kansas officials are reviewing foster care policies, sparking concerns among some advocates that the state will stop placing abused and neglected children with gay couples, even after the U.S. Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage.
Minnesota woman who kept adoptive special needs children in filthy home charged for defrauding taxpayers
Minnesota woman who kept adoptive special needs children in filthy home charged for defrauding taxpayers
A Minnesota woman who kept eight special needs children in a home filled with feces, filth, urine and mold — all while billing taxpayers for her supposed childcare and somehow evading child protection officials — was charged with criminal fraud Monday, the state's Attorney General announced.
A Minnesota woman who kept eight special needs children in a home filled with feces, filth, urine and mold — all while billing taxpayers for her supposed childcare and somehow evading child protection officials — was charged with criminal fraud Monday, the state's Attorney General announced.
Law banning commercial surrogacy takes effect Thursday
Law banning commercial surrogacy takes effect Thursday
A new law banning commercial surrogacy takes effect July 30 even as controversy continues to swirl around children born before the law was passed this winter.
A new law banning commercial surrogacy takes effect July 30 even as controversy continues to swirl around children born before the law was passed this winter.
Arizona Department of Child Safety adds warning to child abuse hotline
Arizona Department of Child Safety adds warning to child abuse hotline
The Arizona Department of Child Safety said it is hoping to reduce false claims with a new message on the department's hotline.
Note: I fear that this won't last for long, because the anti-abuse feminists will inflate this overwhelming fear that making the making of a false accusation of child abuse a crime will deter people from making legitimate reports, for fear of being accused of making a false accusation.
The Arizona Department of Child Safety said it is hoping to reduce false claims with a new message on the department's hotline.
Note: I fear that this won't last for long, because the anti-abuse feminists will inflate this overwhelming fear that making the making of a false accusation of child abuse a crime will deter people from making legitimate reports, for fear of being accused of making a false accusation.
Editorial: More trouble at DCF
Editorial: More trouble at DCF
We tend to have short memories around here. Before a giant crater opened up in the state budget, before the Olympics came to town (then abruptly left again), the major challenge confronting Massachusetts policymakers was the sorry state of affairs at the Department of Children and Families.
We tend to have short memories around here. Before a giant crater opened up in the state budget, before the Olympics came to town (then abruptly left again), the major challenge confronting Massachusetts policymakers was the sorry state of affairs at the Department of Children and Families.
Tuesday, July 28, 2015
Lawmakers call for audit of Kansas’ foster care system
Lawmakers call for audit of Kansas’ foster care system
Two Democratic lawmakers from south-central Kansas are calling for an audit of the state’s foster care system.
“Four children have been killed while in the foster care system already this year,” said Rep. Ed Trimmer, D-Winfield, expressing concern in a news release about the safety of children in the state’s foster care system.
Two Democratic lawmakers from south-central Kansas are calling for an audit of the state’s foster care system.
“Four children have been killed while in the foster care system already this year,” said Rep. Ed Trimmer, D-Winfield, expressing concern in a news release about the safety of children in the state’s foster care system.
Former employee says Portsmouth CPS is putting children at risk
Former employee says Portsmouth CPS is putting children at risk
Portsmouth Child Protective Services has found itself under the microscope. State officials are looking into the large backlog of cases there, not closed in the time legally allowed.
Aftercare reforms will cut back foster family payments
Aftercare reforms will cut back foster family payments
Changes to the State’s care system will result in payments to foster families ceasing where a young person is not involved in education or training once they turn 18.
Changes to the State’s care system will result in payments to foster families ceasing where a young person is not involved in education or training once they turn 18.
Progressive Caucus, Judiciary Dems to Hold Forum Hearing on Family Detention
Progressive Caucus, Judiciary Dems to Hold Forum Hearing on Family Detention
The Congressional Progressive Caucus, along with Democratic Members of the House Judiciary Committee and support from the Congressional Tri-Caucuses, are holding a forum on Family Detention this Tuesday, July 28th at 2 PM in Rayburn 2226.
The Congressional Progressive Caucus, along with Democratic Members of the House Judiciary Committee and support from the Congressional Tri-Caucuses, are holding a forum on Family Detention this Tuesday, July 28th at 2 PM in Rayburn 2226.
Hanging in the balance: Dauphin County Children & Youth awaits ruling on licensing status
Hanging in the balance: Dauphin County Children & Youth awaits ruling on licensing status
Nine-year-old Jarrod Tutko Jr. weighed just 16.9 pounds when he was found dead in his deplorable Harrisburg home. Three miles from Jarrod's Green Street home, 5-month-old Lakia Hardy spent her last days weighing less than 5 pounds in a home lacking pacifiers, formula and stuffed animals.
Nine-year-old Jarrod Tutko Jr. weighed just 16.9 pounds when he was found dead in his deplorable Harrisburg home. Three miles from Jarrod's Green Street home, 5-month-old Lakia Hardy spent her last days weighing less than 5 pounds in a home lacking pacifiers, formula and stuffed animals.
Child advocates still concerned after DCS releases semi-annual report
Child advocates still concerned after DCS releases semi-annual report
The Arizona Department of Child Safety released its latest semi-annual report on Monday and while there were improvements, some child advocates said they are still concerned.
The Arizona Department of Child Safety released its latest semi-annual report on Monday and while there were improvements, some child advocates said they are still concerned.
Social worker sentenced for selling children's information
Social worker sentenced for selling children's information
A judge sentenced a former Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services worker to probation and home detention for selling private information of 25 children.
A judge sentenced a former Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services worker to probation and home detention for selling private information of 25 children.
Adoption case study: ‘It’s a tragedy I wasn’t given my birth cert’
Adoption case study: ‘It’s a tragedy I wasn’t given my birth cert’
David Kinsella was illegitimate child number 1629 at St Patrick’s mother-and-baby home in the late 1950s.
David Kinsella was illegitimate child number 1629 at St Patrick’s mother-and-baby home in the late 1950s.
Monday, July 27, 2015
BC Child Welfare is found to have caused injury to children through misfeasance
BC Child Welfare is found to have caused injury to children through misfeasance
Imagine, if you will, that child protection authorities get it so wrong that the children are placed in the care of the abusive parent with the active support of child protection. Imagine that, as a result, the children having been sexually abused but not believed. Imagine that the youngest will be sexually abused by the father while the child is in the care of child protection. Imagine, as well, that the misfeasance is led by a supervisor who develops a closed mind on the case. If imaging this and more seems possible, then you can well imagine the case of J.P., her three children and the father, B.G.
Imagine, if you will, that child protection authorities get it so wrong that the children are placed in the care of the abusive parent with the active support of child protection. Imagine that, as a result, the children having been sexually abused but not believed. Imagine that the youngest will be sexually abused by the father while the child is in the care of child protection. Imagine, as well, that the misfeasance is led by a supervisor who develops a closed mind on the case. If imaging this and more seems possible, then you can well imagine the case of J.P., her three children and the father, B.G.
Social worker, friend accused of child abuse appear in court
Social worker, friend accused of child abuse appear in court
A social worker is accused of abusing her special-needs children with the help of a friend.
A social worker is accused of abusing her special-needs children with the help of a friend.
DCF Bans Face-Down Restraints Of Children In Locked Units
DCF Bans Face-Down Restraints Of Children In Locked Units
The state's child-protection agency said Monday it is banning prone, or face-down, restraints in its locked units for boys and girls, following recommendations from a national juvenile-justice expert and a scathing report from the state child advocate.
The state's child-protection agency said Monday it is banning prone, or face-down, restraints in its locked units for boys and girls, following recommendations from a national juvenile-justice expert and a scathing report from the state child advocate.
Sources identify Ark. child who died in hot car
Sources identify Ark. child who died in hot car
Hot Springs ambulances responded to a scene Friday afternoon regarding a toddler who was left in a hot car.
The 2-year-old died Friday, July 24, and sources tell THV11 it may have happened to the son of a Garland County judge.
Hot Springs ambulances responded to a scene Friday afternoon regarding a toddler who was left in a hot car.
The 2-year-old died Friday, July 24, and sources tell THV11 it may have happened to the son of a Garland County judge.
Abuse allegations haunt lucrative group homes
Abuse allegations haunt lucrative group homes
The bucolic countryside surrounding Boys Home of the South belies the horror some children say they endured after state Social Services officials dumped them here.
The bucolic countryside surrounding Boys Home of the South belies the horror some children say they endured after state Social Services officials dumped them here.
What Happens When Foster Kids ‘Age Out’ of the System
What Happens When Foster Kids ‘Age Out’ of the System
Earlier this month, a young woman named Salaya Leal was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver on the side of a road in Austin, Texas. And while it would’ve been a tragedy no matter who had died, the fact that Leal, 24, was someone who had aged out of the foster-care system after years of struggle has been a blow to many foster-care and adoption advocates.
Earlier this month, a young woman named Salaya Leal was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver on the side of a road in Austin, Texas. And while it would’ve been a tragedy no matter who had died, the fact that Leal, 24, was someone who had aged out of the foster-care system after years of struggle has been a blow to many foster-care and adoption advocates.
Police hunt desperate mother on run from Social Services with newborn
Police hunt desperate mother on run from Social Services with newborn
A police manhunt was mounted over the weekend after a young mother left Faro hospital two hours after giving birth to a son she feared would be taken into care by Social Services.
A police manhunt was mounted over the weekend after a young mother left Faro hospital two hours after giving birth to a son she feared would be taken into care by Social Services.
Palmetto Sunrise: Overloaded DSS caseworkers fail to investigate abuse
Palmetto Sunrise: Overloaded DSS caseworkers fail to investigate abuse
South Carolina makes it easier to know which restaurants are infested with cockroaches than to pinpoint where children have been neglected, or worse, physically and sexually abused.
'They gave me to a rapist': Schoolboy raped by foster dad set to sue council bosses over his horrific ordeal
'They gave me to a rapist': Schoolboy raped by foster dad set to sue council bosses over his horrific ordeal
KIRK Sharpe, now 27, endured years of abuse after he was put in the care of paedophile Vincent Hill.
KIRK Sharpe, now 27, endured years of abuse after he was put in the care of paedophile Vincent Hill.
Scotland Could Face a Torrent of Human Rights Cases over Its Forced Adoption Policy Between the 1940s and 80s
Scotland Could Face a Torrent of Human Rights Cases over Its Forced Adoption Policy Between the 1940s and 80s
AN international expert yesterday warned that Scotland could face a torrent of human rights cases over its forced adoption legacy.
Exhibition on forced adoption prompts outpouring from women moved by loss
Exhibition on forced adoption prompts outpouring from women moved by loss
Donations to fund an exhibition on unmarried women who were forced to give away their babies – dubbed “fallen women” in the 19th century – have been accompanied by poignant comments that show how deep the trauma still lies in many families, say organisers at the Foundling Museum.
Donations to fund an exhibition on unmarried women who were forced to give away their babies – dubbed “fallen women” in the 19th century – have been accompanied by poignant comments that show how deep the trauma still lies in many families, say organisers at the Foundling Museum.
Weapons cases on the rise in N.S. youth group homes
Weapons cases on the rise in N.S. youth group homes
Government records show weapons incidents ranging from possession of pellet guns to threats with knives have been rising in Nova Scotia's youth group homes, prompting childrens' advocates to urge improved access to mental health care and increased staffing.
Government records show weapons incidents ranging from possession of pellet guns to threats with knives have been rising in Nova Scotia's youth group homes, prompting childrens' advocates to urge improved access to mental health care and increased staffing.
Jehovah's Witnesses Church 'failed to report more than 1,000 cases of child sexual abuse dating back 60 years'
Jehovah's Witnesses Church 'failed to report more than 1,000 cases of child sexual abuse dating back 60 years'
The shocking findings come from Australia's Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, launched two years ago to look at Catholic child abuse
The shocking findings come from Australia's Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, launched two years ago to look at Catholic child abuse
Montana grandparents organize against Child, Family Services
Montana grandparents organize against Child, Family Services
When parents lose custody of their children due to abuse or neglect, their grandparents often step in to scoop up the pieces. In Montana, dozens of those grandparents have organized to push back against a state agency they say has shut them out as caregivers and sometimes has placed children with parents they don't know.
When parents lose custody of their children due to abuse or neglect, their grandparents often step in to scoop up the pieces. In Montana, dozens of those grandparents have organized to push back against a state agency they say has shut them out as caregivers and sometimes has placed children with parents they don't know.
Exclusive: Family detention social worker speaks out
Exclusive: Family detention social worker speaks out
Oliva López thought she’d be working with migrant mothers and children in a group-home setting when hired as a social worker at a Texas family detention center.
Oliva López thought she’d be working with migrant mothers and children in a group-home setting when hired as a social worker at a Texas family detention center.
Warning to the Parents of Florida: DCF Finds New Ways To Steal More Kids
The number of Florida children in the state’s foster-care system has reached its highest level since 2008 — driven by both a spike in the number of kids being removed from their homes and a drop in the number being discharged after a stint in foster care.
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Child-welfare professionals say there are multiple reasons for the surge, among them the state’s new method for assessing risks to a child’s safety. The new methodology involves looking past a single incident that prompts a visit from a child protective investigator to the likelihood of danger down the road.
On top of that...
DCF: Nearly 1,400 new foster homes licensed in 2014
The Department of Children and Families licensed nearly 1,400 new foster care homes last year.
There are now more than 4,800 providers statewide, caring for roughly 10,000 kids at any given time.
DCF: Nearly 1,400 new foster homes licensed in 2014
The Department of Children and Families licensed nearly 1,400 new foster care homes last year.
There are now more than 4,800 providers statewide, caring for roughly 10,000 kids at any given time.
Therefore, the business is booming!
State officials say they're recruiting more foster families - Child welfare officials say they're recruiting more foster families than ever before.
State officials say they're recruiting more foster families - Child welfare officials say they're recruiting more foster families than ever before.
Lawmakers split on DCF commissioner’s performance
Lawmakers split on DCF commissioner’s performance
After the release of a trio of reports in the last week detailing problems facing the Department of Children and Families, state lawmakers are split on the performance of DCF Commissioner Joette Katz.
After the release of a trio of reports in the last week detailing problems facing the Department of Children and Families, state lawmakers are split on the performance of DCF Commissioner Joette Katz.
Baker: ‘DCF is heading in the right direction’
Baker: ‘DCF is heading in the right direction’
Gov. Charlie Baker said the embattled Department of Children and Families still needs to improve in the wake of the shocking discovery of a 7-year-old Hardwick boy overseen by child welfare workers who was found starving and beaten.
Gov. Charlie Baker said the embattled Department of Children and Families still needs to improve in the wake of the shocking discovery of a 7-year-old Hardwick boy overseen by child welfare workers who was found starving and beaten.
Sunday, July 26, 2015
Connecticut DCF Places Young Child With Known Abuser
Connecticut mother desperate to have her daughter removed from abusive foster home. Ct DCF placed her 3 year old daughter back with foster parent that had abused her.
Saturday, July 25, 2015
Yes, CPS Is a Greater Danger to Black Free-Range Families
Yes, CPS Is a Greater Danger to Black Free-Range Families
In an essay in today’s Washington Post, “Raising free-spirited black children in a world set on punishing them,” author Stacia Brown sounds frustrated with the Free-Range Kids movement. She dearly wishes African-American kids could go outside and Free-Range without having to worry about actual discrimination and danger. (So do I!) And she is particularly upset that low-income African-American families who can’t or don’t supervise their kids every single second are particularly unlikely to get the benefit of the doubt from Child Protective Services:
In an essay in today’s Washington Post, “Raising free-spirited black children in a world set on punishing them,” author Stacia Brown sounds frustrated with the Free-Range Kids movement. She dearly wishes African-American kids could go outside and Free-Range without having to worry about actual discrimination and danger. (So do I!) And she is particularly upset that low-income African-American families who can’t or don’t supervise their kids every single second are particularly unlikely to get the benefit of the doubt from Child Protective Services:
Report: caseworker in boy's abuse case was unlicensed
Report: caseworker in boy's abuse case was unlicensed
A state social worker monitoring a 7-year-old Hardwick boy now hospitalized after allegedly being beaten and starved by his father was among those who didn't meet a July 1 deadline to get a license.
A state social worker monitoring a 7-year-old Hardwick boy now hospitalized after allegedly being beaten and starved by his father was among those who didn't meet a July 1 deadline to get a license.
Judge Orders Release of Immigrant Children Detained by U.S.
Judge Orders Release of Immigrant Children Detained by U.S.
A federal judge in California has ruled that the Obama administration’s detention of children and their mothers who were caught crossing the border illegally is a serious violation of a longstanding court settlement, and that the families should be released as quickly as possible.
A federal judge in California has ruled that the Obama administration’s detention of children and their mothers who were caught crossing the border illegally is a serious violation of a longstanding court settlement, and that the families should be released as quickly as possible.
Report: Bureaucracy plagues Illinois child welfare agency
Report: Bureaucracy plagues Illinois child welfare agency
A sharply critical report from a court-appointed panel concludes that bureaucracy and other problems plague the quality of care an Illinois agency offers to around 14,000 children.
13-year-old on probation accused of stealing caseworker's car
13-year-old on probation accused of stealing caseworker's car
A group of teenagers is in custody after stealing a social worker's car and going for a joyride, the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office said.
A group of teenagers is in custody after stealing a social worker's car and going for a joyride, the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office said.
Friday, July 24, 2015
Tortured Teen Settles With Child Protective Services
Tortured Teen Settles With Child Protective Services
The story shocked the community and the nation. A boy known as "Kyle" was chained inside a fireplace, beaten, burned and starved during a seven-year period - ending in 2008 when he escaped. Today, attorneys announced he has settled his lawsuit against Sacramento County Child Protective Services for $4 million.
The story shocked the community and the nation. A boy known as "Kyle" was chained inside a fireplace, beaten, burned and starved during a seven-year period - ending in 2008 when he escaped. Today, attorneys announced he has settled his lawsuit against Sacramento County Child Protective Services for $4 million.
The Drugging of Abused Children
The Drugging of Abused Children
Foster children, traumatized by abuse and/or neglect, are frequently prescribed psychiatric medications at a much higher rate and at much higher doses than children in the general population. But psychiatric medication is not the treatment for trauma, psychotherapy is.
Foster children, traumatized by abuse and/or neglect, are frequently prescribed psychiatric medications at a much higher rate and at much higher doses than children in the general population. But psychiatric medication is not the treatment for trauma, psychotherapy is.
I-Team: Caseload Continues To Increase For DCF Workers
I-Team: Caseload Continues To Increase For DCF Workers
Prosecutors say a little boy from Hardwick on life support was nearly starved to death by his father.
Woman charged with sexual misconduct at group home
Woman charged with sexual misconduct at group home
A Taylors woman is accused of having sexual relations with a juvenile inmate at the group home where she worked, authorities said.
B.C. lawyer suspended two weeks for ‘bad joke’ to social worker
B.C. lawyer suspended two weeks for ‘bad joke’ to social worker
A lawyer who made an inappropriate joke to a female social worker has had his two-week suspension for professional misconduct upheld by the Law Society of B.C. benchers.
A lawyer who made an inappropriate joke to a female social worker has had his two-week suspension for professional misconduct upheld by the Law Society of B.C. benchers.
Jury: Maine activist defamed Haiti orphanage founder with child sexual abuse allegations
A Maine activist who publicized sexual abuse accusations against a Haiti orphanage founder defamed the man and a U.S. charity, a federal jury ruled Thursday, awarding them more than $14 million combined in damages.
New lawsuit addresses ‘irreparable’ harm in foster care system
New lawsuit addresses ‘irreparable’ harm in foster care system
Last Wednesday afternoon, Public Advocate Letitia James confirmed what many have been suspecting for years: Children are being abused and neglected in the New York City’s foster care system.
Last Wednesday afternoon, Public Advocate Letitia James confirmed what many have been suspecting for years: Children are being abused and neglected in the New York City’s foster care system.
South Carolina laws hide child abuse inside group homes
South Carolina laws hide child abuse inside group homes
An untold number of foster children in South Carolina custody are neglected, drugged, beaten and molested in group homes and institutions where the state warehouses them for millions of dollars a year at taxpayer expense.
Boy in coma was under DCF watch
Boy in coma was under DCF watch
The embattled state Department of Children and Families had been involved for six months with the family of a 7-year-old found starving and beaten in his Hardwick home but failed to spot any abuse until the boy had to be rushed to the hospital, where he remains in a coma.
The embattled state Department of Children and Families had been involved for six months with the family of a 7-year-old found starving and beaten in his Hardwick home but failed to spot any abuse until the boy had to be rushed to the hospital, where he remains in a coma.
Lawmaker calls for DCF Commissioner’s resignation
Lawmaker calls for DCF Commissioner’s resignation
A day after the release of a highly critical report on the state’s two high-security juvenile detention centers, Senate Minority Leader Len Fasano called for the resignation of Department of Children and Families Commissioner Joette Katz of Fairfield.
A day after the release of a highly critical report on the state’s two high-security juvenile detention centers, Senate Minority Leader Len Fasano called for the resignation of Department of Children and Families Commissioner Joette Katz of Fairfield.
Agreement could lead to separate Miss. child welfare agency
Agreement could lead to separate Miss. child welfare agency
Mississippi may consider making its child welfare unit a separate agency in the latest effort to resolve a longstanding lawsuit over conditions in the state's foster care system.
Mississippi may consider making its child welfare unit a separate agency in the latest effort to resolve a longstanding lawsuit over conditions in the state's foster care system.
Thursday, July 23, 2015
Foster Mom Charged With Child Abuse Of Two-Year-old Girl
Foster Mom Charged With Child Abuse Of Two-Year-old Girl
A Racine County foster parent, who allegedly pinched, bit and pulled the ears of a two-year-old girl left her in care, was charged by the Racine County District Attorney’s Office on Wednesday,July 22.
A Racine County foster parent, who allegedly pinched, bit and pulled the ears of a two-year-old girl left her in care, was charged by the Racine County District Attorney’s Office on Wednesday,July 22.
Prosecutor: Boys hit on naked backsides in 'orange chicken' abuse at Massachusetts state-run facility
Prosecutor: Boys hit on naked backsides in 'orange chicken' abuse at Massachusetts state-run facility
In ritualized physical abuse that the staff referred to as "orange chicken," prosecutors say staff members at a state-run facility for adolescent boys would pull down the pants of residents and hit them on their naked backsides with an orange, state-issued sandal.
In ritualized physical abuse that the staff referred to as "orange chicken," prosecutors say staff members at a state-run facility for adolescent boys would pull down the pants of residents and hit them on their naked backsides with an orange, state-issued sandal.
Foster care failures can't continue
Foster care failures can't continue
Eleven years ago, a child advocacy group filed a lawsuit against the state of Mississippi on behalf of eight children in the state's child foster care system.
Eleven years ago, a child advocacy group filed a lawsuit against the state of Mississippi on behalf of eight children in the state's child foster care system.
Rehoming Officially Becomes A Felony In Arkansas
Rehoming Officially Becomes A Felony In Arkansas
Changes went into effect Wednesday to the previously legal practice of giving away one’s adopted children to non-relatives without state involvement. The practice known as rehoming is now a felony.
Changes went into effect Wednesday to the previously legal practice of giving away one’s adopted children to non-relatives without state involvement. The practice known as rehoming is now a felony.
EDITORIAL: Congress should approve Free-Range Kids provision
EDITORIAL: Congress should approve Free-Range Kids provision
If you pay attention to the Internet, social media, cable TV and our 24/7 news cycle, you'd think that child abduction has reached epidemic proportions in this country. There is no evidence to support such irrational fear, however, and one Republican senator has introduced some common-sense legislation in response.
If you pay attention to the Internet, social media, cable TV and our 24/7 news cycle, you'd think that child abduction has reached epidemic proportions in this country. There is no evidence to support such irrational fear, however, and one Republican senator has introduced some common-sense legislation in response.
The Ethical Sperm Bank: An All-Open Sperm Bank. An Idea Whose Time Has Come
The Ethical Sperm Bank: An All-Open Sperm Bank. An Idea Whose Time Has Come
A cultural phenomenon is growing these days in the world of gamete donation. The voices of the donor-conceived are growing louder and clearer, and the vast majority express that knowing or having known the identity of their donors is better than not knowing, psychologically-speaking. From actively listening to them, we learn that having a complete sense of one's biological origins fosters a more whole identity, which can positively impact self-confidence (not to mention the importance of knowing one's family medical history). They also prefer knowing and connecting with their half-siblings, just as anyone would want to know their first-degree genetic relatives. Furthermore, the vast majority of surveyed donors show that they not only think about the children they've helped to create, but also indicate a strong preference toward being able to know them. The extant research corroborates these experiences (DSR, 2015).
A cultural phenomenon is growing these days in the world of gamete donation. The voices of the donor-conceived are growing louder and clearer, and the vast majority express that knowing or having known the identity of their donors is better than not knowing, psychologically-speaking. From actively listening to them, we learn that having a complete sense of one's biological origins fosters a more whole identity, which can positively impact self-confidence (not to mention the importance of knowing one's family medical history). They also prefer knowing and connecting with their half-siblings, just as anyone would want to know their first-degree genetic relatives. Furthermore, the vast majority of surveyed donors show that they not only think about the children they've helped to create, but also indicate a strong preference toward being able to know them. The extant research corroborates these experiences (DSR, 2015).
DCS vows to speed up licensing time for new foster parents
DCS vows to speed up licensing time for new foster parents
Arizona is in desperate need of more foster families. As some families are finding out, though, signing up to help is a process that takes quite a long time.
Note: A better solution would be to stop stealing so many freekin kids! Instead, they take more, make it easier to become foster parents, and lower their standards in order to house them all.
Arizona is in desperate need of more foster families. As some families are finding out, though, signing up to help is a process that takes quite a long time.
Note: A better solution would be to stop stealing so many freekin kids! Instead, they take more, make it easier to become foster parents, and lower their standards in order to house them all.
County Not Liable for Social Worker’s Assault on Foster Child
County Not Liable for Social Worker’s Assault on Foster Child
A county is not liable for the acts of an employee who sexually assaulted a foster child at the social worker’s apartment, the Fourth District Court of Appeal has ruled.
A county is not liable for the acts of an employee who sexually assaulted a foster child at the social worker’s apartment, the Fourth District Court of Appeal has ruled.
Saratoga County Child Protective Services’ worker arrested
Saratoga County Child Protective Services’ worker arrested
A caseworker for Saratoga County Child Protective Services was arrested and resigned from his job for pursuing an inappropriate relationship with a female client, police said.
A caseworker for Saratoga County Child Protective Services was arrested and resigned from his job for pursuing an inappropriate relationship with a female client, police said.
Rare defense wins dismissal of child assault case, but jailed Falcon Heights mom lost home, job
Rare defense wins dismissal of child assault case, but jailed Falcon Heights mom lost home, job
Month after month, Jozetta R. Byrd sat in the Ramsey County jail, accused of choking her 8-year-old daughter until the girl passed out, and then trying to kill her 3-year-old son.
Month after month, Jozetta R. Byrd sat in the Ramsey County jail, accused of choking her 8-year-old daughter until the girl passed out, and then trying to kill her 3-year-old son.
Wednesday, July 22, 2015
Former foster mother: Laytonville slaying suspect ‘went so dark’
Former foster mother: Laytonville slaying suspect ‘went so dark’
Mendocino County slaying suspect Talen Clark Barton, 19, came to Laytonville at about age 7, when he and his older brother became the wards of a local woman.
New agreement reached in Mississippi foster care lawsuit
New agreement reached in Mississippi foster care lawsuit
Mississippi officials and plaintiffs in an 11-year-old lawsuit over conditions in the foster care system have made another agreement in the case, with plaintiffs saying Tuesday they will not push to have the state government held in contempt.
Mississippi officials and plaintiffs in an 11-year-old lawsuit over conditions in the foster care system have made another agreement in the case, with plaintiffs saying Tuesday they will not push to have the state government held in contempt.
'It's shocking social workers have the power to rip a family apart': Grandparents aged 58 and 70 who were told they were too OLD to adopt their granddaughter, three, hit out at 'wicked' treatment
'It's shocking social workers have the power to rip a family apart': Grandparents aged 58 and 70 who were told they were too OLD to adopt their granddaughter, three, hit out at 'wicked' treatment
The grandparents of a three-year-old girl have been blocked from adopting her because they are ‘too old’, it emerged last night.
The grandparents of a three-year-old girl have been blocked from adopting her because they are ‘too old’, it emerged last night.
Sisters ask for help to reunite biological family
Sisters ask for help to reunite biological family
Thousands of children are in foster care in Arkansas. More than 500 kids were available for adoption last year.
Note: See? Adoption is superficial. The kids still want their real families.
Thousands of children are in foster care in Arkansas. More than 500 kids were available for adoption last year.
Note: See? Adoption is superficial. The kids still want their real families.
Questions asked after foster carer acquitted of child abuse becomes father through surrogacy
Questions asked after foster carer acquitted of child abuse becomes father through surrogacy
A high profile foster carer acquitted of sexually abusing eight children under his care has now fathered 2 children via an Indian surrogate. Thomas Easling was charged with a string of offences and cleared in 2007 in a widely reported trial that gripped much of Australia. The case demonstrates a dilemma in the way our criminal and civil laws deal with child protection.
A high profile foster carer acquitted of sexually abusing eight children under his care has now fathered 2 children via an Indian surrogate. Thomas Easling was charged with a string of offences and cleared in 2007 in a widely reported trial that gripped much of Australia. The case demonstrates a dilemma in the way our criminal and civil laws deal with child protection.
Mississippi admits failure in reforming foster care
Mississippi admits failure in reforming foster care
The state is admitting in a long-running federal case that it has not met court-ordered requirements in reforming the state’s foster care system
Aging Out: Life after foster care
Aging Out: Life after foster care
For many youth across the nation, the transition into adulthood comes with questions. Questions such as: Where will they go to college or where they will get their first “real” job?Yet, for the youth raised through the foster care system the questions may be grimmer. Challenges about how they will gain needed life skills and where will they soon call home are more difficult for the foster teens moving into an adult world. A large number of the young people who deal with such issues while on the verge of being pushed out of the foster care system are African American.In 2013, 24 percent of the U.S. foster care children were Black, double the percentage of African American children in the U.S. population, according to Child Welfare Information Gateway.
For many youth across the nation, the transition into adulthood comes with questions. Questions such as: Where will they go to college or where they will get their first “real” job?Yet, for the youth raised through the foster care system the questions may be grimmer. Challenges about how they will gain needed life skills and where will they soon call home are more difficult for the foster teens moving into an adult world. A large number of the young people who deal with such issues while on the verge of being pushed out of the foster care system are African American.In 2013, 24 percent of the U.S. foster care children were Black, double the percentage of African American children in the U.S. population, according to Child Welfare Information Gateway.
Social worker, friend plead not guilty to abuse
Social worker, friend plead not guilty to abuse
Two Louisville women charged with child abuse — one, a state social worker — have pleaded not guilty and their lawyers said both women maintain their innocence and that additional details of the case will cast their clients in a more favorable light.
Two Louisville women charged with child abuse — one, a state social worker — have pleaded not guilty and their lawyers said both women maintain their innocence and that additional details of the case will cast their clients in a more favorable light.
Expired contracts leave education advocates for foster kids in limbo
Expired contracts leave education advocates for foster kids in limbo
Susan, a foster child with special education needs, wants to change high schools for a fourth time when school starts next month.
Susan, a foster child with special education needs, wants to change high schools for a fourth time when school starts next month.
Republican Leader Says DCF Needs Reform, Questions Commissioner’s Commitment
Republican Leader Says DCF Needs Reform, Questions Commissioner’s Commitment
A leading Republican lawmaker is questioning whether Department of Children and Families Commissioner Joette Katz is fully committed to reforming the troubled agency in light of two recent reports citing deficiencies in its operations.
A leading Republican lawmaker is questioning whether Department of Children and Families Commissioner Joette Katz is fully committed to reforming the troubled agency in light of two recent reports citing deficiencies in its operations.
A series of new lawsuits is challenging how Native American kids are adopted
A series of new lawsuits is challenging how Native American kids are adopted
One of the bedrock laws governing Native American family rights is being challenged by multiple lawsuits filed around the country in the last two months, setting up a case that experts say is likely to eventually end up at the Supreme Court.
One of the bedrock laws governing Native American family rights is being challenged by multiple lawsuits filed around the country in the last two months, setting up a case that experts say is likely to eventually end up at the Supreme Court.
Older children often neglected in adoption process
Older children often neglected in adoption process
Older children, including sibling groups and special needs youth, often get left behind.
Note: Yes this is one of those feel good articles that tries to recruit adoptive parents. I only post it because it is true that the older and special needs kids get left behind. Most adoptive parents want a cute little baby, especially the little blue eyed blonds. Those kids are in high demand.
Older children, including sibling groups and special needs youth, often get left behind.
Note: Yes this is one of those feel good articles that tries to recruit adoptive parents. I only post it because it is true that the older and special needs kids get left behind. Most adoptive parents want a cute little baby, especially the little blue eyed blonds. Those kids are in high demand.
Family, friends say goodbye to 9-year-old boy found dead in Davison Township lake
Family, friends say goodbye to 9-year-old boy found dead in Davison Township lake
Pastor Lorenzo Sewell leaned forward and grasped Jamell Humphrey's hand.
Pastor Lorenzo Sewell leaned forward and grasped Jamell Humphrey's hand.
Tuesday, July 21, 2015
WATCH: SCOTT WALKER CONFRONTED IN HOMETOWN BY UNDOCUMENTED IMMIGRANT, US CITIZEN KIDS
WATCH: SCOTT WALKER CONFRONTED IN HOMETOWN BY UNDOCUMENTED IMMIGRANT, US CITIZEN KIDS
An undocumented immigrant and his two children -both naturalized U.S. citizens - confronted Republican presidential hopeful Scott Walker in his hometown of Plainfield, Iowa, over the weekend, asking the Wisconsin governor why he would want to break up their family.
Social workers put 3-year-old girl up for adoption 'because they say her gran, 58, and granddad, 70, are too old to care for her'
Social workers put 3-year-old girl up for adoption 'because they say her gran, 58, and granddad, 70, are too old to care for her'
Social workers have allegedly put a three-year-old girl up for adoption because her grandparents are too old to care for her.
Social workers have allegedly put a three-year-old girl up for adoption because her grandparents are too old to care for her.
Social worker struck off after sending inappropriate emails and Facebook messages to foster carer
Social worker struck off after sending inappropriate emails and Facebook messages to foster carer
A social worker from Lincolnshire has been struck off after sending inappropriate emails and personal Facebook messages to a prospective foster carer.
A social worker from Lincolnshire has been struck off after sending inappropriate emails and personal Facebook messages to a prospective foster carer.
WHAT DO I DO IF THE KANSAS DCF COMES AFTER MY CHILDREN?
WHAT DO I DO IF THE KANSAS DCF COMES AFTER MY CHILDREN?
It is something that every parent fears, the Department for Children and Families is knocking at your door. Panic overcomes you as you open the door to see what this could be about. As you hear why they are at your house, thoughts flood your head, forcing you to question if you had in fact done anything wrong. In a flash you and your families life has been changed forever.
It is something that every parent fears, the Department for Children and Families is knocking at your door. Panic overcomes you as you open the door to see what this could be about. As you hear why they are at your house, thoughts flood your head, forcing you to question if you had in fact done anything wrong. In a flash you and your families life has been changed forever.
Watchdog agency probing child-welfare workers' actions in toddlers' deaths
Watchdog agency probing child-welfare workers' actions in toddlers' deaths
The watchdog agency for the state's child welfare system is probing whether Children's Protective Services workers did enough to prevent the recent deaths of two Kalamazoo-area toddlers.
The watchdog agency for the state's child welfare system is probing whether Children's Protective Services workers did enough to prevent the recent deaths of two Kalamazoo-area toddlers.
Are Biological Fathers Receiving Appropriate Due Process When Their Parental Rights Are Terminated?
Are Biological Fathers Receiving Appropriate Due Process When Their Parental Rights Are Terminated?
When a child is born to unmarried biological parents or results from a married biological parent's affair, there may be a conflict between the biological parents concerning appropriate parenting for the child. If the biological mother, with or without consultation with an adoption agency, determines that termination of the biological father's parental rights is in the best interest of the child, the legal question of the appropriate notice to the biological father and the legal reasons for the termination arises. This comment suggests that state and federal legislatures, as well as the U.S. Supreme Court, clarify and update the notice and termination hearing due process rights of biological fathers. While the current law is briefly mentioned in an incomplete educational overview, this comment is not intended to provide legal advice. Consult an experienced attorney in specific family law situations.
When a child is born to unmarried biological parents or results from a married biological parent's affair, there may be a conflict between the biological parents concerning appropriate parenting for the child. If the biological mother, with or without consultation with an adoption agency, determines that termination of the biological father's parental rights is in the best interest of the child, the legal question of the appropriate notice to the biological father and the legal reasons for the termination arises. This comment suggests that state and federal legislatures, as well as the U.S. Supreme Court, clarify and update the notice and termination hearing due process rights of biological fathers. While the current law is briefly mentioned in an incomplete educational overview, this comment is not intended to provide legal advice. Consult an experienced attorney in specific family law situations.
Lack Of Foster Homes Forces Some South Carolina Children Into Hotels
Lack Of Foster Homes Forces Some South Carolina Children Into Hotels
Some children removed from their homes by South Carolina’s Department of Social Services were placed in hotels because the state agency said there were not enough appropriate foster homes.
Some children removed from their homes by South Carolina’s Department of Social Services were placed in hotels because the state agency said there were not enough appropriate foster homes.
Police: Texas mom left 2 kids in food court for job interview
Police: Texas mom left 2 kids in food court for job interview
A Texas mother was arrested on Wednesday after she left her two kids at a restaurant in a mall food court while she went to a job interview, police say.
Note: People really need to stop getting so uptight about this stuff. Oh my God! Shit happens!
A Texas mother was arrested on Wednesday after she left her two kids at a restaurant in a mall food court while she went to a job interview, police say.
Note: People really need to stop getting so uptight about this stuff. Oh my God! Shit happens!
Utah won’t appeal federal court ruling in lesbian moms’ birth certificate case
Utah won’t appeal federal court ruling in lesbian moms’ birth certificate case
Utah will not appeal a federal judge's ruling that found the state's policy for issuing birth certificates to the parents of children conceived through sperm donation was gender-based discrimination.
Utah will not appeal a federal judge's ruling that found the state's policy for issuing birth certificates to the parents of children conceived through sperm donation was gender-based discrimination.
Foster dad charged with rape faces child porn charges
Foster dad charged with rape faces child porn charges
A Hendersonville foster father charged last year with raping a 12-year-old girl placed in his home by the Department of Children’s Services has been indicted on new charges involving the possession of hundreds of sexually explicit images involving children.
DCF struggles continue
DCF struggles continue
The administration of Gov. Dannel P. Malloy must do some deep soul searching on why it can’t seem to effectively meet the needs of troubled children and families.
The administration of Gov. Dannel P. Malloy must do some deep soul searching on why it can’t seem to effectively meet the needs of troubled children and families.
Little progress seen in Kentucky child welfare
Little progress seen in Kentucky child welfare
Pregnant at 15 and struggling to stay in high school while raising a young son, Tanece Carr could well have become another number in Kentucky’s bleak statistics on poverty, single parents and teen pregnancy.
Pregnant at 15 and struggling to stay in high school while raising a young son, Tanece Carr could well have become another number in Kentucky’s bleak statistics on poverty, single parents and teen pregnancy.
Report on child welfare suggests many US children were left behind in economic recovery
Report on child welfare suggests many US children were left behind in economic recovery
A new report on child welfare that found more U.S. children living in poverty than before the Great Recession belies the fanfare of the nation's economic turnaround.
A new report on child welfare that found more U.S. children living in poverty than before the Great Recession belies the fanfare of the nation's economic turnaround.
Monday, July 20, 2015
Uncharted Waters: Data Analytics and Child Protection in Los Angeles
Uncharted Waters: Data Analytics and Child Protection in Los Angeles
On Wednesday, July 22, Los Angeles County’s recently formed Office of Child Protection will hold a community forum to discuss the simultaneously disquieting and promising prospect of using “big data” to help determine which children are the most likely to be abused.
On Wednesday, July 22, Los Angeles County’s recently formed Office of Child Protection will hold a community forum to discuss the simultaneously disquieting and promising prospect of using “big data” to help determine which children are the most likely to be abused.
State social worker accused of abuse
State social worker accused of abuse
A Kentucky social worker has been arrested and charged with child abuse after she allegedly directed a friend to strike the social worker’s two children with a belt, injuring them both.
Note: She kind of looks like a deer caught in the headlights. Eh?
Foster Father Arrested, Charged with Cruelty Toward a Child
Foster Father Arrested, Charged with Cruelty Toward a Child
A foster father is out on bond after being charged with cruelty toward a six week old baby.
A foster father is out on bond after being charged with cruelty toward a six week old baby.
Letter: Ease access to adoption records
Letter: Ease access to adoption records
It is still a fact of life that neither the adoptee nor the birth parent routinely know about the New York State Health Department's Adoption Registry. Advertising the registry is long overdue, but that's not enough. Times have changed, and it's past time to give adoptees' rights and give birth parents' rights or some kind of access to their records and information.
It is still a fact of life that neither the adoptee nor the birth parent routinely know about the New York State Health Department's Adoption Registry. Advertising the registry is long overdue, but that's not enough. Times have changed, and it's past time to give adoptees' rights and give birth parents' rights or some kind of access to their records and information.
Editorial: Connecticut must do a better job of protecting children
Editorial: Connecticut must do a better job of protecting children
The recent deaths of three children under the state’s watch should outrage every citizen in Connecticut and prompt swift action.
The recent deaths of three children under the state’s watch should outrage every citizen in Connecticut and prompt swift action.
Aboriginal mothers kept in jail "for their own safety", family violence hearing told
Aboriginal mothers kept in jail "for their own safety", family violence hearing told
Magistrates have been forced to send Aboriginal women who were victims of family violence to jail because emergency accommodation options were so limited, the Royal Commission into Family Violence has heard.
Magistrates have been forced to send Aboriginal women who were victims of family violence to jail because emergency accommodation options were so limited, the Royal Commission into Family Violence has heard.
Lack of social service resources leave vulnerable children at risk - report
Lack of social service resources leave vulnerable children at risk - report
An unpublished report by the National Child and Family Agency, Tusla, has found that serious cases of suspected child abuse are not being followed up due to pressure on staff resources.
An unpublished report by the National Child and Family Agency, Tusla, has found that serious cases of suspected child abuse are not being followed up due to pressure on staff resources.
Thailand: Gay parents in surrogacy battle to keep their daughter
Thailand: Gay parents in surrogacy battle to keep their daughter
The US based couple have been refused consent to leave the country by the baby’s mother after she realised they were gay.
The US based couple have been refused consent to leave the country by the baby’s mother after she realised they were gay.
More Gay People In Utah Want Your Kids
More same-sex married couples applying to become foster parents, state officials say
Since the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision last month to legalize same-sex marriage, more same-sex married couples in Utah are applying to become foster parents. Utah law only allows legally married couples to foster children that are in state custody.
Since the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision last month to legalize same-sex marriage, more same-sex married couples in Utah are applying to become foster parents. Utah law only allows legally married couples to foster children that are in state custody.
Social changes making adoption process tougher across Pennsylvania
Social changes making adoption process tougher across Pennsylvania\
The number of adoptions in Allegheny County and statewide has been down in recent years amid shifting views of parenthood, changes in the child-welfare system and decreased availability of foreign children.
The number of adoptions in Allegheny County and statewide has been down in recent years amid shifting views of parenthood, changes in the child-welfare system and decreased availability of foreign children.
Houston family advocate sounds off on social worker disciplinary disaster
Houston family advocate sounds off on social worker disciplinary disaster
Houston attorney Julie Ketterman of KHA Lawyers, PLLC, finds the actions of the Kentucky child and family protective services agency appalling in a recent case. Boone County, Kentucky, social worker Karey Cooper attempted to help a 7-year-old girl after receiving reports of abuse and neglect. Cooper, a Special Investigator for the State Cabinet for Health and Family Services in Northern Kentucky, has subsequently been removed from her position and assigned to desk duty. She is currently being investigated and faces disciplinary action and possible termination. All because of a policy that does not allow a qualified social worker to pursue a case that is no longer theirs.
Houston attorney Julie Ketterman of KHA Lawyers, PLLC, finds the actions of the Kentucky child and family protective services agency appalling in a recent case. Boone County, Kentucky, social worker Karey Cooper attempted to help a 7-year-old girl after receiving reports of abuse and neglect. Cooper, a Special Investigator for the State Cabinet for Health and Family Services in Northern Kentucky, has subsequently been removed from her position and assigned to desk duty. She is currently being investigated and faces disciplinary action and possible termination. All because of a policy that does not allow a qualified social worker to pursue a case that is no longer theirs.
Child protection bosses express concern over high-risk cases
Child protection bosses express concern over high-risk cases
Six out of 17 Tusla child protection area managers have said they are not satisfied that all children at highest risk in their areas can be kept safe, a newly published report has found.
Sunday, July 19, 2015
High Court judge blasts Croydon Council over foster care battle that cost public purse £30,000
High Court judge blasts Croydon Council over foster care battle that cost public purse £30,000
A HIGH court judge has admonished Croydon Council for its "blinkered approach" during a legal battle with a 17-year-old girl over foster care ended up costing taxpayers upwards of £30,000.
A HIGH court judge has admonished Croydon Council for its "blinkered approach" during a legal battle with a 17-year-old girl over foster care ended up costing taxpayers upwards of £30,000.
Attack On DCF Workers Prompts Call For Better Security
Attack On DCF Workers Prompts Call For Better Security
Worker safety advocates are calling for increased security protocols after two employees of the New Jersey Department of Children and Families were attacked while checking on children at a home in Salem County.
Worker safety advocates are calling for increased security protocols after two employees of the New Jersey Department of Children and Families were attacked while checking on children at a home in Salem County.
Saturday, July 18, 2015
The International Baby Business
The International Baby Business
The huge rise in the incidence of gay men becoming fathers via surrogacy is largely seen as positive by those fighting inequality. Publications aimed at gays and lesbians advertise surrogacy services, and the annual Alternative Parenting Show in London attracts over 2,500 visitors. No wonder an outcry arose when the designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana recently described IVF children as “synthetic.” Sir Elton John, the father of several such children, rode a wave of indignation from his fans to call for a boycott of Dolce and Gabbana’s products. “Shame on you,” the pop legend scolded, “for wagging your judgmental little fingers at IVF—a miracle that has allowed legions of loving people, both straight and gay, to fulfill their dream of having children.”
The huge rise in the incidence of gay men becoming fathers via surrogacy is largely seen as positive by those fighting inequality. Publications aimed at gays and lesbians advertise surrogacy services, and the annual Alternative Parenting Show in London attracts over 2,500 visitors. No wonder an outcry arose when the designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana recently described IVF children as “synthetic.” Sir Elton John, the father of several such children, rode a wave of indignation from his fans to call for a boycott of Dolce and Gabbana’s products. “Shame on you,” the pop legend scolded, “for wagging your judgmental little fingers at IVF—a miracle that has allowed legions of loving people, both straight and gay, to fulfill their dream of having children.”
Dad Battling for Custody of Kids Who Were Locked Up for Refusing to See Him
Dad Battling for Custody of Kids Who Were Locked Up for Refusing to See Him
The latest twist in the bizarre child-custody case in Michigan — which saw a judge order three siblings into juvenile detention recently for refusing to spend time with their father — has the shunned father stepping up his game by seeking full legal and physical custody of his children.
Note: Actually, they should have locked up the mother.
The latest twist in the bizarre child-custody case in Michigan — which saw a judge order three siblings into juvenile detention recently for refusing to spend time with their father — has the shunned father stepping up his game by seeking full legal and physical custody of his children.
Note: Actually, they should have locked up the mother.
Watchdog has 'no confidence' in B.C. ministry's review of child sex abuse case
Watchdog has 'no confidence' in B.C. ministry's review of child sex abuse case
British Columbia's children's minister has promised a review after social workers violated a court order and allowed a father who had molested his kids unsupervised visits.
Note: It's all just a ploy to make you think they're on it.
British Columbia's children's minister has promised a review after social workers violated a court order and allowed a father who had molested his kids unsupervised visits.
Note: It's all just a ploy to make you think they're on it.
DCS caseworker accused of sexual battery at home he visited
DCS caseworker accused of sexual battery at home he visited
A caseworker with the Department of Children’s Services has been charged after authorities say he had unlawful sexual contact with a woman at a home he was visiting this week as part of his routine work.
A caseworker with the Department of Children’s Services has been charged after authorities say he had unlawful sexual contact with a woman at a home he was visiting this week as part of his routine work.
Kids in foster care visit jailed dads, learn ABCs
Kids in foster care visit jailed dads, learn ABCs
The sounds of youthful voices sounding out words and singing the alphabet song are not typical at the Schenectady County Jail.
The sounds of youthful voices sounding out words and singing the alphabet song are not typical at the Schenectady County Jail.
Finding Mom: Adoptees take to Facebook to find their birth mothers
Finding Mom: Adoptees take to Facebook to find their birth mothers
It's probably something most of us take for granted - knowing our mother. But it's estimated that more than 300,000 Hoosiers not only don't know their own birth mother, they have almost no way of finding out.
It's probably something most of us take for granted - knowing our mother. But it's estimated that more than 300,000 Hoosiers not only don't know their own birth mother, they have almost no way of finding out.
Report says Arkansas ranks high in foster care, mistreated children
Report says Arkansas ranks high in foster care, mistreated children
Arkansas should expand intensive home and community-based health services and develop a plan to reduce caseloads to address a rising foster care population and a high rate of child maltreatments.
Arkansas should expand intensive home and community-based health services and develop a plan to reduce caseloads to address a rising foster care population and a high rate of child maltreatments.
Former foster parent arrested on child sex act charges
Former foster parent arrested on child sex act charges
A former foster parent is in jail, charged with six counts of sexual acts on a child under 14 years of age.
A former foster parent is in jail, charged with six counts of sexual acts on a child under 14 years of age.
Conduct of social workers in abuse case faces review
Conduct of social workers in abuse case faces review
The provincial government will review the conduct of social workers criticized by a judge for ignoring or misleading the courts, failing to investigate allegations of sexual abuse and, ultimately, delivering four children into the hands of their predatory father.
-----
The following information was sent to me by a reader who is close to this case:
Just to try to help get the story out accurately:
the MCFD actually didn't "drop the ball"
This wasn't a mistake.
What the judge finds is that
The social worker William Strickland
Intentionally abused his public office and power and knowingly orchestrated the kidnapping if the 4 children. From the mother. (This SW actually knew father had sexually abused the children, but didn't care about that, (It was never that the sw didn't believe it)
(Sw was tasked with getting kids to father irregardless of anything, and took it upon himself to even consult the father on "how we can get the kids kidnapped from her for you" -even the one to suggest to the father to viciously attack the mothers mental health status, in order to "make it easier for us (MCFD) to get the kids for you (the father)
This is what really happened.
Pages 38-70 of the court decision clearly explain the sequence of events, exposing sw tl William Strickland's (knowing the father BG was guilty) malicious and manipulative document tampering and other criminal acts in order to try to hide the sexual abuse evidence to help the father even at the time in the very beginning.
http://www.courts.gov.bc.ca/jdb-txt/SC/15/12/2015BCSC1216.htm
This is the
1st Canadian case where child protection agency is liable for misfeasance, says lawyer
Proven:
Bad Faith (Intentional)
Document Tampering (Intentional)
Misfeasance (Intentional)
Abuse of Public Office and Power (Intentional)
Negligence
All proven.
Petition to fire William Strickland.
Arrest, charge, prosecute, sentence, and imprison B.G. of J.P. vs. MCFD /B.G. Supreme Court Decision: http://www.courts.gov.bc.ca/jdb-txt/SC/15/12/2015BCSC1216.htm
The provincial government will review the conduct of social workers criticized by a judge for ignoring or misleading the courts, failing to investigate allegations of sexual abuse and, ultimately, delivering four children into the hands of their predatory father.
-----
The following information was sent to me by a reader who is close to this case:
Just to try to help get the story out accurately:
the MCFD actually didn't "drop the ball"
This wasn't a mistake.
What the judge finds is that
The social worker William Strickland
Intentionally abused his public office and power and knowingly orchestrated the kidnapping if the 4 children. From the mother. (This SW actually knew father had sexually abused the children, but didn't care about that, (It was never that the sw didn't believe it)
(Sw was tasked with getting kids to father irregardless of anything, and took it upon himself to even consult the father on "how we can get the kids kidnapped from her for you" -even the one to suggest to the father to viciously attack the mothers mental health status, in order to "make it easier for us (MCFD) to get the kids for you (the father)
This is what really happened.
Pages 38-70 of the court decision clearly explain the sequence of events, exposing sw tl William Strickland's (knowing the father BG was guilty) malicious and manipulative document tampering and other criminal acts in order to try to hide the sexual abuse evidence to help the father even at the time in the very beginning.
http://www.courts.gov.bc.ca/jdb-txt/SC/15/12/2015BCSC1216.htm
This is the
1st Canadian case where child protection agency is liable for misfeasance, says lawyer
Proven:
Bad Faith (Intentional)
Document Tampering (Intentional)
Misfeasance (Intentional)
Abuse of Public Office and Power (Intentional)
Negligence
All proven.
Petition to fire William Strickland.
Arrest, charge, prosecute, sentence, and imprison B.G. of J.P. vs. MCFD /B.G. Supreme Court Decision: http://www.courts.gov.bc.ca/jdb-txt/SC/15/12/2015BCSC1216.htm
Cannabis is Safer than Child Protective Services
Cannabis is Safer than Child Protective Services
Foster care can be a dangerous place for children. Foster children may be neglected, injured, sexually and physically abused, or even murdered by foster parents. But for foster children living in medical marijuana states, often the greatest danger can be CPS itself.
Foster care can be a dangerous place for children. Foster children may be neglected, injured, sexually and physically abused, or even murdered by foster parents. But for foster children living in medical marijuana states, often the greatest danger can be CPS itself.
THE LATEST: Missing 9-month-old now back in Child Protective Service custody
THE LATEST: Missing 9-month-old now back in Child Protective Service custody
THE LATEST: Sherry Pulliam, Media Specialist with CPS, confirmed with CBS19 that the child was found just outside Canton.
THE LATEST: Sherry Pulliam, Media Specialist with CPS, confirmed with CBS19 that the child was found just outside Canton.
Former Department of Children's Services caseworker charged
Former Department of Children's Services caseworker charged
A former caseworker with the Tennessee Department of Children's Services has been charged with having unlawful sexual contact with a woman at a home he was visiting as part of his work.
A former caseworker with the Tennessee Department of Children's Services has been charged with having unlawful sexual contact with a woman at a home he was visiting as part of his work.
Friday, July 17, 2015
Child welfare fails high-needs kids: advocate
Child welfare fails high-needs kids: advocate
A report from Manitoba’s children’s advocate says provincial child welfare has “deteriorated into a chronic state of emergency” and is failing kids with complex needs.
A report from Manitoba’s children’s advocate says provincial child welfare has “deteriorated into a chronic state of emergency” and is failing kids with complex needs.
Too many aboriginal kids in state care, premiers say
Too many aboriginal kids in state care, premiers say
Canada's premiers are raising concerns about the high number of aboriginal children in care as they urge the federal government to help them address the issue.
Denver child welfare department now under heavy scrutiny
Denver child welfare department now under heavy scrutiny
After the recent deaths of two children — and five reviews launched by Colorado's child watchdog in the last two years — Denver's child protection system will undergo heavy scrutiny during the next few months.
After the recent deaths of two children — and five reviews launched by Colorado's child watchdog in the last two years — Denver's child protection system will undergo heavy scrutiny during the next few months.
The Stolen Children of Maine: Native Wabanaki Seek Truth, Reconciliation Amidst a Cultural Genocide
The Stolen Children of Maine: Native Wabanaki Seek Truth, Reconciliation Amidst a Cultural Genocide
Denise Altvater was born in 1959, a Passamoquoddy child in Maine. She and her sisters were taken from her home by child welfare services when she was seven years old and forced into foster care, where she recalls being raped, starved and forced to sleep among rats. She eventually ended up in a kinder foster home, but even there she was discouraged from speaking of her heritage. Altvater now works in the field of indigenous child welfare, but reentering the tribe has been a long and often excruciating process. She has been suicidal at times, and struggled with her own personal relationships. “I wasn’t the best parent,” she told me. “I didn’t know how to be a parent.”
Pro-DHHS Propaganda and Misinformation via WMTW Channel 8
Pro-DHHS Propaganda and Misinformation via WMTW Channel 8
So I come across an article by WMTW 8 that absolutely disgusts me because it is full of misinformation and Pro-DHHS propaganda that most people wouldn't have enough of a clue to pick up on.
So I come across an article by WMTW 8 that absolutely disgusts me because it is full of misinformation and Pro-DHHS propaganda that most people wouldn't have enough of a clue to pick up on.
Thursday, July 16, 2015
Adoptive parents lose custody after Waco incident
Adoptive parents lose custody after Waco incident
The biker shootout at a Waco restaurant in May has evolved into a tragedy on many levels.
The biker shootout at a Waco restaurant in May has evolved into a tragedy on many levels.
Cuthand: The Sixties Scoop still continues today
Cuthand: The Sixties Scoop still continues today
The so-called Sixties Scoop is the latest travesty to be revealed. Calling it the Sixties Scoop gives the impression that it was all in the past. The reality is that aboriginal children are still being apprehended and placed in state care.
The so-called Sixties Scoop is the latest travesty to be revealed. Calling it the Sixties Scoop gives the impression that it was all in the past. The reality is that aboriginal children are still being apprehended and placed in state care.
CYFD worker accused of soliciting sex with teen
CYFD worker accused of soliciting sex with teen
Santa Fe police have arrested a Children, Youth and Families Department employee on allegations of attempting to have sex with a teenage girl.
Santa Fe police have arrested a Children, Youth and Families Department employee on allegations of attempting to have sex with a teenage girl.
Study of child welfare system in Arkansas is released
Study of child welfare system in Arkansas is released
A review of Arkansas' child welfare system says the state places a high importance on children who are in the system, but that the Division of Children and Family Services faces challenges ranging from finding enough foster homes to conflict with courts that handle juvenile and family matters.
A review of Arkansas' child welfare system says the state places a high importance on children who are in the system, but that the Division of Children and Family Services faces challenges ranging from finding enough foster homes to conflict with courts that handle juvenile and family matters.
A tragic tale repeated: mistaking infantile rickets for child abuse
A tragic tale repeated: mistaking infantile rickets for child abuse
Another parent, Rebecca J. Wanosik, is fighting to regain custody of her five children after her baby was tragically misdiagnosed with child abuse.
Another parent, Rebecca J. Wanosik, is fighting to regain custody of her five children after her baby was tragically misdiagnosed with child abuse.
TBI investigating former Rutherford County DCS caseworker
TBI investigating former Rutherford County DCS caseworker
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation confirmed an investigation into a former Department of Children’s Services caseworker in Rutherford County.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation confirmed an investigation into a former Department of Children’s Services caseworker in Rutherford County.
Parents accused of abusing adoptive daughter plead guilty
Parents accused of abusing adoptive daughter plead guilty
A Wichita couple has pleaded guilty to beating and abusing a girl they were foster parents to and later adopted.
A Wichita couple has pleaded guilty to beating and abusing a girl they were foster parents to and later adopted.
Judge says Utah must recognize lesbian moms as legal parents
Judge says Utah must recognize lesbian moms as legal parents
A federal judge said Wednesday that Utah must recognize the rights of a married lesbian couple by issuing a birth certificate for their infant daughter that lists both of the women as legal parents.
A federal judge said Wednesday that Utah must recognize the rights of a married lesbian couple by issuing a birth certificate for their infant daughter that lists both of the women as legal parents.
Counselor charged with sexual battery, possession of child pornography
Counselor charged with sexual battery, possession of child pornography
A counselor who was employed by Family Support Services, which is contracted the Department of Children and Families is accused of molesting a 17-year-old boy he worked with.
A counselor who was employed by Family Support Services, which is contracted the Department of Children and Families is accused of molesting a 17-year-old boy he worked with.
Michigan has rules, guidelines to protect foster kids
Michigan has rules, guidelines to protect foster kids
Note: Of course they're not always followed, right?
It's a job Robert Ennis has been doing for decades: making sure kids in foster care go to a loving and nurturing home.
Note: Of course they're not always followed, right?
It's a job Robert Ennis has been doing for decades: making sure kids in foster care go to a loving and nurturing home.
No new day in court for foster-child killer
No new day in court for foster-child killer
The California Supreme Court refused Wednesday to review the case against a former South Los Angeles resident convicted of the beating death of the 2 1/2-year-old foster daughter she was in the process of adopting.
The California Supreme Court refused Wednesday to review the case against a former South Los Angeles resident convicted of the beating death of the 2 1/2-year-old foster daughter she was in the process of adopting.
Foster Children Returned to Convicted Child Molester's Home
Foster Children Returned to Convicted Child Molester's Home
Two of convicted child molester Gary Paul Smith's adopted children have been returned to his home.
Rutland Foster Couple In Legal Tangle With State After Botched Bedbug Extermination
Rutland Foster Couple In Legal Tangle With State After Botched Bedbug Extermination
A Rutland foster couple that sued the state after a botched bedbug extermination in 2013 feels they should be able to seek additional damages from insurance companies.
A Rutland foster couple that sued the state after a botched bedbug extermination in 2013 feels they should be able to seek additional damages from insurance companies.
Lawmaker says CYFD has yet to provide requested information
Lawmaker says CYFD has yet to provide requested information
A historically troubled department is under more scrutiny. Lawmakers asked CYFD for a number of data points last session. Now, eight months after the deadline, some legislators say the department still hasn’t delivered.
A historically troubled department is under more scrutiny. Lawmakers asked CYFD for a number of data points last session. Now, eight months after the deadline, some legislators say the department still hasn’t delivered.
Child welfare workers overwhelmed by non-critical cases
Child welfare workers overwhelmed by non-critical cases
THE overwhelmed child protection unit is being clogged by thousands of non-critical cases of domestic violence, diverting staff from Victoria’s most at-risk children.
THE overwhelmed child protection unit is being clogged by thousands of non-critical cases of domestic violence, diverting staff from Victoria’s most at-risk children.
Social workers dropped ball
Social workers dropped ball
Social workers recklessly disregarded their obligation to protect children who were sexually abused by their father, even granting him unsupervised visits during which he molested his toddler, a British Columbia judge has ruled.
Social workers recklessly disregarded their obligation to protect children who were sexually abused by their father, even granting him unsupervised visits during which he molested his toddler, a British Columbia judge has ruled.
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
Is pressure to speed up adoptions leaving children out in the cold?
Is pressure to speed up adoptions leaving children out in the cold?
Social workers are being heavily criticised by judges for bringing shoddy cases and poor evidence to court in care proceedings as the government allocates more funds to quicken the process
Social workers are being heavily criticised by judges for bringing shoddy cases and poor evidence to court in care proceedings as the government allocates more funds to quicken the process
State representative calls for independent investigation of DCFS
State representative calls for independent investigation of DCFS
State Representative Alfred Williams is calling for an investigation of the Department of Children and Family Services. This comes after a malnourished 15-year-old was found living in horrible conditions on July 8.
State Representative Alfred Williams is calling for an investigation of the Department of Children and Family Services. This comes after a malnourished 15-year-old was found living in horrible conditions on July 8.
When Desperate Parents Are Wrongly Accused of Abusing Their Very Sick Kids
When Desperate Parents Are Wrongly Accused of Abusing Their Very Sick Kids
If you have a child who is very sick, you will move heaven and earth to get that kid care. Unfortunately, there’s a possibility that this assiduousness will trigger suspicions of abuse. In a horrifying, supremely well-sourced op-ed in The New York Times, the mom of a girl who suffered from inexplicable headaches, nausea, falls, and pain, explains how other people in her situation have lost their kids to child protective service agents who imagined abuse where none exists (links added):
If you have a child who is very sick, you will move heaven and earth to get that kid care. Unfortunately, there’s a possibility that this assiduousness will trigger suspicions of abuse. In a horrifying, supremely well-sourced op-ed in The New York Times, the mom of a girl who suffered from inexplicable headaches, nausea, falls, and pain, explains how other people in her situation have lost their kids to child protective service agents who imagined abuse where none exists (links added):
Child-welfare problems could continue
Child-welfare problems could continue
Child-welfare officials Tuesday told state lawmakers that without additional resources, problems will continue within the troubled Human Services Department.
Child-welfare officials Tuesday told state lawmakers that without additional resources, problems will continue within the troubled Human Services Department.
BC’s child protection director abused authority in sex abuse case, says judge
BC’s child protection director abused authority in sex abuse case, says judge
In a blistering ruling against the government, a judge has sided with a Lower Mainland mother in her fight against B-C’s director of child protection.
In a blistering ruling against the government, a judge has sided with a Lower Mainland mother in her fight against B-C’s director of child protection.
ICE releases hundreds of women, children from detention
ICE releases hundreds of women, children from detention
Immigrations and Customs Enforcement has released some 200 Central Americans, mostly women and children, from family-detention centers since last Friday. The move is part of a sweeping series of changes the agency has made in recent months to when and for how long families seeking asylum are being detained.
Immigrations and Customs Enforcement has released some 200 Central Americans, mostly women and children, from family-detention centers since last Friday. The move is part of a sweeping series of changes the agency has made in recent months to when and for how long families seeking asylum are being detained.
Last of four teens missing from group home found safe
Last of four teens missing from group home found safe
The last of four teen girls who walked away from a group home in Peoria Sunday has been found safe.
The last of four teen girls who walked away from a group home in Peoria Sunday has been found safe.
Foster kids bills shouldn’t give doctors a pass: Editorial
Foster kids bills shouldn’t give doctors a pass: Editorial
A package of four bills headed through the California Legislature this summer will help stem the tide of powerful psychotropic medication prescribed for as many as 1 in 4 foster children.
A package of four bills headed through the California Legislature this summer will help stem the tide of powerful psychotropic medication prescribed for as many as 1 in 4 foster children.
Orphanage founder describes imprisonment in Haiti at defamation trial in Portland
Orphanage founder describes imprisonment in Haiti at defamation trial in Portland
Orphanage founder Michael Geilenfeld describes the first cell where he was kept during his 237 days in a Haitian prison as “my picture of hell.”
Orphanage founder Michael Geilenfeld describes the first cell where he was kept during his 237 days in a Haitian prison as “my picture of hell.”
Tuesday, July 14, 2015
Facebook Adoption
A Facebook post written over the weekend and posted to a private group is causing quite a stir in Dubuque, Iowa.
Indian Child Welfare Act hearings reignite adoption debate
Indian Child Welfare Act hearings reignite adoption debate
John Echohawk had heard enough. On May 14, he had listened with growing irritation to lawyers representing the American Academy of Adoption Attorneys (AAAA) denigrate the recently published guidelines and proposed rule for the Indian Child Welfare Act in front of the very people who had authored them.
John Echohawk had heard enough. On May 14, he had listened with growing irritation to lawyers representing the American Academy of Adoption Attorneys (AAAA) denigrate the recently published guidelines and proposed rule for the Indian Child Welfare Act in front of the very people who had authored them.
Manager sues child welfare agency alleging large caseload violates state law, endangers kids
Manager sues child welfare agency alleging large caseload violates state law, endangers kids
A lawsuit filed on behalf of a Department of Child Services family case manager contends her caseload is more than twice what Indiana law allows and the excessive work puts children at risk.
A lawsuit filed on behalf of a Department of Child Services family case manager contends her caseload is more than twice what Indiana law allows and the excessive work puts children at risk.
Two N.J. child welfare workers assaulted, injured, on job
Two N.J. child welfare workers assaulted, injured, on job
Note: Bummer...
Two child protection caseworkers were attacked and injured while they were removing a child from a suspected abusive home in Pennsville Township, Salem County on Tuesday, according to state officials
Note: Bummer...
Two child protection caseworkers were attacked and injured while they were removing a child from a suspected abusive home in Pennsville Township, Salem County on Tuesday, according to state officials
Investigation from DHHS continues into foster mom, foster agency
Investigation from DHHS continues into foster mom, foster agency
Omarion Humphrey went missing on July 4 under the supervision of Lulu Richardson at Lake Callis Park and was found dead nearly a week later.
Omarion Humphrey went missing on July 4 under the supervision of Lulu Richardson at Lake Callis Park and was found dead nearly a week later.
Washington No.1 for jailing noncriminal kids, spurred by law named for Tacoma runaway
Washington No.1 for jailing noncriminal kids, spurred by law named for Tacoma runaway
More than two decades after the beaten body of a Tacoma runaway was found along the Spokane River, a photo of her hangs prominently on the wall in a King County juvenile courtroom.
More than two decades after the beaten body of a Tacoma runaway was found along the Spokane River, a photo of her hangs prominently on the wall in a King County juvenile courtroom.
Taken From Families, Indigenous Children Face Extreme Rates of State Violence in US
Taken From Families, Indigenous Children Face Extreme Rates of State Violence in US
The plight of Indigenous children recently made headlines, as Canada's Truth and Reconciliation Commission released a damning report calling the country's long-held policy of removing Native children from their families by force and placing them in state-funded residential schools "cultural genocide." According to the report, even before Canada was founded in 1867, churches were operating boarding schools for Indigenous children, and the last federally supported residential school didn't close until the late 1990s.
The plight of Indigenous children recently made headlines, as Canada's Truth and Reconciliation Commission released a damning report calling the country's long-held policy of removing Native children from their families by force and placing them in state-funded residential schools "cultural genocide." According to the report, even before Canada was founded in 1867, churches were operating boarding schools for Indigenous children, and the last federally supported residential school didn't close until the late 1990s.
Texas legislator continues push for bill to protect faith-based child welfare agencies
Texas legislator continues push for bill to protect faith-based child welfare agencies
A bill aimed at protecting child welfare agencies’ religious liberties failed to make it to the Texas House of Representatives floor this spring, but its main author, Rep. Scott Sanford (R-McKinney), isn’t giving up on it.
A bill aimed at protecting child welfare agencies’ religious liberties failed to make it to the Texas House of Representatives floor this spring, but its main author, Rep. Scott Sanford (R-McKinney), isn’t giving up on it.
The New Child Abuse Panic
The New Child Abuse Panic
FEW things are tougher for a parent than dealing with a child’s serious medical condition, particularly if it is complicated and hard to diagnose. The parent has to make hard choices about treatment, navigating conflicting advice from doctors or even rejecting one doctor’s opinion and seeking another.
I was sent to 39 different homes and raped three times before I was 16
I was sent to 39 different homes and raped three times before I was 16
A former Birmingham children’s home resident has told how she was sent to 39 different placements and raped three times before the age of 16.
A former Birmingham children’s home resident has told how she was sent to 39 different placements and raped three times before the age of 16.
Adoptees fight for view into past
Adoptees fight for view into past
When Sharon Smith first started looking for her birth mother, she was hesitant. She didn't want to hurt her adoptive mother or intrude on her birth mother's life. As time went by, she gathered small scraps of information and a family friend even gave her a name. But 15 years into a fruitless search, she's angry about state laws surrounding adoptees' birth records. Because the information Smith seeks exists on her original birth certificate — it's just that she isn't allowed to see it.
When Sharon Smith first started looking for her birth mother, she was hesitant. She didn't want to hurt her adoptive mother or intrude on her birth mother's life. As time went by, she gathered small scraps of information and a family friend even gave her a name. But 15 years into a fruitless search, she's angry about state laws surrounding adoptees' birth records. Because the information Smith seeks exists on her original birth certificate — it's just that she isn't allowed to see it.
Emotional reunion for dad who hadn't seen his son for four weeks
Emotional reunion for dad who hadn't seen his son for four weeks
A man who hadn't seen his son for four weeks because his ex stopped access now wants custody of his son.
A man who hadn't seen his son for four weeks because his ex stopped access now wants custody of his son.
Criminals Working in Daycares & Becoming Foster Parents, Investigation Shows
After the State of Florida's Department of Children and Families (DCF) provided an exemption for criminal disqualification, people with questionable criminal backgrounds have been given a chance to work in daycares or become foster parents, reports ABC Action News.
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