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Compilation of information and writing on this page is the hard work of Jamar Weston, Adolf Nchanj and Blaz Zlate, Student Volunteers at Century College). Note to readers; articles are arranged from the most current to the oldest. KARA at Century college video -20 minutes
Jamar Weston/Writer/Researcher
Service Learning Century College
Kids at Risk Action
Adoption in Kentucky;9 years old, Beat to death with a jack handle, http://www.kentucky.com/2011/11/26/1972957/kentuckys-child-protection-system.html
BY BILL ESTEP AND BETH MUSGRAVE
bestep@herald-leader.comNovember 26, 2011
Delaware: Newark father accused of murder in baby’s death
Thursday, September 05, 2013
Action News
James Love, 40, has been indicted on murder charges in the death of his 3-month-old daughter.
http://abclocal.go.com/wpvi/story?section=news/local&id=9237395
Pennsylvania: Man gets 15 to 30 years in Pa. infant’s death
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Action News
Jameel East, 24, of Lansdale had pleaded guilty in January in Montgomery County Court to third-degree murder and lying to authorities in the June 2011 death of three-month-old Enzo East.
http://abclocal.go.com/wpvi/story?section=news/crime&id=9153505
New Jersey: Authorities capture NJ dad sought in child beating
Sunday, May 12, 2013
Associated Press
Authorities say a North Jersey man accused of severely beating his 3-month-old child was captured as he tried to flee the state. Bell faces an aggravated assault charge in the matter, and additional charges may apply.
http://abclocal.go.com/wpvi/story?section=news/local&id=9099455
Florida: Father gave baby daughter bleach, police say
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Action News Staff
Police say, 20-year-old Carron Washington poisoned his daughter when he mixed a cap full of bleach with her formula and then fed it to her. Washington faces a felony charge and if convicted, could get up to 10 years in prison and a 10-thousand-dollar fine.
http://abclocal.go.com/wpvi/story?section=news/national_world&id=8998171
North Carolina: Father allegedly punches newborn son in face, infant dies
November 29th, 2012
By Stella Martin
The baby’s parents, Brian Jack Frazier, 20-years-old, and Stephaney Renee Ash, also 20-years-old, were arrested because police believed the couple were involved in the 2-week-old infant’s death.
Frazier has been charged with first degree murder while Ash has been charged with accessory after the fact.
Indiana: Father of newborn charged with throwing her across room
October 17th, 2012
By Stella Martin
Bradley Kyle Edelman, 23-years-old, fractured his infant daughter’s skull after he allegedly threw her across the room.
Colorado: Reba Doyle and Scott Liles Caught on Video Shaking, Striking Baby
By Michael Roberts
Oct. 18 2013
Footage has surfaced showing Doyle slapping her one year old and Liles, her boyfriend, shaking the baby — actions that have led to child abuse charges against both of them. See the video and get details below.
Colorado: Marquis Garrison found guilty of murdering baby by slamming her on floor
By Michael Roberts
Sep. 25 2013
A detective was called to Denver Health Medical Center shortly after a couple arrived with their two-month-old daughter resulting in the arrest of Marquis Garrison in the death of his two-month-old daughter, as well as the decision to pursue a first-degree-murder charge in addition to a child-abuse-resulting-in-death count.
http://blogs.westword.com/latestword/2013/09/marquis_garrison_guilty_murder_baby.php
Arizona: Arizona to investigate why 6,000 child abuse reports were ignored
By Soumya Karlamangla
November 26, 2013
Arizona’s Child Protective Services came under fire last week when Clarence Carter, director of the state’s Department of Economic Security, which oversees child welfare, revealed that 6,110 reports of child abuse between 2009 and 2013 had not been investigated. State law requires that each call to the child abuse hot line is investigated.
Texas: Youngster in hospital after father cuts pentagram into his back
December 13th, 2012
By Elliott Z. Carmichael
A 6-year-old Richland Hills, Texas, boy spent 18 hours in the hospital after his father carved a pentagram into the boys’ back. Bartel has been arrested and charged with assault. Police say that they don’t believe he was under the influence of drugs or alcohol when he allegedly assaulted the boy.
Texas: 5-year-old boy in coma after mother’s boyfriend beat him
October 22nd, 2012
By Stella Martin
A 5-year-old Houston, Texas, boy is in critical condition today after his mother’s boyfriend, Robert Bertrand Lewis Jr., 35; allegedly beat him so severely, he fell into a coma.
Lewis has been charged with felony child abuse.
Dallas: Boyfriend allegedly put toddler in pot of boiling water; toddler dies
December 14th, 2010
By Jessica King
In another disgusting excuse for human life, a woman’s boyfriend, Carlnelus Delaney Simmons, age 37, reportedly took her 16 month old son, Jabraylon Bables, and dipped him into a pot of boiling water.
Indianapolis: Parents accused of torturing and abusing 5 week old baby
October 14th, 2010
By Jessica King
A 5 week old baby, has apparently come into this world in a torture chamber. The infant boy, Brayden Wihebrink, was taken to a local hospital where he was found to have multiple fractures all over his body, including his color bone, upper leg, lower leg, arms as well as some previously broken bones that were healing.
The parents, Michael Wihebrink, 25, and Crystal Saunders, 19, were both charged with neglect and the father with additional battery.
Mom of Boy Found Handcuffed to Porch in Horrific Abuse Case Is a Social Worker
By Jeanne Sager November 18, 2013
North Carolina: A Social Services department supervisor and her husband have been arrested and charged with multiple child abuse charges after cops found one of their children handcuffed to the porch. They’ve been charged with intentional child abuse inflicting serious injury, false imprisonment, and cruelty to animals, plus Larson is facing charges of willful failure to discharge her duty as a public official.
More at: http://thestir.cafemom.com/in_the_news/164265/mom_of_boy_found_handcuffed
Mother in Florida cyber-bullying case faces separate child abuse charges
By Richard Luscombe 19 October 2013
Florida: According to a press release from Judd’s office, Vosburg, of Lakeland, at first told detectives she was trying to break up a fight and said she hit the children accidentally. But after viewing the video: “Vosburg stated she knew she should not have hit the juveniles with her fists.”
More at: http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/oct/19/mother-florida-child-abuse
Arrest made in ‘worst’ child abuse case
By Daniel Tepfer Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Bridgeport: Local police and members of the U.S. Marshal’s Violent Crime Fugitive Task Force arrested the boy’s father, 22-year-old Daquon Gomillion, at a hearing in state juvenile court where Gomillion was fighting to retain custody of the boy.
Gomillion was charged with four counts of first-degree assault and four counts of risk of injury to a child. He was held in lieu of $250,000 bond.
More: http://www.ctpost.com/local/article/Arrest-made-in-worst-child-abuse-case-4818925.php
One of Houston’s worst child-abuse cases tough to unravel
By Lomi Kriel May 13, 2012
Texas: Six months into his short life, the parents made what would turn out to be a grave mistake, leaving their sleeping babies alone while they ran out on a sudden errand.
The father is charged in the incident, the mother has been deported, the sister, Melani, is back in foster care, and a host of attorneys and child advocates are wringing their hands. http://www.chron.com/news/houston-texas/article/One-of-Houston-s-worst-child-abuse-cases-tough-to-3555732.php
Faribault man accused of child abuse
By REBECCA RODENBORG
Faribault: At just four weeks old, it was at least 10 rib fractures on that boy’s new baby brother. Doctors told authorities the baby could be permanently injured or even die from the severity of the injuries discovered during an unrelated hospital visit.
Now, the boys’ father, Jace Michael Wojtowicz, is facing charges of child abuse even as he remains on probation for squeezing his first-born too tight — and causing bruising — in May 2011.
From Canada (foster care deaths in Alberta)
145 Alberta Canada children have died in foster care since 1999.
Disease, 50
SIDS 14
Premature 14
Hanging 14
Cranial Trauma 11
Collision 6
Drowning 4
Asphyxiation 3
Pneumonia 3
Sleep arrangement 3
Overdose 3
Hypothermia 3
Fire 2
Stabbing, Blunt force trauma, Alcohol poisoning, Massive trauma, Anoxic brain injury, Fall, Malnutrition, CO poisoning, Intestinal obstruction – each category 1, & 6 unknown
Jamar Weston
Service Learning
Mike Tikanen
St Paul Father sentenced for shaking, punching baby Nov 15, 2013
Danbury couple accused of putting dog shock collar on girl
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Connecticut–Prosecutors charged Mr. Montanez with using an electric dog collar to shock and discipline his nine-year-old stepdaughter inside their Kohanza Street apartment in Danbury.
Eduardo Montanez is being held on $250,000 bond on charges including third-degree assault, risk of injury to a child and cruelty.
Paula Montanez is held on $200,000 bond on charges including risk of injury to a child, conspiracy to commit third-degree assault and conspiracy to commit cruelty.
Read more: http://abclocal.go.com/wabc/story?section=news/local/northern_suburbs&id=9306263
Boyfriend arrested in SI child death
Friday, October 14, 2011
By Eye witness news.
STATEN ISLAND— Police arrested the mother’s boyfriend in connection with the beating death of 14-month-old Seth Azemi.
18-year-old Joshua Guzman is charged with assault and endangering the welfare of a child.
Charges could be upgraded if the toddler’s death is ruled a homicide.
More: http://abclocal.go.com/wabc/story?section=news/local/new_york&id=8392784
Ontario man arrested for child abuse causing boy’s death
Monday, April 08, 2013
By Inland Empire News
Ontario, California– A 2-year-old boy was brought to the emergency room at Kaiser Hospital in Ontario in an ambulance after he was unresponsive at his home on the 1100 block of East Philadelphia Street.
Michael Lucero, 20, was arrested at the Loma Linda location on suspicion of causing corporal injury resulting in death. He was booked at West Valley Detention Center on the charges of murder and child neglect resulting in death. He was held without bail.
Lake Elsinore man arrested for sex assault on minor
Monday, July 22, 2013
California- Ebelio DeLeon, 38, of Lake Elsinore was arrested for sexual assault on Tuesday, July 9, 2013.
Investigators believe there may be more alleged victims since the residence where the sexual assault took place was used as an unlicensed day care facility.
Read more: http://abclocal.go.com/kabc/story?section=news/local/inland_empire&id=9180638
4 DCFS employees fired in Fernandez investigation
Tuesday, July 30th, 2013
By Q McCray and Leo Stallworth
Los Angeles: An internal investigation was launched in the death of Gabriel Fernandez, a boy who was tortured and fatally beaten allegedly by his mother’s boyfriend while she was present.
DCFS social workers had visited the home but did not remove the boy. The victim’s mother, 29-year-old Pearl Fernandez, and her boyfriend, 32-year-old Isauro Aguirre, are charged with capital murder in the beating death of the child.
More here: http://abclocal.go.com/kabc/story?section=news/local/los_angeles&id=9190250
Jeremy Yachik, Cop, Allegedly Caught on Camera Abusing His Daughter
By Michael Roberts: Monday, October 21, 2013
Yachik, a nominee as an America’s Most Wanted all-star, is allegedly pictured kicking and hitting his little girl.
Did the police chief cover up this crime? This question has led to an investigation of the entire department.
Video and more at: http://blogs.westword.com/latestword/2013/10/jeremy_yachik_berthoud_police_scandal_video.php?page=3
Celia Montoya charged with holding down ten year old while boyfriend sexually assaulted her
By Michael Roberts Fri., Aug. 23 2013
Denver: Montoya allegedly held down a ten-year-old family member while her much older boyfriend, Eugene Fernandez, sexually assaulted her.
Fernandez has been charged with aggravated sexual assault on a child, while Montoya is accused of sexual assault on a child and child abuse. They currently remain in custody on large bonds
Scottsdale Police Seek Murder Charge After 1-Year-Old Boy Left in Car Dies
By Matthew Hendley: Friday, October 11, 2013
Arizona: A 1-year-old boy who was left in a car in Scottsdale while his father went to work died. Police say the department is now seeking a second-degree murder charge against 28-year-old Brokale Lytte Marques, in addition to other charges.
Marques was initially booked into jail on charges of child abuse, child neglect, and endangerment, and his bond was set at $25,000.
However, with the addition of the second-degree murder charge, Marques will have to see a judge again
More: http://blogs.phoenixnewtimes.com/valleyfever/2013/09/scottsdale_police_seek_murder.php
Woman files sexual abuse lawsuit against St. Thomas priest and professor
By Madeleine Baran, Minnesota Public Radio: October 14, 2013
Minnesota: A Minnesota woman filed a lawsuit accusing the Rev. Michael Keating, a popular professor at the University of St. Thomas, of sexually abusing her when she was a teenager.
The case is still pending.
Jamar Weston
Service Learning
Mike Tikkanen
Kids at Risk Action
Parents Catch Abusive Babysitter, Thanks to Dog
By John Johnson, Sep 13, 2013
South Carolina: A babysitter in South Carolina has confessed to physically abusing a 7-month-old boy in her care—and the child’s parents give credit to the loyal family dog. Parents grew suspicious when their otherwise mellow dog, Killian, started routinely growling at the family’s 21-year-old babysitter and standing between her and the child. The parents placed an iPhone under the couch one day to record audio: “It started with cussing,” says dad Benjamin Jordan. “Then you hear slap noises and his crying changes from a distress cry to a pain cry.”
She pleaded guilty last Monday to assault and battery, will serve 1 to 3 years in jail, and will be placed on a registry to keep her from working with kids ever again.
Read more: http://www.newser.com/story/174220/parents-catch-abusive-babysitter-thanks-to-dog.html
Phoenix Dad Charged After 3-Month-Old Son Dies in Car
By Newsy, Aug 30, 2013
Arizona: Daniel Bryant Gray has been charged with manslaughter and child abuse, both of which are felonies. Police believe he was smoking marijuana with a co-worker at the front of the car for more than an hour with his son still inside.
Read more: http://www.newser.com/story/173485/phoenix-dad-charged-after-3-month-old-son-dies-in-car.html
Mom Throws Infant at Deputy in Getaway Bid
By Newser Staff, Jul 17, 2013
Florida: Ashley Wright was pulled over by law enforcement, got out of the car and started running, carrying the baby carrier.
As the deputy chased her, she “threw the baby carrier … at the officer, She missed, but the 3-month-old wasn’t injured. Wright, however, soon fell and was arrested.
She later told police that her “night of bad decisions” probably had something to do with the beer she drank earlier.
Read more at: http://www.newser.com/story/171148/mom-throws-infant-at-deputy-in-getaway-bid.html
Coon Rapids Mom Accused Of Beating Girls with Electrical Cord
By CBS News Staff March 27, 2013
Minnesota: Julia Peter Modi Kojo, has been accused of beating her daughters, ages 10 and 16, with electrical cords for failing to clean the living room.
Julia Peter Modi Kojo, 31, now faces two counts of malicious punishment of a child in connection to the March 23, 2013, incident.
Wis. Couple to Enter Pleas in Starved Girl Case
By CBS News Staff April 6, 2012
Wisconsin: A prosecutor has filed charges against a husband and wife accused of torturing and starving the man’s teenage daughter and forcing the girl to live in their basement.
Dane County District Attorney Ismael Ozanne, filed new felony counts of causing a child mental harm, failing to protect a child, false imprisonment and child neglect against both the man and woman.
More at: http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2012/04/16/wis-couple-to-enter-pleas-in-starved-girl-case/
Jamar Weston
Service Learning
Century College
K.A.R.A
New charges expected in death of Adrian Peterson’s son
BY: John Hult, October 15, 2013
Sioux Falls, SD: Tyrese Robert Doohen (Adrian Peterson’s son) was pronounced dead on Friday, two days after 27-year-old Joey Patterson called to report a choking in the south Sioux Falls apartment they shared with the boy’s mother.
Patterson was later interviewed by police and charged with aggravated assault on an infant and aggravated assault.
Anoka Woman Sentenced In Death of 3-Year-Old Son
February 6, 2013 by Anoka County Sheriff’s Office
Anoka, Minnesota: Both Mr. Urban and Ms. Moorman had a role in the unnecessary death of this child, and prosecutors felt charges against both parties were required,” stated Tony Palumbo, Anoka County Attorney. “While we are satisfied that Ms. Moorman is being held accountable for her role in her son’s death, we need to remember that an innocent child lost his life at the hands of someone who was supposed to protect him.”
Elizabeth Ann Moorman will serve 48 months in prison for her role in the death of her son in September 2011. She earlier pled guilty to second-degree manslaughter and neglect of a child. Urban was sentenced to over 15 years in prison on second-degree murder.
Read more: http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2013/02/06/anoka-woman-sentenced-in-death-of-3-year-old-son/
Andover Man Sentenced for Killing Girlfriend’s Son
January 11, 2013 by Anoka County
Minneapolis, MN: Anoka County Judge Kristin Larson sentenced Anthony Urban, 26, to 190 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to unintentional second-degree murder in April 2012. The charges stem from the Sept. 4, 2011, death of a 3-year-old boy, whom authorities say was severely abused by Urban.
Read more: http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2013/01/11/andover-man-sentenced-for-killing-girlfriends-son/
Toddler dies from chili powder punishment
January 8th, 2013 by Stella Martin
CA: Amanda Sorenson, 21, was arrested on Monday on suspicion of child abuse resulting in death after an investigation led police to suspect that Sorenson force fed the baby chili powder. The suspect, Amanda Sorensen, 21, is currently being held on $500,000 bail at the West Valley Detention Center.
Read more here: http://www.imperfectparent.com/topics/2013/01/08/toddler-dies-from-chili-powder-punishment/
Mother and roommate accused of starving three-year-old
July 25th, 2012 by Stella Martin
Joplin, Missouri: The child’s mother, Beth A. Williams, 26, and her roommate, Christina M. Haidle, 27 are accused of with-holding food from the 3-year-old toddler who weighed only 12 lbs. when admitted to the ER. Doctors described her condition as chronic in a police report, saying she suffered from severe malnutrition, with a blood sugar level of zero, a body temperature too low to register, a faint pulse which required incubation and resuscitation, dehydration, sepsis, shock, respiratory failure, emaciation, and circulatory failure — all of which were results from what doctors say was caused by starvation.
Read more at: http://www.imperfectparent.com/topics/2012/07/25/mother-and-roommate-accused-of-starving-three-year-old/
Mother stabbed 6-year-old daughter while she slept
August 15th, 2012 by Stella Martin
Wisconsin: Tasha Harmon, 30-years-old, is accused of stabbing her young daughter earlier this week, leaving her with deep puncture wounds to her chest and back, resulting in a punctured lung. Harmon reportedly attacked her daughter while she was still sleeping with a 7 inch long steak knife.
Police say they will likely file felony charges against Harmon, including first degree attempted murder.
Read more here: http://www.imperfectparent.com/topics/2012/08/15/police-mother-stabbed-6-year-old-daughter-while-she-slept/
Male caregivers scrutinized in violent deaths of children
May 2, 2011 by Sasha Aslanian
St. Paul, MN: In many cases, infants and toddlers were being cared for by unemployed fathers, stepfathers or boyfriends of the mothers. As a result, the study could prompt new scrutiny of men from child protection workers. The board examined 71 cases involving fatal or near-fatal inflicted injuries. Three-quarters of the deaths involved children under age four.
Said Marcie Jeffrys, (director of policy development for the Children’s Defense Fund) “I think we really need to look at our child care policies if we want to address those kids who are being left alone maybe with an adult who just isn’t equipped emotionally to take care of them.”
Read more: http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2011/05/02/child-abuse-neglect-study
Boyfriend charged with killing 3-year-old: Minnesota Children
May 14, 2013 by Michelle Phoenix
Wisconsin: Marcus Johnson, was ordered held on $500,000 bond after being charged with first-degree intentional homicide of his girlfriend’s 3-year-old son. According to the report, Johnson punched the child in the mouth, whipped, and burned the boy for defacing in his pants. The complaint also stated that boy suffered burns on his buttocks consistent with being dipped in scalding water.
“These horrific deaths and severe abuse cases need to end NOW. According to the Minnesota Child Mortality Review Report, babies and young children in Minnesota who are shaken or beaten to death or near death are most often the victims of men. The panel looked at 71 reported cases in which children died or almost died, through abuse or neglect. Three quarters of the children were less than four years old, and most of them died of physical abuse at the hands of men living in the same home.”
Read more: http://www.examiner.com/article/boyfriend-charged-with-killing-3-year-old-minnesota-children
Toddler Who Fell out of Two-Story Window suffers brain damage
September 18, 2013 Diane Gonzales
23 month old Luis Rodriguez is on life support at Holtz Children’s Hospital at JacksonMemorial Hospital. He fell from a two story window while with his parents at the Paraiso Hotel in Hialeah on Friday.
Luis has no brain activity. Both parents, Jacqueline Sanchez and Luis Rodriguez are charged with child neglect. Officials found bags of cocaine along with other narcotics that were in reach of the child in the hotel.
Investigators are reviewing if the toddler ingested narcotics.
Both Luis and his 5 months old brother are in the custody of Department of Children and families. The court will await for the final status on Rodriguez. Link to the South Florida Article
Senator Wants Investigation into CPS Following Death of 5-Year-Old
By Timothy M. Kennedy
New York: Buffalo Police say the child died as a result of blunt force trauma to his head. Eain’s mother’s boyfriend, Matthew Kuzdza, has been charged with second degree murder in his death. Family members claim they reported abuse on several occasions to Child Protective Services, On Friday, the father of Eain spoke to two on your Side’s Claudine Ewing. Kyle Charette said he called child protective services several times for help. “Child protective services could’ve stepped in,” said Charette. “Take him for a couple of days, we’ll do an investigation, they did nothing whatsoever.”
Wrongful Death Lawsuit in 8-Year-Old Boy’s Slaying Moves Forward
By Samantha Tata and Lolita Lopez
CA: The maternal grandparents of an 8-year-old boy tortured and killed allegedly by his mother and her boyfriend have taken the first steps to file a wrongful death lawsuit against several Los Angeles County agencies, including the one tasked with investigating reports of abuse in the household. The lawsuit seeking unspecified damages claims that child welfare workers illegally removed Gabriel Fernandez from his grandparent’s home, where he lived most of his short life, to his mother’s custody; and failed to fully investigate more than 60 reports of abuse.
“What we would like to see is changes in how the sheriff department deals with these cases, the way schools deal with these cases, and actually any entity,” attorney John Noland said.
Gabriel Fernandez was found barely breathing May 22 at the Palmdale apartment he shared with his siblings, mother and her boyfriend. He had suffered a fractured skull, three broken ribs and burns to his skin. Two of his teeth were knocked out, and paramedics found BB pellets embedded in his lung and groin.
Sheriff’s deputies arrested the boy’s mother and her boyfriend on May 23. The 8-year-old died the next day.
Read more: http://www.nbclosangeles.com/video/#!/home/top-videos/LAUSDiPadProgramBegins/221429391
Final moments for Hanover twins revealed
By NBC12 News Staff
HANOVER, VA: The medical examiner’s office has revealed new information about the final moments for twin girls who died at the hands of their father. Caroline King died from a cut to her neck, while her twin sister, Madison, died from carbon monoxide poisoning, according to the medical examiner. Their mother, Kristi Hooper, found their bodies at a Mechanicsville home on Wynbrook Lane. She says both were impacted by the deadly fumes, but was told they didn’t suffer.
Read more: http://mechanicsville.nbc12.com/news/news/76166-final-moments-hanover-twins-revealed
Columbus Ohio August 17;
11 month old Nicholas Goodrich died after 12 abuse reports to social service agencies ignored the calls; http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/local/2008/12/21/children_services.ART_ART_12-21-08_A1_LEC9PVC.html An investigation by The Dispatch found that 87 of the 234 children who succumbed to abuse and neglect from 2002 to 2007 died on the watch of Ohio’s children services agencies. Their families or caregivers were being assisted and monitored by county children-services workers at the time of, or within a year before their deaths.
The six-year total for abuse and neglect deaths comes from a statewide survey by The Dispatch of all 88 county children-services agencies and a review of death certificates, child-fatality reports, other public records and news reports.
The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, which oversees county agencies, reports a larger number of child-abuse and neglect deaths to federal officials. State officials reported 358 such deaths from 2002 to 2006, and children-services officials were involved with 92 of those children, or 26 percent, within five years of children’s deaths.
That percentage is more than twice the 12 percent national average and third highest among the states submitting figures to the federal government, trailing Alabama (42 percent) and Florida (28 percent).
State officials say the numbers reported to federal authorities include deaths such as the “rollover” suffocation of babies sharing beds with parents and cases of inadequate supervision. The Dispatch excluded some of those cases that clearly were accidental or did not lead to criminal charges.
The investigation by The Dispatch found that Ohio’s child-protection system is riddled with problems:
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County child-fatality review boards, created to find ways to reduce deaths, dramatically underreport the number of children dying from abuse and neglect. Reports from 2002 to 2006 listed 136 child-abuse deaths, far below the 203 confirmed by The Dispatch for those years. Figures for 2007 are not yet available.
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While state regulations require a review of the death of every child involved with county agencies, the state failed to review nearly 30 percent of deaths until The Dispatch discovered the shortcoming.
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State child-fatality reviews fault county agencies for major flaws in their response to abuse reports, including placing children with unsuitable caregivers and then not checking their safety.
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With 27 deaths from 2002 through 2007, Franklin County led Ohio in the number of child-abuse deaths. The county’s children-services agency had cases open on 11 of the children’s families or caregivers.
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Many of Ohio’s children-services agencies, particularly in smaller, rural counties without local tax levies, are underfunded by the state. Only Minnesota contributes a smaller percentage of children-services spending. States provide an average of 39 percent nationally. Ohio’s figure: 9 percent.
Michael Fox, a former state representative who now is director of Butler County Children Services, finds the number of dead children unacceptable.
“As a general rule, the child-welfare system is broke. And it has been broke for years,” he says.
August 7th Temple Texas
Two-year-old Alexandria Hill was placed in foster care after her parents were caught smoking marijuana in their home while she slept. Authorities charged them with “neglectful supervision,” and just months away from getting their baby back, the loving parents learned they would never see their young child again. Placed in a foster home to protect her from them, Alexandria was brutally killed.
LA Social Workers fired over tortured death of Gabriel Fernandez:
Four County Child and Family Services workers are being fired for their involvement in the Gabriel Fernandez torture and death… five previous reports of the boys abuse were deemed “unfounded”, a sixth case was being investigated at the time of his death. County Chief Executive Bill Fujioka, DCFS director Phlip Browning discussed the firing during a Board of Supervisors meeting. kelly.goff@dailynews.com
Minnesota
This has been a bad week in the news for babies in Ada and Champlin Mn as the Star Tribune filed reports about two separate & tragic baby deaths.
Reading these articles (below, or click the links) demonstrate that these are not isolated cases of violence and abuse, but repeated terrible burning, and beatings of babies that have only made the paper because the child died.
There’s lot’s more of this happening that we don’t see. Without subsidized day care and crisis nurseries, babies are left with drunk uncles and cracked out boyfriends while mom is working or buying groceries.
In my work as a volunteer CASA guardian ad-Litem, I saw this kind of thing repeatedly. In one instance, a baby was burned over half her body and in another case, because there was no subsidized daycare, the working father, who was a good man, had the state start proceedings to take his children away because he could not afford daycare.
Nobody wins in these situations; terribly abused children, destroyed functioning families, & a fortune in hospitalization and foster care. Continue reading ‘More Daycare & Crisis Nurseries = Fewer Tortured & Murdered Babies’
– See more at: https://invisiblechildren.org/#sthash.gdrmeWnF.dpuf
Adolf nchanji
Judge lashes DCF after infant suffers life threatening abuse.
By Carol Marbin and Katia.
Florida: The first a Miami infant went to hospital; he had suffered a broken leg his mother said was the result of a fall from chair. There was second injury which investigators never knew, a cracked rib. The third injury nearly killed him. On Thursday the judge blasted the Florida Department of Children and Families for failing to take any action to protect the boy until it was too late. The child was removed from his mother custody after he suffered the life-threatening laceration of his liver. Judge Rosac. Figarola said in court the child’s liver had been “severed”
Read more here: http://www.miamiherald.com/2013/07/11/3496211_p2/judge-lashes-dcf-after-infant.html#storylink=cpy
Mother convicted of child endangerment after SECOND infant dies while sleeping in bed with her.
By Paul THOMPSON
Florida: A mother is facing up to 20 years in jail after her newborn baby died while sleeping in her bed the second time she has lost a child in nearly identical way. Vanessa Clark was found guilty of child endangerment after prosecutors said she should have learned from her first son’s death. In July 2010 her two month old son Tristan was found dead in his parent bed.
New York;
M&M Murder: Veronica Cirella Killed her.
The Huffington post by ANDY CAMPBELL POSTED: 04/6/2012
A NEW YORK mom is accused of killing her daughter by feeding the little girl peanut M&Ms which she was severed allergic to, cops said. Veronical pleaded not guilty to the dead of her little girl Julie. The little girls, who had cerebral palsy, were found just hours before she was to flower girl in a cousin wedding. Veronica was lying near her daughter’s body. She had alleged tried to kill herself with cocktail of insulin injections and painkillers, and then attempted to strangle herself with an electrical cord according to news one.
Minnesota: Pioneer press July 17 by Ted Vezner
Woman charged in infant’s death
A Farmington woman accused of fatally smothering her 3-month-old son four years ago and more recently, holding a blanket over her infant daughter’s mouth until she stopped breathing – did so in order to get attention from doctors. Prosecutor alleged in a criminal complaint filed Tuesday Ashleigh Jennifer Casey 25, was charged in Hennepin County District Court with second degree murder, first degree assault, and domestic assault by strangulation. Police discovered her son Alexander dead in her basement in St Louis Park.
Associated Press: June 22, 2013
Sex offender charged with Florida girl’s death.
Jacksonville, Flo. (AP) A registered sex offender recently released from jail was charged Saturday with the murder in the death of an 8-year-old Florida girl abducted while shopping with her mother. Donald James Smith, 56 befriended Charish and her mother at a dollar store, and offer to take them to Wal-Mart and buy them some family clothes. While at wal- mart he walked with Charish outside and the two got into his van while the mother was still inside. Charish was later found dead, Smith arrested but he refused to answer questions on how Charish died.
http://news.yahoo.com/sex-offender-charged-fla-girls-death-195335625.html
Minnesota: June 22, 2013
For his 2-year-old’s gun death, probation.
Minneapolis dad also must talk firearms safety with fellow Hmong.
A Minneapolis father whose 4-year-old son killed his 2-year-old brother with an unsecured handgun won a reprieve from a judge Thursday. As Kao Chongsua Xiong and his family members wept tears of grief and joy when Hennepin County District Judge Daniel Moreno sentence 31-year-old to 10 years of probation. One condition he must spend 100 hours telling others in the Hmong community about gun safety.
Volume No.165, No.62, 4 sections, 44 pages 2013 St. Paul Pioneer press (North west publication)
New York Times: JUNE 27, 2013
Georgia Suspends 19 State workers over delayed abuse cases.
Atlanta. The state of Georgia has suspended 19 employees who were responsible for investigation accusation of sexual abuse and misconduct in the state juvenile justice facilities after an internal review revealed that work on the case were repeatedly delayed. The suspensions and the review came after a recent report from US Department of Justice STUDY found that 15.8 percent of youth inmates in Georgia reported being sexually victimized at least once in the span of a year.
New York Times: June13, 2013 by Kim Severson
South Carolina soul searching on welfare children
A boy is referred to in a lawsuit only as John Doe was poor; his parents were involved in drugs and alcohol abuse. The relative were unable to take care of the child. So the state took control and sent him to the Boys Home of the south a series of aging cottages on 127 acres in an isolated part of South Carolina, near the north Georgia border. There the boy was sexually abuse by old boys who had history of sexually abusing others. The boys lured him into room in one of the cottages and raped him repeatedly.http://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/14/us/south-carolina-soul-searching-on-welfare-of-children.html
Pioneer press June26,2013 by John Doman
Minnesota.
Day of anger, day of tears in court for death of 16-year-old Hurd
Her mother sobbed. Her father lashed out. Anda Ramsey County judge sent the teenage killer of their 16- year old daughter to prison for the next 22 years. Hurd a 16- year old girl walked through a park near Maplewood Middle School after midnight Feb. 23, and this little girl told Anthony Joseph Mitchell that he is not going to accompanying her to her mother’s home in Texas and that their relationship was over she said. Anthony joseph Mitchell Jr. turned on her and stabbed her five times. The last strike was in her back, prosecutor Rosita Severin told the Ramsey County Courtroom. Hurd bled to death in the snow.
Volume No. 165, N.60, 3 sections, 30pages 2013 st paul pioneer press (north west publication)
CBS
Los Angeles California
DCFS Details Prior Allegation of Abuse In Case Of Deceased 8- Year- old Palmdale Boy. June 12, 2013.
SYLMAR (CBSLA.COM)
New documents obtained by KCAL9 detail previous allegation of abuse in the case of a now- deceased 8-year-old Palmdale boy who investigators say was tortured and beaten to death. Gabrieal Frenandez suffered a skull fracture, several broken ribs and severe burn marks over various spots of his body before he was hospitalized last month, according to the La County Sheriff’s Department. He died from injuries may 24. The mother confessed that she had been abusing the boy from time to time. His mother Pearl Fernandez and her boyfriend Isauro Aguirre have been charged for murder.
Florida: child welfare.
DCF roiled by another Child’s death by Carel Marbin Miller.
The latest to die is Ezra Rapheal, age 2. Police say they were “summoned “to Ezra home at 15664 NE 10th ct. in northern Miami Beach, at 11:08 Last Thursday to check on a sick and unresponsive child’. Police said they found the child unconscious on the dining room floor. The toddler was pronounced dead shortly after they arrived at the Jackson North Medical Center. An autopsy shows that Ezra had sustained trauma to his back and body. The father Alexi remains in custody with bond at the Miami Dade County Jail on first- degree murder and aggravated child abuse charges, Ezra’s mother, 22 year-old Cierrah Rapheal was charged with neglect because over a course of time, the child was repeatedly left alone in the house.
http://www.miamiherald.com/2013/06/25/3470536/dcf-roiled-by-another-childs-death.html#storylink=cpy
NJ: Child welfare agency proposes less disclosure of fatal child abuse cases.
The Star –Ledger- June 12, 2013.
The Department of Children and Families Plans to limit the information it publicly discloses when a child die or suffers life threatening injuries from abuse and neglect to protect the privacy right of the vulnerable children according to a draft of the new rule. Alliso Blake, the commissioner for Children and Family Services say the disclosure could bring harm to the child. Federal and State law requires that when harm a child die or is seriously hurt by a parent or caregiver they most disclosed the child name. Advocate for Children of New Jersey urged to reconsider his decision.
A MAN CHARGED WITH ABUSING SECOND NEWBORN by peter dujardin june 14,2013.
Man charged with recent Hampton child abuse spent time in prison in fatal 2006 child abuse case out in James City County. David Curtis 32 years old released from prison two year ago after abusing his newborn boy who later died and now he is again charged with abusing his newborn daughter. He is charged with felony child abuse, accused of “causing or permitted serious injury to the life and health” of the child “by a willful act, omission or refusal to provide necessary care”. If convicted David could spent two and ten years in prison. Hampton police Spokeswoman Cpl. Mary Shackelform said the child is in a stable condition.
TN: New Report Detail Numerous Problem in Tennessee’s Child Welfare System.
Youth Today-June 10, 2013
Report released last week by the Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth (TCCY) calls for the state’s Department of Children’s Services DCS to step up its effort in meeting the need of young people with psychological and other problems. The state of the Child in Tennessee’s finds out that more than half of children in foster care youth have mental illness while approximately nine-out-ten youth in the state’s juvenile facilities are estimated to have mental health issues.
http://www.tn.gov/tccy/kc-soc12.pdf
http://www.youthtoday.org/view_article.cfm?article_id=6087
NEW YORK TIMES.
BY KAREN Crouse June 18, 2013.
McKINNEY TEXAS: Kelly Currin, a divorce mother of four said she was sexually abused by her swim coach when she was 13 years. The coach Rick Curl sexually abused her for five years in the beginning of 1980’s. Rick was 33 years old at the time. Kelly had privately told several people about the sexual misconduct over the decades, she pursued legal action last year after Rick was allowed by the USA swimming national governing body to continue coaching after she told officials in the organization what had happen. Last month Curl 63, was sentenced to seven years in prison after he pleaded guilty in February for sexual misconduct. She said she did that because she fears other children may face the same circumstances.
Cuhttp://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/19/sports/after-sexual-abuse-conviction-new-scrutiny-of-youth-athletics.htmlrl
Los Angeles Times
L.A County to probe handles of abuse case involving slain boy. May 28, 2013
Los Angeles county supervisor Michael D Antonovich has launched an investigation into the county’s handling of abuse complaints involving Gabriel Fermandez ,an 8-year-old boy who police say was later tortured and killed by his mother and her boyfriend. Firefighters discovered the boy in Palmdale last Wednesday when they respond to a call. Authorities said he suffered numerous injuries resulting from abuse, including fractured skull, several broken ribs and burns. The boy died Friday.
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-gabriel-20130529.0.5927941.story
Imperfect parent
Minor topics
January 12th, 2008 by Jessica King/Permalink
Couple tortures toddler and blinds her with Chemical burns.
The toddler’s injuries weren’t consistent with how the couple said the girl hurt herself, said Jaroscak, who called the case among the “most devastating” he has seen. Charging documents state doctors at Primary Children’s Medical Center- in Florida where the toddler was sent because of extensive injuries-examined the girl and found chemical burn on toddler face, hand and eyes. The burns on girls’ eyes caused severe corneal damage that could result her losing her vision www.imperfectparent.com/topics/2008/01/12/couple-tortures-and-blinds-her-with-chemical-burns-graphic/
Imperfect parent
Minor topics
Parents accused of slowly starving to death 11-year-old boy. April 2nd 2012 by Jessica king/ permalink
Dallas county Texas police are accusing a father and step-mother of systematically starving an 11-year boy to death, giving him rations of water and bread only. Aaron Ramsey, the boy’s father last Friday after reported to the authorities that the boy was missing. Police question and pressing the couple both reportedly admitted to giving the boy “military rations” which weren’t enough to sustain the young boy. His step mother described the boy “look like one of those kids you see on commercial from Africa.” According to IBT, Jonathan’s father told the police that he saw his son eat his own feces because of hungry.
Imperfect parent
Minor topics
January 5th, 2008 by Jessica King
Mom and boyfriend arrested got torturing toddler.
In Florida a 17 month old boy who had cooking oil, heated frying pan, poured on his genitals as well as beaten to the point of sustaining spinal injuries, doctors said the extent of his injuries was severe,they doubt whether he’ll be able to walk again. Marlita S, 23 mother of Apopka toddler with her boyfriend Darlanne Tousaint 24 were arrested by the police.
Moorhead,Minn
Infant dies after being left in hot van
By Dave kolpack
Associated press
A father of a 5-month-old girl who died after being left in a hot minivan forgot about the infant while unloading five other children from the vehicle, Moorhead,Minn.,police said. Christiana natany Sandstron died after left in the car seat for an hour Tuesday afternoon. The father Sandstron called 911 and authorities arrived at the scene about 8:20pm. The first responded found that the infant girl had been moved to a nearby apartment and began administering CPR. The child was pronounced dead at the scene. Police report said the family’s apartment has “extreme filth and was unsafe for the other children,” who were being cared by Clay County Social Services. Investigation is ongoing.
Volume No.165,.No.47,4sections,44pages 3013 st. Paul Pioneer press (Northwest Publication)
CPS called 3 weeks before 9-year-old boy was killed
March 14, 2013. California.
It had come to light that CPS was contacted regarding 9-year-old Matthew Hernandez’s father and his drug abuse and violence 3 weeks prior to the boy’s murder. An earlier file had also come to light stating that Matthew had sustained an injury that didn’t appear to be accidental at an earlier time.
Investigation into death of boy, 4, who as ‘skin and bones’ when police found him at adoptive family’s home
March 29, 2013. Texas.
Buddy Cook was adopted by a family with 6 other children after he entered the child care system with diagnoses of Post Traumatic stress disorder, reactive attachment disorder and a sexually transmitted disease. A 911 call was made stating that the boy was not breathing and he was pronounced dead when police arrived on the scene. Buddy seemed to have died from dehydration and malnutrition, however other signs indicate that he access to food and water and that he was eating/drinking. Authorities were looking into the possibility of his malnutrition being an effect from a pre-existing medical condition.
Panel has 37 recommendations in Okla. Child deaths
April 4, 2013. Oklahoma.
Following an in-depth review of 37 cases of child deaths due to abuse and neglect has resulted in some very pointed recommendations to improve DHS. One of the major recommendations is that communication between DHS and other parties (doctors, educators, public agencies, police, prosecutors, and members of the general public) be improved. The seriousness of drug abuse must not be overlooked either, even if the drugs were prescribed to the individual.
Saving lives by empowering the justice system
February 9, 2012. Illinois.
The reauthorization of VAWA (The Violence Against Women Act) brought with it the need to specialize court proceedings when dealing with cases of domestic violence. A better-trained judge and court system would reduce the cost of court proceedings, homicides, and the strain a child’s education and learning undergo while undergoing those sorts of proceedings.
http://www.ncjfcj.org/saving-lives-empowering-justice-system-0
Boys dead after mom allegedly left them in car while having affair
January 21, 2013. Colorado.
Heather Jensen left her two sons (ages 2 and 4) alone in her vehicle with the heat set to the maximum and the fan off for at least 40 minutes without checking on them or any supervision while she was having an affair. The boys were in the car for about 2.5 hours in total, but were checked on periodically until the 40-minutes of negligence. In those 40 minutes, both boys suffered from hyperthermia (extreme heat). One died at the scene, the other died a short time later at a nearby hospital.
http://www.hlntv.com/article/2013/01/18/heather-jensen-sons-died-hyperthermia-car-sex-nearby
Connecting dots on child abuse to save lives
March 24, 2013.
The Protect our Kids Act of 2012 has authorized the creation of the Commission to Eliminate Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities. The commission is expected to be named next month. The commission hopes are to improve the data collection process, implement better solutions to current issues, examining and identifying demographic risk factors so maltreatment can be predicted and therefore addressed, and to investigate better practices to implement into child services.
DCS failed to warn caretakers about man who later shot them
March 24, 2013. Dyersburg, Tennessee.
The Randolph’s (Susan and Todd) accepted temporary custody of a neighbor’s daughter (Stevie) after her father was accused of abuse. The Randolph’s were not informed as to the details of Stevie’s removal from her home, what they should be cautious of (her father’s alleged violence), or who to contact with questions or concerns. They were never made aware of the full circumstances until after Stevie’s father killed both Stevie and Todd, and shooting Susan 3 times. Susan was not allowed to make the trial against DCS public, nor was she allowed to talk to anyone publicly about the event until now. The court has ruled that DCS was at fault for not following procedure, not providing crucial information to the Randolph’s regarding their situation, back-dating required documentation, and failing to provide a reliable contact for the Randolph’s regarding Stevie’s care.
Fairview woman sentenced to 20 years in child abuse case
March 22, 2013. Portland, Oregon.
Chandra Rose pled guilty to manslaughter and coercion regarding the death of her boyfriend’s 10-year-old daughter. Some details regarding the night of the girl’s death have come to light that were not previously known, including Rose’s actions of forcing the girl into an ice bath, tying her up and making her sleep in a storage bath, ultimately cumulating in her drowning in the bath. The girl’s body was found in the apartment, soaking wet, by paramedics.
http://www.kptv.com/story/21773177/fairview-woman-sentenced-to-20-years-in-child-abuse-case
Father kills son, self: Custody battle behind Pa. dad’s murder-suicide?
March 24, 2013. Pennsylvania.
During a custody visit, Kenneth Ayers (father) and his estranged wife Hollie Jo (mother) found themselves in an argument which turned into a murder-suicide. Ayers pulled a gun on Jo, shot her arms and legs, and then shot his own son-killing him. When Jo tried to retrieve her son’s body from the back of Ayers’ truck (where he was placing him), Ayers shot her in the face (she is expected to live). However, Ayers’ body was found several miles away after he had turned the gun on himself.
http://www.examiner.com/article/father-kills-son-self-custody-battle-behind-pa-dad-s-murder-suicide
Inmate begs child protective services to protect his daughter, then she is killed by the mom’s boyfriend
March 11, 2013.
While Edward Mays was in jail, his 18-month-old daughter (Somara) was killed. Allegedly, Somara’s boyfriend (Benesch) was watching the baby when he reported that he accidentally fell on Somara and that something was wrong with her. He left the scene in a hurry shortly after reporting her status to Somara’s grandparents. Mays had contacted CPS several times, both by phone and by letter, and no one had attempted to intervene before Somara was killed.
Iowa mom arrested after bodies of twins found in car
January 16, 2012.
22-year-old Jackie Burkle had denied any insinuations that she was pregnant to her co-workers, despite her physical appearance. One day her co-workers noticed she had a markedly different physical appearance and contacted the police to check on her. A blood test was carried out, indicating that she was recently pregnant. Burkle then led the police to the trunk of her car where the bodies of her twin daughters were.
http://www.hlntv.com/video/2012/01/16/iowa-mom-charged-murder-after-giving-birth-twins
Nancy: Teen pries baby from birth canal, kills him
October 3, 2012.
A 14-year-old girl gave birth to a full-term, 9-pound healthy baby boy. During the birthing process, she strangled the infant to death and checked his pulse to ensure he was dead before concealing the body in a shoebox wrapped in dirty laundry. The parents of the girl state that they suspected, but they did not believe their daughter was pregnant and were only made aware of the pregnancy when they noted an odor from the girl’s bedroom and found the baby’s body.
http://www.hlntv.com/video/2012/10/03/nancy-grace-teen-mom-kills-newborn
Steven Deuman convicted of orally raping, murdering his baby daughter
September 21, 2012. Michigan.
Steven Deuman’s 15-week-old daughter was found dead with a condom in her mouth. Deuman reported her death being purely accidental, having allegedly left her on the bed while he went outside for a cigarette and finding her on the floor and not breathing. Autopsy reports state that she died from asphyxiation.
Teen who killed baby sentenced to 90 days
October 18, 2012. Colorado.
Dylan Kuhn had called authorities stating that his 6-month-old daughter was found hanging from her crib by her next and that she wasn’t breathing. Authorities later discovered she had injuries consistent with being “slammed” against a soft and unyielding surface (like a mattress). Kuhn later stated that he did slam his daughter into the bed and she became quiet afterward, that she had never had a blanket around her neck, and that he lied to police initially because he was afraid the mother would hate him for it. Kuhn plead guilty to manslaughter and was sentenced to 90 days in jail, 4 years of probation, a parenting class, a mental health evaluation, a drug abuse evaluation, and would not be allowed to be alone with any child under the age of 10.
http://www.hlntv.com/article/2012/10/18/teen-dad-who-killed-baby-sentenced-90-days
Arizona child protective services had contact with family of Tuscon toddler who died
March 19, 2013. Arizona.
An 18-month-old girl was killed by her father’s physical abuse, despite the mother’s awareness of the ongoing abuse and the prior report filed with the CPS regarding the abuse and neglect of the child.
CPS was warned of violence by alleged hatchet murder
March 14, 2013. Sacramento, California.
A report was filed with CPS regarding the verbal and physical abuse Phillip Hernandez inflicted on his 9-year-old son only 22 days before Hernandez killed the boy with a hatchet. CPS was informed of Hernandez’s drug abuse of methamphetamines and cocaine, his history as a felon, and his illegal ownership of automatic rifles (which he allowed the children to play with). CPS determined that immediate intervention was not necessary because the children were in no immediate danger.
http://www.sacbee.com/2013/03/14/5263270/cps-report-warned-of-violence.html
Doctor to be sentenced for not reporting abuse of child
March 20, 2013. Lancaster, Ohio.
Dr. Zucco did not perform a medical examination on a girl brought in by her mother who claimed that she had been sexually assaulted by a family member. Not only did he not carry out a medical examination, he also advised them that if they reported the incident that her name would be printed in the newspaper as a result. He has been convicted of failing to report known or suspected child abuse.
DCS report paints tragic picture for children
March 7, 2013. Tennessee.
The interim commissioner for DCS will appear before a state legislative committee to explain the results of a 113 page investigative report. Chief amongst the issues is the lack of knowledge as to what exactly is going on regarding the children in their custody at any given time, and the cases where DCS was asked to intervene and didn’t which resulted in the death of a child.
http://wreg.com/2013/03/07/dcs-report-paints-tragic-picture-for-children/
DCS revises child deaths toll upward
March 19, 2013. Tennessee.
The DCS has changed its reported number of child deaths over the past two years at least 5 times since July. The numbers have been revised a few times, from 47 to 91 in 2011; and from 73 to 105 in 2012. State Senator Jim Summerville is questioning why the numbers are not ready knowledge for the professionals employed at the DCS.
http://www.tennessean.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2013303190036&nclick_check=1
Father tortured, starved 16-year-old daughter in basement: Wisconsin prosecutors
March 14, 2013. Madison, Wisconsin.
Court proceedings are under way regarding the alleged abuse of a 16 year old girl in Madison, Wisconsin, by her father. Weighing only 68 pounds, the girl reported that she was severely starved, imprisoned in the basement, threatened with murder, and sexually abused by her stepbrother. The defense attorney maintained that she was a schizophrenic and a liar who was never imprisoned or starved, but rather chose not to eat or leave the basement to show disrespect.
House passes digital learning, child abuse penalties and building code bills.
March 12, 2013. Raleigh, North Carolina.
One of the bills passed by the House was the unanimously approved bill which increases the panties for child abuse. This bill also includes the improved tracking of individual who are brought into the court process for child-abuse cases.
How did a toddler have so much life insurance?
February 8, 2013.
Concern has been raised regarding the multiple life insurance companies taken out on a toddler coming to a sum of $500,000. The child was drowned by his father shortly thereafter. There are questions as to why the insurance companies involved would allow a large life insurance policy to be taken out on such a small child, and particularly one company who allowed a policy of $443,000. Not only is there no reason to take out an insurance policy on a child (unless the child is earning an income), but having such a large insurance policy brings an incentive for homicide.
Review panel for child abuse deaths approved by Kentucky legislature
March 12, 2013. Frankfort, Kentucky.
A bill has been approved by the General Assembly, now awaiting the governor’s signature, which would allow the establishment of an external review panel focusing on child-abuse cases that resulted in deaths and critical injuries in an effort to improve the child-protection services.
http://www.kentucky.com/2013/03/12/2554441/review-panel-for-child-abuse-deaths.html
The Tenn. Dept. of Children’s Services vs. the Media
March 12, 2013.
Tennessee’s DCS was undergoing a high-profile case against The Tennessean. But the real focus of this article is the negative impact media plays on the performance and progress of the CPS as a whole. The most damaging effect being that with the media battery and spotlight, even the most efficient, caring, and accurate employees of the CPS have resigned to find alternative employment.
Man accused of killing 9-year-old son with hatchet had custody despite record of violence
Sacramento, California.
Philip Hernandez, a man with a long and documented history of violence, domestic abuse, and being uncooperative with his rehabilitation and counseling, had received custody of his two sons while the mother received visitation rights (rather than majority custody). The murder of their 9-year-old son was the result of that arrangement, when Hernandez murdered him with a hatchet while the boy was sleeping
http://www.modbee.com/2013/03/01/2599966/man-accused-of-killing-9-year.html#.UTEbcvo4w3c.facebook
Audit: Phoenix police-unit cases on kids handled poorly
March 20, 2012. Phoenix, Arizona.
An investigation team had been created and assigned to review over 2000 cases that have been reported to have been mishandled for various reasons (improper interview follow-ups, mishandling of evidence, improper documentation, etc…), in an effort to salvage cases that have been thrown out of the prosecution process that really shouldn’t have been looked over. The audit had shown that at least half of the cases assigned to the Family Investigations Bureau during a single year were not carried out in a manner adhering to the appropriate policies and procedures.
http://tucsoncitizen.com/arizona-news/2012/03/20/audit-phoenix-police-unit-cases-on-kids-handled-poorly/
Couple kept 40-lb., 12-year-old boy locked in closet or bathroom for weeks at a time: police
March 16, 2012. Titusville, Florida.
Florida police were called out to investigate a child abuse report when they found an emaciated boy lying on the floor of the bathroom; he was rushed to the hospital and treated while the other two children were removed from the care of their parents. The boy weighed 40 pounds when he was found, and it was reported that this was not a one-time occurrence of this type of treatment for the boy.
http://www.nydailynews.com/news/crime/couple-40-lb-12-year-old-boy-locked-closet-bathroom-weeks-time-police-article-1.1041109#ixzz1pfDaKsyX
Dallas police hunt for body of boy starved to death by parents
Finding ground zero in Connecticut, Part I
February 28, 2013. Washington, DC.
Mother, Sunny, shares her story of how her son, Max, was taken from her and how the custody courts hired a series of professionals that proceeded to charge her exorbitant fees for unproductive and inefficient testing, monitoring, legal advice, and medical care. It seems that despite the “care” costing Sunny upwards of $100,000 within 16 months, none of the half-dozen professionals involved ever spoke directly to Max, nor took into consideration the boy’s claims of sexual assault by his father when deciding custody (custody was given to the father). Unfortunately, this story is one of 70 documented cases that share a striking similarity, and there are probably hundreds more out there.
Mother of slain child blames courts for son’s death
Sacramento, California.
Jessica Rose Hernandez blames the judge overseeing her custody case for the murder of her 9-year-old son, who was killed by his father with a hatchet. She claims that, had the judge done her job properly, her son would still be alive because the threat to her son would have been clear if the judge had simply looked at the evidence being presented.
http://www.news10.net/video/default.aspx?bctid=2198363246001
Problems at the Department of Children and Family Services
February 12, 2013.
An 82-page document detailing the results of a review of the Department of Children and Family Services, listing several glaring issues including poorly-trained employees, a lack of communication and coordination, a lack of a strategic human resources team, investigative failure, and poor application of decision-making tools.
Rape of adopted Ohio kids unusual, haunting case
February 24, 2013. Troy, Ohio.
A man who had been a foster parent, a youth basketball coach, and a substitute teacher for years without any issues, had adopted three children and sexually abused two of them. One of the boys was also subject to sexual abuse by two other men, arranged by the adoptive father. It is rarer for an adoptive father to sexually abuse his children than a biological father or strangers, particularly because there are so many hurdles to jump through in order to adopt in the first place.
Report excoriates L.A. County agency in child deaths, torture
February 14, 2013. Los Angeles, California.
One of the harshest reviews of the L.A. CPS has revealed several glaring issues within the department, including placing the least qualified individuals in the most crucial position within the department (assessing child safety), a lack of holding employees accountable for their mistakes, a lack of communication, and a lack of investigating reports of abuse or maltreatment.
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-child-death-report-20130214%2c0%2c109306.story?dssReturn
Santa Ana foster father accused of sex with adopted children
February 22, 2013. Santa Ana, California.
Felipe Hernandez has been charged with sexually abusing two of his three adopted foster children. The abuse began with one of the girls when she was 9-years-old until she reported it at the age of 15 to a school counselor.
http://abclocal.go.com/kabc/story?section=news/local/orange_county&id=9003551
Seth Ireland jury: Fresno Co. CPS failed duties; $8.5 million awarded to dad, stepbrother
February 22, 2013. Fresno, California.
The father and stepbrother of Seth Ireland were awarded a total of $8.5 million from the county when courts decided that the CPS was 65% responsible for the death of Seth. The boy was beaten to death by his mother’s boyfriend, despite multiple reports of abuse. Protective Services were found to have failed to perform over a dozen of their state-mandated duties.
http://www.fresnobee.com/2013/02/22/3184071/fresno-co-cps-hit-with-85-million.html
April 2, 2012. Dallas, Texas.
11-year-old Jonathan Ramsey was allegedly starved to death and disposed of by his parents. Other relatives were not allowed to see the boy for several months, which brought the attention of law enforcement. The parents’ reasoning behind their refusal to feed their son anything but bread and water while keeping him in a small bedroom was that it was “severe punishment” for the boy hitting his mother in the stomach while she was pregnant, thereby causing her to miscarry.
http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2012/04/02/dallas-police-hunt-for-body-of-boy-starved-to-death-by-parents/
Forced to perform sex acts for food and beaten with a paddle called ‘Mr Awesome’: Horrific life of four children ‘tortured by adoptive parents’ is revealed
March 15, 2012. Oklahoma.
A couple took in 6 foster children following their qualification to be foster parents. Two of those children had been removed from the house after allegations of abuse, but the other four were left to continually suffer the sexual abuse. Child Protective Services had been accused of failing the other four children for not removing them from an obviously unsafe situation as well, leaving them to review their processing as to why this situation was allowed to continue for as long as it did and why it happened in the first place.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2115424/Horrific-life-Oklahoma-children-tortured-adoptive-parents.html
In a Texas home, 11 children found in grim conditions
February 22, 2012. Dayton, Texas.
11 children were found in a house in Texas, 8 of which were found within the same small room, showing signs of physical abuse, and 3 of those 8 were tied to filthy beds. The other three were not actually supposed to be under the care of the couple owning the house, who had previously been linked to previous cases of child abuse.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/23/us/in-a-texas-home-11-children-found-in-grim-conditions.html?_r=2&ref=us&
Mother stabs child at social services office, security questioned
April 24, 2012. Baltimore, Maryland.
An 8 month old child was stabbed to death by her mother during a supervised visit in a social security office. This event in a Baltimore social services office had many people questioning the security procedures present at such institutions. Workers stated that they did not feel safe in their environment because the situations they work with every day are often tense, emotional, irrational, and some of the clients may be drug users. There is too much uncertainty regarding the clientele and the lack of consistent and thorough security procedures in place to protect both the children and the employees.
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/breaking/bs-md-ci-child-stabbed-mother-20120424,0,1793682.story
Past coverage: Montana’s child-protection laws need changes, some say
April 26, 2012. Montana.
The surfacing of several high-profile child abuse and homicide cases that had come to light in Montana had brought a rising concern to the public and other officials throughout the state, demanding that change was required. Several improvements had been proposed, of which include the improved coordination, consistency, communication and accreditation of CPS employees throughout the state’s agencies.
Prosecutors say Hyslop changed story, defense says no real investigation in trial of 4-year-old girl’s death
April 26, 2012. Montana.
Regarding the death of October Perez, a 2-year-old girl who was brought to the hospital showing severe signs of brain and spinal cord damage from criminal behavior, later investigations had shown several inconsistencies regarding several of the statements made by Hyslop and the other adults who were in the house at the time of the incident. Overall, the integrity and consistency of the police investigation and the integrity of the other adults involved had been called into question.
The public eye: Sacramento County silent about file on child’s death
March 25, 2012. California.
2-year-old Yeinira had been the topic of interest when she was brought to the hospital only after she stopped breathing. She had been suffering seizures on a weekly basis for a month, without ever having been brought to a medical professional, and had previously known medical complications stemming from a heart and mouth birth defect. She had previously been removed from her parents’ custody for neglect involving her medical care, but was returned after being deemed not medically fragile and therefore having a low risk case.
http://www.sacbee.com/2012/03/25/4364008/public-eye-sacramento-county-silent.htmljfc
California falling behind in child abuse death disclosure
May 31, 2012. California.
Two surveys conducted in 2008, measuring before and after compliance with federal requirements, have shown that California had regressed more than any other state from an A- to a C+. This survey revealed that California had ignored numerous federal disclosure requirements involving cases of death or near-death of a child under the care of the state, resulting in an inability to evaluate any potential issues with protective procedures and to resolve those issues.
http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2012/may/31/tp-california-falling-behind-in-child-abuse-death/
Child abuse records must be released, appeals court rules
July 9, 2012. Kentucky.
Following the release of records regarding cases of child abuse that resulted in death or serious injuries that did not include any information that could be used to challenge the cabinet’s effectiveness at dealing with these cases resulted in a court ruling stating that all records must include all information or the reasoning behind any redaction of sensitive information.
Children still being abused, dying under state’s protection
May 16, 2012. Seattle.
Baby Ti-Ryn was taken off life support after being declared brain dead in a hospital bed October 5, 2010. Just days earlier, concerns were raised to CPS regarding child neglect in Ti-Ryn’s case. Weeks earlier concerns had been raised by his mother about his father’s neglect (they were separated and undergoing custody procedures), with CPS being non-responsive due to the ongoing custody procedures. Not only is this case a tragedy that could so easily have been avoided had CPS intervened, but over 100 children have died under similar circumstances in the state in the past 2 years. It is an ongoing problem in the state, that seems to have had the same insights and mistakes occur repeatedly over the past 10 years with no improvement.
Maryland starts to talk about a toddler’s death
July 9, 2012. Maryland.
2-year-old Aniyah Batchelor was found beaten to death while under the care of her teen foster-brother’s supervision, she is said to have died from blunt force trauma by the hand of a 12 year old boy. Maryland’s department of human services has released case details and has evaluated any lapse in procedures or any need for tightening procedures regarding family background checks to prevent any similar situations occurring in the future.
Officials see child welfare dangers on a North Dakota Indian reservation
July 7, 2012. North Dakota.
A North Dakota Indian reservation has been under investigation recently following two scathing letters addressing the tribal leadership’s inability to responsibly, ethically, and legally care for the children. Investigations have revealed things such as children being illegally removed from homes without adequate review and placed into homes that had not undergone the background check process, thereby placing several children in situations resulting in rape, murder, and severe neglect. There are also severe allegations regarding the leadership’s unwillingness to identify issues, prevent probable issues, or react appropriately to child abuse cases.
Okla. Billed $9.5M in fees from foster care suit
June 19, 2012. Tulsa, Oklahoma.
A 2008 lawsuit accusing Oklahoma of not finding safe accommodations for their children has resulted in a 5-year plan to overhaul the Child Protective Services department, resolving caseload issues, unaccountability, and other issues. This revamp is estimated to cost $153 million, and the state of Oklahoma has been billed the lawsuit costs adding up to $9.5 million.
State agrees to pay $2.85 million to woman in child abuse lawsuit
May 4, 2012. Tacoma,Washington.
A woman had been awarded $2.85 million by the state who failed to take accurate steps to prevent the child abuse she sustained by her father after numerous reports, convictions, and statements were made by neighbors and other victims. Better follow-up procedures regarding these circumstances have been proposed and, hopefully, implemented.
State continues to withhold child-abuse records
April 29, 2012. Kentucky.
The case of Ariel’s death had raised several issues regarding the transparency of Kentucky’s CPS department, and their refusal to release the majority of the records relating to Ariel’s case and other child-deaths under their supervision, despite the direct order to do so. Ariel was found dead in her crib, deemed to be the result of being asphyxiated by her father, who had a history of mysterious child-deaths (of his other children) and being physically abusive towards his children (including by his own detailed testimonies).
http://www.kentucky.com/2012/04/29/2168876/state-continues-to-withhold-child.html
California falling behind in child abuse death disclosure
May 31, 2012. California.
Two surveys conducted in 2008, measuring before and after compliance with federal requirements, have shown that California had regressed more than any other state from an A- to a C+. This survey revealed that California had ignored numerous federal disclosure requirements involving cases of death or near-death of a child under the care of the state, resulting in an inability to evaluate any potential issues with protective procedures and to resolve those issues.
http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2012/may/31/tp-california-falling-behind-in-child-abuse-death/
Child abuse records must be released, appeals court rules
July 9, 2012. Kentucky.
Following the release of records regarding cases of child abuse that resulted in death or serious injuries that did not include any information that could be used to challenge the cabinet’s effectiveness at dealing with these cases resulted in a court ruling stating that all records must include all information or the reasoning behind any redaction of sensitive information.
Children still being abused, dying under state’s protection
May 16, 2012. Seattle.
Baby Ti-Ryn was taken off life support after being declared brain dead in a hospital bed October 5, 2010. Just days earlier, concerns were raised to CPS regarding child neglect in Ti-Ryn’s case. Weeks earlier concerns had been raised by his mother about his father’s neglect (they were separated and undergoing custody procedures), with CPS being non-responsive due to the ongoing custody procedures. Not only is this case a tragedy that could so easily have been avoided had CPS intervened, but over 100 children have died under similar circumstances in the state in the past 2 years. It is an ongoing problem in the state, that seems to have had the same insights and mistakes occur repeatedly over the past 10 years with no improvement.
Maryland starts to talk about a toddler’s death
July 9, 2012. Maryland.
2-year-old Aniyah Batchelor was found beaten to death while under the care of her teen foster-brother’s supervision, she is said to have died from blunt force trauma by the hand of a 12 year old boy. Maryland’s department of human services has released case details and has evaluated any lapse in procedures or any need for tightening procedures regarding family background checks to prevent any similar situations occurring in the future.
Officials see child welfare dangers on a North Dakota Indian reservation
July 7, 2012. North Dakota.
A North Dakota Indian reservation has been under investigation recently following two scathing letters addressing the tribal leadership’s inability to responsibly, ethically, and legally care for the children. Investigations have revealed things such as children being illegally removed from homes without adequate review and placed into homes that had not undergone the background check process, thereby placing several children in situations resulting in rape, murder, and severe neglect. There are also severe allegations regarding the leadership’s unwillingness to identify issues, prevent probable issues, or react appropriately to child abuse cases.
Okla. Billed $9.5M in fees from foster care suit
June 19, 2012. Tulsa, Oklahoma.
A 2008 lawsuit accusing Oklahoma of not finding safe accommodations for their children has resulted in a 5-year plan to overhaul the Child Protective Services department, resolving caseload issues, unaccountability, and other issues. This revamp is estimated to cost $153 million, and the state of Oklahoma has been billed the lawsuit costs adding up to $9.5 million.
State agrees to pay $2.85 million to woman in child abuse lawsuit
May 4, 2012. Tacoma,Washington.
A woman had been awarded $2.85 million by the state who failed to take accurate steps to prevent the child abuse she sustained by her father after numerous reports, convictions, and statements were made by neighbors and other victims. Better follow-up procedures regarding these circumstances have been proposed and, hopefully, implemented.
State continues to withhold child-abuse records
April 29, 2012. Kentucky.
The case of Ariel’s death had raised several issues regarding the transparency of Kentucky’s CPS department, and their refusal to release the majority of the records relating to Ariel’s case and other child-deaths under their supervision, despite the direct order to do so. Ariel was found dead in her crib, deemed to be the result of being asphyxiated by her father, who had a history of mysterious child-deaths (of his other children) and being physically abusive towards his children (including by his own detailed testimonies).
http://www.kentucky.com/2012/04/29/2168876/state-continues-to-withhold-child.html
CPS hands another young child over to die
August 29, 2012. Arizona.
Infant Vanessa was removed from the custody of her two parents who were charged with drug abuse (methamphetamine and cocaine) for 90 days, while they attended rehab and took parenting classes. Following those 90 days, they requested their baby back and that the case with the CPS be closed; both of which were granted. Within the month, baby Vanessa had been beaten to death and was buried in a shallow grave. The CPS agency handling the case has refused to release any details regarding their thinking, the repercussions to those involved, and their plans to resolve any further incidents of this type.
Damon’s story-lost in the system
At 13 years old, Damon began to post online videos to youtube pleading with tv figures and psychologists to help him out of his specific situation of being molested by his father. Damon feels that that the system has failed him and his safety. Damon’s father states the claims are false. Despite the claims against Damon’s father, the judge overseeing the child custody policy of his parents stated that the custody of Damon must be shared between both parents, whether or not the alleged abuse occurred.
http://www.myfoxla.com/video?clipId=7711834&topVideoCatNo=240600&autoStart=true
Father accused of critically injuring 5-week-old girl
Jan 22, 2013. Atlanta, Georgia.
The father of a newborn baby girl was arrested and charged with three counts of aggravated assault following the discovery of the infant crying, face-down, with a severely swollen head after being left alone with her for 20 minutes. The mother noted that the man had been violent in the past, but never felt that he would become violent with his own daughter.
http://www.ajc.com/news/news/father-accused-of-critically-injuring-5-week-old-g/nT4bB/
Father reaches settlement with welfare workers in death of infant son
August 24, 2012. Wisconsin.
Five-month-old Christopher Thomas Jr. was found drowned after being left alone with his mother by child welfare workers despite her confirmed history of mental illness, forgetting to take her medication, suicide attempts, and threats of violence. A few years after this incident, the Child Welfare Disclosure Act was passed, requiring the state Department of Children and Families to make public when a child has been killed or suffered serious injury. Since this act has been passed, the number of children being injured while in the care of a foster family or out-of-care homes has dropped from 0.93% to 0.22%.
http://www.jsonline.com/news/milwaukee/fatal25-p56k6na-167379605.html
Former DCS workers say agency problems risk lives
Feb 6, 2013. Nashville, Tennessee.
Former Department of Children Services workers have stepped forward saying that children pay the price for the workpace culture of the DCS workplace. Amongst these are the statements regarding the culture of fear present in the DCS workplace that forces employees to adhere to the department’s priorities and demands that may be detrimental to the caseworkers’ performances. Case overload, the pressure to close cases as soon as possible rather than to investigate them thoroughly, and the inability to utilize the resources already available to the department (the education of the initial investigator’s) were also brought to light from these statements.
http://www.wkrn.com/story/21018433/former-dcs-workers-say-agency-problems-risk-lives
DCS: 31 children it investigated died this year
Lawmaker demands answers from DCS commissioner
Former Pennsylvania psychologist says he reported child molestation, lost license
July 30, 2012. Pennsylvania.
A former psychologist in Pennsylvania had reported to the Pennsylvania Child Protective Services agency a case of child molestation, as is his obligation as a health care provider. According to ethical and legal policies, he is required to report all cases of immediate abuse (acts or intents to harm) to the appropriate authorities (or face prosecution), and his identity would remain anonymous throughout the proceedings. Instead, he was prosecuted by the psychology board, his license to practice psychology was removed, and his identity was leaked- thus endangering both himself and his patient. In this situation, a responsible professional was punished rather than the man who was accused of molesting his daughter. Later incidents proved that the statements made by the patient and psychologist were accurate all along and could have been avoided had authorities taken the appropriate measures.
Head of Tennessee’s child protective services resigns after 151 children died in custody within a 3.5-year period
Feb 5, 2013. Tennessee.
The DSC is under investigation due to the increasingly high amounts of fatalities of children under their care. The original reported number was 151 children between January, 2009 and July, 2012 had been retracted due to a third party reporter revealing that the number was inaccurate. They are unsure as to the actual number of child fatalities under the care of the DCS, but because of the high mortality rate, the inaccuracies within the department, and 25% of calls coming into the child abuse hotline number being unanswered, the department has been the scene of investigations and public outcry regarding the welfare of the children.
Isidro Zavala murder/suicide: Boynton Beach man kills his two children and himself, police say
February 2, 2013. Boyton Beach, Florida.
Isidro Zavala entered the house of his estranged wife and strangled both of his sons (ages 11 and 12) with a rope, killing both. He shot one several times before committing suicide. Police have determined that Isidro entered the house with the intention of murdering two of his three children based on the bag he brought with him containing duct tape, cutting shears, an emotional letter addressed to his eldest son (age 19, who did not live with his mother), and another firearm with extra ammunition).
Montgomery court system failed Prince McLeod Rams
January 25, 2013. Maryland.
Joaquin Rams was charged with first-degree murder after drowning his son (15 months old). Despite the three life insurance policies he took out on his son during his battle for unsupervised visits (coming to $500,000), the statements made by the boy’s mother that Rams was planning a life insurance scheme regarding her son, and the questionable circumstances regarding his former girlfriend’s murder and his mother’s apparent suicide, he was still granted unsupervised visitations. A long-awaited request to strengthening the court system has been called for.
Mother of drowned toddler speaks out
January 28, 2013. Washington DC, Maryland.
The mother of a 15 month old boy has commented that the court, judges, and police failed to help her son when his death could have so easily been prevented. The father of the boy, despite being under investigation for abuse, was granted unsupervised visits by a judge. Shortly thereafter, he killed the child.
http://www.nbcwashington.com/video/#!/news/local/Mother-of-Drowned-Toddler-Speaks-Out/188504431
State Fails to Reform Child Welfare System
July 10, 2012. Mississippi.
Systematic changes regarding the internal structure of the child protective services department were implemented by court order, yet the CPS had not yet met those requirements (including caseload caps, time limits on monitoring visits, etc…). When the CPS involves the handling of the most crucial and time-sensitive clientele (abused children), this kind of delay could mean the difference between life and death.
http://thedmonline.com/article/state-fails-reform-child-welfare-system
State refuses to shed any light on why abused boy had to die
January 28, 2013. Buffalo, New York.
10-year-old Abdifatah Mohamud was found dead in the basement of his home after being reported missing to the police by his mother. He had been bludgeoned to death by his step-father for not completing his homework. Abdifatah had called 911 twice within the year claiming that he was in mortal danger, had come to school with bruises that had been investigated, and it was still decided that he stay with his family despite those warning signs. After his death, the Eerie County Child Protective Services (who had investigated his case) had refused to release the records regarding his death, denying any opportunity for public evaluation and improvement of policies and procedures.
http://www.buffalonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20130128/CITYANDREGION/130129206/1109
Study: Child abuse bigger threat than SIDS
February 2, 2012.
A study conducted on the hospital records from 2006 showed that nearly 4,600 U.S. children were hospitalized with some form of physical injury (broken bones, brain trauma, burns, etc…). These numbers show that for every 100,000 infants, 58 were brought to a medical official for a physical injury indicating abuse. For every 100,000 children under 18 years old, 18 were hospitalized for a physical injury indicating abuse. 1 out of every 752 infants covered under medicare were hospitalized for maltreatment (medicare indicates a level of poverty and therefore, financial stressors). The estimate cost of hospitalizations of abused children in 2006 is about $73.8 million.
http://www.nbcnews.com/id/46281207/ns/health-childrens_health/#.USBqEWe_7JZ
Texas dad charged over disabled son in dead box
April 18, 2011. Pasadena, Texas.
The body of a ten year old boy was found decomposing in a cardboard box in the father’s vehicle after the police had been notified of potential child abuse by the boy’s grandfather. Texas Child Protective Services had twice been contacted regarding the boy’s welfare, neither of which yielded any evidence for the concerns (there were no signs found during the first visit, the family could not be located on the second occasion). The father had been arrested and charged with injury to a child by omission.
http://www.chron.com/default/article/CPS-twice-investigated-Pasadena-case-1682812.php
Watchdog Report: Reviews of child abuse deaths not always completed
July 22, 2012. Frankfort, Kentucky.
It had been shown that state child protective services failed to carry out the required reviews regarding child abuse, deaths, and/or neglect following the appearance of several red flags (reported abuse within the home before the death of a child) on many occasions. The general conclusion being stated is that public scrutiny and evaluation of child protective services is a necessary part of improving the department’s ability to protect and care for abused and neglected children.
http://www.kentucky.com/2012/07/22/2266544/watchdog-report-reviews-of-child.html
Child welfare ‘failed’ caged Indiana boy
May 26, 2011. Indiana.
13-year-old Christian’s body was found in a shallow grave near his former home after being beaten to death by his guardians. He was reportedly beaten regularly and severely, particularly when his guardians were undergoing marital disputes, and kept locked in a small bedroom or a dog cage. Despite several phone calls from concerned neighbors, the removal of previous children from the household, and a few investigations by case workers, the boy was not removed from the house.
http://www.imperfectparent.com/topics/2011/05/26/child-welfare-failed-caged-indiana-boy/
Child-welfare task force hears CPS’ past failures
November 17, 2011. Arizona.
A task force had been assigned to evaluate and implement changes to the CPS organization in the aftermath of several high-profile child deaths. The main areas of interest being the high number of abuse-risk cases that are not followed up on by investigators, and the policies in place that allow a parent accused of child abuse to be in the same room as their child while undergoing investigation. Carter (one of the investigators) stated that the memory of the children whose lives have been lost needlessly are best remembered and honored by evaluating the system and implementing some much-needed changes.
http://www.usatoday.com/USCP/PNI/NEWS/2011-11-17-PNI1117met-child-safety-task-foPNIBrd_ST_U.htm
Could Judge Peter McBrien have prevented Madeline’s murder?
September 18, 2011. Sacramento, California.
Judge Peter McBrien had been brought under criticism for a series of distasteful, illegal, and blatantly uncaring decisions and behaviors over a period of years that resulted in the death of a two year old girl he failed to protect, despite all the necessary evidence being present for him to protect her.
DCF let Deerfield RV park killer keep sons despite molestation allegations, report says
February 21, 2012. Florida.
Two young boys were returned to their parents following their immediate removal upon testimonies stating the father (DeJesus) was violent and both parents were sexually abusing both boys. The two boys and mother were stabbed to death by DeJesus while he held police at bay for several hours, after which he committed suicide. The resounding question, why were the boys returned to parents who were being implicated by several people about their abuse, and when DeJesus had a previous record of violence and sexual abuse towards his former partner and other children?
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/mh-de-jesus-dcf-0222-20120221,0,6374964.storysun-sentinel.com/mh-de-jesus-dcf-0222-20120221,0,6374964.story
Family court whistleblower Emily Gallup’s lawsuit to move forward
August 29, 2011. California.
Emily Gallup had been cleared to move forward with her lawsuit regarding her allegedly illegal termination from the Nevada County Family Court. She claims she had been reprimanded and ultimately fired because she dug too deeply into the backgrounds of parents under investigation for physical or sexual abuse. Her base argument was that she had been asked to do her job in an unlawful manner.
http://blogs.sfweekly.com/thesnitch/2011/08/emily_gallup_whistleblower.php
Josh Powell told son he had a ‘big surprise’ moments before killing children
February 9, 2012. Seattle, Washington.
Josh Powell, upon receiving his two boys during a visit, locked the social worker outside and killed his own children with a hatchet before setting the house on fire and taking his own life. Josh Powell was previously under investigation for the superstitious disappearance of his wife two years ago, and was undergoing intense psychosexual evaluation following the discovery of inappropriate images on his home computer.
Laurie Roberts: Why is AZ CPS failing children?
August 31, 2011. Arizona.
Laurie Roberts, a writer regarding children’s rights and CPS, speaks out regarding the transparency issue with CPS and the lack of accountability, internal audits, and reforms needed to protect the children that can be saved.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkIoq8nT4AA
Mom tormented that system failed child
May 12, 2011. Michigan.
Baby Lily was found dead on her father’s floor after her three-day-visit to his and his wife’s home. Lily’s mother had suspicions about potential child abuse, but did not have enough hard proof by investigator’s and court’s standards to do anything legal about it without the fear of Lily being taken from her. The whole situation has left Lily’s mother, and others, with questions as to how this tragedy could have been prevented.
http://www.detroitnews.com/Story_not_found#ixzz1M9bL6mmm
Naples lawyer, father accused of zip tying up daughter gets custody of younger girl
July 8, 2011. Naples, Florida.
The court’s decision of who gains custody over two teen girls had come down to a decision between the father, who had stated he had bound his teen daughter and threatened her with a device capable of administering an electric shock, or the mother who had been uncooperative and potentially manipulative of her daughters throughout the court proceedings. This case shows that the decision isn’t always cut and dry, and that custody battles are often far from clear or even satisfactory due to the amount of substantial evidence that needs to be taken into consideration.
http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2011/jul/08/attorney-Jon-Parrish-zip-tie-daughter-custody-case/
Police: Mother, boyfriend caged and starved 5-year-old boy
April 26, 2011. Florida.
Of the 5 sons Ciampa has, only one did she abuse in various ways (including burning with a cigarette lighter, beating, caging, locking him outside in 30 degree weather without clothing, and more), simply because he reminded her of her ex-husband.
Sister says Mom whose toddler was found dead in oven is ‘not a bad mom’
March 3, 2011. Mississippi.
The three year old boy was found, charred, in the oven. He may, or may not, have been asleep while he was being placed into the already-hot oven. The mother’s sister claims that she was a great parent and they don’t know what could have happened.
‘Startling and disturbing’ fall in checks on children at risk
August 31, 2011. Australia.
Following a revamp to increase the efficiency and performance of the Family and Community Services department, the amount of cases actually being investigated following reports of at-risk children have actually decreased significantly.
Tim Pawlenty wiped a serial child molester’s record clean in 2008
May 23, 2011.
It had been revealed that in 2008, Tim Pawlenty (then Governor) pardoned a man who had sexually abused his daughter for 6 years (and continued to do so for 2 more) after he agreed to marry the then-14-year-old and help raise the child they had together. The abuse had started when she was 9 years old.
Who failed Nubia?
March 14, 2011. Florida.
The caseload and procedural practices of the Florida Department of Children & Families was being investigated following the death of Nubia Barahona and the chemical burns on her twin brother, despite the numerous phone calls made to the child abuse hotline days before stating that the children were in danger. The hiring procedures of expert witnesses and psychologists were also under review, after one of their psychologists advised the couple in question to adopt the twins despite their questionable history. Since this was not the only case in the area to result in tragic endings within the same few weeks, the entire system’s performance had been called into question.
http://www.miamiherald.com/2011/03/14/v-fullstory/2114851/dcf-two-fired-three-reprimanded.html
