A state agency responsible for safeguarding the well-being of New Mexico's at-risk children and families failed to protect a 9-year-old who was beaten to death by his mother and stepfather, a lawsuit brought by the child's estate claims.
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
Social Workers Sued Over Child's Death
Social Workers Sued Over Child's Death
A state agency responsible for safeguarding the well-being of New Mexico's at-risk children and families failed to protect a 9-year-old who was beaten to death by his mother and stepfather, a lawsuit brought by the child's estate claims.
A state agency responsible for safeguarding the well-being of New Mexico's at-risk children and families failed to protect a 9-year-old who was beaten to death by his mother and stepfather, a lawsuit brought by the child's estate claims.
Audit faults how Arizona child-welfare agency evaluates child risk
Audit faults how Arizona child-welfare agency evaluates child risk
The process the state Department of Child Safety uses to determine whether to remove a child from a home is plagued by inconsistency and lacks the accountability that would allow the agency to improve its practices, a state audit finds.
Has Child Protective Services Gone Too Far?
Has Child Protective Services Gone Too Far?
A debate sparked by the free-range parenting movement has drawn attention to the threats and intrusions poor, minority families have long endured.
A debate sparked by the free-range parenting movement has drawn attention to the threats and intrusions poor, minority families have long endured.
Oregon lawmakers ask scathing questions about foster kids
Oregon lawmakers ask scathing questions about foster kids
Oregon lawmakers have begun casting a critical eye on the state's foster care system, pressing officials to defend their ability to protect thousands of vulnerable children.
Oregon lawmakers have begun casting a critical eye on the state's foster care system, pressing officials to defend their ability to protect thousands of vulnerable children.
Man charged with sexually assaulting girls in foster care
Man charged with sexually assaulting girls in foster care
A 68-year-old Billings man is charged with sexually assaulting two girls who are in foster care.
A 68-year-old Billings man is charged with sexually assaulting two girls who are in foster care.
MOTHER CHARGED WITH MURDER IN DEATH OF INFANT GIRL AT BRONX APARTMENT BUILDING, SHE ONCE WORKED FOR ACS
MOTHER CHARGED WITH MURDER IN DEATH OF INFANT GIRL AT BRONX APARTMENT BUILDING, SHE ONCE WORKED FOR ACS
Charges have been filed against the mother of a newborn girl accused of throwing the child out of a 7-story window at a Bronx apartment building Monday.
DCF takes custody of siblings of dead Worcester toddler
DCF takes custody of siblings of dead Worcester toddler
State child welfare workers have seized custody of children living in the Worcester home where a 2-year-old girl died yesterday.
State child welfare workers have seized custody of children living in the Worcester home where a 2-year-old girl died yesterday.
Has the child’s welfare pendulum swung too far – are Parents’ rights disregarded?
Has the child’s welfare pendulum swung too far – are Parents’ rights disregarded?
The current state of the law is probably best summed up by Re B (A child) [2009] UKSC . In summary, the court held that it is only as a contributor to the child’s welfare that parenthood assumes any significance. Have we gone too far in our focus on the welfare of the child and the child alone as the issue of paramount concern? Can the interests of parents and children be so easily distinguished?
The current state of the law is probably best summed up by Re B (A child) [2009] UKSC . In summary, the court held that it is only as a contributor to the child’s welfare that parenthood assumes any significance. Have we gone too far in our focus on the welfare of the child and the child alone as the issue of paramount concern? Can the interests of parents and children be so easily distinguished?
Sharp rise in the number of children in foster care means more kids at risk
Sharp rise in the number of children in foster care means more kids at risk
The disturbing headlines and heartbreaking stories of children failed by foster care continue to fill newspapers and websites. The tragedies are also likely to become even more common if the strain on America’s foster care system isn’t alleviated, as the number of children in foster care in the U.S. rose sharply, for the first time in nearly a decade. According to the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) annual report, the foster care population in Fiscal Year 2014 rose to 415,129 children from just under 401,000 children in Fiscal Year 2013.
The disturbing headlines and heartbreaking stories of children failed by foster care continue to fill newspapers and websites. The tragedies are also likely to become even more common if the strain on America’s foster care system isn’t alleviated, as the number of children in foster care in the U.S. rose sharply, for the first time in nearly a decade. According to the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) annual report, the foster care population in Fiscal Year 2014 rose to 415,129 children from just under 401,000 children in Fiscal Year 2013.
Foster Children With Untreated Health Issues Face Barriers to Care
Foster Children With Untreated Health Issues Face Barriers to Care
Children with untreated physical and mental health issues living in foster care face several barriers to care, according to an American Academy of Pediatrics report by researchers from California and other states, NPR's "Shots" reports (Neighmond, "Shots," NPR, 9/28).
Children with untreated physical and mental health issues living in foster care face several barriers to care, according to an American Academy of Pediatrics report by researchers from California and other states, NPR's "Shots" reports (Neighmond, "Shots," NPR, 9/28).
Ministry to report publicly on foster kids in hotels, Cadieux says
Ministry to report publicly on foster kids in hotels, Cadieux says
With the Opposition demanding her resignation, Children and Family Development Minister Stephanie Cadieux announced Monday that the government will report publicly twice a year on the numbers of foster children who have to be placed in hotels.
With the Opposition demanding her resignation, Children and Family Development Minister Stephanie Cadieux announced Monday that the government will report publicly twice a year on the numbers of foster children who have to be placed in hotels.
Tuesday, September 29, 2015
Baker: DCF suffers from 'mission confusion'
Baker: DCF suffers from 'mission confusion'
Gov. Charlie Baker is ordering several policy changes at the state's embattled child welfare agency after a series of high-profile cases including that of Bella Bond, the toddler known to the world for months as Baby Doe after her remains washed up on the Boston Harbor shoreline.
Gov. Charlie Baker is ordering several policy changes at the state's embattled child welfare agency after a series of high-profile cases including that of Bella Bond, the toddler known to the world for months as Baby Doe after her remains washed up on the Boston Harbor shoreline.
Child deaths continue despite DCS intervention
Child deaths continue despite DCS intervention
Department of Child Services officials in Indiana are facing tough questions after a WAVE 3 News investigation found evidence indicating they're not doing enough to protect children.
Note: And Indiana is off in the race to take the most kids.
Department of Child Services officials in Indiana are facing tough questions after a WAVE 3 News investigation found evidence indicating they're not doing enough to protect children.
Note: And Indiana is off in the race to take the most kids.
Political Scene: Overhaul ramps up at R.I.'s troubled child-welfare agency
Political Scene: Overhaul ramps up at R.I.'s troubled child-welfare agency
Who's running the troubled state Department of Children, Youth and Families?
Who's running the troubled state Department of Children, Youth and Families?
Court blasts child welfare system’s pace
Court blasts child welfare system’s pace
Ontario has no concrete plans to fix a dilatory child welfare litigation regime that the province’s top court says sometimes condemns children to “legal limbo.”
Ontario has no concrete plans to fix a dilatory child welfare litigation regime that the province’s top court says sometimes condemns children to “legal limbo.”
Two-thirds of foster children separated from siblings
Two-thirds of foster children separated from siblings
Denial of regular contact with brothers and sisters can, say experts, have a devastating impact on children in care.
Denial of regular contact with brothers and sisters can, say experts, have a devastating impact on children in care.
Foster kids turning 19 need range of supports
Foster kids turning 19 need range of supports
For many young adults in provincial care, their 19th birthday looms large. It's the date when they leave the system and must become immediately independent.
For many young adults in provincial care, their 19th birthday looms large. It's the date when they leave the system and must become immediately independent.
Monday, September 28, 2015
Third Lawsuit Filed Against DCF's Katz After Another Child-Abuse Exoneration
Third Lawsuit Filed Against DCF's Katz After Another Child-Abuse Exoneration
A former owner of a New Milford childcare center who once faced child-molestation charges is suing child-protection commissioner Joette Katz for $3 million — the third unrelated case filed by exonerated people against Katz in a little more than a month.
Lawsuit: Gov. Haley, DSS agree to give more protection to foster children
Lawsuit: Gov. Haley, DSS agree to give more protection to foster children
Agreement appears to be major step in protecting South Carolina’s vulnerable foster children
note: Their words not mine.
Agreement appears to be major step in protecting South Carolina’s vulnerable foster children
note: Their words not mine.
Children In Foster Care Aren't Getting To See The Doctor
Children In Foster Care Aren't Getting To See The Doctor
On any given day, about half a million children are living in foster care. They've been removed from violent or abusive households; many suffer physical and mental health problems that have gone untreated.
On any given day, about half a million children are living in foster care. They've been removed from violent or abusive households; many suffer physical and mental health problems that have gone untreated.
Main focus of DCF will be to ‘keep kids safe,’ Baker says
Main focus of DCF will be to ‘keep kids safe,’ Baker says
Beset by a series of high-profile problems at the state’s child welfare agency, Governor Charlie Baker Monday pledged to start a new chapter at Massachusetts’ Department of Children and Families, with several new policies and an unyielding dedication to decreasing the chance that children will become victims of violent crime at the hands of those closest to them.
Beset by a series of high-profile problems at the state’s child welfare agency, Governor Charlie Baker Monday pledged to start a new chapter at Massachusetts’ Department of Children and Families, with several new policies and an unyielding dedication to decreasing the chance that children will become victims of violent crime at the hands of those closest to them.
- Baker Announces DCF Reforms, Independent Review Of Baby Bella Case
- Gov. Baker to announce DCF policy changes
Note: Looks like Massachusetts CPS Agents are about to start snatching more kids.
DHS foster child deported within months of aging out of system
Foster mother Tylisha Oliver drove pregnant, 18-year-old Gabriella Portillo to a meeting asked by her foster daughter’s parole officer. She had a feeling something wasn’t right because it was an unusual request.
For private foster agencies, a new layer of scrutiny
For private foster agencies, a new layer of scrutiny
Adina, a 23-month-old girl, lay on the floor in the darkened bedroom of a Calexico home, alone. It was Dec. 9, and she was slipping away as blood pooled inside her skull, the result of a powerful blow to her forehead.
Adina, a 23-month-old girl, lay on the floor in the darkened bedroom of a Calexico home, alone. It was Dec. 9, and she was slipping away as blood pooled inside her skull, the result of a powerful blow to her forehead.
Reforming Washington courts to mend, not end, family ties
Reforming Washington courts to mend, not end, family ties
Imagine you’re a parent struggling to get it together while the world keeps falling apart around you. The baby’s crying, the twins are fighting, and you’re two months behind on the rent. You lose it one evening, and give one kid another slap upside the head to make them stop fighting, It leaves a mark, a teacher sees it and notifies Child Protective Services, and suddenly your kids are in foster care. You’re in dependency court on charges of abuse.
Imagine you’re a parent struggling to get it together while the world keeps falling apart around you. The baby’s crying, the twins are fighting, and you’re two months behind on the rent. You lose it one evening, and give one kid another slap upside the head to make them stop fighting, It leaves a mark, a teacher sees it and notifies Child Protective Services, and suddenly your kids are in foster care. You’re in dependency court on charges of abuse.
Child welfare services sue over Pa. budget deadlock
Child welfare services sue over Pa. budget deadlock
A coalition of social services providers is suing Gov. Tom Wolf's administration for leaving them high and dry during Pennsylvania's budget impasse.
A coalition of social services providers is suing Gov. Tom Wolf's administration for leaving them high and dry during Pennsylvania's budget impasse.
Authorities investigating state’s child welfare agency
Authorities investigating state’s child welfare agency
State authorities are investigating possible financial mismanagement at Rhode Island’s troubled child welfare agency, officials said Wednesday, weeks after an audit cited problems in department management and financial controls.
State authorities are investigating possible financial mismanagement at Rhode Island’s troubled child welfare agency, officials said Wednesday, weeks after an audit cited problems in department management and financial controls.
Sunday, September 27, 2015
Social Services blames girl's family for sex-abuse placement
Social Services blames girl's family for sex-abuse placement
It was the grandmother’s idea.
That’s what an attorney for the Warren County Department of Social Services said in court Friday, in the department’s first public statement about a child who was placed with a drug addict and felon rather than with family or foster parents.
Bay Area News Group wins global Online Journalism Award for 'Drugging Our Kids' series
Bay Area News Group wins global Online Journalism Award for 'Drugging Our Kids' series
The Bay Area News Group's "Drugging Our Kids" series, which revealed the excessive use of psychiatric drugs in California's foster care system, was named a winner at the 15th annual Online Journalism Awards on Saturday.
The Bay Area News Group's "Drugging Our Kids" series, which revealed the excessive use of psychiatric drugs in California's foster care system, was named a winner at the 15th annual Online Journalism Awards on Saturday.
CPS WORKERS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS & CPS KIDNAPS CHILDREN FOR MONEY
CPS WORKERS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS & CPS KIDNAPS CHILDREN FOR MONEY
Why should we be concerned about the work of Child Protective Services agencies? Because it’s a business and sometimes families are destroyed for the sake of profit, not due to abusive or incompetent parents. I’ve seen it myself… four beautiful children taken from their very loving mother and adopted out to an elderly couple in a town on the other side of the state. Both agency and adoptive parents were richly rewarded. If even a small part of the money paid to the adoptive parents had been spent to make the family home more acceptable to CPS, the State and Federal coffers would be richer and the children and parents would have been far better off.
Why should we be concerned about the work of Child Protective Services agencies? Because it’s a business and sometimes families are destroyed for the sake of profit, not due to abusive or incompetent parents. I’ve seen it myself… four beautiful children taken from their very loving mother and adopted out to an elderly couple in a town on the other side of the state. Both agency and adoptive parents were richly rewarded. If even a small part of the money paid to the adoptive parents had been spent to make the family home more acceptable to CPS, the State and Federal coffers would be richer and the children and parents would have been far better off.
Saturday, September 26, 2015
Mexican Babies Might Have Been Sold for Up to $20,000 to American Couples
Mexican Babies Might Have Been Sold for Up to $20,000 to American Couples
A cross-border baby trafficking ring allegedly operated by welfare officials in northern Mexico — and then covered up by state prosecutors — is highlighting the issue of human trafficking in the country.
A cross-border baby trafficking ring allegedly operated by welfare officials in northern Mexico — and then covered up by state prosecutors — is highlighting the issue of human trafficking in the country.
More children than ever before are in the foster care system in Kansas
According to the most recent data, 6,522 children are in foster care.
‘VULNERABLE’ DUNDEE FOSTER KIDS HAVING TO MOVE HOME
‘VULNERABLE’ DUNDEE FOSTER KIDS HAVING TO MOVE HOME
Nearly 25% of Dundee foster children moved home two or more times last year.
Nearly 25% of Dundee foster children moved home two or more times last year.
Foster mother ignores sexual abuse claims of child
Foster mother ignores sexual abuse claims of child
A foster mother is facing charges after she failed to report her own son was sexually assaulting her foster child, and investigators say she ignored the child's cries for help.
A foster mother is facing charges after she failed to report her own son was sexually assaulting her foster child, and investigators say she ignored the child's cries for help.
Backlog of child welfare cases grows by nearly 2,000
Note: Arizona is about to have a major CPS attack on families!
Backlog of child welfare cases grows by nearly 2,000
Backlogged cases outnumber Department of Child Safety workers roughly 15 to 1, a gap the agency's director says cannot be bridged.
Backlog of child welfare cases grows by nearly 2,000
Backlogged cases outnumber Department of Child Safety workers roughly 15 to 1, a gap the agency's director says cannot be bridged.
Friday, September 25, 2015
Manitoba judge slams child welfare system in sex abuse case
Manitoba judge slams child welfare system in sex abuse case
A Manitoba judge says Child and Family Services failed to follow proper protocol in placing a teenage boy with a man who has a lengthy record of violent crime and substance abuse.
A Manitoba judge says Child and Family Services failed to follow proper protocol in placing a teenage boy with a man who has a lengthy record of violent crime and substance abuse.
Up to 50 B.C. children in care were put up in hotels in the past year
Up to 50 B.C. children in care were put up in hotels in the past year
Somewhere between 23 and 50 foster children have been placed in B.C. hotels in the past year, officials reported one week after a foster youth fell to his death from the window of a hotel where he’d been housed for months.
Somewhere between 23 and 50 foster children have been placed in B.C. hotels in the past year, officials reported one week after a foster youth fell to his death from the window of a hotel where he’d been housed for months.
Surveillance Videos Show Foster Children Abuse in Connecticut
Surveillance Videos Show Foster Children Abuse in Connecticut
Connecticut’s Office of the Child Advocate released an investigative report in July saying children were being illegally restrained and secluded at the two juvenile detention facilities run by the Department of Children and Families (DCF). On Sept. 15, the Child Advocate decided to release confidential surveillance videos that show children attempting suicide after staff secluded them during an emotional crisis.
Connecticut’s Office of the Child Advocate released an investigative report in July saying children were being illegally restrained and secluded at the two juvenile detention facilities run by the Department of Children and Families (DCF). On Sept. 15, the Child Advocate decided to release confidential surveillance videos that show children attempting suicide after staff secluded them during an emotional crisis.
Omaha Tribe of Nebraska plans Native foster care system to preserve culture
Omaha Tribe of Nebraska plans Native foster care system to preserve culture
The Omaha Tribe of Nebraska is in the early stages of planning a local Native American foster care system, a move its leader says will help preserve tribal culture for future generations.
Ruling finds limits to foster kids' right to attend hearings
Ruling finds limits to foster kids' right to attend hearings
A new Arizona court ruling says foster children's right under state law to attend court hearings in their cases can be trumped by other considerations.
A new Arizona court ruling says foster children's right under state law to attend court hearings in their cases can be trumped by other considerations.
Thursday, September 24, 2015
Sharp increase in foster care numbers come after a decade in decline
For the first time in a decade, there was a notable increase last year in the number of U.S. children in foster care, according to new federal figures released Wednesday.
More SA children going into care each year
More SA children going into care each year
Child protection workers in South Australia tend to underestimate the risks posed by parents abusing drugs or alcohol, a state parliamentary committee has found.
Child protection workers in South Australia tend to underestimate the risks posed by parents abusing drugs or alcohol, a state parliamentary committee has found.
Losing children was ‘hell on earth’
Losing children was ‘hell on earth’
The couple’s eight children, including a breast-feeding baby, were put in various foster homes eight years ago, after one of the children was arrested for shoplifting and told police that a bruise on his face was caused by his father beating him with a belt.
The couple’s eight children, including a breast-feeding baby, were put in various foster homes eight years ago, after one of the children was arrested for shoplifting and told police that a bruise on his face was caused by his father beating him with a belt.
Kids Are Tossing Their Government-Mandated Fruit Straight In The Trash
Kids Are Tossing Their Government-Mandated Fruit Straight In The Trash
Ever since the introduction of mandatory fruits and vegetables for schoolchildren, kids have eaten less of them than before. The Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act, introduced in 2010 and in effect from last year, forces schoolchildren to take a piece of fruit or a vegetable and put it on their lunch tray. What it does’t do is force them to eat it. A new study shows that kids toss their apples into the trash before they even take a place at a table.
Note: See? The Government doesn't know best!
Ever since the introduction of mandatory fruits and vegetables for schoolchildren, kids have eaten less of them than before. The Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act, introduced in 2010 and in effect from last year, forces schoolchildren to take a piece of fruit or a vegetable and put it on their lunch tray. What it does’t do is force them to eat it. A new study shows that kids toss their apples into the trash before they even take a place at a table.
Note: See? The Government doesn't know best!
Social worker from Warwick charged on child pornography counts
Social worker from Warwick charged on child pornography counts
The Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force of the Rhode Island State Police has arrested social worker and therapist James L. Norman, 52, of 11 Topaz Rd., Warwick, and charged him with possession and transfer of child pornography.
The Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force of the Rhode Island State Police has arrested social worker and therapist James L. Norman, 52, of 11 Topaz Rd., Warwick, and charged him with possession and transfer of child pornography.
I'm sorry for posting this.
Yep! We got us a Loony Tune here!
Warning: Do not click on the following link if you have eaten within the last hour!
Bad! Bad! Bad!
A foster care provider who falls in love with your child will be the biggest obstacle you face.
FYI: I'm assuming the baby is headed home? Maybe maybe not, who knows?
Warning: Do not click on the following link if you have eaten within the last hour!
Bad! Bad! Bad!
A foster care provider who falls in love with your child will be the biggest obstacle you face.
FYI: I'm assuming the baby is headed home? Maybe maybe not, who knows?
Angry woman made false child-sex report, police say
Angry woman made false child-sex report, police say
An upper Dauphin County woman made a false report of child sexual abuse because she was angry about the outcome of a custody battle, state police said Wednesday.
An upper Dauphin County woman made a false report of child sexual abuse because she was angry about the outcome of a custody battle, state police said Wednesday.
Wrongful Sex Abuse Charges Lawsuit Filed Against Conn. DCF Commissioner
Wrongful Sex Abuse Charges Lawsuit Filed Against Conn. DCF Commissioner
A lawsuit has been filed against the commissioner of Connecticut’s Department of Children and Families over criminal sexual abuse charges that were brought against a gay couple who adopted 9 children from DCF.
A lawsuit has been filed against the commissioner of Connecticut’s Department of Children and Families over criminal sexual abuse charges that were brought against a gay couple who adopted 9 children from DCF.
Number of US children in foster care up sharply
Number of US children in foster care up sharply
New federal figures show that for the first time in a decade, there was a notable increase last year in the number of U.S. children in foster care.
New federal figures show that for the first time in a decade, there was a notable increase last year in the number of U.S. children in foster care.
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
B.C. teen in provincial care dies in fall from hotel window
B.C. teen in provincial care dies in fall from hotel window
An 18-year-old in the care of B.C.’s child welfare system fell to his death last week from a fourth-floor window at an Abbotsford hotel, where he had been living for at least a month after the province shut down his group home, The Vancouver Sun has learned.
An 18-year-old in the care of B.C.’s child welfare system fell to his death last week from a fourth-floor window at an Abbotsford hotel, where he had been living for at least a month after the province shut down his group home, The Vancouver Sun has learned.
Lets Sue CPS!!! A special look at a few of the most current lawsuits against CPS and their Cronies
Unfortunately CPS Agents and all of their cronies are protected under Good Samaritan type immunity laws and can't be sued. That is, of course, with a few exceptions, which we will take a look at now.
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In Kansas, parents are jumping on a potential class action lawsuit that is claiming CPS is wrongfully removing children and placing them in abusive foster homes.
- UPDATE: More Kansas parents want to sue DCF
- FMI - DCF responds to allegations of abuse happening in foster homes
- FMI - DCF responds to allegations of abuse of power
In Maine, DHHS dropped the ball when it failed to warn parents about an ongoing child abuse investigation at a daycare last year. Now the parents want to sue for failure to warn them so that they could keep their kids safe and because they didn't pull the license of the daycare.
In order to file this suit, however, they need permission from the Legislature due to implied immunity laws.
In Maryland, the infamous parents of the Free-Range-Kids who were charged with "unsubstantiated neglect" for letting their kids play at and walk home from the park are preparing to sue for harassment.
- ‘Free range’ parents consider legal action after being cleared of neglect
- Maryland 'free range' parents cleared of neglect, still plan to sue CPS, police
- Free range parent suing the state of Maryland
- FMI - Maryland’s “free range” parents are cleared in second neglect case
- FMI - Md. officials: Letting ‘free range’ kids walk or play alone is not neglect
And of course we all hope they win.
In Washoe County, Nevada there is a potential Wrongful Removal lawsuit going on that's worth taking a look at. Snatching a newborn without a court order. Imagine that.
A couple of New Jersey homeschooler's are suing for an unwarranted home intrusion.
And... Two New Jersey CPS Agents sued CPS for unpaid overtime.
They are appealing though.
In Oregon, CPS is being sued for failure to protect a little girl who was molested by two boys in her foster home.
In Pennsylvania, a few child welfare agencies have gotten together and sued the Governor's Administration for cutting their funding during a budget impasse with the legislature.
In South Carolina, a lawsuit has just been filed against CPS for not snatching a kid who was hurt pretty bad by a mothers boyfriend.
In Washington CPS got hit with a $1.75 million dollar lawsuit for placing a child with a foster care provider who had a criminal record and ended up raping her.
I should also remind you that there is a lawsuit happy group of CPS lovers who are totally in it for the money, Child Advocacy Group called Children's Rights who file mega lawsuits against whole states child welfare systems, collects huge legal fee's and million$ in federal oversight reimbursements while forcing states to pump tons of money to hire new CPS Agents, more foster care providers, services, etc.
Here's the latest, although the link above just about covers it.
Although there have been many lawsuits filed against CPS over the years to grace the files of Legally Kidnapped I have to remind you that suing CPS is extremely difficult. Most of them are protected from such lawsuits as a condition of their employment.
There are exceptions to this rule of course. That's not the point. I urge you to read up on some of these cases further. Perhaps you'll find a precedent that works for you.
Massachusetts governor: New protocols needed to protect kids
Massachusetts governor: New protocols needed to protect kids
Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker said Tuesday that the state must update the way it handles investigations into allegations of abuse or neglect of children if it hopes to avoid more cases like the death of 2-year-old Bella Bond, whose body was found on a Boston-area beach in June.
Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker said Tuesday that the state must update the way it handles investigations into allegations of abuse or neglect of children if it hopes to avoid more cases like the death of 2-year-old Bella Bond, whose body was found on a Boston-area beach in June.
Note: And this is why Massachusetts was Number 1. The total state of child abuse hysteria and panic.
Child Abuse Hysteria leading to Knee Jerk Legislation and policy changes off the springboard of a dead kid. "Take the child and run," or "better to be safe than sorry" because our cps workers are too incompetent to know the difference between an at risk child and a hole in the ground.
I urge any parent who hasn't had Mass CPS up your ass to leave now before they bust down the doors of a school and take them all!
Mercury News editorial: Bills to curb overdrugging kids deserve Brown's signature
Mercury News editorial: Bills to curb overdrugging kids deserve Brown's signature
For more than a year, Bay Area News Group reporter Karen de Sá has been unfolding an award-winning investigative series on the overuse of psychotropic drugs on California foster children -- packed with details that pierced the hearts of lawmakers, including Sens. Jim Beall, D-San Jose, and Bill Monning, D-Carmel.
For more than a year, Bay Area News Group reporter Karen de Sá has been unfolding an award-winning investigative series on the overuse of psychotropic drugs on California foster children -- packed with details that pierced the hearts of lawmakers, including Sens. Jim Beall, D-San Jose, and Bill Monning, D-Carmel.
Foster child who received liver transplant reaches new milestone, heads back to Ohio
Foster child who received liver transplant reaches new milestone, heads back to Ohio
A 4-year-old foster child who received a lifesaving liver transplant and was released from Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh in July is now recovering at her foster home in Ohio.
A 4-year-old foster child who received a lifesaving liver transplant and was released from Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh in July is now recovering at her foster home in Ohio.
4 DCF staffers disciplined over method of restraining children
4 DCF staffers disciplined over method of restraining children
Over the past three years, four staff members at DCF’s locked facility for boys and girls in Middletown have been disciplined for improperly restraining children, and of those four, three were either terminated or they opted to resign.
Over the past three years, four staff members at DCF’s locked facility for boys and girls in Middletown have been disciplined for improperly restraining children, and of those four, three were either terminated or they opted to resign.
Report finds Florida foster kids put on psychotropic drugs without following proper procedures
Report finds Florida foster kids put on psychotropic drugs without following proper procedures
Despite an outcry in 2009 over a 7-year-old's apparent suicide, a draft report from the research arm of Florida's child-protection system shows that foster children are still being put on psychotropic medications without caregivers following proper procedures.
Despite an outcry in 2009 over a 7-year-old's apparent suicide, a draft report from the research arm of Florida's child-protection system shows that foster children are still being put on psychotropic medications without caregivers following proper procedures.
Manitoba First Nations children's advocate fasting to protest child welfare
Manitoba First Nations children's advocate fasting to protest child welfare
The advocate for First Nations children in Manitoba has set up large teepees in the shadow of the legislature and is fasting to draw attention to the province's "broken" child-welfare system.
The advocate for First Nations children in Manitoba has set up large teepees in the shadow of the legislature and is fasting to draw attention to the province's "broken" child-welfare system.
Blame game begins in death of Bella Bond, formerly known as ‘Baby Doe’
Blame game begins in death of Bella Bond, formerly known as ‘Baby Doe’
The unsettling details of 2-year-old Bella Bond’s death have trickled out in the four days since her mother and mother’s boyfriend were charged in her June slaying.
The unsettling details of 2-year-old Bella Bond’s death have trickled out in the four days since her mother and mother’s boyfriend were charged in her June slaying.
Caseworker waives hearing on child pornography charges
Caseworker waives hearing on child pornography charges
A man described by his lawyer as one of Allegheny County's "most highly regarded" CYF workers faces trial on child porn charges after police say they turned up hundreds of images on his home computer.
A man described by his lawyer as one of Allegheny County's "most highly regarded" CYF workers faces trial on child porn charges after police say they turned up hundreds of images on his home computer.
Tuesday, September 22, 2015
OK: Teacher called child evil because of left-hand use
OK: Teacher called child evil because of left-hand use
A young child was deemed evil by his teacher because he writes with his left hand. The educator went as far as to send a note home explaining why the child was encouraged in class to use his right hand.
A young child was deemed evil by his teacher because he writes with his left hand. The educator went as far as to send a note home explaining why the child was encouraged in class to use his right hand.
A Hayekian Theory of Parental Rights
A Hayekian Theory of Parental Rights
The last few decades have seen a dramatic increase in the control that many parents wish to exercise over their children. That desire for control has been reinforced by a variety of institutions, from schools to the police, who have slowly reduced the range of freedom children have. For example, local police are arresting parents who allow their kids to walk to school or play in the park by themselves. In response, we’ve seen the rise of the “free-range kids” movement which aims at letting parents decide what degree of freedom is right for their kids.
The last few decades have seen a dramatic increase in the control that many parents wish to exercise over their children. That desire for control has been reinforced by a variety of institutions, from schools to the police, who have slowly reduced the range of freedom children have. For example, local police are arresting parents who allow their kids to walk to school or play in the park by themselves. In response, we’ve seen the rise of the “free-range kids” movement which aims at letting parents decide what degree of freedom is right for their kids.
Dozens of CPS caseworkers caught lying, falsifying documents
Dozens of CPS caseworkers caught lying, falsifying documents
When Child Protective Services received a complaint that a Harris County father had choked his teenage daughter, caseworker Michelle Robinson said she hurried to the house, conducted a thorough investigation, determined there was no merit to the allegations and closed the case.
When Child Protective Services received a complaint that a Harris County father had choked his teenage daughter, caseworker Michelle Robinson said she hurried to the house, conducted a thorough investigation, determined there was no merit to the allegations and closed the case.
Note: Someone just sent this to me, I know it's old but it's still a good read.
Damages for couple over children wrongly put in care
Damages for couple over children wrongly put in care
A Hackney couple have won £10,000 each in damages from the local council after their eight children were wrongly put into foster care.
A Hackney couple have won £10,000 each in damages from the local council after their eight children were wrongly put into foster care.
State Failure Allowed Criminals In Classrooms, Foster System
State Failure Allowed Criminals In Classrooms, Foster System
On the banks of the Ohio River, the city of Steubenville faces a rape case so vile it's hard to listen to details. Jason Rivers is charged with raping a 6 year old girl. In some cases, Rivers is accused of sharing pictures of those sex acts on a phone app.
On the banks of the Ohio River, the city of Steubenville faces a rape case so vile it's hard to listen to details. Jason Rivers is charged with raping a 6 year old girl. In some cases, Rivers is accused of sharing pictures of those sex acts on a phone app.
The Top 5: Most Secretive Child Welfare System's in the United States
So this past Sunday, I took sort of a snap shot of the US Child Welfare Systems, and what they had been up to or what the people have been concerned with over the last few months. Based on the information I collected in my notebook, I have uncovered certain trends. The first of those trends I wrote about on this past Sunday. Not everybody agrees with my findings, but they are subject to change at any time and are only a reflection of the most recent information.
Today I would like to bring your attention to another trend I noticed in the data I collected. That would be the opposite extreme, the quiet or more secretive states. All Child Welfare systems should have some level of transparency so that the public knows what's going on. Many of these systems however, have systematically been able to avoid public scrutiny for years. Some more than others and the Top 5 will be listed here now.
Number 5: Idaho
And the Number 1 most secretive child welfare system in the country is...
Number 1: Wyoming
The First Amendment of the Constitution is put into place so that the government would be subject to checks and balances. The people need to know. If they aren't aware of what a mess Child Welfare in the United States really is then the agencies will continue to get away with it for a good long time.
Today I would like to bring your attention to another trend I noticed in the data I collected. That would be the opposite extreme, the quiet or more secretive states. All Child Welfare systems should have some level of transparency so that the public knows what's going on. Many of these systems however, have systematically been able to avoid public scrutiny for years. Some more than others and the Top 5 will be listed here now.
Number 5: Idaho
We haven't actually heard very much from this state as of late and when we do it's usually an opinion piece or somebody getting arrested for abusing a foster child. I'm not saying that this state doesn't have it's share of problems, just that they are really good at sweeping them under the rug.Number 4: North Dakota
North Dakota was having some issues with child welfare on an Indian reservation and turnover rates a couple years back but that has faded into the past. We haven't heard much from them since.Number 3: Delaware
Because I'm running a news blog, I can only work with what CPS gives me. I try to give every state or country the opportunity to make this blog with their fraud, failures and fuck-ups and I do so as fairly as I can. Delaware comes in at Number 3 because in the last 5 years, there has been nothing to come out of that state in terms of news. Nothing. With the exception of a ban on spanking back in 2012, a case where a CPS Agent said, give me sex or I'll take your kid, and a couple of foster care abuse cases, we wouldn't know the states child welfare system even exists.Number 2: New Hampshire
New Hampshire could be compared to a trap door spider, waiting for his prey or a cop hiding on a dark road waiting for a speeder to go buy. The New Hampshire child welfare system is a state of pure evil that hides in the shadows and pounces on it's victims leaving a trail of heartbreak and anger. Thanks to the work of Unhappy Grammy we know this, but you can forget about staying informed via any major news paper.
And the Number 1 most secretive child welfare system in the country is...
Number 1: Wyoming
Wyoming's CPS has flown under the radar for as long as I've been at this. Making Legally Kidnapped a whopping 17 times, since the beginning, the state keeps it's secrets well.
The First Amendment of the Constitution is put into place so that the government would be subject to checks and balances. The people need to know. If they aren't aware of what a mess Child Welfare in the United States really is then the agencies will continue to get away with it for a good long time.
For illegal immigrants with babies, the anchor pulls in many directions
For illegal immigrants with babies, the anchor pulls in many directions
The pregnant Latina women who come for checkups and guidance at Mary’s Center in Northwest Washington say that they understand that their babies will become anchors in their lives — but not the kind of anchors that Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump disparages on the campaign trail.
The pregnant Latina women who come for checkups and guidance at Mary’s Center in Northwest Washington say that they understand that their babies will become anchors in their lives — but not the kind of anchors that Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump disparages on the campaign trail.
Former Glastonbury Couple Sue DCF Chief Over Abuse Allegations Involving Adopted Boys
Former Glastonbury Couple Sue DCF Chief Over Abuse Allegations Involving Adopted Boys
The former Glastonbury couple who once faced abuse charges related to two of their nine adopted boys have filed a $100 million lawsuit against child-protection commissioner Joette Katz, alleging that Katz's agency covered up sexual trauma in the backgrounds of some of the boys and rushed to judgment against the fathers.
The former Glastonbury couple who once faced abuse charges related to two of their nine adopted boys have filed a $100 million lawsuit against child-protection commissioner Joette Katz, alleging that Katz's agency covered up sexual trauma in the backgrounds of some of the boys and rushed to judgment against the fathers.
Lawsuit filed against DSS after child beaten, bitten by mother's boyfriend
Lawsuit filed against DSS after child beaten, bitten by mother's boyfriend
A 1-year-old child's family has filed a lawsuit against the South Carolina Department of Social Services after the mother's boyfriend hit the toddler in the face, bit the child on her back and buttocks, broken both her arms and her right leg and ripped out chunks of her hair, according to Heather Stone of Hite and Stone Attorneys at Law.
A 1-year-old child's family has filed a lawsuit against the South Carolina Department of Social Services after the mother's boyfriend hit the toddler in the face, bit the child on her back and buttocks, broken both her arms and her right leg and ripped out chunks of her hair, according to Heather Stone of Hite and Stone Attorneys at Law.
Foster Families Speak Out on Child Welfare System
Foster Families Speak Out on Child Welfare System
It's welcome news for some of the state's most vulnerable residents, as advocates for foster children believe the political climate is favorable for making improvements to the child welfare system.
It's welcome news for some of the state's most vulnerable residents, as advocates for foster children believe the political climate is favorable for making improvements to the child welfare system.
Bail set for woman accused of fatally beating foster child
Bail set for woman accused of fatally beating foster child
A 41-year-old Lacombe woman accused of fatally beating her foster child has pleaded not guilty to a second-degree murder in St. Tammany Parish courtroom.
A 41-year-old Lacombe woman accused of fatally beating her foster child has pleaded not guilty to a second-degree murder in St. Tammany Parish courtroom.
U.S. Border Arrests of Children, Families Surge 52% in August
U.S. Border Arrests of Children, Families Surge 52% in August
The U.S. Border Patrol arrested nearly 10,000 unaccompanied immigrant children and families who were illegally crossing the border with Mexico in August, a 52% jump from a year ago, according to statistics published by the agency.
DeLeo: DCF must explain why Bella was with mom
DeLeo: DCF must explain why Bella was with mom
House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo says that DCF officials have to answer for why they chose to leave baby Bella Bond with her mother — now accused of being an accessory after her murder — after the child welfare agency twice put the little girl under state watch and had previously taken away the mom’s two other children.
House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo says that DCF officials have to answer for why they chose to leave baby Bella Bond with her mother — now accused of being an accessory after her murder — after the child welfare agency twice put the little girl under state watch and had previously taken away the mom’s two other children.
- Child Welfare Expert: DCF 'Dropped the Ball' in Bella Bond Case
- DeLeo wants DCF review after Bella Bond ID'd as Baby Doe
- After Bella Bond’s identification, DCF will review its process
Montana governor proposes plan to improve child protective services
Montana governor proposes plan to improve child protective services
Gov. Steve Bullock is proposing a plan to improve the effectiveness and oversight of the Division of Children and Family Services by hiring more caseworkers, improving their supervision and creating a commission to study the system and recommend improvements.
Gov. Steve Bullock is proposing a plan to improve the effectiveness and oversight of the Division of Children and Family Services by hiring more caseworkers, improving their supervision and creating a commission to study the system and recommend improvements.
Monday, September 21, 2015
Parents who lose children to adoption have no family rights, court rules
Parents who lose children to adoption have no family rights, court rules
Seddon v Oldham MBC concerned a 27 year-old woman who had been taken into care at the age of six. She was shuffled between nine different foster homes over the following decade. In 2008, at the age of 20, she became involved in a relationship with her sister’s partner, fell pregnant, and gave birth to a daughter, referred to in the judgement as ‘A’.
Seddon v Oldham MBC concerned a 27 year-old woman who had been taken into care at the age of six. She was shuffled between nine different foster homes over the following decade. In 2008, at the age of 20, she became involved in a relationship with her sister’s partner, fell pregnant, and gave birth to a daughter, referred to in the judgement as ‘A’.
Foster child death under investigation
Foster child death under investigation
A toddler who was about to be adopted is dead. Now Corpus Christi PD wants to know what happened.
A toddler who was about to be adopted is dead. Now Corpus Christi PD wants to know what happened.
Report: Auburn foster child moved to rehab facility
Report: Auburn foster child moved to rehab facility
A toddler taken from a foster home in Auburn where another died is stable and was moved to a rehabilitation facility, according to a report.
Parents' suit over daughter's false claims of sex abuse reaches state Supreme Court
Parents' suit over daughter's false claims of sex abuse reaches state Supreme Court
The state Supreme Court will determine whether an Upper Peninsula counselor can be sued by the parents of a teenage patient who had false memories of sexual abuse.
The state Supreme Court will determine whether an Upper Peninsula counselor can be sued by the parents of a teenage patient who had false memories of sexual abuse.
A closer look at the: Top 3 Most Dangerous US States for Families Targeted by CPS - What was I thinking?
So last night I posted my "The Top 10 Most Dangerous US States for Families Targeted by CPS... And why" list. Since then, on Facebook, there have been other suggestions for states that should have been at the top of this lists. That said, what I did to create this list was looked at the most current trends over the last few months on a state by state basis. I spent the day looking at what was going on over the last few months in all 50 states, took notes, created a record of what was going on in each state, how busy that state keeps me in doing what I do, and what were the major concerns and issues, what were they trying to do about it, and I based the list off of my findings, not my speculations.
Personally, I was surprised about four states that I expected would make the list but didn't. Those states are Colorado, Oklahoma, Michigan and Kentucky. Perhaps they would have made it a year ago, but not today. In fact three of those states seem to be experiencing a kind of calmness before the storm at this point in time, and the fourth, Colorado was dealing with two foster care murder cases. But that's it. No reform, no policy shifts at this point in time. Any of those states could tip the scale at any time, but the reason that those three didn't make the list is that they are lacking one thing.
A complete and utter sense of Child Abuse Hysteria.
Child Abuse Hysteria includes many factors and symptoms but there is a clear pattern and set of trends in Child Welfare that would qualify for this definition. It usually begins with a sudden media focus on failure to protect cases, where CPS was involved with the child who was killed by child abuse while under their watch. This leads to total panic in the child welfare agencies who then have to save every child, policy changes, legislative investigations, requests for or major hiring sprees of CPS Agents, major foster care recruitment drives, changes in leadership replacing one "failure" with another, spikes in the numbers of kids who are removed from their homes, desperate and sudden shortages of available foster homes leading to kids sleeping in CPS offices or hotel rooms, and stuff like that.
The top three states, Vermont, Arizona and Massachusetts, were clear winners in that regard.
Number 3: Vermont - Vermont has been in a moral panic over two failure to protect cases that happened in 2014. This panic has led to sharp increases in the number of child removals in the state which persists to this day.
It's only gotten worse. As of just a few days ago...
They're also dealing with high turnover rates for CPS Agents. This not only slows peoples cases down but causes decisions to be made by people who are unfamiliar with the case and therefore err on the side of caution instead of giving the kids back.
All in all, Arizona has probably been the biggest mess for the longest amount of time. They have no intention of getting off of this list.
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Number 1: Massachusetts - The Massachusetts Child Welfare System is one of the biggest media circus's in the United States right now. They are in a total panic over their failure to protect cases such as Jeremiah Oliver and even have a brand new one with Baby Bella. But why stop there?
Their has also been a lot of focus put on a child who died while in a foster home and whose mother died from an overdose shortly thereafter.
There is a couple who is putting up a stink after having their license pulled for spanking foster kids.
CPS Agents are experiencing spikes in their caseloads as well, and are taking more kids to cover their butts.
They are also experiencing heavy criticism for their increasing failures.
Personally, I was surprised about four states that I expected would make the list but didn't. Those states are Colorado, Oklahoma, Michigan and Kentucky. Perhaps they would have made it a year ago, but not today. In fact three of those states seem to be experiencing a kind of calmness before the storm at this point in time, and the fourth, Colorado was dealing with two foster care murder cases. But that's it. No reform, no policy shifts at this point in time. Any of those states could tip the scale at any time, but the reason that those three didn't make the list is that they are lacking one thing.
A complete and utter sense of Child Abuse Hysteria.
Child Abuse Hysteria includes many factors and symptoms but there is a clear pattern and set of trends in Child Welfare that would qualify for this definition. It usually begins with a sudden media focus on failure to protect cases, where CPS was involved with the child who was killed by child abuse while under their watch. This leads to total panic in the child welfare agencies who then have to save every child, policy changes, legislative investigations, requests for or major hiring sprees of CPS Agents, major foster care recruitment drives, changes in leadership replacing one "failure" with another, spikes in the numbers of kids who are removed from their homes, desperate and sudden shortages of available foster homes leading to kids sleeping in CPS offices or hotel rooms, and stuff like that.
The top three states, Vermont, Arizona and Massachusetts, were clear winners in that regard.
Peighton Geraw, 15 months (L), and Dezirae Sheldon, 2, who both died in 2014 while the state Department of Children and Families had open cases on them.
REPORT: NUMBER OF CHILDREN IN STATE CUSTODY UP BY 33 PERCENTThe failure to protect cases, when properly exploited via media attention and under the microscope investigations, usually lead to public outrage against CPS Agents for not doing enough to protect those kids. This causes workers to get jumpy and much quicker to remove children. This is where phrases like "it's better to be safe than sorry" and "take the child and run" come from.
It's only gotten worse. As of just a few days ago...
That's because, as the state has grown more strict about heroin and parenting during the past 18 months, the number of young children in state custody has spiked by 75 percent.
VT takes custody of unprecedented number of young children
So as you can see, they'll exploit any excuse for a growth opportunity.
Vermont is also in a state of panic over the recent killing of a CPS Agent, which is leading to stricter security protocols and more police involvement, as well as a new focus on attacks and threats against CPS Agents from angry parents who had their kids stolen. Therefore the view presented by the media of parents as monsters is intensified. The overall public perception of parents involved with child welfare then becomes that of violent, angry people is created this way.
- Vermont woman accused of killing social worker pleads not guilty to shooting 3 relatives
- Woman threatens her kids' foster parents; buys rifle
- Threats against DCF workers increased since Aug. murder
- State ups DCF security after worker’s killing
It has nothing to do with the fact that overzealous social workers are taking too many kids away from parents who could be helped via differential response policies or anything.
In my humble opinion, Vermont is a very scary state for parents to be in right now.
--------------------------------
Number 2: Arizona - Arizona's Child Welfare System has been in a total moral panic for years, consistently failing children under their watch...
And are all up in arms over 6000 reports that were ignored which led to the very quick snatching of over 400 kids.
They are also snatching unprecedented amounts of kids for frivolous reasons and are even looking to speed up licensing times for new foster care providers to deal with the increase in foster kids.
They are also snatching unprecedented amounts of kids for frivolous reasons and are even looking to speed up licensing times for new foster care providers to deal with the increase in foster kids.
Now they're their own separate agency as was the failed policy of former Governor Jan Brewer. This separate agency is even worse than the old one.
Like Vermont, Arizona is over-reacting to their failure to protect cases.
Arizona ranks 49th in the USA for overall Child Welfare...
Poverty rates were not a factor in this list however, as the poorer states are more likely to ignore the problems. Just current trends. Regardless, it's worth mentioning since we're talking about this particular state.
They're also dealing with high turnover rates for CPS Agents. This not only slows peoples cases down but causes decisions to be made by people who are unfamiliar with the case and therefore err on the side of caution instead of giving the kids back.
All in all, Arizona has probably been the biggest mess for the longest amount of time. They have no intention of getting off of this list.
------------------------------
Number 1: Massachusetts - The Massachusetts Child Welfare System is one of the biggest media circus's in the United States right now. They are in a total panic over their failure to protect cases such as Jeremiah Oliver and even have a brand new one with Baby Bella. But why stop there?
Their has also been a lot of focus put on a child who died while in a foster home and whose mother died from an overdose shortly thereafter.
There is a couple who is putting up a stink after having their license pulled for spanking foster kids.
CPS Agents are experiencing spikes in their caseloads as well, and are taking more kids to cover their butts.
They are also experiencing heavy criticism for their increasing failures.
- Report points to `systemic failures' in case of beaten, starved boy
- State's child advocate warns that social workers set up 'to fail'
- Review blasts DCF management: ‘Not capable’ of fulfilling mission
There are, of course, cries to the governor and demands for reform.
Some families, believe it or not are even upset because CPS didn't snatch the kid.
And all of that just in the last month. Imagine if I continued.
All in all, Massachusetts has kept me busy for a couple years now. And the mess is picking up steam every day.
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Most other states are relatively quiet. That doesn't mean that they don't have their problems. If I took the same snapshots of the states a year from now, things couuld very well change. If your state didn't make the list, it's not that I don't recognize the issues, it's just that they're not in a total Child Abuse Hysteria panic over it causing that significant increase in the number of child removals in the state.
Peace, Love and Flowers...
LK
Critic of South Dakota foster care arrested on old charge
Critic of South Dakota foster care arrested on old charge
Family members of a Crow Creek Sioux Tribe woman who has spoken out against South Dakota's handling of Native American children in foster care are questioning whether her arrest on a 13-year-old charge was politically motivated.
'Foster children harmed by frequent moves'
'Foster children harmed by frequent moves'
Vulnerable children are too often shuttled between foster homes, harming them further, says a charity.
Vulnerable children are too often shuttled between foster homes, harming them further, says a charity.
A quarter of Yorkshire foster children moved families twice or more in a year
A quarter of Yorkshire foster children moved families twice or more in a year
MOVING BETWEEN foster families can cause significant distress to children from “traumatic backgrounds” who crave stability, a charity has warned.
MOVING BETWEEN foster families can cause significant distress to children from “traumatic backgrounds” who crave stability, a charity has warned.
More than half ignored child protection notifications involved allegations of family violence
More than half ignored child protection notifications involved allegations of family violence
The details behind the 151 missed child protection notifications in Tasmania's north-west have been revealed, with more than half shown to be allegations of family violence.
The details behind the 151 missed child protection notifications in Tasmania's north-west have been revealed, with more than half shown to be allegations of family violence.
Report: Caseload overwhelms child welfare agency
Report: Caseload overwhelms child welfare agency
A new report says social workers in the state's child welfare system are set up to fail because of high caseload and ineffective management.
Sunday, September 20, 2015
The Top 10 Most Dangerous US States for Families Targeted by CPS... And why.
I just did a little study on the current state of Child Welfare in all 50 states. I sort of took a snap shot in a notebook, of what has been the most recent issues brought up on Legally Kidnapped. Based on that, I was able to identified certain trends, such as what are the major child welfare concerns in any given state on this particular day, September 20th 2015. Based on that analysis and the information collected, I give you this list of the Top 10 Most Dangerous US States for Families Targeted by CPS.
This list could of course change at any given time. Each of the state names and numbers is a clickable link that will bring you to the feed for that particular state. This is a list based on the most current events over the last few months.
Number 10: Kansas
Number 1: Massachusetts
This list could of course change at any given time. Each of the state names and numbers is a clickable link that will bring you to the feed for that particular state. This is a list based on the most current events over the last few months.
Number 10: Kansas
Kansas is a mess. Lawmakers are looking into it and unable to figure out what to do. With low educational requirements for CPS Agents and unlicensed investigators. There is lots of abuse in foster care and parents suing the state because of that and unwarranted removals. Click on the link above to see what's going on.Number 9: Maine
Maine has seen a sharp increase in the number of child snatching's over the last few years because being a national model wasn't good enough, leading to a recruitment campaign from the top down regarding a desperate need for new homes. Parents are trying to sue DHHS for not informing them of an ongoing child abuse investigation at their childrens daycare, and Maine's Indian tribes are accusing CPS of cultural genocide and abuse in foster care. Maine is also in the bottom 10% when it come to returning kids to their parents.Number 8: South Carolina
With accusations of failures to investigate child abuse, and overwhelmed CPS Agents. Cover-up's of child abuse at group homes, a class action lawsuit by the New York based child advocacy group Childrens Rights, and foster kids staying in Motel Rooms. South Carolina was a shoe in for the list.Number 7: Rhode Island
Rhode Island makes the list thanks to investigations of fraud into child welfare agencies, lots of abuse in the foster care system, spikes in the number of kids in care and too many of them being warehoused in group homes. Rhode Island's child welfare system is in a total state to chaos.Number 6: Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania makes the list thanks to the complete over-reaction to the Jerry Sandusky case, which has brought about a sort of child abuse hysteria and knee jerk legislation that is unique to that state. Schools and child centered organizations are loosing volunteers due to stringent background check requirements, and mandated reporter laws are intense. There is also lots of abuse in the states foster care system.Number 5: Florida
With high rates of children aging out of foster care, kids sleeping in CPS offices and motel rooms, violence in juvenile detention facilities, shortages of foster homes, and lots of failure to protect cases, Florida has certainly been an interesting state to watch.Number 4: Texas
Texas has a knack for placing foster children in homes where they are murdered. They also take lots and lots of kids while providing little in terms of preventative services. CPS Agents are also known for evidence tampering.Number 3: Vermont
Vermont is on a total child snatching spree, with record numbers of kids in foster care. The sudden spike is due to panicky workers who are over-reacting to two child deaths. CPS Agents are also in panic mode after one of them was recently shot and killed by a pissed off parent. Parents with disabilities are routinely targeted for having their kids removed and the media is right up their assses, analyzing every little move they make. It's better to be safe than sorry. Vermont is a very scary state for families right now.Number 2: Arizona
Arizona is arguably the state where you are most likely to loose your child to CPS. It was a tough decision between this and the number one spot. Arizona's child welfare system is plagued with shortages of foster homes, and tons of frivolous child snatchings. Still they react more and more every-time a kid falls through the cracks, but just can't figure out that sending their worker out on wild goose chases takes up too much time so they can't focus on the real abuse cases. Therefore they just keep taking more and more kids and packing them into wherever they can fit them. Often more dangerous than their homes.And the number one most dangerous state for families targeted by CPS in United States at this point in time is....
Number 1: Massachusetts
Massachusetts is in a total state of child abuse hysteria, over-reacting to lots and lots of failure to protect cases where children, both in foster care and while under CPS watch in their homes are being abused, killed, left on the side of the road, and turning up dead in trash bags on the beach. Panicky CPS Agents have crisis level work loads, an ever increasing number of child removals with a lack of adequate homes to put them in. Lots of systematic failures and unstable leadership. It was a tough call between this state and Arizona for the number one spot, but the fact that the Massachusetts Child Welfare System is the worlds biggest media circus right now makes it the clear winner.
Compensation for abused foster girls: KNBP’s response
Compensation for abused foster girls: KNBP’s response
The children – aged four and five at the time – were abused by their foster carer. A Midland council has been told to pay compensation to two adopted children who were humiliated and smacked by their foster carer and forced to take cold baths and wear nappies.
The children – aged four and five at the time – were abused by their foster carer. A Midland council has been told to pay compensation to two adopted children who were humiliated and smacked by their foster carer and forced to take cold baths and wear nappies.
Stolen case files on abused children found during police raid on former social worker
Stolen case files on abused children found during police raid on former social worker
Officers swooped on Anthony O’Donoghue’s home as part of a probe into a child porn ring.
Officers swooped on Anthony O’Donoghue’s home as part of a probe into a child porn ring.
Parenting classes in limbo
Parenting classes in limbo
A cost-saving measure for Cornell Cooperative Extension is leaving Washington County in the lurch.
A cost-saving measure for Cornell Cooperative Extension is leaving Washington County in the lurch.
Two Mothers Lose Their Children in the Most Horrfying Ways
Two Mothers Lose Their Children in the Most Horrfying Ways
Being a parent can be an exhilarating and terrifying experience, and one that can change your life. An even bigger life changer? Having your children taken from you. I’ve long followed the stories of mothers who have lost their children, often while trying to take the best care of them that they were capable of offering. There was the Arizona mother who had her children removed from her custody because she left them in a car during a job interview, and the mother who had Child Protective Services called on her because her child was alone at a park while she worked. These cases have tugged at our hearts from the injustice of the accusations and the arbitrarily harsh nature of the punishments.
Being a parent can be an exhilarating and terrifying experience, and one that can change your life. An even bigger life changer? Having your children taken from you. I’ve long followed the stories of mothers who have lost their children, often while trying to take the best care of them that they were capable of offering. There was the Arizona mother who had her children removed from her custody because she left them in a car during a job interview, and the mother who had Child Protective Services called on her because her child was alone at a park while she worked. These cases have tugged at our hearts from the injustice of the accusations and the arbitrarily harsh nature of the punishments.
Number Of Dead DCF Kids Has Risen Over 5 Years; 'Vast Majority' Of Victims Under 3
Number Of Dead DCF Kids Has Risen Over 5 Years; 'Vast Majority' Of Victims Under 3
Christopher Berry’s troubles started long before he killed his infant son in 2013. After surviving a suicide bombing and returning from Afghanistan with post-traumatic stress in 2011, Berry racked up arrests for allegedly shoving his teenage girlfriend, deliberately running over pigeons, and stealing from his employer.
British Columbia's Outdated Foster Care System Is Contributing to Homelessness
British Columbia's Outdated Foster Care System Is Contributing to Homelessness
For youth in British Columbia's foster care system, turning 19 means getting a rather daunting letter from the province. That letter will officially indicate that the support and care they previously were provided will be terminated abruptly.
For youth in British Columbia's foster care system, turning 19 means getting a rather daunting letter from the province. That letter will officially indicate that the support and care they previously were provided will be terminated abruptly.
Saturday, September 19, 2015
Kent County man pleads guilty to child porn charges
Kent County man pleads guilty to child porn charges
A former employee of the Delaware children’s department pleaded guilty to child pornography charges this week.
A third of foster children in South West move homes several times a year
A third of foster children in South West move homes several times a year
A THIRD of foster children in the South West move homes several times a year, new statistics reveal.
A Freedom of Information request by charity Action for Children has revealed has shown that nearly a third of foster children in the South West – more than 1,400 – move home two or more times a year.
A THIRD of foster children in the South West move homes several times a year, new statistics reveal.
A Freedom of Information request by charity Action for Children has revealed has shown that nearly a third of foster children in the South West – more than 1,400 – move home two or more times a year.
Abuse case dropped against ex-foster parent in Lucas County
Abuse case dropped against ex-foster parent in Lucas County
Charges have been dismissed against a retired teacher and foster parent accused of sexually abusing a child in his care.
Charges have been dismissed against a retired teacher and foster parent accused of sexually abusing a child in his care.
Child’s health 'in care’ gets even worse
Child’s health 'in care’ gets even worse
Back in July, under the heading “I fear for fate of sick child 'protected’ by the authorities”, I reported on the desperate plight of a severely disabled girl who was last December taken into “care” by Somerset social workers.
Back in July, under the heading “I fear for fate of sick child 'protected’ by the authorities”, I reported on the desperate plight of a severely disabled girl who was last December taken into “care” by Somerset social workers.
How Could the State Not Know ‘Baby Doe’?
How Could the State Not Know ‘Baby Doe’?
With two visits for neglect and two previous children taken away from Rachelle Bond, how could Massachusetts’ Department of Children and Families not have recognized Bella Bond?
With two visits for neglect and two previous children taken away from Rachelle Bond, how could Massachusetts’ Department of Children and Families not have recognized Bella Bond?
Food poisoning hits over 80 Ontario child protection employees
Food poisoning hits over 80 Ontario child protection employees
Between 80 to 100 employees of the Brant Family and Children’s Services in Brantford, Ontario were sickened by a food-borne illness after attending a day-long stress management conference.
Note: I didn't do it.
Between 80 to 100 employees of the Brant Family and Children’s Services in Brantford, Ontario were sickened by a food-borne illness after attending a day-long stress management conference.
Note: I didn't do it.
FORMER TEXAS CPS SUPERVISOR FACING TRIAL FOR FELONY EVIDENCE TAMPERING
FORMER TEXAS CPS SUPERVISOR FACING TRIAL FOR FELONY EVIDENCE TAMPERING
A former Texas Child Protective Services (CPS) supervisor arrested on a tampering with evidence charge in connection with a highly publicized 2012 Abilene child dehydration and starvation death case will be going to trial soon, as reported by KTXS 12 News in Abilene. The local station reported that she appeared in Taylor County, Texas, court for a pre-trial hearing.
TEXAS CPS WORKER FOUND GUILTY OF OFFICIAL OPPRESSION
TEXAS CPS WORKER FOUND GUILTY OF OFFICIAL OPPRESSION
A Texas Child Protective Services (CPS) worker has been found guilty of official oppression. The CPS worker, Rebekah Ross Thonginh, is one of three individuals who were charged in connection with a CPS investigation of a case involving a special needs teenager who was murdered in 2012.
A Texas Child Protective Services (CPS) worker has been found guilty of official oppression. The CPS worker, Rebekah Ross Thonginh, is one of three individuals who were charged in connection with a CPS investigation of a case involving a special needs teenager who was murdered in 2012.
Friday, September 18, 2015
Montco man sentenced for beating foster child
Montco man sentenced for beating foster child
A Glenside man was sentenced to state prison Friday for beating his 12-year-old foster child with a broom to the point that the boy needed 18 stitches and multiple surgeries to fix the scar.
A Glenside man was sentenced to state prison Friday for beating his 12-year-old foster child with a broom to the point that the boy needed 18 stitches and multiple surgeries to fix the scar.
DCF had worked with family of `Baby Doe' ID'd as 'Bella'
DCF had worked with family of `Baby Doe' ID'd as 'Bella'
The state's embattled child-welfare agency had been involved with the family of "Baby Doe" -- the little girl found dead this summer on Deer Island -- but did not check back on her when this case broke.
The state's embattled child-welfare agency had been involved with the family of "Baby Doe" -- the little girl found dead this summer on Deer Island -- but did not check back on her when this case broke.
Videos of illegal juvenile seclusion sparks outrage
Videos of illegal juvenile seclusion sparks outrage
Following the release of videos documenting illegal treatment of youths held at two Connecticut juvenile prisons, lawmakers in Hartford spent hours yesterday discussing alternatives to juvenile prisons.
Following the release of videos documenting illegal treatment of youths held at two Connecticut juvenile prisons, lawmakers in Hartford spent hours yesterday discussing alternatives to juvenile prisons.
Sullivan County child death investigation finds social worker lied in records
Sullivan County child death investigation finds social worker lied in records
A former Child Protective Services investigator pleaded guilty Thursday in Sullivan County Criminal Court to forging an entry in a child death investigation.
A former Child Protective Services investigator pleaded guilty Thursday in Sullivan County Criminal Court to forging an entry in a child death investigation.
State 1 of just 7 to ban re-homing
State 1 of just 7 to ban re-homing
Arkansas is one of a handful of states to enact laws criminalizing the "re-homing" of adoptive children, a practice that is pervasive, but difficult to track, according to federal officials.
Arkansas is one of a handful of states to enact laws criminalizing the "re-homing" of adoptive children, a practice that is pervasive, but difficult to track, according to federal officials.
Lacombe foster mother indicted for murder of 22-month-old
Lacombe foster mother indicted for murder of 22-month-old
A St. Tammany Parish grand jury has indicted a Lacombe foster mother of second-degree murder in the death of 22-month-old Madison Parrott, according to the District Attorney's Office. The indictment came down late Tuesday (Sept. 15).
Compensation for foster girls who were forced to wear nappies and take cold baths
Compensation for foster girls who were forced to wear nappies and take cold baths
A Midland council has been told to pay compensation to two adopted children who were humiliated and smacked by their foster carer and forced to take cold baths and wear nappies.
A Midland council has been told to pay compensation to two adopted children who were humiliated and smacked by their foster carer and forced to take cold baths and wear nappies.
Foster mother of dead toddler leaves Auburn housing unit
Foster mother of dead toddler leaves Auburn housing unit
The foster mother in whose care a 2-year-old child died last month has voluntarily left the subsidized housing unit on Pheasant Court.
The foster mother in whose care a 2-year-old child died last month has voluntarily left the subsidized housing unit on Pheasant Court.
False Positive Drug Tests and CPS
False Positive Drug Tests and CPS
When an expectant mother arrives at a hospital, ready to deliver her baby into the waiting arms of medical staff, one of the many processes she is required to undergo is blood work. For many mothers, this isn’t even something they’re aware of. Samples are drawn and whisked away for analysis without a word. And for a woman in labor, it’s just one more needle poke, one more test, one more item on a laundry list of things she is ignoring right now. Her attention is elsewhere. On the baby she is delivering.
When an expectant mother arrives at a hospital, ready to deliver her baby into the waiting arms of medical staff, one of the many processes she is required to undergo is blood work. For many mothers, this isn’t even something they’re aware of. Samples are drawn and whisked away for analysis without a word. And for a woman in labor, it’s just one more needle poke, one more test, one more item on a laundry list of things she is ignoring right now. Her attention is elsewhere. On the baby she is delivering.
Adopted children who are ‘re-homed’ hard to find, track: GAO report
Adopted children who are ‘re-homed’ hard to find, track: GAO report
A new federal report on the “re-homing” of adopted children said the problem is hard to track, but government officials are taking action to stop the practice.
A new federal report on the “re-homing” of adopted children said the problem is hard to track, but government officials are taking action to stop the practice.
Police Violated Ahmed Mohamed’s Civil Rights by Keeping Away His Parents
Police Violated Ahmed Mohamed’s Civil Rights by Keeping Away His Parents
Irving, Texas, police violated Ahmed Mohamed’s civil rights by denying his repeated requests to speak with his parents during his detention for a purported bomb that was in fact a clock.
Irving, Texas, police violated Ahmed Mohamed’s civil rights by denying his repeated requests to speak with his parents during his detention for a purported bomb that was in fact a clock.
Susan Powell’s family asks judge to hold state accountable over killing of her sons
Susan Powell’s family asks judge to hold state accountable over killing of her sons
It’s a crime that shocked the Northwest and the nation.
Now the family of Charlie and Braden Powell are demanding justice for the two young boys who were killed by their father, Josh Powell, before he committed suicide in 2012.
Thursday, September 17, 2015
Parents who had children removed by CPS protest perceived conflict of interest by U of M doctors
Parents who had children removed by CPS protest perceived conflict of interest by U of M doctors
Are innocent parents losing their kids for suspected abuse, due to a doctor’s conflict of interest? That is what protesters before the University of Michigan Board of Regents say happened to them.
Summit County child protection worker resigns after writing letter supporting fiance in child porn case
Summit County child protection worker resigns after writing letter supporting fiance in child porn case
A Summit County Children Services caseworker resigned Thursday morning after agency officials learned that she wrote a character reference letter for her fiancé while he was awaiting sentencing this month on child pornography charges.
A Summit County Children Services caseworker resigned Thursday morning after agency officials learned that she wrote a character reference letter for her fiancé while he was awaiting sentencing this month on child pornography charges.
State investigating teen's death in Duluth foster home
State investigating teen's death in Duluth foster home
State officials are investigating a Duluth foster home after a 17-year-old died of an apparent suicide there last month.
State officials are investigating a Duluth foster home after a 17-year-old died of an apparent suicide there last month.
Ahmed, Clocks, CPS, and the Police State School System
Ms Tran is blaming current child welfare laws, specifically the schools responsibility to report child abuse, as the primary cause of the incident. While she is partially correct, in that there is an apparent merger between the modern school system and the Child Protective Industry which essentially brings CPS agents into the regular lives of more children especially in targeted populations such as racial groups, big cities or poverty stricken areas, I need to remind you that we are still living in the Columbine - 9/11 , media created Boogie Man era of Zero Tolerance policies. Where schools resemble prisons including armed guards and metal detectors... Where a kid can't even take a bite out of a Pop Tart or point his finger at another kid the wrong way without getting suspended.... And where kids are drugged for being kids. Therefore I agree with Ms. Tran that this has absolutely nothing to do with religion, just not for the same reasons.
The mayor is defending the police action against this kid as would I considering that we live in a world run by idiots. They simply don't know any better. It's what they do. On top of that, we have had very real school shootings, and very real bomb threats that usually turn up nothing, but one of these days it will so they have to keep everybody safe. That said, this kid didn't deserve to be dragged out of school in handcuffs just because some asshole thought his home made clock resembled a fake bomb. It's horrible that a child can now be punished for having a brain or an imagination no matter what is race or religion, especially when the average kid is liable to have seen 200,000 acts of violence on TV by the time he turns 18. I mean how would a kid even know what a fake bomb looked like?
Unfortunately, the Police State School System is set up with the dual purpose of keeping an eye on parents. School reports to CPS often result in child welfare checks. Child welfare checks often result in finding things such as drugs or meth labs among other things.
Or perhaps this is simply a reflection of a new British law aimed at rooting out Muslim radicalism in the UK. Teachers are required to report extremest type beliefs. Whatever that means.
No matter. I totally support this kid. I hope his parents sues the pants off these people.
Adopted Children at Risk as US Gov't Fails to Monitor Unregulated Transfers
Custody transfers of adopted kids in the US remain uncontrolled by authorities, resulting in numerous reported cases of children being harmed by the adults who received them, a Government Accountability Office report said.
Parental alienation should be criminal offence, says group
Parental alienation should be criminal offence, says group
A parent who, following the breakdown of a relationship, attempts to turn their child or children against the other parent should be prosecuted, a support group has said.
A parent who, following the breakdown of a relationship, attempts to turn their child or children against the other parent should be prosecuted, a support group has said.
Foster home coalition sues Wolf administration as budget impasse freezes funds
Foster home coalition sues Wolf administration as budget impasse freezes funds
Gov. Tom Wolf says state prisons, parks, driver license centers and county assistance offices are critical operations that will remain funded even as the budget impasse approaches 80 days.
Gov. Tom Wolf says state prisons, parks, driver license centers and county assistance offices are critical operations that will remain funded even as the budget impasse approaches 80 days.
Walt Investigates: Austin Foster Kids Crisis
Walt Investigates: Austin Foster Kids Crisis
Thirteen Texas children died in foster care in just the past two years. The state legislature raised requirements for foster parents to help weed out the people unfit to care for children. But now there is another problem. The state says there are not enough willing and eligible parents to the overwhelming number of children in the system.
Thirteen Texas children died in foster care in just the past two years. The state legislature raised requirements for foster parents to help weed out the people unfit to care for children. But now there is another problem. The state says there are not enough willing and eligible parents to the overwhelming number of children in the system.
Wednesday, September 16, 2015
Foster father says 15-year-old son denied beginner's permit
Foster father says 15-year-old son denied beginner's permit
When Bradley Cullum reads a letter he received in the mail from the S.C. Department of Motor Vehicles, he says he still can't believe the words on the paper.
When Bradley Cullum reads a letter he received in the mail from the S.C. Department of Motor Vehicles, he says he still can't believe the words on the paper.
CPS caseworkers now work out of schools
CPS caseworkers now work out of schools
It's a new push by the Erie County Department of Social Services to tackle the CPS caseload problem head-on.
Note: I recommend that all parents in Erie County NY create reverse Miranda cards and send them in with their children immediately.
It's a new push by the Erie County Department of Social Services to tackle the CPS caseload problem head-on.
Note: I recommend that all parents in Erie County NY create reverse Miranda cards and send them in with their children immediately.
Foster care costs ‘very serious’
Foster care costs ‘very serious’
The cost of housing foster kids outside of the county due to a shortage of local foster homes “is a very serious issue for the county,” according to commissioner Shane Wilkin.
Note: It seems that their excessive child snatching activities is coming back to bite them in the ass.
The cost of housing foster kids outside of the county due to a shortage of local foster homes “is a very serious issue for the county,” according to commissioner Shane Wilkin.
Note: It seems that their excessive child snatching activities is coming back to bite them in the ass.
Florida foster children struggling as they age out of child welfare system
Florida foster children struggling as they age out of child welfare system
Thousands of children in Florida are facing a very uncertain future. They're about to age out of the foster care system and will be forced to survive on their own. But, there are little-known programs that can help children like this build successful futures.
DA: Still no cause of death in Auburn foster child's death
DA: Still no cause of death in Auburn foster child's death
The August death of a 2-year-old girl while in the care of a foster mother remains under investigation, Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early said.
Police Reports Detail Chaotic Home Where Foster Child Died
Police Reports Detail Chaotic Home Where Foster Child Died
Newly released police logs are providing more detail about the chaotic life of an Auburn woman whose foster child died in August. However, the documents don’t provide any insight to what killed that foster child and sent another to the hospital.
Newly released police logs are providing more detail about the chaotic life of an Auburn woman whose foster child died in August. However, the documents don’t provide any insight to what killed that foster child and sent another to the hospital.
Muslim teen creates clock, shows teachers, gets arrested
It's back to the Police State School System...
Muslim teen creates clock, shows teachers, gets arrested
When Ahmed Mohamed went to his high school in Irving, Texas, Monday, he was so excited. A teenager with dreams of becoming an engineer, he wanted to show his teacher the digital clock he'd made from a pencil case.
Muslim teen creates clock, shows teachers, gets arrested
When Ahmed Mohamed went to his high school in Irving, Texas, Monday, he was so excited. A teenager with dreams of becoming an engineer, he wanted to show his teacher the digital clock he'd made from a pencil case.