These stories about risk children have been gathered for the month of March 2016

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March KARA reporting 2016

31 March 2016: Texas

A recently filed lawsuit against an Austin-based priest on charges of sexual child abuse has shed light on the gross mishandlings of the Austin Diocese. According to the Database of Publicly Accused Priests in the US, Father Milton Eggerling is the seventh Austin-based priest to be accused of sexual abuse. The victim, John Doe 120, stated that he was sexually abused over a period of five years in the 1970s between the ages of 11 to 16. Even though Mr. Eggerling died in 2008, the plaintiff’s lawyer claimed that he will hold the Austin Diocese accountable for placing numerous children in Eggerling’s care.

 

30 March 2016: Texas

Doctors at Cook Children’s Center for Prevention of Child Maltreatment have been working on creating a program using “big data” technology, which could help predict neighborhoods where children are most likely to face abuse. The initiative, which has been named “Risk Terrain Modeling,” will take into account data collected on certain indicators linked to child abuse or neglect, including poverty rate, cases of domestic violence and aggravated assault, etc. The data will then be processed using free predictive software, which had been developed at Rutgers University, in order to forecast the communities where the risk of child abuse is deemed greatest.

 

30 March 2016: Indiana

As April marks Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month, activists across the nation will set up pinwheels in order to raise awareness about child abuse and child neglect. The pinwheels are supposed to represent “the safe, happy childhood that’s wanted for every child.”

 

29 March 2016: Indiana

Governor Mike Pence of Indiana has signed a new law, which creates a publicly accessible registry for persons who have previously been charged with child abuse or child neglect. The registry is deemed to be “similar in nature to the country’s sex offender registry.” The law came in response to the tragic death of a 19-month-old toddler who was killed by his childcare provider who had previously been charged with committing child abuse.

Medical examiner rules on infant’s death

WFAA.com

On Wednesday, the medical examiner released its findings on how Kayden may have died on February 5, ruling “sudden unexplained infant death.”.

Infant death rates going down in Allegheny County; some problems persist

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

The health of a community is reflected in its people, down to the littlest infant. When a woman is cared for and a healthy baby is born and nurtured into …

Cause of Lancaster infant’s death being investigated

LA Daily News

LANCASTER >> Sheriff’s homicide detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a female infant in Lancaster, who died …

Babysitter Arrested After 5-Month-Old Boy Succumbs To Injuries Allegedly Suffered In Assault – CBS Local

Infant dies after suspected assault in Lancaster – KABC-TV

Death of female infant in Lancaster under investigation – MyNewsLA.com

Police waiting on autopsy results in infant’s death at day care

KHOU.com

And for now, the home daycare on Turtle Creek Drive appears to be closed following the sudden and tragic death of an infant. KHOU 11 News …

Three-month-old boy found dead at daycare in Missouri City – KTRK-TV

Police investigating child’s death at Missouri City day care – KHOU.com

Police officer indicted in shooting, man had fork – Your Houston News

Infant’s death does not appear suspicious

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

The death of a 14-week-old boy who died suddenly Thursday does not appear to be suspicious but is being investigated according to Milwaukee …

Providence infant died from asphyxia due to unsafe sleeping conditions

The Providence Journal

PROVIDENCE — Lillianna Burt, the infant who died in an unlicensed foster home in December, was asphyxiated in what the state Medical Examiner’s …

Iowa DCI joins investigation of infant’s death

DesMoinesRegister.com

WEBSTER CITY, Ia. — Authorities say an infant died at a Webster City hospital after being found unresponsive. Police and paramedics were sent to …

Iowa agency joins investigation of infant’s death – kwwl.com

Authorities Investigate Death of 6-week-old Infant – KCRG

Police investigate death of infant in Webster City – Radio Iowa

How abuse beats up the Brain,UAMS neuroscientists …

Iowa Infant Death Being Investigated By Multiple Agencies

KAALtv.com

WEBSTER CITY, IA (AP) – Authorities say an infant died at a Webster City hospital after being found unresponsive. Police and paramedics were sent to …

Father faces murder charge in infant’s death

The Ledger

Miami-Dade police said Juan Antonio Gonzalez faces first-degree murder and aggravated child abuse charges after Harlow Gonzalez died March 25.

Father faces 1st-degree murder charge in infant’s death – NBC2 News

North Miami-Dade Dad Beat Infant Daughter to Death: MDPD – NBC 6 South Florida

North Miami-Dade father beat his fussy baby daughter to death, police say – Miami

 

Implications for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

ATS Journals

Rationale: High serotonin levels during pregnancy impact CNS development. The possibility that a commonly used antidepressant like fluoxetine …

CA: California high court won’t intervene in Choctaw girl’s move
Associated Press – March 30, 2016
The California Supreme Court on Wednesday refused to intervene in the case of a 6-year-old girl with Native American ancestry who was removed from her Los Angeles-area foster home and placed with relatives in Utah. Also: CA Supreme Court Denies ICWA Appeal: Breaking: http://indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com/2016/03/30/breaking-california-supreme-court-denies-appeal-lexi-case-163974
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-3516399/California-high-court-wont-halt-ruling-Choctaw-girl-case.html

CA: Lisa Project aims to expose child abuse
For Inspire – March 30, 2016
The goal of the Child Abuse Prevention Council is to make it a subject that is talked about, the stories shared, the public saying we no longer will let this happen. As The Lisa Project says, “Some stories need to be told.”
http://www.visaliatimesdelta.com/story/life/inspire/2016/03/30/lisa-project-aims-expose-child-abuse/82441586/

CA: State Conducting Sweeping Investigation of DHHS’s Handling of Child Abuse Reports
North Coast Journal – March 30, 2016
The California Attorney General’s Office has launched an investigation into the the Humboldt Department of Health and Human Services’ handling of reports of child abuse and neglect, and specifically whether it is in compliance with the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act.
http://www.northcoastjournal.com/NewsBlog/archives/2016/03/30/state-conducting-sweeping-investigation-of-dhhss-handling-of-child-abuse-reports

CA: Victorville couple has taken in 39 foster children in 10 years
Victorville Daily Press – March 26, 2016
Foster Parent Recruiter Jessi Hodges said the Whittingslows are one of many families who have opened their hearts and homes to children through the Greater Hope Foundation, a nonprofit agency that first opened in Barstow 14 years ago. Greater Hope’s mission is to provide services that foster the physical, intellectual, emotional and social needs of abused, neglected and troubled children, Hodges told the Daily Press.
http://www.vvdailypress.com/news/20160326/victorville-couple-has-taken-in-39-foster-children-in-10-years

FL: 7 disciplined for mishandling case of girl found in freezer
Associated Press – March 30, 2016
Seven employees in the Manatee County Sheriff’s Child Protective Division have been disciplined for mishandling allegations of abuse involving a woman whose daughter’s body was found inside a freezer.
http://www.heraldcourier.com/news/disciplined-for-mishandling-case-of-girl-found-in-freezer/article_3bc8fcdc-3773-5359-8aaf-5970609185a4.html

IN: Preventing Child Abuse in Wabash Valley (Includes video)
MyWabashValley.com – March 30, 2016
Child abuse or neglect cases occur daily in the state of Indiana. With the month of April being Prevent Child Abuse Awareness Month, state officials want you to know of all the different prevention programs it offers.
http://www.mywabashvalley.com/news/preventing-child-abuse-in-wabash-valley

KY: Political adversaries unite to fight child abuse (Opinion)(Includes video)
WDRB – March 30, 2016
It’s a fight that crosses both state and political boundaries; a cause that has everyone on the same side. It’s the effort to end child abuse.
http://www.wdrb.com/story/31603524/political-adversaries-unite-to-fight-child-abuse

MN: Itasca County struggling with overtime, costs for child protection
Grand Rapids Herald-Review – March 30, 2016
Family and Child Services Division Manager Becky Lauer provided a report on child protection stats for the Itasca County Board during a meeting on March 22. The report was compiled at the request of commissioners and it details the number of “intakes” the Itasca County Health and Human Services agency has received over the last three years.
http://www.grandrapidsmn.com/news/itasca-county-struggling-with-overtime-costs-for-child-protection/article_a48a8d64-f679-11e5-8050-8fa093102e30.html

MT: Go Blue Missoula bringing attention to child abuse, prevention
Missoulan – March 30, 2016
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, about 3.2 million children received an investigation or alternative response nationwide in 2014–of which 10,180 were in Montana. The most common type of maltreatment in Montana in 2014 was neglect (92 percent). Physical abuse, sexual abuse, psychological maltreatment and medical neglect were also reported.
http://missoulian.com/news/local/go-blue-missoula-bringing-attention-to-child-abuse-prevention/article_f60df514-7373-5046-ab0b-e1a07313a86f.html

NY: Foster agency previously sent kid to abusive foster mom
Daily News 724 – March 30, 2016
The nonprofit agency that repeatedly sent kids to accused perv Cesar Gonzales-Mugaburu was previously forced to pay about $17 million to foster children caged, beaten and tortured by another sick foster parent.
http://www.dailynews724.com/new-york/foster-agency-previously-sent-kid-to-abusive-foster-mom-h673900.html

OH: Morrow County Children Services asks for more area foster families
Morrow County Sentinel – March 30, 2016
Morrow County Children Services has worked hard to increase support to their foster parents. Children’s Services Administrator, Sharla O’Keeffe said that Morrow County Foster care rates have recently increased and are now competitive with the rates that private foster care networks pay.
http://morrowcountysentinel.com/news/8691/morrow-county-children-services-asks-for-more-area-foster-families

TX: Pinwheel ceremony honors victims of child abuse, neglect
The Chandler & Brownsboro Statesman – March 31, 2016
The HELP Center, which offers medical exams, mental health services, case management and more, served 430 primary and secondary victims of child abuse in 2015. CPS in Henderson County reported 373 confirmed cases of abuse or neglect last year, and 139 children were removed from their homes as a result.
http://www.c-bstatesman.com/news/2016-03-31/News/Pinwheel_ceremony_honors_victims_of_child_abuse_ne.html

TX: In Fort Worth, Doctors Want To Use Technology To Predict Child Abuse (Includes video)
KERA – March 30, 2016
Doctors at Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth are used to treating cases of abuse. But what they’d really like to do is prevent it. So they’re experimenting with “big data” technology that could help predict neighborhoods where kids are most likely to be abused.
http://breakthroughs.kera.org/using-technology-to-predict-child-abuse-in-fort-worth/

UT: Governor vetoes 6 bills–including some education funding
Fox13 – March 31, 2016
Governor Herbert also vetoed a bill that dealt with grandparents’ rights in adoption proceedings. The bill, sponsored by Rep. LaVar Christensen, R-Draper, “could be jeopardizing the rights of adoptive parents and discouraging adoption by family members,” Herbert wrote.
http://fox13now.com/2016/03/31/governor-vetoes-6-bills-including-some-education-funding/

WA: Inslee signs bills to continue expansion of educational opportunities for all children (Press release)
Office of the Governor of the State of Washington Jay Inslee – March 30, 2016
Gov. Jay Inslee today signed two bills into law that will continue to boost educational outcomes for foster youth and take additional steps toward closing the opportunity gap for students of color and English language learners.
http://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-signs-bills-continue-expansion-educational-opportunities-all-children

WI: Red flags preceded Milwaukee child’s death from methadone overdose
Journal Sentinel – March 30, 2016
And while the Milwaukee County medical examiner’s office has ruled that Isabella’s death was an accidental poisoning, a report released Tuesday by the state Department of Children and Families suggests that the girl’s death could hardly be a surprise.
http://www.jsonline.com/news/milwaukee/red-flags-preceded-milwaukee-childs-death-from-methadone-overdose-b99697458z1-374076021.html

US: Child protection needs a ‘race to the moon’ mentality (Opinion)
Chronicle of Social Change – March 23, 2016
A truly courageous and overdue debate needs to happen about the intersection of federal- and state-level funding of health care, education, justice, mental health, economic opportunities and child protection. That debate should be a forward-facing one; we can’t look to the past, or even to current programs or pet projects for a single or simple answer. Information Gateway resources: Evaluating Program, Practice, and Service Effectiveness: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/management/effectiveness/
https://chronicleofsocialchange.org/analysis/kevin-campbell-guest-piece/16800

INTERNATIONAL

Canada: JF&CS should stay independent, executive director says
The Canadian Jewish News – March 29, 2016
Jewish Family & Child’s executive director is hoping that a government plan to amalgamate child protection service agencies won’t affect the Jewish agency.
http://www.cjnews.com/news/canada/jfcs-should-stay-independent-executive-director-says

France: Unaccompanied eight-year-old boy held at Paris airport for nine days
The Telegraph – March 30, 2016
An eight-year-old boy has been detained at Paris’s main airport for nine days after arriving from the Comoros Islands with just a Spiderman backpack and a borrowed passport. Children’s rights groups have condemned the action, which they say breaks international child protection laws.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/france/12207958/Unaccompanied-eight-year-old-boy-held-at-Paris-airport-for-nine-days.html

India: NHRC issues notice to Tamil Nadu on its missing kids
Deccan Chronicle – March 31, 2016
Expressing distress over reports that the number of missing children is on the rise in Tamil Nadu, the National Human Rights Commission has sought “detailed reports” explaining the actual status from the state government.
http://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/310316/nhrc-issues-notice-to-tamil-nadu-on-its-missing-kids.html

Japan: Japan enacts new law allowing foster parents to take child care leave, starting in 2017
The Japan Times – March 31, 2016
Foster parents seeking to adopt a child as their own will be allowed to take child care leave from January under a new law enacted Tuesday, a move to help them welcome a new family member without losing their jobs.
http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2016/03/31/national/social-issues/japan-enacts-new-law-allowing-foster-parents-take-child-care-leave-starting-2017/#.Vvybm6T2bcs

Kuala Lumpur: These children wiped away their tears and dared to dream again because of this choir (Video)
Star2 – March 31, 2016
Visiting Kuala Lumpur, former street children from Mongolia shared their stories on living in squalor, and being rescued and rehabilitated through music and the arts. The Blue Sky Choir was established in 2004 through a children’s home called the Lighthouse Centre–an initiative by World Vision Mongolia. The choir aims to save children living on the streets and prevent a life of abuse and poverty through song.
http://www.star2.com/family/children/2016/03/31/these-children-wiped-away-their-tears-and-dared-to-dream-again-because-of-this-choir/

New Zealand: Foster parents petition for adoption law change
TVNZ – March 29, 2016
There are calls for a law change to allow foster parents to adopt children in their long-term care in extreme cases.
https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/foster-parents-petition-adoption-law-change
Shaylyn’s death ‘is worst case of sexual trauma‘

Indianapolis Star

It was the “worst case of sexual trauma” forensic pathologist Donna Stewart had … The affidavit charges Parker with rape, murder, child molestation, …

Indiana man charged with kidnapping, raping and murdering 14-month old girl – Daily Mail

10 Self-Portraits Explore A Legacy Of Abuse By The Artist’s Father (NSFW)

Refinery29

Photographer Rowan Renee struggles with when to tell partners about the sexual abuse Renee experienced as a child — abuse committed by …

How drug laws aimed at pregnant women penalize their children

The Verge

While the child welfare system is intended to protect children, in far too many cases, it exposes them to more trauma, neglect and abuse. And that’s not …

Syrian War through the eyes of a child in local art exhibit

Action News Now

Syrian War through the eyes of a child in local art exhibit … As I am an art teacher, I wanted to give them an outlet to share their trauma from the war.

Time to focus on preventing child abuse

Fort Worth Star Telegram

They are symbols of hope and awareness for Child Abuse Prevention … The CDC says an adult with childhood abuse trauma could be at higher risk …

Vacaville commissioner advocates for preventing child abuse – TheReporter.Com

Itasca County struggling with overtime, costs for child protection

Herald Review

Itasca County struggling with overtime, costs for child protection … that proactively attends to and reduces the child’s trauma of separation from persons …

November death of nearly four-month-old baby girl ruled a homicide

fox6now.com

We’re told the trauma found on the child was found during an autopsy, and … The father noted that the child was very fussy the day before her death.

Woonsocket woman convicted in child’s beating death seeks new trial

The Providence Journal

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — A Woonsocket woman is asking the court for a new trial in the 2004 beating death of her nephew, 3-year-old Thomas “T.J.” …

Man accused of child abuse over belt beating

Chambersburg Public Opinion

CHAMBERSBURG – A Chambersburg man is accused of child abuse after police say he used a belt on a child, leaving severe bruising.

Man charged with child abuse after beating, scalding girlfriend’s 4-year-old

FOX13 Memphis

He is charged with aggravated child abuse, along with child abuse and … The affidavit states the child was told to get into the tub while Mitchell went …

Memphis Man Charged With Child Abuse – Local Memphis

 

Plea deal offered in Danbury child abuse case

Danbury News Times

Lidia Quilligana, a 31-year-old nanny was caught on camera burning the hands and leg of a 3-year-old girl she was baby-sitting, a prosecutor told a …

Plea Deal Offered In Danbury Nanny Child–Abuse Case – Daily Voice

North Miami-Dade father beat his fussy baby daughter to death, police say

Miami Herald

Harlow Gonzalez was born premature and died just four months later of injuries so catastrophic no baby could survive. Her ribs, arm, leg, and skull …

Miami-Dade County man accused of… – Local 10

North Miami-Dade dad accused of beating 4-month-old daughter to death – 7Online WSVN-TV

North Miami-Dade Dad Beat Infant Daughter to Death: MDPD – NBC 6 South Florida

 

North Carolina mother charged with murdering her daughter ordered photos of girl

Daily Mail

Police were called when the youngster was taken to hospital covered in bruises and with life-threatening injuries consistent with child abuse, two days …

Female Soldier Allegedly Beat Toddler To Death With Help From Her Boyfriend – The Inquisitr

Mum charged beating her daughter to death poses for bizarre Photoshopped images with the … – The Sun

Fort Bragg soldier allegedly kills daughter, 2, then asks photographer to create images including … – New York Daily News

3-year-old Sanford boy who was beaten dies; mother’s boyfriend charged

Fayetteville Observer

SANFORD – A 3-year-old boy hospitalized last week with injuries from an alleged beating died Monday morning at UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill, the …

 

With help, next generation can break cycle of child abuse

The Killeen Daily Herald

Abused children wear a mantle of shame and bear their parent’s anger, rage, or pure ignorance as if they deserve it. Child abuse and family violence …

 

4-month-old baby’s death is a homicide: police

New York Post

The death of a 4-month-old Bronx boy who police had been told fell off a … But months later, it was discovered the baby’s actual injuries were more …

Bronx Baby’s Death in August Ruled a Homicide, Officials Say – New York Times

Death Of 4-Month-Old Bronx Baby Declared Homicide – CBS Local

Death of 4-month-old Bronx baby ruled homicide after autopsy shows fractured skull, collapsed lung – New York Daily News

 

Police arrest man accused of killing 5-month-old infant

WDRB

Noah Ballard-Jones died March 16 at Kosair Children’s Hospital two days after he was brought there from his home near the corner of 22nd and Date …

Police arrest man in connection to 5-month-old’s death – WLKY Louisville

Family members clash at hearing for Louisville man accused of killing infant – WDRB

 

Coroner says Belton baby’s death at day care an accident

Washington Times

BELTON, S.C. (AP) – A coroner says a baby’s death at an Anderson County day care was accidental, but likely could have been prevented if the infant …

Coroner says Belton baby’s death at day care an accident – Bowling Green Daily News

Coroner: Belton baby’s death at daycare an accident – Anderson Independent Mail

Baby suffocates at Belton daycare; no charges – WSPA.com

No charges, but a homicide ruling in baby’s death

WISN Milwaukee

Authorities said India Rose Gilmore died Nov. 7, a day after she was taken to Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin after her father said he found her …

Sudden Death of Infant Being Investigated as Homicide – WDJT

 

Grand jury review of baby death case postponed

Glens Falls Post-Star

The baby, 24 days old as of the day of her death, suffered serious head and internal injuries and was on life support until she died Thursday.

NYSP: Johnsburg infant dies after being assaulted by father – NEWS10 ABC

Johnsburg baby succumbs to injuries; Father may face homicide charges – Glens Falls Post-Star

 

Jury selection begins for man charged in baby’s death

KRQE News 13

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) – Jury selection is underway in the trial of a man charged in the death of a 14-month-old baby. Christopher Garcia was …

Baby’s Death Shows Global Threat From Wonder Drug’s Demise

Bloomberg

One of the babies died; the other survived. “That is a warning to us that maybe we’re already losing this drug,” said Umesh Vaidya, who runs the …

 

Father’s Longtime Friend Arrested in Death of Baby Boy in Lancaster

NBC Southern California

The longtime friend of an infant’s father who was baby-sitting the 5-month-old has been arrested after the child died, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s …

Baby girl dies after being assaulted at home in Lancaster, authorities say – Los Angeles Times

Investigators: Baby dies after Lancaster assault – The San Diego Union-Tribune

Investigation Into Death Of Baby Underway In Lancaster Amid Report Of Alleged Assault – CBS Local

 

Arrested Glendale mom could face child neglect charges

Arizona Daily Star

GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) — A Glendale woman is being charged with child abuse after a search for her missing children led to the discovery that she …

Arrested Glendale mom could face child neglect charges – Bristol Herald Courier (press release) (blog)

3 kids missing from Glendale apartment found safe, mom in custody – 12news.com

Glendale PD: 3 missing children found safe – Tucson News Now

 

High number of child deaths linked to abuse and neglect concerns officials

Tulsa World

The Department of Human Services and other agencies review cases thoroughly before substantiating a child death as caused by abuse or neglect, …

National Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month – Morgan Messenger

Protect our children: supervised, safe, sound – Camp Lejeune Globe

Darke County child abuses cases up over last year – Early Bird Newspaper (press release)

 

Drug using mom sentenced for child neglect

Journal and Courier

Tiara Peyton, a mother accused of child neglect and possessing heroin, was spared prison time during a sentencing hearing Thursday. Peyton, 29 …

 

Broken Arrow mother faces child neglect charge after son reportedly found wandering neighborhood

Tulsa World

McCloud was arrested March 8 and taken to the Broken Arrow Jail on suspicion of child endangerment. That evening she was transferred to Tulsa Jail, …

 

Rock Hill mother facing child neglect charges

WBT

Hinson is facing mulitple charges including child neglect, reckless driving and damage to property. Hinson told police she was angry while she was …

Police: Mother with baby on board rams car into ex-boyfriend’s home – FOX13 Memphis

Police: Mother with baby on board rams car into home – WSOC Charlotte

Two arrested on suspicion of child neglect in Foleshill

BBC News

A man and a woman have been arrested on suspicion of child neglect after a disturbance at a house in Coventry, police have said. The child was …

Pair arrested on suspicion of child neglect in Foleshill released on bail – Coventry Telegraph

 

Polk woman arrested on child neglect, drug charges

WTSP.com

A 48-year-old Lakeland woman was arrested Monday after deputies say a 2-year-old she was supposed to be taking care of was found wandering the …

Toddler found wandering while woman slept off night of meth and booze – ABC Action News

 

Parkersburg woman sentenced for child neglect

The News Center

PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (WTAP) – A Parkersburg woman is sentenced on drug charges, along with child neglect. Back in January 2015, police …

 

Parents Charged with Child, Animal Neglect

Tristatehomepage.com

Two parents face child neglect and animal neglect charges after allegedly exposing their 11-year-old daughter to some of the worst living conditions …

 

Lexington couple sentenced to 20 years in fatal child neglect case

Live 5 News

The death of a Lexington County couple’s 10-week-old daughter brought charges and now a sentence against the parents for fatal child neglect.

South Carolina Couple Gets 20 Years For Daughter’s Death – Opposing Views

 

Evansville Parents Jailed For Child Neglect, Deplorable Living Conditions

44News | Evansville, IN

The child’s parents, Donna and William Leonard are now in jail and facing negligence charges of their 11 year old girl and two of their dogs. Evansville …

 

Local News

Alva Review-Courier / Newsgram

Terri Lee Byrd, 41, of Goltry has been charged with possession of controlled dangerous substance and child neglect, both felonies. She was also …

 

States Called on to Review Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities in National Report > National …

National Conference of State Legislatures

Each day, four to eight children die from abuse or neglect, usually at the hands of their parents. More than half are infants younger than 1 year old,…

 

Suicide by Screens – The impact of Tech Neglect on child and youth

Moving to Learn

Sedentary, overstimulated, isolated and neglected, the ways in which we are raising and educating new millennium children with technology, are no …

 

PCSO Deputies Arrest Lakeland Woman for Child Neglect, Other Charges

Polk County Sheriff’s Office

On Monday, March 28, 2016, PCSO Special Victims detectives arrested 48-year-old Leslie Wulff of Lakeland and charged her with one count …

 

Sanford man faces child abuse charges in death of girlfriend’s 3-year-old

WRAL.com

Sanford, N.C. — A Sanford man is facing child abuse charges in connection with the death of his girlfriend’s three-year-old son who was found …

Sanford man charged with felony child abuse in death of 3-year-old boy – WTVD-TV

Child dies from alleged abuse – Sanford Herald (registration)

 

Disturbing details emerge about alleged child abuse in Pueblo

FOX21News.com

PUEBLO, Colo — We learned more about the child abuse case in pueblo that has two people facing felony charges. 25 year old Colleen Torres and …

 

Study: Deaths from child abuse fall in Kentucky, but overall incidents rise

WAVE 3

LOUISVILLE, KY (WAVE) – Reports of child abuse in Kentucky were up in 2014, but deaths resulting from child abuse reached a 10-year low in what …

 

Mother Facing 4 Counts Of Child Abuse

Johnston County Report

A Smithfield woman is facing several charges including child abuse for allegedly placing her children in potential harm. Around 3:00 AM Monday, …

 

Teen father in court for homicide by child abuse charges

WPDE

David Evege Garner, 18, appeared before a magistrate judge Monday morning to be arraigned on charges of homicide by child abuse in the death of …

 

 

Jicarilla Apache Woman Pleads Guilty to Federal Child Abuse Charge

US Department of Justice

ALBUQUERQUE – Fawn Lynnstar Vigil, 30, an enrolled member of the Jicarilla Apache Nation who resides in Dulce, N.M., pleaded guilty today in …

 

Child Fatalities and the Continuum of Prevention Services

Prevent Child Abuse America

In mid-March the Commission to End Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities released their full report. Here is our official response to their report.

DA: Teacher, pastor charged in alleged child–abuse case

WHP

An Ephrata-area teacher and church pastor are facing charges following a reported case of child abuse, according to the Lancaster County District …

 

AR: First lady notes April’s focus is putting end to child abuse
Arkansas Online – March 30, 2016
April is Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month, according to a proclamation issued by Gov. Asa Hutchinson. “It is the responsibility of every parent, grandparent, or other caregiver, educator, therapist, advocate, trainer, community leader, church member, after-school helper or anyone guiding, supporting, helping, or reaching out to any child to be aware of the warning signs … so that they may take the necessary steps to protect that child,” the proclamation states.
http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2016/mar/30/first-lady-notes-april-s-focus-is-putti/?f=news-arkansas

CA: Urgent pleas to California Supremes to help Lexi now
WND – March 29, 2016
An institute that already is legally challenging the Indian Child Welfare Act for being racist and imposing “a separate and disadvantageous system of rules for people of a particular ancestry” is pleading with the California Supreme Court to immediately return 6-year-old Lexi to the only parents she’s ever known. Court Filing: https://goldwater-media.s3.amazonaws.com/cms_page_media/2016/3/25/lexibrief.pdf
http://www.wnd.com/2016/03/urgent-pleas-to-california-supremes-to-help-lexi-now/

CO: Bill: In-state tuition for homeless students
Daily Sentinal – March 29, 2016
Sen. John Cooke, a Greeley Republican who sponsored the bill, said it wasn’t about allowing “illegal aliens” cheaper college tuition rates, but those students who are not living with their out-of-state parents, including those in foster care.
http://www.gjsentinel.com/news/articles/bill-instate-tuition-for-homeless-students

IN: ‘CAPS’ kicking off Child Abuse Prevention Month
WNDU 16 – March 20, 2016
April kicks off National Child Abuse Prevention Month. On Wednesday, Child and Parent Services of Elkhart, or CAPS, is inviting the public to take part in their annual planting of the pinwheel garden.
http://www.wndu.com/content/news/CAPS-kicking-off-Child-Abuse-Prevention-Month-373959061.html

KS: Federal lawsuit against the State of Kansas and DCF to be filled Wednesday (Includes video)
Examiner – March 29, 2016
Raymond, a U.S. veteran had decided to move to Colorado to get proper medical treatment for his P.T.S.D. and chronic pain. This was ideal for his family. However, the state removed the children because he had used cannabis to treat his ailments. He used medicinal cannabis because psychotropic drugs did not work for him.
http://www.examiner.com/article/federal-lawsuit-against-the-state-of-kansas-and-dcf-to-be-filled-wednesday

MS: More Trouble: New Bill In Mississippi Could Hamper Access To Same-Sex Marriage
Associated Press – March 29, 2016
The bill says public employees, business people and those involved with foster care or adoptions could not be punished for acting on beliefs that marriage should only be between a man and a woman; that “sexual relations are properly reserved to such a marriage”; and that gender is determined at birth.
http://floridaagenda.com/news/more-trouble-new-bill-in-mississippi-could-hamper-access-to-same-sex-marriage

NH: House urged to OK changes to child protection laws
Union Leader – March 29, 2016
The House committee heard testimony on three bills. One makes it easier for DCYF to get a juvenile out of a potentially dangerous situation, at least in the short-term, through a process of “emergency interim relief.” Another extends the length of time records of abuse and neglect must be retained by the state, so child protective workers can better detect patterns of abuse over time. The third gives police and child protection agencies 48 hours, instead of just 24, to prepare for a court hearing on a protective order.
http://www.unionleader.com/House-urged-to-OK-changes-to-child-protection-laws

NJ: Camden diocese settles old abuse cases
Philly.com – March 29, 2016
The Diocese of Camden has made financial settlements to resolve cases against two South Jersey priests accused of abusing boys in the 1950s and 1960s.
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/new_jersey/20160330_Camden_diocese_settles_old_abuse_cases.html

NY: Equal justice for all kids on sexual abuse
New York Daily News – March 30, 2016
Allowing a victim to press criminal charges or to file a civil suit forever for some crimes but limiting them from going to court for other, very similar sex offenses is nonsensically unjust.
http://www.nydailynews.com/opinion/equal-justice-kids-sexual-abuse-article-1.2581782

NY: Former foster child alleges she was sexually assaulted for years, city ignored cries for help in $21M suit
New York Daily News – March 30, 2016
St. Vincent’s and the city ignored red flags indicating improprieties and abuse and failed to properly check on the kids once they were placed in foster care, according to the suit. Additionally, CB says she told various people about the alleged sexual abuse and living in a different apartment from the approved home. She claims both the city and St. Vincent’s “were informed” but did nothing, the suit says.
http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/manhattan/ex-foster-child-claims-years-sexual-abuse-21m-suit-article-1.2582118

SC: Social services agency seeks to ease caseloads at Anderson County office
Independent Mail – March 29, 2016
State Sen. Kevin Bryant, a Republican from Anderson, called the hearing in his role as chairman of the Senate’s General Committee. He said he was concerned about statistics that surfaced last month indicating that one Anderson County DSS worker was handling 119 cases and two others were handling 80 or more cases. Under the department’s policies, workers are supposed to have no more than 50 cases.
http://www.independentmail.com/news/sc-social-services-agency-seeks-to-ease-caseloads-at-anderson-county-office-2f3b6795-0a11-50b3-e053–373936521.html

TX: Following the map to the end of child abuse, neglect (Opinion)
San Marcos Daily Record – March 30, 2016
More state and federal resources are essential for preventing abuse rather than helping only after children have suffered abuse. When abuse has occurred, more effort must be made to prevent reoccurrence and additional harm. Currently, such follow-up services are not made available to 40 percent of children with substantiated cases of abuse or neglect.
http://www.sanmarcosrecord.com/opinion/following-map-end-child-abuse-neglect

TX: ‘You Get Tired:’ What the Retiring Leader of Texas’ Foster Care System Told Us (Includes audio)
Texas Standard – March 28, 2016
An exit interview with John Specia, on the court-ordered overhaul of his agency and the ills in the foster care system.
http://www.texasstandard.org/stories/you-get-tired-what-the-retiring-leader-of-texas-foster-care-system-told-us/

UT: Several activities in April planned to educate community about child abuse
Cache Valley Daily – March 30, 2016
April is nationally designated as Child Abuse Prevention Month. The Family Place Executive Director Esterlee Molyneaux says the several activities are planned to educate the local community that child abuse is happening in Cache Valley and about what we can all do to end it.
http://www.cachevalleydaily.com/news/local/article_05b3249a-f614-11e5-8968-5340f3104081.html

US: Tiny opioid patients need help easing into life
The CT Mirror – March 30, 2016
As rates of opioid addiction have climbed in the U.S., the number of babies born with neonatal abstinence syndrome has increased too — by five-fold from 2000 to 2012, according to the National Institute of Drug Abuse. Child Welfare Information Gateway Resource: Parental Substance Use and the Child Welfare System: https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubPDF/parentalsubabuse.pdf
http://ctmirror.org/2016/03/30/tiny-opioid-patients-need-help-easing-into-life/

US: Foreign adoptions by Americans reach lowest mark since 1981
Associated Press – March 29, 2016
The number of foreign children adopted by U.S. parents dropped by 12 percent last year to the lowest level since 1981, according to new State Department figures. The department’s report for the 2015 fiscal year shows 5,648 adoptions from abroad, down from 6,438 in 2014 and about 75 percent below the high of 22,884 in 2004. The number has fallen every year since then, to the frustration of many adoption advocates in the U.S.
http://www.41nbc.com/2016/03/29/foreign-adoptions-by-americans-reach-lowest-mark-since-1981/

INTERNATIONAL

Japan: Gov’t to make phone hotline on child abuse more convenient
Japan Today – March 30, 2016
The welfare ministry will enhance the hotline service on child abuse more convenient for users as 90% of callers hang up during the recorded phone message before reaching child consultation centers.
http://www.japantoday.com/category/national/view/govt-to-make-phone-hotline-on-child-abuse-more-convenient

Turkey: Spotlight sharpens on child sex abuse with two more incidents in western Turkey
Hurriyet Daily News – March 30, 2016
Two further incidents regarding the sexual abuse of children are being investigated in the northwestern province of Kocaeli, after news about a teacher raping eight male students at a private foundation hit headlines and sparked public outrage last week.
http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/spotlight-sharpens-on-child-sex-abuse-with-two-more-incidents-in-western-turkey.aspx?pageID=238&nid=97086&NewsCatID=509

United Kingdom: Agencies ‘failed to protect’ abused Swansea children
BBC News – March 29, 2016
A historical review into abuse suffered by two children in one family – which led to the death of one – has found the professional bodies involved failed to protect them.
http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-south-west-wales-35921330

AK: Tlingit and Haida Tribes win major decision in child welfare case
Indianz – March 25, 2016
The Central Council of Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes has the “inherent authority” to handle matters involving their children, the Alaska Supreme Court ruled on Friday in a closely-watched case. Also: Alaska Supreme Court affirms tribal child support case: http://juneauempire.com/local/2016-03-28/alaska-supreme-court-affirms-tribal-child-support-case
http://www.indianz.com/News/2016/020816.asp

AZ: Report: Backlog of Arizona Department of Child Safety abuse cases leads to deaths
KTAR – March 25, 2016
The Arizona Department of Child Safety has failed to resolve nearly 12,000 cases of alleged abuse or neglect that have been open for at least 60 days without an investigation or services being provided to a potential victim, according to a Cronkite News review of the state’s most recent numbers. In some cases, children may have died because of it, records show.
http://ktar.com/story/982234/report-backlog-of-arizona-department-of-child-safety-abuse-cases-leads-to-deaths/

CA: Community Rallies Behind Rexroad’s Push for Reform of Child Welfare System
Davis Vanguard – March 27, 2016
Matt Rexroad is a man on a mission. His thought-provoking delivery on why there should be major changes in the leadership of the county child welfare system has started the wheels in motion to galvanize change for a problem that affects so many young lives. His heartfelt plea for structural reconsideration brought to light issues that many people were oblivious to, given the discrete nature of court proceeding.
http://www.davisvanguard.org/2016/03/community-rallies-behind-rexroads-push-reform/

CA: The Drama and Facts in the Battle Over Little Lexi
Huffington Post – March 25, 2016
The Page’s hopes to make Lexi a permanent part of their family were not possible, however, because of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) that was enacted to protect children of Native Americans from decades of exploitation. Lexi’s mother is not Native American but her father is enrolled with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and Lexi is 1.5% percent Choctaw. Authorities made it clear to them repeatedly that Lexi was never available for adoption, a fact they chose to ignore. Also: What Will Happen To Lexi Of The “Save Lexi” Campaign? The Court Decision Is Being Challenged: https://www.romper.com/p/what-will-happen-to-lexi-of-the-save-lexi-campaign-the-court-decision-is-being-challenged-7795 Also: Inside the Agonizing Custody Fight Over Lexi Page: http://time.com/4269542/inside-the-agonizing-custody-fight-over-lexi-page/?xid=homepage Also: Indian Children’s Law in Choctaw Foster Case Praised by Some, Criticized by Others: http://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/indian-children-s-law-choctaw-foster-case-praised-some-scrutinized-n546296
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mirah-riben/the-drama-and-facts-in-th_b_9540274.html

CO: A bond of kinship: when Gramma becomes the mom
Associated Press – March 26, 2016
“I’ve become an expert on kinship in the state of Colorado,” says Mauck, who has been a kinship provider for her 13-year-old granddaughter Bree for more than seven years now. Mauck is also a family peer support specialist at Aurora Mental Health who helps local kinship families.
http://lancasteronline.com/news/health/a-bond-of-kinship-when-gramma-becomes-the-mom/article_2cd636fb-bd51-58d0-a442-37e02a213c6c.html

FL: Sarasota Department of Children and Families is picketed
Herald-Tribune – March 25, 2016
Sharing tragic stories of their own experiences with the Department of Children and Families, a half dozen residents today protested the agency for what they call a broken system that harms the very children it’s supposed to protect.
http://www.heraldtribune.com/article/20160325/news/160329771

GA: Bill allows for unsealing of adoption records; DFCS reform continues through new House bill
Calhoun Times – March 27, 2016
Adoption records can now be unsealed in very specific cases to make child services workers’ investigations more complete, according to a bill sent to Gov. Nathan Deal for his signature.
http://www.northwestgeorgianews.com/rome/news/local/bill-allows-for-unsealing-of-adoption-records-dfcs-reform-continues/article_f37dfb74-f3d9-11e5-affa-c394ae950045.html

KS: Legislature re-establishes juvenile community justice system (Opinion)
Leavenworth Times – March 27, 2016
It has been my life experience that, in the long run, those services that cost the least are often the most effective, if the program or effort is well-planned and carefully managed. This has also led me to question the value of privatization whenever the service doesn’t depend on a well-driven market example of supply and demand.
http://www.leavenworthtimes.com/opinion/20160327/legislature-re-establishes-juvenile-community-justice-system?rssfeed=true

LA: Budget crisis threatens football, shows skewed priorities (Opinion)
Macalester College Mac Weekly – March 25, 2016
Certain very important programs and institutions in Louisiana, including the Department of Children and Family Services, are likely to lose much of their funding as well. This specific agency manages foster care, food stamps and child abuse claims, along with other social programs.
http://themacweekly.com/2016/03/louisiana-budget-crisis-threatens-football-shows-skewed-priorities/

MD: Couple’s foster parent request denied
Frederick News-Post – March 25, 2016
The Maryland Court of Special Appeals has sided with the Frederick County Department of Social Services in the case of a couple who were not allowed to be foster parents. “At every level, the reviewing body has considered the evidence and reached the same conclusion: that it is up to the agency to determine whether someone with a conviction like Mr. Ferreira’s is suitable to foster a child,” Judge Douglas R.M. Nazarian wrote.
http://www.fredericknewspost.com/news/crime_and_justice/courts/couple-loses-court-challenge-on-foster-parent-application/article_f845bed6-4845-5a02-b2e8-b974cd66a8fb.html

ME: Democrats rip DHHS for welfare program spending changes
Bangor Daily News – March 25, 2016
“So what the department has done is we have been actively redeploying those funds to support a broad array of things that help low-income families in the state,” Sam Adolphsen, chief operating officer for DHHS, told the committee Thursday. “So, really, the shift — has been from a model that focused primarily on cash benefits to one that is using money that has become available through the reduction in caseload to assist low-income families across the state that fit the TANF goals.”
http://bangordailynews.com/2016/03/25/politics/state-house/democrats-rip-dhhs-for-welfare-program-spending-changes/

ME: Windham lawmaker’s bill calls for more training spotting child abuse
Keep Me Current – March 25, 2016
After a year of review and discussion, the Maine Legislature has passed a Windham senator’s bill to require training for mandated reporters — people who, by law, are required to report abuse or suspected abuse of a child.
http://www.keepmecurrent.com/front/windham-lawmaker-s-bill-calls-for-more-training-spotting-child/article_a4a0518e-f297-11e5-a15b-3be0104dc94a.html

MS: New bill could make it easier for kids to ‘divorce’ from parents
WDAM 7 – March 25, 2016
A bill passed by the Mississippi House of Legislature could redefine terms to terminate parental rights in cases of child abuse.
http://www.wdam.com/story/31567701/new-bill-could-make-it-easier-for-kids-to-divorce-from-parents

NC: Our view: Welcoming the rebirth of Child Advocacy Center (Opinion)
Citizen-Times – March 25, 2016
“The idea of the CAC is that you have a few fundamental components to establish a best practices protocol for the gathering of evidence and the prosecution of child abuse, sexual abuse cases,” Williams said.
http://www.citizen-times.com/story/opinion/editorials/2016/03/25/view-welcoming-rebirth-child-advocacy-center/82248204/

NE: More Counties to See DHHS Alternative Response to Abuse and Neglect (Includes video)
Nebraska TV – March 28, 2016
“Currently we have a process where we talk with the kids and then we talk with the families, and with Alternative Response what we want to do is we want to connect with those families,” KaCee Zimmerman, Child and Family Services Administrator in DHHS’ Central Service Area says. The name sums it up: it’s an alternative way of solving child welfare problems, a method Zimmerman says uses engagement instead of investigation. Information Gateway Resource: Alternative Response: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/systemwide/assessment/approaches/alternative/
http://www.nebraska.tv/story/31576961/more-counties-to-see-dhhs-alternative-response-to-abuse-and-neglect

NH: Legislation Aims to Coordinate Mental-Health Services for Children (Includes audio)
Public News Service – March 28, 2016
“It’s for kids with serious mental health challenges involved in multiple systems, such as juvenile justice, maybe the child protective system, the mental health system,” Effie Malley, director of the New Hampshire Children’s Behavioral Health Collaborative says. “But it’s also for all kids, in that we want to promote wellness and mental health.”
http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2016-03-28/mental-health/legislation-aims-to-coordinate-nh-mental-health-services-for-children/a50985-1

NJ: Cold night on Newark pavement raises awareness of homeless youth plight
NJ.com – March 25, 2016
Saturday morning couldn’t come soon enough for the millenials waking up from a restless overnight pilgrimage. The biting wind cut into them and the 36-degree temperature made sleeping in a Newark parking lot uncomfortable. Underneath skies still dark at 5:30 a.m., more than 100 young professionals rose from their cardboard boxes and sleeping bags, holding onto an experience they’ll never forget.
http://www.nj.com/essex/index.ssf/2016/03/cold_night_on_newark_pavement_raises_awareness_of.html

NY: NYC dumps agency that sent foster kids to live with alleged Long Island pedophile
New York Daily News – March 28, 2016
The Administration for Children’s Services also plans to inspect the homes where 760 city kids currently live after being placed by the SCO Family of Services. Those 500 homes are located throughout the city and surrounding counties, records show. Also: L.I. pedophile probed 9 times for abusing foster kids: http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/pedophile-probed-9-times-abusing-foster-kids-article-1.2579573
http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/nyc-dumps-agency-foster-kids-alleged-pedophile-article-1.2579593

OH: New Allen County Children Services case worker to coordinate with Juvenile Court
Lima News – March 25, 2016
Children Services is working to replace a vacant community advocate position with one who specifically works with these “dual system” children, a strategy director Cynthia Scanland hopes will make for an overall better experience for them.
http://limaohio.com/news/173070/new-allen-county-children-services-case-worker-to-coordinate-with-juvenile-court

OK: Millions cut from mental health care services (Includes video)
Fox 25 – March 25, 2016
“When we don’t provide treatment that’s when bad things happen. That’s when we see an increase in suicides, an increase in the number of people coming in contact with the criminal justice system and ending up incarcerated, an increase in the foster care system, and an increased risk to public safety,” says Terri White, commissioner of the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.
http://okcfox.com/news/local/millions-cut-from-mental-health-care-services-in-oklahoma

OR: Fired DHS caseworkers say managers shunned state law, put kids at risk
Oregonian – March 25, 2016
Two former child welfare caseworkers with the Oregon Department of Human Services are suing the state for $919,333, claiming that supervisors fired them after they complained about repeated violations of state law.
http://www.oregonlive.com/pacific-northwest-news/index.ssf/2016/03/fired_caseworkers_say_dhs_chil.html

TX: Foster kids can’t be ignored in fight against homelessness (Opinion)
Daily Texan – March 28, 2016
In January, the Ending Community Homelessness Coalition conducted their annual count of Austin’s homeless population and found that it has increased 20 percent since last year. Considering that one out of every five “aged-out” foster kids will become homeless after they turn 18, keeping them off the streets should be a priority for anyone looking to decrease Austin’s overall homelessness rates.
http://www.dailytexanonline.com/2016/03/28/foster-kids-can%E2%80%99t-be-ignored-in-fight-against-homelessness

TX: Commentary: #2700 Campaign to Address Foster Care Need
Rivard Report – March 26, 2016
The Texas Tribune reported on Friday, March 18 that “more kids (are) sleeping in state offices amid foster shortage.” The story bears to reveal that the demand for foster care homes will always outweigh the supply. Last year, The Children’s Shelter was unable to place 2,700 children through our foster care program, because we did not have enough licensed foster care families to meet the need for temporary care. A solution? The Children’s Shelter will launch the #2700 foster care campaign on April 1 through May 31 in an effort to recruit individuals and families interested in becoming a licensed foster care family.
http://therivardreport.com/commentary-2700-campaign-to-address-foster-care-need/

WI: Pillar & Vine works to make sure no foster child is forgotten
Fon Du Lac Reporter – March 27, 2016
Pillar & Vine, a private foster care agency which contracts with the county, opened at 347 S. Woodward St., in Brandon, in April 2014, and is the product of a collaboration between former social workers Leslie Jaber-Wilson and Damian Lonnee, and Jaber-Wilson’s husband, Kevin Wilson, a former EMT.
http://www.fdlreporter.com/story/news/local/action-advertiser/2016/03/27/support-structures-pillar-and-vine-works-foster-child/82075842/

US: Pregnant And Addicted: The Tough Road To Family Health (Includes audio)
National Public Radio – March 28, 2016
Dr. Stephen Patrick, a neonatologist at Vanderbilt University’s School Of Medicine, says the medical community really needs to focus on providing access to medically assisted care for substance abuse. “I think it’s time for us to reshape how we view addiction in the United States,” he says. “It is a medical condition — it is not a moral failing.”
http://wamu.org/programs/morning_edition/16/03/28/pregnant_and_addicted_the_tough_road_to_family_health

US: The high cost of being poor
CBS News – March 28, 2016
Hatcher, who has worked as an attorney for Legal Aid in the Baltimore Child Advocacy Unit, points to how some states are hiring companies to take benefits from the poor, such as Maryland’s practice of filing for and confiscating foster children’s Social Security survivor’s benefits. In most cases, the children, who qualify for the benefit if a parent has died, aren’t aware they were even eligible for the payments.
http://www.cbsnews.com/news/the-high-cost-of-being-poor/

US: Native American girls fall through the cracks
USA Today – March 26, 2016
They’re poor, more likely to be sexually abused, end up in foster care, drop out of school, become homeless. They’re often the prey of traffickers. American Indian and Native Alaskan girls are a small fraction of the population, but they are over-represented in the juvenile justice system, whether they are living on or off the reservation.
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2016/03/26/native-american-girls-fall-through-cracks/82214044/

US: Demand Surges for Addiction Treatment During Pregnancy
Pew Charitable Trust: Stateline – March 25, 2016
Nationwide, the number of pregnant women using heroin, prescription opioids or medications used to treat opioid addiction has increased more than five-fold and it’s expected to keep rising. With increased opioid and heroin use, the number of babies born with severe opioid withdrawal symptoms has also spiraled, leaving hospitals scrambling to find better ways to care for the burgeoning population of mothers and newborns.
http://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/blogs/stateline/2016/03/25/demand-surges-for-addiction-treatment-during-pregnancy

US: How drug laws aimed at pregnant women penalize their children
The Verge – March 25, 2016
Cassie was on methadone to treat her heroin addiction — and the drug was prescribed by her doctor. Still, it’s hard to avoid the impulse to punish mothers who expose their infants to drugs and related withdrawal; many people instinctively want to whisk these babies away to a brand-new — presumably better — family. But that punitive approach has not been effective in preventing drug-exposed pregnancies. In fact, studies show that states with the harshest laws tend to drive women like Cassie underground and away from prenatal care. And that puts both mother and baby at greater risk, not less.
http://www.theverge.com/2016/3/25/11301898/prenatal-drug-testing-custody-laws-child-welfare

US: The Other Side of Social Work: Micro Misconceptions and Macro Opportunities
Huffington Post – March 25, 2016
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when someone says “I’m a social worker?” If you get a visual of a licensed professional working in child welfare or a therapist helping people solve problems, then you’re right. But, what if I told you that “I’m a dual-degreed social worker” who is not a therapist, has never worked in child welfare, is not licensed and has spent my entire career working on large scale issues of equity, charity and social justice. Does that broaden your view?
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/thenera-bailey/the-other-side-of-social-_b_9542362.html

US: Youth Workers Need to Be Advocates for Greater Intervention (Opinion)
Youth Today – March 25, 2016
For too long, adult intervention has been society’s knee-jerk reaction instead of youth intervention. It is a failed approach, and a fundamental awakening to the value of youth intervention is needed.
http://youthtoday.org/2016/03/youth-workers-need-to-be-advocates-for-greater-intervention/

INTERNATIONAL

Lithuania: Barclay’s and Foster Care Center Partnership Benefits Children
Six Seconds – March 25, 2016
The goals of the project are to establish a value and trust-based communication in the Centre. The project aims to strengthen the children’s confidence and self-respect, teach them time management competences, encourage them to seek further education, as well as give them the knowledge and skills required for self-management in stress and conflict situations.
http://www.6seconds.org/2016/03/25/barclays-and-lithuanian-foster-care-center-partnership-benefits-children/

United Kingdom: Breast ironing: Tory MP warns of affects on at least 1,000 British girls, some as young as 10
International Business Times\ – March 26, 2016
The brutal practice of ‘breast ironing’ British girls as young as 10 is commonplace in some communities within the UK, a Conservative MP has warned. Often it can be the children’s own mothers who are the perpetrators of pummelling their daughters’ breasts to prevent them from growing to protect their daughters from harassment or even rape in the future
http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/breast-ironing-affects-least-1000-british-girls-some-young-10-tory-mp-warns-1551716

AK: Alaska Supreme Court: State must enforce Central Council’s child support orders (Includes audio)
Alaska Public Media – March 28, 2016
The State of Alaska must recognize and enforce the Tlingit-Haida Central Council’s child support orders, according to a state Supreme Court decision issued Friday. That’s something the Walker administration chose to do when it signed an agreement with the Central Council earlier this month. The state Supreme Court decision basically makes that agreement legally binding regardless of any new administration that might want to renege.
http://www.alaskapublic.org/2016/03/28/supreme-court-state-must-enforce-central-councils-child-support-orders/

AL: Child abuse statistics hard to understand
Selma Times-Journal – March 26, 2016
A pinwheel garden will be “planted” at City Hall early next month to raise awareness of child abuse. It’s a number that’s heartbreaking to think about, but 400 pinwheels will be planted, one for each child involved in a regional abuse investigation.
http://www.selmatimesjournal.com/2016/03/26/child-abuse-statistics-hard-to-understand/

AZ: AG opinion: DCS workers can interview children without parental consent
Arizona Daily Star – March 28, 2016
In a 10-page formal opinion, Brnovich said a contrary finding by the Arizona Obudsman office is legally wrong. In fact, the attorney general suggested that opinion was based on “hypertechnical textual analysis.” Related: Investigation: DCS broke the law on child interviews (Includes video): http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/arizona/politics/2016/02/17/investigation-dcs-broke-law-child-interviews/80490246/
http://tucson.com/news/state-and-regional/ag-opinion-dcs-workers-can-interview-children-without-parental-consent/article_064d4775-0b53-56e3-bd8c-a02fab3ce5fb.html

IA: Pilot program aims to curb child abuse in Black Hawk County
Waterloo Cedar Falls Courier – March 28, 2016
A new pilot program in Black Hawk County hopes to change that interaction between two people, and in turn, create a stronger community and healthier children.
http://wcfcourier.com/news/local/pilot-program-aims-to-curb-child-abuse-in-black-hawk/article_c87e05ef-ef58-5df7-86f0-e90dd047823f.html

MA: State cites progress on child welfare; caseload still high
Associated Press – March 28, 2016
Gov. Charlie Baker’s administration is citing progress in overhauling the state’s troubled child welfare agency as officials say the caseload for overburdened social workers remains too high. Related: Changes at child welfare agency proving difficult: http://www.salemnews.com/news/state_news/changes-at-child-welfare-agency-proving-difficult/article_82e128f6-7044-540c-ab4b-2a889bb15c88.html Information Gateway Resource: Child Welfare Workload Compendium: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/management/workforce/compendium/
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2016/mar/28/state-cites-progress-on-child-welfare-caseload-sti/

ME: How Maine has quietly undermined help for its neediest (Opinion)
Bangor Daily News – March 26, 2016
First came the revelation that Maine allowed $110 million in federal funds to build up over the past four years, unobligated, in an account meant to pay for the state’s primary financial assistance program for low-income families. The unspent funds accumulated as the number of families receiving assistance fell by 60 percent because of state policy changes, not declining need.
http://bangordailynews.com/2016/03/26/opinion/editorials/how-maine-has-quietly-undermined-help-for-its-neediest/?ref=OpinionBox

MT: Increase in child abuse amplifies the need for advocates (Press release)
Havre Daily News – March 28, 2016
According to statistics from Montana’s Supreme Court, there were 85 new child abuse cases reported in Hill County in 2015, almost as many new cases as in 2013 and 2014 combined, and 25 percent more cases than in 2012, the previous worst year on record. The flood of cases has swamped the child welfare system. The effect has been magnified for CASA — Court Appointed Special Advocates — an organization that trains and coordinates everyday citizens to speak out for abused children.
http://www.havredailynews.com/story/2016/03/28/local/increase-in-child-abuse-amplifies-the-need-for-advocates/508136.html

NH: DCYF gets more funding, staffing (Includes video)
WMUR – March 28, 2016
The last time the state asked the Legislature for more caseworkers was in 2004. But a recent audit of the Division of Children, Youth and Families found that it is understaffed and overworked, and suffers from a lack of resources.
http://www.wmur.com/news/dcyf-gets-more-funding-staffing/38734438

NY: School social worker filed multiple complaints about alleged L.I. pedophile, but authorities didn’t take seriously (Includes video)
New York Daily News – March 28, 2016
Edwards complaints to the New York State Central Registry, which were forwarded to the Suffolk County Child Protective Services, date as far back as 14 years ago. That’s when children in Gonzales-Mugaburu’s care apparently first began to attend the Longwood school district. Also: Keep the foster kids safe, Bill (Opinion): http://www.nydailynews.com/opinion/foster-kids-safe-bill-article-1.2578266
http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/social-worker-repeatedly-warned-school-pedophile-article-1.2580519

NY: Victims of childhood sexual abuse often limited by N.Y. law (Opinion)
New York Daily News – March 28, 2016
A child who is a victim of childhood sexual abuse in New York is often victimized a second time because of our state’s archaic statute of limitations. Current codes sharply limit the time a victim has to bring charges against someone who molested them. A victim must now come forward within five years after the age of 18 to bring criminal or civil charges against their abuser — or any agency or organization that should have reported them.
http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/victims-childhood-sexual-abuse-limited-n-y-law-article-1.2580545

OH: Free of court oversight, Ohio youth prisons look to future
Associated Press – March 26, 2016
Guards at Ohio’s juvenile detention centers are now called youth specialists, and school uniforms are replacing prison garb during classes.
http://www.philly.com/philly/wires/ap/news/20160326_ap_4eb66e8210ce440d9708f1384740e408.html

OK: Facing the Facts, and Seeking Reform, in State’s Juvenile Justice System
Oklahoma Watch – March 28, 2016
When they gathered at the State Capitol last week, criminal justice experts seemingly had reason to celebrate: From 2001 to 2013, the number of Oklahoma juvenile offenders ordered by courts into the state’s secure detention centers dropped by 56 percent, slightly more than the national rate. But no one at Tuesday’;s meeting of juvenile justice officials, judges, prosecutors and legislators was trumpeting progress. Some of the reasons: — Questions remain about whether juveniles placed in community diversion or probation are getting the help they need to veer off a course of crime and addiction.
http://www.tahlequahdailypress.com/news/crime_courts/facing-the-facts-and-seeking-reform-in-state-s-juvenile/article_06a5d6c2-f399-11e5-98d3-bf565eda1679.html

OK: Intervention program helps foster parents, kids learn to cope
Muskogee Phoenix – March 27, 2016
Muskogee County has a very high rate of “blown placements” in the foster care system, said Melissa Shofner, the children’s services supervisor at Green Country Behavioral Health Services. Green Country’s Systems of Care, in collaboration with the Department of Human Services, provides a 24/7 intervention service to help de-escalate conflicts between foster children and foster parents, Shofner said.
http://www.muskogeephoenix.com/news/systems-of-care-help-foster-parents-kids-learn-to-cope/article_95f952bf-a498-5f2e-89bd-d03dc3c1caec.html

PA: For broken families, all the comforts of home (Includes video)
Morning Call – March 28, 2016
The atmosphere in the South Whitehall Township cottage, a project of the Lehigh County Office of Children and Youth Services and The Salvation Army Children’s Services, was carefully cultivated to encourage children and parents to relax. That’s because the families who meet there are broken and need a calm place to piece themselves back together.
http://www.mcall.com/news/local/whitehall/mc-lehigh-comfort-cottage-20160327-story.html

TN: Homeless youth in Nashville struggle as rents soar
SDPB – March 28, 2016
Perrin, for example, tells staff he’s slept in several places in the past month. The night before, it was a friend’s couch. He has had it even worse. He says he was abused and later rejected by family when he came out as gay. After foster care, it’s been six years of sporadic homelessness.
http://listen.sdpb.org/post/homeless-youth-nashville-struggle-rents-soar#stream/0

WA: Probe into discovery of baby prompts offers of alternatives to abandonment
HeraldNet – March 29, 2016
State and federal law aims to protect newborns whose mothers might feel overwhelmed. In Washington, mothers can leave their newborns with a staff member or volunteer at any manned fire station, rural clinic or hospital emergency room — no questions asked. Since the law took effect in Washington in 2002, Safe Place for Newborns of Washington has counted 55 babies turned over.
http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20160329/NEWS01/160328954/Probe-into-discovery-of-baby-prompts-offers-of-alternatives-to-abandonment–

US: Plenty of Blame to Go Around for Traumatic Removal of Six-Year-Old from Longtime Home (Opinion)
Chronicle of Social Change – March 29, 2016
On March 21, six-year-old Alexandria P. (“Lexi”) was carried screaming away from the home where she had lived for two-thirds of her life. This traumatic removal has drawn attention around the world to the negative consequences of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA). But careful study shows that ICWA is only part of the story.
https://chronicleofsocialchange.org/blogger-co-op/plenty-blame-go-around-traumatic-removal-six-year-old-longtime-home/16956

US: Evidence at the Crossroads: The Next Generation of Evidence-Based Policy (Opinion)
Philanthropy Digest News – March 28, 2016
The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) includes over eighty mentions of “evidence” and “evidence-based,” and a devolution of power to states and districts to implement those provisions. And earlier this month, the Evidence-Based Policymaking Commission Act, sponsored by Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI) and Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA), was approved by the Senate and the House in another display of cooperation. It is promising that at a time of heightened political rancor, evidence-based policy is finding bipartisan support. But the road ahead is still tenuous, and much will depend on whether the evidence movement can evolve. Here, I draw on the terrific ideas and insights from the authors of the series to suggest three steps for moving forward: focus on improvement, attend to bodies of evidence, and build state and local capacity for evidence use.
http://pndblog.typepad.com/pndblog/2016/03/evidence-at-the-crossroads-the-next-generation-of-evidence-based-policy.html

US: Foster Parents Should Grieve When a Child Leaves Their Family (Opinion)
Youth Today – March 28, 2016
The comment made to me the most by those who are not foster parents is: “I could not do what you do. It would hurt too much to give the children from foster care back.” As someone who has cared for more than 50 children in my home the last 13 years, as well as traveling the country speaking about the foster care system, I hear this several times a week. My response used to be “I understand.” Of late, though, I have a new and ready response: “That’s a good thing. It is supposed to hurt. Your heart is supposed to break!”
http://youthtoday.org/2016/03/foster-parents-should-grieve-when-a-child-leaves-their-family/

US: Marriage Equality Is the Law, but Assaults on LGBT Parenting (and Much More) Continue (Opinion)
Huffington Post – March 28, 2016
Even though marriage equality is now the law of the land, however – and even as we see positive developments like the recent Supreme Court decision supporting gay adoption rights – policies and practices are being promoted around our nation that impede (and sometimes prevent) members of the LGBT community from becoming parents to these waiting children. Other state efforts go even further, essentially representing a broader assault on LGBT people and their rights.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/adam-pertman/marriage-equality-is-the-law-but-assaults_b_9540466.html

US: My Plea to Tech Leaders on Behalf of 400,000 Kids (Opinion)
Huffington Post – March 28, 2016
Here is my plea to the tech leaders who have brought us apps that make it possible for strangers to hook up with a simple swipe, websites that help people find love by matching their interests and values and social networks that allow us to share our random thoughts, food pics, political musings and numerous memes with friends we haven’t seen in 20 years. I am calling on all of them to dedicate some of their brain power, time and financial resources to these foster children who desperately need our help.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/danielle-gletow/my-plea-to-tech-leaders-o_b_9550782.html?utm_hp_ref=technology&ir=Technology

US: Staggering Sentences and the Children of Incarcerated Parents
Huffington Post – March 28, 2016
Giudice and her husband were allowed to stagger their sentences so that at least one parent was home with their daughters at all times. The instances where staggered sentences have been used reveals that they are an exercise of judicial discretion usually reserved for wealthy defendants. Often only fortunate people can keep their children out of a system where poverty and law seem to work together to separate children from incarcerated parents.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/chandra-bozelko/staggering-sentences-and-_b_9548156.html

US: To Help Newborns Dependent On Opioids, Hospitals Rethink Mom’s Role (Includes audio)
WCBE – March 26, 2016
These fragile and fitful newborns present new challenges for hospitals. Some research suggests the children do best when they can be held for hours at a time, preferably by their mothers, in quiet, private rooms, as they go through the process of being weaned off the drugs. But delivering care that way requires changing the attitudes of many doctors and nurses about addiction.
http://wcbe.org/post/help-newborns-dependent-opioids-hospitals-rethink-moms-role#stream/0

INTERNATIONAL

Australia: NSW government tackles adoption ‘bottleneck’
Sydney Morning Herald – March 29, 2016
Long delays are partly responsible for Australia’s historically low rate of adoption, with only 87 NSW children adopted by their carers last year despite the number of children in out-of-home care ballooning to almost 20,000.
http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/nsw-government-tackles-adoption-bottleneck-20160328-gns6zf.html

South Sudan: Campaign against children in armed conflict kicks off in Torit
Relief Web – March 22, 2016
The team leader of the UNMISS Child Protection Unit (CPU) and representatives from the Mission’s Communication and Public Information Section (CPIS) paid a visit to Hope for South Sudan Orphanage in Motti South West of Torit town. The visit was structured by the Child Protection Unit as part of its campaign against the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict.
http://reliefweb.int/report/south-sudan/campaign-against-children-armed-conflict-kicks-torit

MUT Team answers call for children traumatized by violence

WDJT

It can be domestic violence, a shooting or car crash, experts said witnessing trauma impacts a child’s future, especially if it’s ignored or accepted as the …

Child abuse victim tells of trial trauma

NEWS.com.au

He found some lines of questioning derogatory and said he did not think victims of child abuse should ever be asked questions like “did you dress …

Child abuse victim tells of trial trauma – The Australian (subscription) (blog)

Child abuse victim tells of trial trauma – 9news.com.au

Deputies: Baby suffers broken ribs, head injury in child abuse case

Kokomo Tribune

Deputies and the Indiana Department of Child Services immediately launched an investigation and traveled to the trauma center, where they …

Novel offers a rich, multi-layered look at lingering childhood trauma

Toronto Star

Shelter, a debut novel by Jung Yun, at first seems to be an unoriginal tale of domestic drudgery and financial woe. Those are the rather commonplace …

The Trauma Inflicted by Child Sex Predators

Brain Blogger (blog)

Second, an article appearing in the New York Times written by Frank Bruni and published this past week, explores the impact of child sex predators in …

The ‘Silent Epidemic’ of Child Trauma

The Chronicle of Social Change

The Chronicle of Social Change: You’ve described child trauma as a “silent epidemic.” Why is this the case and how did you come to see it this way?

Tulsa Parents Arrested For Child Neglect, Admit To Using Meth

News On 6

Samantha and Clinton Harvey were arrested on child neglect charges after saying their four-month-old baby had bad injuries to the head and face, …

Jacksonville woman arrested for child neglect

Firstcoastnews.com

Terrvahnda Rock, 23, was arrested February on child neglect and child abuse charges following an incident that led to the injury of a minor.

Babysitter charged with child abuse in girl’s October injuries – ActionNewsJax.com

 

Princeton woman convicted of child neglect charges Wednesday

West Virginia MetroNews

PRINCETON, W.Va. — A Mercer County jury took about two hours to convict a Princeton woman charged with child neglect on Wednesday. Christina …

Mother of shaken baby found guilty of neglect – Bluefield Daily Telegraph

Mother found guilty of neglect in case of blinded, brain-damaged infant – Bluefield Daily Telegraph

A jury reached a verdict in the case against a mother in Mercer County on March 23, 2016 – WVNS-TV

Couple arrested for suspected child neglect

KTUL

TULSA (KTUL) — A husband and wife are in the Tulsa County Jail after being arrested for alleged child neglect. Clinton Harvey, 32, and Samantha …

 

Tulsa Woman Gets Prison In Child Neglect, Unlicensed Daycare Case

News On 6

A judge sent a woman to prison Monday for child neglect and running a daycare without a license. The judge sentenced Chelsea Day to three years in …

Former day care provider sentenced in neglect case – KOKI FOX 23

Tulsa woman sentenced to prison in unlicensed day care case – news9.com KWTV

Tulsa woman sentenced to prison in unlicensed day care case – KRMG

 

Mom of Ceres child neglect suspect: This is what drugs do

KCRA Sacramento

The mother of a woman suspected of keeping her two young daughters in deplorable conditions said this isn’t the girl she used to know. In the middle …

 

Blood, faeces and maggots were found in Forfar child neglect house

The Courier

An Angus woman has admitted wilfully neglecting children aged 3 and 1 who were found in a house with blood and faeces-stained carpet, exposed …

Man suing county after court reverses decision on child homicide charge

WMBF

The court found that while there was evidence that Palmer and Gorman were both around when the child sustained trauma that left him in a vegetative …

Two from Hartsville charged with child neglect after infants test positive for drugs

WPDE

Sharkill Robinson and Malinda Phillips, who have both been charged with child neglect after their small children tested positive for drugs. (Photos from …

 

Mother And Father Plead Guilty To Child Neglect

98.5 WBOW

Vermillion County, Ind (WIBQ) A guilty plea has been entered for a Clinton mother and father accused of neglecting their children. Danielle and John …

 

Members Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Efforts Preventing Child Abuse and Neglect

Education & The Workforce – U.S. House of Representatives

WASHINGTON, D.C. | March 23, 2016 – Members of the Committee on Education and the Workforce today introduced the Improving Safe Care for the …

Effects of child abuse and neglect on adult survivors

Taylor & Francis Online

Child abuse has profound immediate and long-term effects on a child’s development. The long-term impact of abuse of a child can be seen in higher …

 

XCLUSIVE: Push to improve laws on child abuse reporting in New York private, religious schools

New York Daily News

Advocates are pushing for new legislation in Albany that aims to improve the reporting of child abuse in New York State’s private and religious schools …

Livingston County child abuse cases spike 73%

Detroit Free Press

Child poverty and abuse rates continue to climb, wreaking havoc in Livingston County. According to the 2016 Kids Count in Michigan report released …

 

AZ: Nearly 12,000 child abuse and maltreatment cases in Arizona have languished for 60 days or more without action or resolution
Cronkite News – March 24, 2016
The Arizona Department of Child Safety has failed to resolve nearly 12,000 cases of alleged abuse or neglect that have been open for at least 60 days without an investigation or services being provided to a potential victim, according to a Cronkite News review of the state’s most recent numbers.
https://cronkitenews.azpbs.org/2016/03/24/arizona-dcs/

CA: Family Files Appeal to Keep Girl Who is 1/64 Native American
Eastern University Waltonian – March 25, 2016
The Page family in Santa Clarita appealed Tuesday to the state’s highest court in their fight to keep a 6-year-old foster child who was removed from their home and sent to live with relatives in Utah.
http://waltonian.com/2016/03/california-family-files-appeal-to-keep-girl-who-is-1-64/

CA: Choctaw Nation issues statement on child custody dispute
Durant Daily Democrat – March 24, 2016
The Choctaw Nation issued a press release regarding a recent custodial dispute over a 6-year-old girl in California between the girl’s foster parents and the family of the child’s biological father. Statement: http://indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com/2016/03/24/choctaw-nation-responds-foster-couple-icwa-case-163901 Also: Hundreds rally to protest ruling in foster case: http://www.signalscv.com/section/36/article/150314/
http://durantdemocrat.com/news/4055/choctaw-nation-issues-statement-on-child-custody-dispute

CO: Report: GJPD sees rise in child sex crime, child abuse (Includes video)
KKCO-TV – March 24, 2016
An annual crime report released by the Grand Junction Police Department shows a 45-percent increase in child abuse and child sexual assault cases.
http://www.nbc11news.com/content/news/GJPD-Report-Increase-in-child-sex-crime-and-abuse–373513751.html

MD: Lawmakers move to withhold funding from juvenile services as debate over strip-search and shackle policies intensifies
Baltimore Sun – March 24, 2016
Maryland lawmakers are moving to withhold $1 million from the state’s juvenile justice budget as they await answers from the department about the routine use of strip searches and shackles on youths in state custody.
http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/maryland/sun-investigates/bs-md-strip-shackle-hearing-20160323-story.html

ME: Legislative committee splits on welfare reforms
Sun-Journal – March 24, 2016
Lawmakers split along party lines repeatedly Thursday as they debated and voted on a series of bills aimed at reforming the state’s welfare system.
http://www.sunjournal.com/news/maine/2016/03/24/maine-legislature-committee-splits-welfare-reforms/1894949

MI: Mich. appeals court rules “unfit” parent can’t block kids’ vaccination
Michigan Public Radio – March 24, 2016
Parents who’ve been judged to be “unfit” during child protection proceedings cannot prevent the vaccination of their children on religious grounds, according to a 3-0 decision this week by a Michigan Court of Appeals panel.
http://michiganradio.org/post/mich-appeals-court-rules-unfit-parent-cant-block-kids-vaccination#stream/0

MT: Guest opinion: Frontline perspective on Montana child protection woes
Billings Gazette – March 25, 2016
Turnover in Yellowstone County went from 5 percent to 42 percent. CPS workers and supervisors highly qualified and experienced who had been with the agency for years began to leave.
http://billingsgazette.com/news/opinion/guest/guest-opinion-frontline-perspective-on-montana-child-protection-woes/article_3d3e3a27-0dc9-5ce7-8025-87f861c9302f.html

NJ: Christie’s veto of ‘Leah’s Law’ shows disregard for state workers’ lives | Opinion
NJ.com – March 24, 2016
Christie claims the bill would cost $250 million, but the non-partisan Office of Legislative Services says it would only cost $11 million. He claims we’re calling for 850 officers, plus support staff and supervisors. However, it only takes 50 officers to get the job done.
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2016/03/christies_veto_of_leahs_law_shows_disregard_for_st.html

NJ: Rutgers program provides homes to foster children
Daily Targum – March 24, 2016
A Rutgers program is helping students in the child welfare system who do not have a home during the summer by providing a number of summer housing and internships opportunities.
http://www.dailytargum.com/article/2016/03/rutgers-program-provides-homes-to-welfare-children

UT: LDS Church named in lawsuit alleging sexual abuse of Navajo children in foster program (Includes video)
Fox 13 – March 24, 2016
The allegations stem from a foster care program formerly carried out by the LDS Church and its subsidiaries called the “Indian Placement Program” or the “Lamanite Placement Program” (LPP). The two plaintiffs, a brother and sister, state they and another sibling experienced abuse while in the program in Utah from 1976-1983.
http://fox13now.com/2016/03/24/lds-church-named-in-lawsuit-alleging-sexual-abuse-of-navajo-children-in-foster-program/

US: Abuse in Foster Care: The Denial Runs Deep (Opinion)
The Chronicle of Social Change – March 24, 2016
Of course, there are plenty of horror stories about how children are treated by their own parents. In fact, the current child welfare system was largely built on such stories. When anecdotes collide, it’s time to look at the data.
https://chronicleofsocialchange.org/blogger-co-op/abuse-foster-care-denial-runs-deep/16834

US: Capriza Will Save KVC Health Systems More Than 800,000 Hours Per Year By Modernizing Its Digital Applications (Press release)
PRNewswire – March 24, 2016
Capriza, the leader in business application modernization, will help employees of behavioral healthcare and child welfare leader KVC Health Systems save approximately 75 minutes a day each by enabling HIPAA-compliant mobile reporting capabilities.
http://quotes.stocknod.com/stocknod/news/read?GUID=31781480

US: House Bills Seek to Improve Out-of-state Foster Placements, Infant Welfare
Youth Today – March 24, 2016
A bipartisan group of federal lawmakers want to reduce the time foster youth spend waiting for a placement across state lines.
http://youthtoday.org/2016/03/house-bills-seek-to-improve-out-of-state-foster-placements-infant-welfare/

INTERNATIONAL

Japan: Child abuse cases reach record high in 2015: police
The Japan Times – March 24, 2016
A record-high 37,020 minors aged under 18 were sent to child welfare authorities as suspected victims of child abuse in 2015, up 28.0 percent from the previous year, police reported Thursday.
http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2016/03/24/national/crime-legal/child-abuse-cases-reach-record-high-2015-police/

Met police child abuse detective charged with child sex offences

The Guardian

A detective working in a child abuse investigation unit has been charged with child sex offences. Metropolitan police detective constable Chris …

Cop who investigates child abuse is himself charged with child sex offences – RT

Detective Chris Maitland working in child abuse investigation unit charged with child sex offences – Metro

Top cop working on child abuse investigation charged with child sex offences

March 24

 

Commission: US Lacks Strategies to Lower Child Abuse Deaths

ABC News

The United States lacks coherent, effective strategies for reducing the stubbornly high number of children who die each year from abuse and neglect, …

Report outlines how to prevent abuse and neglect to save children’s lives – PBS NewsHour

The Commission to Eliminate Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities (CECANF) today released its final … – PR Newswire (press release)

Child Abuse Fatalities Commission Staggers to a Close – Youth Today

Bellevue Man Charged with Child Abuse, Domestic Violence

Wncy

GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – A Bellevue man is facing trial for allegedly abusing his children because, “they made a mess in the house.” 26-year-old …

Value of systematic detection of physical child abuse at emergency rooms

BMJ Open

Objectives The aim of our diagnostic accuracy study Child Abuse Inventory at Emergency Rooms (CHAIN-ER) was to establish whether a widely used …

Cardboard cutouts spark conversation on child abuse

KSAT San Antonio

SAN ANTONIO – April is Child Abuse Awareness Month and once again Childsafe plans to bring the conversation about children harmed at the hands …

Baby’s aunt charged with child abuse, neglect

WJXT Jacksonville

Nearly five months after a baby girl was injured while being watched by her aunt, the woman was arrested and charged with aggravated child abuse …

Norfolk Woman Facing Felony Child Abuse Makes her First Appearance in Court

News Channel Nebraska

NORFOLK, NE – A Norfolk woman appeared in Madison County Court Thursday to charges of felony child abuse. 21-year old Carla Montoya was …

Report: US lacks policy to reduce child abuse deaths

Detroit Free Press

NEW YORK — The U.S. lacks coherent, effective strategies for reducing the high number of children who die each year from abuse and neglect, …

Commission: US lacks strategies to lower child abuse deaths – San Francisco Chronicle

Commission: US lacks strategies to lower child abuse deaths – The Sentinel

Rubén Rosario: Suffer the little children … – TwinCities.com-Pioneer Press

 

Noah Thomas case: Father seeks to exclude evidence of child’s death

Roanoke Times

The father of Noah Thomas is asking a judge to exclude evidence of the boy’s death as his trial is scheduled to begin Wednesday. Lindsay Honeycutt …

 

Mom in child death receives new trial

Boston Herald

ANOTHER CHANCE: Kristen A. LaBrie, shown at her arraignment in 2009, was granted a new trial on charges of attempted murder in the death of her …

 

Mother of missing children tied to child death

The Albany Herald

Three children reported missing Wednesday evening, from left, Jaleel Garrison, Amyelle Garrison, and Kamella Gibson, have been found and are now …

Cause of death still undetermined in child death investigation – WFXL FOX 31

Child abductions linked to Albany baby death – WFXL FOX 31

Fugitive arrested in Marion; mom fled Georgia after child found dead – Ocala

 

 

Video: Foster mother charged in child’s death

Sioux Falls Argus Leader

A Sioux Falls woman faces several charges including murder in the January death of a 2-year-old child. Mary Beth Jennewein, 32, was the child’s …

 

 

South Carolina mom charged with child’s death

WJCL News

LANCASTER, S.C. (AP) –A Lancaster mother has been charged with homicide by child abuse after officials say her daughter was bludgeoned to …

Mother charged with homicide by child abuse in 2013 death of daughter, 5 – Charlotte Observer

Child’s mother charged in death – Lancaster News

Mother whose daughter was bludgeoned to death in 2013 charged – News Talk 94.3

AK: I’m white. My kids are Native. It matters. (Opinion)
Alaska Dispatch News – March 23, 2016
According to the National Child Indian Welfare Association, “Native families are the most likely to have children removed from their homes as a first resort, and the least likely to be offered family support interventions intended to keep children within the home.” Pt. 1 of 2. Also: Part 1: Does it matter?: http://www.adn.com/article/20160320/im-white-my-kids-are-native-does-it-matter
http://www.adn.com/article/20160323/im-white-my-kids-are-native-it-matters

CA: Guest commentary: When possible, foster parents should adopt family too
Bay Area News Group – March 23, 2016
The child welfare system is complicated and difficult to navigate. The overarching principle should remain firmly focused on the best interests of the child. This cannot happen unless the people involved communicate with each other and resolve to work as a team.
http://www.contracostatimes.com/opinion/ci_29676055/guest-commentary-when-possible-foster-parents-should-adopt

CA: Lisa Smittcamp: We must confront Fresno child-abuse crisis (Opinion)
Fresno Bee – March 23, 2016
We need to develop a plan to substantially expand the availability of home visiting offered through evidence-based home visiting programs like the Nurse-Family Partnership.
http://www.fresnobee.com/opinion/readers-opinion/article67773597.html

CA: Monterey County child protective services responds to state report
Monterey Herald – March 23, 2016
Following the abuse and torture of three children that led to two deaths last year, the Monterey County Department of Social Services began implementing more changes to its child welfare division this month and submitted a report to the state. Article outlining key recommendations in report: http://www.montereyherald.com/article/NF/20160224/NEWS/160229864
http://www.montereyherald.com/general-news/20160323/monterey-county-child-protective-services-responds-to-state-report

CA: Yolo County supervisor’s story forces a hard look at foster care (Opinion) (Includes video)
The Sacramento Bee – March 23, 2016
Never mentioning Bonus Toddler’s name or details of the case, Rexroad offered a foster parent’s eye view of the child welfare system. Using PowerPoint and his persuasive powers, Rexroad explained that Yolo County has an outdated procedure for determining whether to reunite a family. There is, he said, no evidence that parenting courses of the sort required by Yolo County do any good.
http://www.sacbee.com/opinion/opn-columns-blogs/dan-morain/article67908397.html

FL: Detert adoption bill becomes law (Includes audio)
Sarasota Herald-Tribune – March 23, 2016
The bill gives judges the discretion to decide who is best fit to adopt a child – such as a foster family – in certain instances instead of automatically honoring a birth parent’s wishes.
http://politics.heraldtribune.com/2016/03/23/detert-adoption-bill-becomes-law/

FL: Rape Kits Testing, Adoption Changes Among Bills Gov. Scott Signed Into Law (Includes audio)
WFSU – March 23, 2016
Governor Rick Scott has signed a number of measures into law, including one aimed at helping address Florida’s backlog of untested rape kits. It’s a major priority for Attorney General Pam Bondi.
http://news.wfsu.org/post/rape-kits-testing-adoption-changes-among-bills-gov-scott-signed-law

LA: Children’s advocacy group gives legislative update
The News Star – March 23, 2016
Sherry Guarisco, executive director of the Louisiana Partnership for Children and Families, presented a synopsis of the budget issues that face the state and suggested legislation that could affect services if passed. She encouraged the audience to advocate programs that benefit Louisiana families and provided lists of contact points within the administration and other groups who are working toward the same goals.
http://www.thenewsstar.com/story/news/local/louisiana/2016/03/23/childrens-advocacy-group-gives-legislative-update/82182104/

MA: Number of newborns addicted to opioids skyrockets in Massachusetts
Boston Business Journal – March 23, 2016
As the opioid epidemic rages on in Massachusetts, taking thousands of lives each year, the state is taking stock of a new victim: newborns. Also: FDA Adds Black-Box Warning To Opioids (Requires free registration): http://www.law360.com/publicpolicy/articles/774726?nl_pk=8715ed2c-933a-4780-9406-78279424133f&utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=publicpolicy Information Gateway resource: Parental Substance Abuse: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/can/factors/contribute/parentcaregiver/substance/
http://www.bizjournals.com/boston/blog/health-care/2016/03/number-of-newborns-addicted-to-opioids-skyrockets.html

ME: Maine saves more than $89 million through welfare reforms (Press release)
Maine Department of Human Services (Maine.gov) – March 23, 2016
Some of the primary areas where DHHS is utilizing resources include increased TANF funding for child welfare and foster care, domestic violence supports and tax credits for low-income individuals. Using TANF funds in this way also creates opportunities to save state funds.
http://www.maine.gov/tools/whatsnew/index.php?topic=Portal+News&id=672690&v=article-2015

NY: Staten Island, and the nation, would suffer without immigrants (Commentary)
SILive – March 23, 2016
Without Deferred Action, and ultimately national immigration reform, the American born children of undocumented immigrants can end up in an already overburdened the foster care system. Preservation of the family is a life-affirming family value we would all agree is worth upholding.
http://www.silive.com/news/index.ssf/2016/03/staten_island_and_the_nation_w.html

OH: Ruling Expected on Capping Awards for Juvenile Sexual Abuse Victims (Includes audio)
Public News Service – March 24, 2016
An Ohio Supreme Court decision is expected soon that could impact the amount of financial compensation child sexual abuse victims can receive. The case involves a rape victim whose $3.5 million award from a jury for pain and suffering was reduced nearly 90 percent due to maximum amounts set by state law.
http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2016-03-24/criminal-justice/ohio-ruling-expected-on-capping-awards-for-juvenile-sexual-abuse-victims/a51003-1

OK: Cuts to child abuse prevention program impact 700 Oklahoma families (Includes video)
KOCO – March 23, 2016
After the state of Oklahoma’s recent revenue failures, several state programs are on the chopping block.
http://www.koco.com/news/Cuts-to-child-abuse-prevention-program-impact-700-Oklahoma-families/38665298

OR: KIDS Center, MountainStar mark Child Abuse Prevention Month
KTVZ – March 23, 2016
KIDS Center (Kids Intervention and Diagnostic Service Center) and MountainStar Family Relief Nursery will kick off the Blue Ribbon Campaign on April 1. The Blue Ribbon Campaign coincides with April’s “National Child Abuse Prevention Month.”
http://www.ktvz.com/news/kids-center-mountainstar-mark-child-abuse-prevention-month/38658746

PA: Legislators say PA adoption law is “archaic” (Includes video)
FOX 43 – March 23, 2016
Under the current state law a parent can claim their child back 20 days after they sign their rights away. Petri wants to change that to 96 hours.
http://fox43.com/2016/03/23/legislators-say-pa-adoption-law-is-archaic/

PA: Innovative program aims to mend broken lives of foster kids (Video)
Public Broadcasting Service – March 22, 2016
For kids growing up in foster care, personal traumas and frequent moves from home-to-home and school-to-school have led to grim educational outcomes. Only about half finish high school, and of that group only 20 percent go on to college. The NewsHour’s April Brown reports from Pittsburgh on one effort to improve lives and opportunities for children in the system.
http://www.pbs.org/video/2365698903/

TN: Lawmakers Discontinue Controversial Fetal Assault Law (Includes audio)
National Public Radio – March 23, 2016
A one-of-a-kind statute that criminalized drug use by pregnant women is now on track to expire in Tennessee. Blake Farmer of member station WPLN reports that the so-called fetal assault law didn’t work as planned.
http://www.npr.org/2016/03/23/471622159/tennessee-lawmakers-discontinue-controversial-fetal-assault-law

TN: Transgender Bathroom Bill Dies in Tennessee House Committee
Associated Press – March 22, 2016
A bill that would require transgender students to use bathrooms that match their sex at birth failed in Tennessee on Tuesday. The bill died in a House committee meeting packed with transgender youth who opposed the measure, some of whom testified before the committee.
http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/transgender-bathroom-bill-dies-tennessee-house-committee-37849514

TX: County going blue for child abuse prevention
Banner-Herald – March 23, 2016
The Hunt County Children’s Advocacy Center, part of the Crisis Center of Northeast Texas, helps coordinate teams of representatives from law enforcement, prosecution, child protective services and the medical profession in conducting investigations into reported child abuse cases while striving to lessen the potential trauma on the victims.
http://www.heraldbanner.com/news/county-going-blue-for-child-abuse-prevention/article_244d4a0c-f0b5-11e5-8646-db1e87fbf5f5.html

TX: Lawmakers Move Forth to Reform State Foster Care System (Includes video)
Time Warner Cable News – March 23, 2016
The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals rejected the state’s attempt to slow those reforms earlier this week. It also allowed a lower court judge to appoint two child welfare advocates called Special Masters who will oversee the process.
http://www.twcnews.com/tx/austin/news/2016/03/23/lawmakers-move-forth-to-reform-state-foster-care-system.html

VA: Adoptees pushing for access to medical history of birth parents (Includes video)
WSLS – March 23, 2016
Imagine being blocked from information that could be critical to your health. Some adoptees believe state laws are doing just that. For instance, in Virginia, certain adoptees have limited access to details about their birth family.
http://wsls.com/2016/03/23/adoptees-pushing-for-access-to-medical-history-of-birth-parents/

VT: Why are so many Vt. child abuse cases dropped? (Includes video)
WCAX – March 23, 2016
Monday, Allen Draper pleaded guilty to four felonies for hurting the baby, making threats and violating abuse prevention orders. Vt. Superior Court Judge Michael Kainen sentenced him to just 30 days behind bars, pointing out Allen Draper was quick to own up to the crimes, and he suffers a medical condition that would make jail difficult. The sentence highlights a trend in Vermont child abuse cases.
http://www.wcax.com/story/31549606/why-are-so-many-vt-child-abuse-cases-dropped

US: Ending Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities, A National Strategy (Opinion)
The Chronicle of Social Change – March 23, 2016
Each of those of us who served on the Commission cares deeply about the work we were undertaking. Over the two years, we heard testimony from more than 120 individuals and organizations at public hearings held in 12 communities. We received and reviewed testimony from more than 90 additional organizations. We reviewed existing research, data, state and federal legislation impacting this issue.
https://chronicleofsocialchange.org/featured/ending-child-abuse-and-neglect-fatalities-a-national-strategy/16853

INTERNATIONAL

Canada: ‘A Good Start’: Trudeau Allocates Unprecedented $8.4 Billion to Indigenous Peoples in 2016 Budget
Indian Country Today – March 23, 2016
“The budget begins to address decades of underfunding and neglect, which have perpetuated a growing gap in the quality of life between First Nations and other Canadians,” said AFN National Chief Perry Bellegarde in the statement. “This budget invests in important priorities for First Nations and all Canadians. Investments in housing, clean water, education, and child welfare will bring long-needed relief for those living in third world conditions, and build a stronger economy for everyone.”
http://indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com/2016/03/23/good-start-trudeau-allocates-unprecedented-84-billion-indigenous-2016-budget-163896

Canada: Liberals under fire on child welfare
DurhamRegion.com – March 23, 2016
The federal government is determined to overhaul the First Nations child welfare system, Indigenous Affairs Minister Carolyn Bennett says–even as critics focused on the issue say the budget fell well short of what’s needed.
http://www.durhamregion.com/news-story/6403106-liberals-under-fire-on-child-welfare/

Jamaica: Gov’t to review residential child care facilities
Jamaica Observer – March 23, 2016
The Government is to undertake a strategic review of its residential child care facilities, to strengthen the services provided for children in State care.
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Gov-t-to-review-residential-child-care-facilities

Trinidad and Tobago: Child abuse, sex crimes increase during vacation
Trinidad Express – March 23, 2016
The number of child abuse and child molestation cases increase during vacation periods and the Children’s Authority is once again appealing to parents and guardians to protect children as the Easter vacation begins.
http://www.trinidadexpress.com/20160323/news/child-abuse-sex-crimes-increase-during-vacation

United Kingdom: Families ‘pushed into child protection system by cuts’
BBC News – March 23, 2016
Struggling families are being pushed into the child protection system because early intervention services are not available, MPs have heard.
http://www.bbc.com/news/education-35881196

United Kingdom: Police chief to step down after force’s handling of child abuse cases criticised
Belfast Telegraph – March 23, 2016
Mr Crompton’s four year tenure as chief constable has been plagued by a series of high profile problems, many of which began well before he joined the force in 2012.
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/uk/police-chief-to-step-down-after-forces-handling-of-child-abuse-cases-criticised-34568628.html

Baltimore cop caught slapping student on video charged with child abuse

Raw Story

BALTIMORE — Two Baltimore school police officers who were caught on video as one of them repeatedly slapped a student outside a city high school …

 

Chesco DA: Dramatic jump in child–abuse cases

Philly.com

In the years since Jerry Sandusky’s sexual-abuse convictions, reports of child abuse in Chester County have increased sixfold, the District Attorney’s …

Chester County DA: Reports of child abuse skyrocketing – PhillyVoice.com

Number of Reported Cases of Child Abuse Rises in Chester County – NBC 10 Philadelphia

“Child abuse has skyrocketed since Sanduky,” local DA says – WGAL Lancaster

Child abuse cases in Berks up 190 percent since 2014, DA says

WFMZ Allentown

“We hired two additional detectives for our child abuse unit as a result of this uptick in a number of cases,” Adams said. “We are not seeing this level off …

Last member of Archuleta family sentenced in child abuse case

KSAT San Antonio

SAN ANTONIO – Before he sentenced Tim Archuleta to 20 years in prison in a shocking child abuse and starvation case, District Judge Ron Rangel …

Man gets 20-years in child abuse case – FOX 29

Commission: US lacks strategies to lower child abuse deaths

The Big Story – Associated Press

NEW YORK (AP) — The United States lacks coherent, effective strategies for reducing the stubbornly high number of children who die each year from …

Legislation Speeds Up Child Abuse Reporting Process

ROCK 107 WIRX

The governor has signed into law a bill to help speed up the process of reporting child abuse.?The measure would require the state to implement an …

 

Maine to require training of child abuse reporters

Shoreline Media Group

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — A Maine bill requiring training for people mandated to report suspected child abuse is headed to Gov. Paul LePage for his …

Kline Questions Burwell on Efforts to Prevent Child Abuse and Neglect

Education & The Workforce – U.S. House of Representatives

WASHINGTON, D.C. | March 15, 2016 – Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia Mathews Burwell is testifying before the Committee on …

 

Family Reacts to Norfolk Child Abuse Case

News Channel Nebraska

NORFOLK, NE — A weekend child abuse incident has rocked Norfolk after 21-year old Carla Montoya was arrested on charges of felony child abuse …

CA: California Returns Child to Family in ICWA Case

Indian Country Today – March 22, 2016
On Monday, March 21, pandemonium broke out in Santa Clarita, California, at the home of foster couple Summer and Russell Page as social workers from the Department of Children and Family Services arrived to pick up a 6-year-old girl who was being held by the couple in defiance of a court ordering her returned to relatives after a five-year custody battle. At 2:45 p.m. PST, the sobbing girl was carried to a vehicle and whisked away as dozens of media outlets and protesters looked on, bringing an end to a stand-off over the child’s custody that had made headlines around the world. Also: NICWA Supports Safe Transition in California ICWA Case (Press release): http://myemail.constantcontact.com/NICWA-Supports-Safe-Transition-in-California-ICWA-Case.html?soid=1102238947047&aid=07_RaZRiu6U Also: Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978: http://www.nicwa.org/Indian_Child_Welfare_Act/ Information Gateway resource: Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA): https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/systemwide/diverse-populations/americanindian/icwa/
http://indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com/2016/03/22/breaking-california-returns-child-family-icwa-case-163881

CA: Custody case of Native American girl appealed to high court
Associated Press – March 22, 2016
Also: A 6-Year-Old Part-Choctaw Girl was Taken from Foster Parents After a Custody Battle (Includes video): http://www.parentherald.com/articles/30869/20160322/6-year-old-part-choctaw-girl-foster-parents-custody-battle.htm Also: It’s Time for These Foster Parents to Let Their Little Girl Go (Opinion): http://thestir.cafemom.com/politics_views/196825/its_time_for_these_foster Also: In Choctaw girl’s custody case, lessons for grown-ups (Opinion): http://www.presstelegram.com/opinion/20160322/in-choctaw-girls-custody-case-lessons-for-grown-ups
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-3505014/Custody-case-Choctaw-girl-6-appealed-high-court.html

CA: Three county programs move downtown
Redding Record Searchlight – March 22, 2016
Three county programs opened their doors Monday morning at their new location in the Market Street Promenade in downtown Redding. The programs, Women, Infants and Children (WIC), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance–Education (SNAP-Ed) and Nurse Family Partnership programs are now located at The Atrium, at 1670 Market St. and occupy suites 300 and 242.
http://www.redding.com/news/local/three-county-programs-move-downtown-2e92e935-a931-4715-e053-0100007fbc11-373154281.html

GA: Global Impact plans to use Southeast Elementary School as foster parent hub
Rome News-Tribune – March 22, 2016
Global Impact International has gotten a 15-year lease on the school building to create a hub for social service groups seeking to combat a foster care crisis in Floyd County. Seven-percent of the Floyd County children in foster care are placed with families outside of Floyd County, many of them deep in South Georgia.
http://www.northwestgeorgianews.com/rome/news/local/global-impact-plans-to-use-southeast-elementary-school-as-foster/article_5d9f4e40-efde-11e5-90a2-bfa6f86be191.html

ID: Foster care reform bill moves forward (Includes video)
KTVB – March 22, 2016
The Idaho Senate unanimously approved the foster care reform bill Tuesday that has already been approved by the House. Because the Senate made amendments, the bill won’t go to the governor’s desk until the House gives its final stamp of approval, but it appears foster care reform has begun in Idaho.
http://www.ktvb.com/news/local/capitol-watch/foster-care-reform-bill-moves-forward/97139669

KY: House OKs enhanced foster care protections
Courier-Journal – March 22, 2016
A bill meant to improve protection of children in state foster care passed the House on an 89-6 vote Tuesday. House Bill 538, sponsored by Rep. Linda Belcher, a Shepherdsville Democrat, is designed to address the plight of three young foster children in her district that a family is seeking to adopt.
http://www.courier-journal.com/story/news/politics/ky-legislature/2016/03/22/ky-house-oks-enhanced-foster-care-protections/82136998/

MA: Child advocates urge Massachusetts House to move on re-homing bill
State House News Service – March 22, 2016
After notching a victory in the Senate months ago, child welfare advocates on Tuesday pushed House leadership to move forward on ending the practice of transferring adopted children into new homes outside of the legal system.
http://www.milforddailynews.com/article/20160322/NEWS/160328571

ME: Plan announced to address Franklin County child abuse and neglect
Franklin Sun Journal – March 22, 2016
After months of seeking input on the root causes and risk factors associated with Franklin County’s high rate of child abuse, a plan based on education and support is ready to launch April 1.
http://www.sunjournal.com/news/franklin/2016/03/22/plan-announced-address-franklin-county-child-abuse-and-neglect/1893624

MT: Attorney: Child and Family Services specialists need to better understand tribes
Helena Independent Record – March 23, 2016
State child protective specialists who are called out on cases that involve American Indian children don’t always comply with federal laws meant to protect enrolled tribal members, an advocate told a committee here Tuesday.
http://helenair.com/news/state-and-regional/attorney-child-and-protective-services-specialists-need-to-better-understand/article_1bfa9bf3-68aa-571b-b11b-d3106a063e9b.html

NC: Social workers forge ‘solutions out of challenges’
The Courier-Tribune – March 22, 2016
Social workers daily embody this year’s theme, “Forging Solutions Out of Challenges,” by helping individuals, communities and society solve issues. The profession’s primary mission is to enhance well-being and help meet the basic needs of people, especially the most vulnerable in society.
http://courier-tribune.com/news/local/social-workers-forge-solutions-out-challenges

OH: Events set Child Abuse Prevention Month in April
The Marion Star – March 22, 2016
Marion County Children Services is planning events to reach out to and educate the community during Child Abuse Prevention Month, which is observed in April.
http://www.marionstar.com/story/news/2016/03/22/events-set-child-abuse-prevention-month-april/82076900/

PA: Can an innovative Pittsburgh program help repair the broken lives of foster kids? (Includes video)
PBS Newshour – March 22, 2016
For kids growing up in foster care, personal traumas and frequent moves from home-to-home and school-to-school have led to grim educational outcomes. Only about half finish high school and of that group, only 20 percent go on to college. The NewsHour’s April Brown reports from Pittsburgh on one effort to improve lives and opportunities for children in the system.
http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/can-an-innovative-pittsburgh-program-help-repair-the-broken-lives-of-foster-kids/

PA: Can big data save these children?
PBS Newshour – March 22, 2016
Cherna brought to Allegheny County a culture of transparency and openness, said David Sanders, who oversees systems improvement for Casey Family Programs, one of the nation’s largest foster care organizations. He embraced data and encouraged staff to do the same, he added, laying the groundwork for more evidence-based decision-making. Still, Cherna says he’s only scratched the surface when it comes to improving the foster care system. The next critical step, he believes, relies on a concept known as predictive analytics: using data to anticipate trouble before it happens. Also: Can technology help prevent child welfare tragedies? (Includes video): http://abc27.com/2016/03/22/can-technology-help-prevent-child-welfare-tragedies/
http://www.pbs.org/newshour/updates/can-big-data-save-these-children/

TX: Texas foster care overhaul moves forward after pair of court rulings
Houston Chronicle – March 22, 2016
Texas unwillingly took another step toward an overhaul of its foster care system Monday, as a federal appeals court denied the state’s attempt to pause the revamp and a federal judge appointed two “masters” to oversee it. Also: Byrne: Crisis in Texas? foster care system (Opinion): http://www.mystatesman.com/news/news/opinion/byrne-crisis-in-texas-foster-care-system/nqqf4/
http://www.chron.com/news/politics/texas/article/Texas-foster-care-overhaul-moves-forward-after-6931644.php

VA: Healthy Families fights child abuse
Suffolk News-Herald – March 22, 2016
Healthy Families and Social Services have teamed up to produce packets of information that include statistics about child abuse and neglect, suggestions to alleviate stress that comes with a newborn or toddler, a list of good parenting skills, suggested coping skills for working with older children, and referrals and explanations of what to do if you suspect a child is being abused or neglected.
http://www.suffolknewsherald.com/2016/03/22/healthy-families-fights-child-abuse/

WI: Montgomery named co-chair for Milwaukee Lifecourse Initiative
Milwaukee County Journal – March 22, 2016
Wanda Montgomery has accepted the role of co-chair, alongside Mayor Tom Barrett, for the Milwaukee Lifecourse Initiative for Healthy Families (LIHF). The initiative is dedicated to reducing racial disparities in birth outcomes in the city of Milwaukee.
http://communityjournal.net/tag/milwaukee-lifecourse-initiative-for-healthy-families/

US: Study: Half of parents of uninsured minority children unaware they are Medicaid eligible
Medical News Today – March 22, 2016
“Our findings indicate an urgent need for better parental’education about Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP),” says Glenn Flores, MD, Distinguished Chair of Health Policy Research for the Medica Research Institute and study author. “The findings also indicate a need to improve Medicaid/CHIP outreach and enrollment.” Study: http://download.springer.com/static/pdf/164/art%253A10.1186%252Fs12939-016-0331-y.pdf?originUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fequityhealthj.biomedcentral.com%2Farticle%2F10.1186%2Fs12939-016-0331-y&token2=exp=1458744821~acl=%2Fstatic%2Fpdf%2F164%2Fart%25253A10.1186%25252Fs12939-016-0331-y.pdf*~hmac=050fd8daf276d1dc4413fe6fac497efa7f0766b2d7dd69d49794678930ac76bf
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/308213.php

INTERNATIONAL

Canada: The ties that truly bind in adoption cases (Opinion)
Times Colonist – March 22, 2016
Is it in the best interests of a 30-month-old B.C. girl to be taken from “the only family she has ever known” to be placed with an Ontario family she has never met that has adopted her two older sisters, who are also unknown to her?
http://www.timescolonist.com/opinion/op-ed/comment-the-ties-that-truly-bind-in-adoption-cases-1.2213816

United Kingdom: Arguing parents can damage a child’s life chances, study suggests
Independent – March 22, 2016
Children who witness conflict between their parents have poorer long-term life chances and can become suicidal in extreme cases, a new study has warned. Study: http://images.intellitxt.com/ast/adTypes/icon1.png
http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/arguing-parents-can-damage-a-childs-life-chances-study-suggests-a6946331.html

United Kingdom: Child abuse inquiry outlines how it will take evidence
BBC Scotland – March 22, 2016
The inquiry into historical allegations of child abuse in Scotland is to outline how it will take evidence. Chaired by QC Susan O’Brien, it will take four years to investigate the extent of abuse of children in care, and identify any systemic failures. But many survivors have continued to be critical of its terms of reference, which they have said prevents thousand of victims from giving evidence.
http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-35872017

United Kingdom: Reporting all FGM in the UK as child abuse may not be the best way to reduce prevalence (Press release)
EurekAlert! – March 22, 2016
The mandatory reporting of female genital mutilation (FGM) as child abuse may not be the most appropriate first measure to reduce FGM in the UK and instead a multifaceted approach of training health workers, educating at-risk woman about FGM and incorporating mandatory screening for FGM risk factors during antenatal care may be more effective according to Maria Luisa Amasanti, from the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, UK, and colleagues in an Essay published in this week’s PLOS Medicine. Report: http://www.?plosmedicine.?org/?article/?info%3Adoi%2F10.?1371%2Fjournal.?pmed.?1001982
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2016-03/p-raf032216.php
March 22

CA: School of Social Work creates program for youths
Daily Trojan – March 21, 2016
Operated by USC Telehealth and the School of Social Work, this online program will match licensed social workers and Masters of Social Work interns with at-risk youth. These therapy sessions will occur via Citrix, a secure internet platform that operates much like Skype.
http://dailytrojan.com/2016/03/21/school-social-work-creates-program-youths/

CO: La Plata County program offers hand-up from homelessness
Durango Herald – March 19, 2016
The fall into homelessness is particularly difficult for single parents like Gould and Thompson. Scraping together enough cash to pay for food, day care and other expenses can be daunting. Sometimes, the only solution is to part ways — allow children to live with grandparents or watch helplessly as child protective services revokes custody. Information Gateway Resource: Extending Out-of-Home Care for Youth Past Age 18: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/outofhome/independent/outofhomecare/
http://www.durangoherald.com/article/20160319/NEWS01/160319502/0/NEWS04/La-Plata-County-program-offers-hand-up-from-homelessness

IA: Children in the foster system: Aging out, acting out
Cedar Rapids Gazette – March 20, 2016
During Iowa’s 2015 budget year, 551 youth aged out of the state’s foster care system. That is, they turned 18 without permanency, or a family to rely on for emotional and financial support. Nationwide, some 26,000 foster children aged out of the system at 18, according to the Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative, a St. Louis-based foundation. Also: Extending Foster Care Beyond 18: http://www.ncsl.org/research/human-services/extending-foster-care-to-18.aspx
http://www.thegazette.com/subject/news/health/children-in-the-foster-system-aging-out-acting-out-20160320

IL: Pilot Program Giving Dual Status Youth the Trauma-Informed Care, Connections They Need
Youth Today – March 22, 2016
Child welfare youth involved in the juvenile justice system, or dual status youth, are more likely to be charged with a crime and more likely to be detained. Once detained, dual status youth will likely spend more time in custody. Child welfare officials have a difficult time placing these youth because they are typically older with a history of multiple placements. On top of the usual teenage issues, they are likely to have mental health- and trauma-related issues.
http://youthtoday.org/2016/03/pilot-program-giving-dual-status-youth-the-connections-trauma-informed-care-they-need/

IL: DCFS seeks legislation linked to court order
Associated Press – March 21, 2016
The Department of Children and Family Services and the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois submitted an agreed reform plan in court. It includes more oversight and programs and awaits a judge’s final approval. The agency has been under a decades-old consent decree to make improvements.
http://www.chron.com/news/article/Illinois-DCFS-seeks-legislation-linked-to-court-6926311.php

IL: DCFS Transformation. Reforms to Improve Life of Children
Dziennik Zwiazkowy – March 21, 2016
Governor Bruce Rauner today discussed the transformations at the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) and how it’s better serving the needs of Illinois children. Agency making administrative reforms to improve life of children and supports legislation to make foster children’s lives more normal.
http://dziennikzwiazkowy.com/news-in-english/chicago-illinois/dcfs-transformation-reforms-to-improve-life-of-children/

KY: Comment: Funding needed to help child victims
Courier Journal – March 21, 2016
The cost to provide a CASA volunteer to a child in Kentucky is $650 a year. The cost for foster care is $2,100 a month or more. The data show that child victims with CASA volunteers spend 7.5 fewer months in foster care — a savings of nearly $16,000 per single case. Multiply that by a few hundred (or thousands) and pretty soon it adds up to real dollars, millions of them.
http://www.courier-journal.com/story/opinion/2016/03/21/comment-funding-needed-help-child-victims/82092902/

LA: Officials to announce April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Louisiana
WBRZ – March 21, 2016
According to PCA Louisiana executive director, Amanda Brunson, Pinwheels for Prevention helps to raise awareness of how citizens can play a role in child abuse prevention. The “planting” is one of eight that Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana will host in the state. Other plantings will be in Houma, Thibodaux, Lake Charles, Sulphur, Hammond, New Orleans, and Lafayette. A total of 10,000 pinwheels will be planted across the region. 5,000 extra pinwheels are expected to be planted by area businesses, schools, and organizations. Information Gateway Resource: National Child Abuse Prevention Month: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/preventing/preventionmonth/:
http://www.wbrz.com/news/officials-to-announce-april-as-child-abuse-prevention-month-in-louisiana/

MD: Group Pushes for Closure of Juvenile Detention Facilities (Includes audio)
Public News Service – March 22, 2016
Across the country, 80 youth detention facilities are listed as in need of closure in a report by the Youth First Initiative, which says Maryland is among the states that relies too heavily on incarcerating young people in trouble. The group’s president says closing “youth prisons” is just a start.
http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2016-03-22/juvenile-justice/group-pushes-for-closure-of-juvenile-detention-facilities/a50965-1

MI: Kids Count in Michigan ranks kids’ well-being by county (Includes video)
WZZM / Associated Press – March 21, 2016
In total, the number of Michigan children living in poverty was up by 23 percent from 2006 to 2014 and that child poverty increased in 80 of the state’s 83 counties. Kids Count in Michigan Data Book 2016: http://www.mlpp.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/KC-11916-2016-Kids-Count-in-Michigan_final_web.pdf
http://www.wzzm13.com/news/education/kids-count-in-michigan-ranks-kids-well-being-by-county/93500498

NE: Bill Fights Foster Care By Same-Sex Couples (Opinion)
Opposing Views – March 22, 2016
A Nebraska bill would allow faith-based foster care organizations to block same-sex couples from fostering or adopting their children, while still maintaining state funding. The bill, which was advanced by the Nebraska Senate Judiciary Committee in a 5-3 vote on March 18, will go to the Senate floor for debate, according to 1011 Now.
http://www.opposingviews.com/i/politics/nebraska-bill-would-allow-faith-based-foster-care-agencies-turn-away-same-sex-couples

NH: State commission wants to extend mandate for work on child welfare issues
New Hampshire Union Leader – March 21, 2016
Major reforms in how New Hampshire handles child abuse cases have passed the Senate and are on their way to the House, now that the Commission on Child Abuse Fatalities has wrapped up a year’s work. But that’s not the end of Legislative efforts to improve the state’s response to child abuse in the wake of two deaths in the past two years.
http://www.unionleader.com/article/20160322/NEWS0621/160329858&source=RSS

NJ: Nearly 600 Union County kids need court advocates
Suburban News – March 21, 2016
Trained CASA volunteers are sworn in by a judge and court-empowered to speak to foster parents, teachers, doctors, lawyers, tutors, therapists and more. CASA volunteers visit the youth regularly and incorporate all findings into a report for the judge. Volunteer advocates attend court hearings quarterly, working to ensure a youth’s time in care is as short as possible and their best interests remain the top priority.
http://www.nj.com/suburbannews/index.ssf/2016/03/nearly_600_union_county_kids_n.html

NY: Cuomo signs amendment to child-records law
Times Union – March 21, 2016
Gov. Andrew Cuomo has signed legislation that corrects a law giving speedier access to child abuse records to police investigating a missing child report.
http://www.timesunion.com/local/article/Cuomo-signs-amendment-to-child-records-law-6935060.php

OH: Cleveland organization helps foster kids live on their own (Includes video)
Cleveland 19 – March 21, 2016
Michael got help from www.fillthishouse.org, an organization that gives young adults a fresh start from foster care to independence as they make the transition, with the help of donations from the community.
http://www.cleveland19.com/story/31531356/helping-foster-kids-be-independent

PA: Child Welfare Funding Crisis Drags On
Chronicle of Social Change – March 21, 2016
Child welfare funding may have been blue-lined in December, but organizations across Pennsylvania are still in the red. “Releasing the funds is putting a Band-Aid on a problem that’s not quite sticking on both sides. It’s a very tentative, very temporary fix,” said Deborah Schilling Wolfe, executive director of the Field Center for Children’s Policy, Practice, and Research at the University of Pennsylvania.
https://chronicleofsocialchange.org/journalism-for-social-change/pennsylvanias-child-welfare-funding-crisis-drags-on/16727

TX: Courts Rebuff Texas Bid to Slow Foster Care Reform
Texas Tribune – March 21, 2016
A higher court rejected Attorney General Ken Paxton’s request to stop the appointment of “special masters” by U.S. District Judge Janis Jack of Corpus Christi to oversee reforms. Jack quickly appointed two masters favored by children’s rights advocates: Francis McGovern, a Duke University law professor, and Kevin Ryan, partner at the New Jersey nonprofit Public Catalyst, which advocates for child welfare. Jack rejected candidates nominated by the state. Also: Federal judge picks ‘best of the best’ to help her overhaul Texas foster care: http://trailblazersblog.dallasnews.com/2016/03/federal-judge-picks-best-of-the-best-to-help-her-overhaul-texas-foster-care.html/
http://www.texastribune.org/2016/03/21/advocates-score-two-more-victories-foster-care-sui/

TX: State must protect children in danger (Opinion)
Denton Record-Chronicle – March 19, 2016
The Texas Legislature, which goes into session in January 2017, should set as its top priority the reformation of Child Protective Services, the woefully underfunded state agency in charge of protecting these unfortunates.
http://www.dentonrc.com/opinion/editorials-headlines/20160319-state-must-protect-children-in-danger.ece

UT: Yet Another Scandal Rocks Utah Home for Vulnerable Children
Propublica – March 21, 2016
Police raided the home after an employee reported sex among residents and misconduct by staff.
https://www.propublica.org/article/yet-another-scandal-rocks-utah-home-for-vulnerable-children

US: Bill would give military dads, adoptive parents 12 weeks leave
The Hill – March 21, 2016
All military parents, regardless of gender or whether their children are adopted, would get 12 weeks of paid parental leave under a bill introduced by Rep. Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.)
http://thehill.com/policy/defense/273751-bill-would-give-military-dads-adoptive-parents-12-weeks-leave

US: H.R. 4472, Modernizing the Interstate Placement of Children in Foster Care Act
Congressional Budget Office – March 21, 2016
H.R. 4472 would amend title IV of the Social Security Act to require states, no later than October 1, 2026, to develop an automated system that would facilitate the placement of children in foster care, guardianship, or adoptive homes across state lines. The legislation also would authorize the appropriation of $200 million in 2017 for a program called Promoting Safe and Stable Families (PSSF) administered by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
https://www.cbo.gov/publication/51402

US: Keeping at-risk children out of harm’s way (Opinion)
Washington Post – March 19, 2016
The Commission to Eliminate Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities, established by the White House and Congress as the result of bipartisan legislation in 2012, last week released its conclusions calling for fundamental changes in child protection. Instead of a single government agency that waits until a child is severely injured before intervening, “Within Our Reach” calls for collaboration among agencies and professions that come into contact with children and data-driven decisions that take into account the social and economic conditions that put children at risk.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/keeping-at-risk-children-out-of-harms-way/2016/03/19/65256436-ec66-11e5-a6f3-21ccdbc5f74e_story.html

INTERNATIONAL

Africa: Fraud and Heartbreak Can Plague Adoptions From Africa
Take Part – March 21, 2016
Government officials say sometimes parents are told their children will get an education abroad, but they are being adopted through shady agencies.
http://www.takepart.com/article/2016/03/21/uganda

Ireland: State adds to ‘kinship’ carers’ stress
Irish Examiner – March 22, 2016
State childcare services are compounding the distress suffered by grandparents who step in to care for their grandchildren because of their own children’s addiction, research has found. Report: Caring for Grandchildren in Kinship Care: What Difficulties Face Irish Grandparents with Drug-Dependent Children?: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/1533256X.2015.1090999?journalCode=wswp20
http://www.irishexaminer.com/ireland/state-adds-to-kinship-carers-stress-388735.html

Zimbabwe: Child abuse cases on the rise
Online Nigeria News – March 19, 2016
Director of child welfare and protection services in the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Mr Togarepi Chinake said the statistics showed an increase in children who needed help from different forms of abuse.
http://news2.onlinenigeria.com/africa/469556-child-abuse-cases-on-the-rise-in-zimbabwe.html

Senate approves bill to define opioid abuse as child neglect

WMUR Manchester

CONCORD, N.H. —The state Senate passed a measure Thursday that would define opioid abuse as a type of child neglect, in what lawmakers called …

Bill would repeal ‘spiritual treatment’ exemption to Tenn. child neglect law

Knoxville News Sentinel

Crank, who was convicted of child neglect in connection with the death, is asking the Tennessee Supreme Court to overturn the judgment. (MICHAEL …

 

School bus driver, attendant arrested for child neglect

WTSP.com

A Polk County school bus driver and attendant have been arrested on charges of child neglect after police say a 13-year-old special needs child was …

Special needs teen left on school bus twice, 2 charged with neglect – KTRK-TV

Deputies: Two arrested after special needs child left on bus twice – Palm Beach Post

Special needs child left on bus twice in FL – WBRC FOX6 News – WBRC.com

 

Senate bill adds drug addiction to child neglect laws

Eagle-Tribune

The bill explicitly adds a parents’ dependence or abuse of opioids or a diagnosis of drug addiction at birth into the state law defining child neglect, …

 

Fire results in child neglect charges, jail

The Sheboygan Press

A 31-year old Sheboygan woman was sentenced to four months in jail on charges of child neglect after drinking heavily and leaving corn burning on …

 

 

Guardian of wandering toddler cited for child neglect

WBTV

Charlotte-Mecklenburg police found the child’s parents, who were … guardian, 34-year-old Lawrita Hinton, was issued a citation for child neglect.

 

Deputies: Child neglect suspect arrested after chase, crash

Live 5 News

A 45-year-old Spartanburg man wanted on child neglect charges was arrested early Monday morning after deputies said he led deputies on a chase …

 

Senate bill adds drug addiction to child neglect laws

Bristol Herald Courier (press release) (blog)

The bill explicitly adds a parents’ dependence or abuse of opioids or a diagnosis of drug addiction at birth into the state law defining child neglect.

N.H. Senate Passes Bill to Add Drug Abuse to Child Neglect Laws – New Hampshire Public Radio

 

Blotter: Mother of three charged with child neglect for filthy home

Huntington Herald Dispatch

CHILD NEGLECT: A mother of three was arrested Friday night after deputies reportedly found their home in “deplorable conditions.” Shelby Ray …

 

Kline Questions Burwell on Efforts to Prevent Child Abuse and Neglect

Education & The Workforce – U.S. House of Representatives

WASHINGTON, D.C. | March 15, 2016 – Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia Mathews Burwell is testifying before the Committee on …

 

 

AZ: Arizona has a real need for foster parents
Glendale Star – March 17, 2016
The discovery of an abandoned newborn girl in Mesa last week brings attention to the importance of Arizona’s “Safe Haven” law and the continuing critical need for more foster parents.
http://www.glendalestar.com/opinion/article_a6ce7e66-ea33-11e5-ba11-074549a70d5a.html

CO: Ban on Conversion Therapy Clears Colorado House (Includes audio)
Public News Service – March 18, 2016
A bill that would ban mental-health professionals licensed in Colorado from engaging in so-called “conversion therapy” with a patient younger than age 18 is headed to the state Senate after clearing the House on Thursday.
http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2016-03-18/social-justice/ban-on-conversion-therapy-clears-colorado-house/a50914-1

FL: Florida Department of Juvenile Justice Ends All Contracts with Youth Services International
Capital Soup – March 16, 2016
The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) announced today that it will begin immediately transitioning all contracts statewide for residential programs run by private provider Youth Services International (YSI), Inc. YSI holds contracts for the current year for seven programs throughout Florida.
http://capitalsoup.com/2016/03/16/florida-department-of-juvenile-justice-ends-all-contracts-with-youth-services-international/

GA: Child Advocates Educate About Child Abuse (Includes video)
WRBL – March 17, 2016
One out of every ten children in the US suffers from child abuse and that abuse affects the entire community–financially and emotionally. Child advocates say this is the most prevalent health problem facing children–and it’s preventable.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/ndp-rally-interrupted-with-complaints-about-manitoba-s-child-welfare-system-1.3495044

IL: Child Abuse Council impacted by Illinois budget impasse (Includes video)
Our Quad Cities – March 17, 2016
Without a state budget the Child Abuse Council has had to put nearly 50 families with children under five years old on waiting lists. Despite that challenge, the non-profit still held an annual conference to help children exposed to violence.
http://www.ourquadcities.com/news/child-abuse-council-impacted-by-illinois-budget-impasse

IL: ISU study: Foster care to college graduation ‘Against All Odds’
WJBC – March 17, 2016
Illinois State University has been researching children in foster care, specifically the challenge they face in getting a college degree, as only six percent of foster youth graduate from college. PODCAST: Listen to Scott’s interview with Houston and ISU’s College of Arts and Sciences Dean Greg Simpson: https://audioboom.com/boos/4315364-doris-houston-greg-simpson-isu-college-of-arts-and-sciences-3-17-16
http://www.wjbc.com/2016/03/17/isu-study-foster-care-to-college-graduation-against-all-odds/

IN: IPS principals re-educated on reporting child abuse (Includes video)
WTHR – March 17, 2016
IPS principals became the students Thursday as about 60 of them got a lesson on the law, and a few new rules about reporting child abuse.
http://www.wthr.com/story/31499029/ips-principals-re-educated-on-reporting-child-abuse

MA: Framingham State University partners with Wayside Youth and Family Support Network
Wicked Local Framingham – March 17, 2016
Framingham State University and MassBay Community College announced they are collaborating partners with Wayside Youth and Family Support Network’s Estrella Program to assist in improving college success rates for foster youth, who are aging out of the Department of Children and Families.
http://framingham.wickedlocal.com/news/20160317/framingham-state-university-partners-with-wayside-youth-and-family-support-network?rssfeed=true

ME: Bill to treat ‘drug-addicted babies’ based on harmful misconceptions (Opinion)
Portland Press Herald – March 18, 2016
Importantly, the measure doesn’t consider the need for treatment for the drug-addicted mothers.
http://www.pressherald.com/2016/03/18/maine-voices-bill-to-treat-drug-addicted-babies-based-on-harmful-misconceptions/

MI: Same-sex couple’s custody battle hampered by outdated state laws (Includes video)
WJBK – March 17, 2016
An estranged same-sex couple in Monroe County is locked in a custody battle over their two children. It is quite a mess and the main reason is that Michigan laws have not caught up to reproductive science and our lawmakers have failed to do anything about it.
http://www.fox2detroit.com/news/local-news/109442442-story

MT: Legal help for poor, disabled often hard to come by
KTVQ – March 17, 2016
An aging population, suicidal and homeless kids, Indian child welfare cases, rising domestic violence — Yellowstone County caregivers and advocates laid out a litany of legal troubles during a forum Wednesday.
http://www.ktvq.com/story/31496834/legal-help-for-poor-disabled-often-hard-to-come-by

NJ: Christie cut threatens resources to protect 650 kids in foster care
Newsworks – March 17, 2016
Liza Kirschenbaum, the executive director of Court Appointed Special Advocates of New Jersey, said the $850,000 funding reduction would hurt the organization’s ability to provide volunteers to help those kids cope.
http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/new-jersey-more/item/92018-christie-cut-threatens-resources-to-protect-650-nj-kids-in-foster-care

RI: Raimondo Announces Choice for New Child Advocate (Press release)
Rhode Island Government – March 17, 2016
Governor Gina M. Raimondo has nominated Jennifer A. Griffith, Esq. to be the state’s new Child Advocate. Raimondo will submit her name to the Rhode Island State Senate today for advice and consent. Also: Lawyer Jennifer Griffith named as R.I.’s child advocate: http://www.providencejournal.com/news/20160317/lawyer-jennifer-griffith-named-as-ris-child-advocate
http://www.ri.gov/press/view/27100

SC: Gov. Haley to push for more foster parents
Asheville Citizen-Times – March 17, 2016
To reach the goal, Haley says her cabinet agencies agreed to streamline inspections and licensing of foster homes.
http://nbc26.tv/2016/03/17/gov-haley-to-push-for-more-foster-parents-in-south-carolina/

SC: New Home, Fresh Start: Church Helps Women Transitioning Out of Jail
Outreach Magazine – March 17, 2016
When Jefferies asked what it would take for them not to return to jail, many said they needed a place other than home to go to after release to avoid the negative influences — drugs, violence, prostitution — that led to their arrests. So, Jefferies researched transitional housing programs and launched Angels Charge after a community member gifted her a house. By October 2014, the ministry had received an additional home. About 12 women live in each house, where they learn to pay bills, budget and find work.
http://www.outreachmagazine.com/ideas/16139-new-home-fresh-start-church-helps-women-transitioning-out-of-jail.html

TX: Cardboard cutouts spark conversation on child abuse (Includes video)
KSAT – March 17, 2016
Each sweet face represents one child abused at the hands of an adult, a real problem for our community. Kim Abernathy, president of Childsafe said, “We know that one in four girls and one in five boys will be sexually abused before their 18th birthday. And we know that only one in 10 victims ever tell.”
http://www.ksat.com/web/ksat/family/cardboard-cutouts-spark-conversation-on-child-abuse

TX: More Kids Sleeping in State Offices Amid Foster Shortage
Texas Tribune – March 17, 2016
Sixteen children spent at least two nights sleeping in CPS offices last month, according to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services — more than three times the number from the year before. Overall, the number of children spending multiple nights in offices with caseworkers has spiked in the last 11 months, with an average of about 10 children left in the placement of last resort each month since April 2015. Also: Texas foster-care crisis: Children sleeping in CPS offices again as more removed from homes but state out of places to care for them: http://trailblazersblog.dallasnews.com/2016/03/texas-foster-care-crisis-children-sleeping-in-cps-offices-again-as-more-removed-from-homes-but-state-out-of-places-to-care-for-them.html/
http://www.texastribune.org/2016/03/17/more-kids-sleeping-cps-offices-amid-placement-shor/

US: Child Abuse Fatalities Commission Staggers to a Close (Opinion)
Youth Today – March 17, 2016
The commission spent two years and millions of dollars, churning out blog posts so empty of substance they could be turned into Mad Libs, and drawing conclusions not on scholarship but on a steady diet of newspaper horror stories (listen to commission conference calls or read transcripts and you’ll hear the constant references to those stories).
http://youthtoday.org/2016/03/child-abuse-fatalities-commission-staggers-to-a-close/

US: More young Americans support gay adoption: survey
HealthDay News – March 17, 2016
These statistics from the U.S. National Center for Health Statistics reflect a steady rise from 2002, and a significant shift in attitudes across the nation among people 15 to 44 years old. The report doesn’t explore the reasons for this change. But one gay dad who studies sexuality believes familiarity with gays and lesbians has fostered growing acceptance of gay families.
http://medicalxpress.com/news/2016-03-young-americans-gay-survey.html

US: Parent mentors insure more uninsured children, improve access, eliminate disparities
Medical News Today – March 17, 2016
Randomized trial reveals that Parent Mentors insure more children faster than traditional Medicaid/CHIP outreach, and children’s access to healthcare and parental satisfaction improve, quality of well-child care is enhanced, thousands of dollars are saved per child, jobs are created, disparities are eliminated, and the intervention potentially could save our nation billions of dollars. Report: Parent Mentors and Insuring Uninsured Children: A Randomized Controlled Trial: http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/early/2016/03/16/peds.2015-3519
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/308036.php?tw

US: The Commission to Eliminate Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities (CECANF) today released its final report (Press release)
PRNewswire – March 17, 2016
The Commission to Eliminate Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities (CECANF) today released its final report: Within Our Reach: A National Strategy to Eliminate Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities. CECANF was established by Public Law 112-275 (112th Congress), the Protect Our Kids Act of 2012. Report: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cb/resource/cecanf-final-report Also: Commission: US lacks strategies to lower child abuse deaths: http://www.columbian.com/news/2016/mar/17/efforts-to-cut-child-abuse-deaths-lacking/ Also: Federal Commission Releases Recommendations to End Child Abuse Fatalities: http://youthtoday.org/2016/03/federal-commission-releases-recommendations-to-end-child-abuse-fatalities/ : Also: The Dissenting Report of the Honorable Judge Patricia M. Martin CECANF Commissioner: http://nccpr.org/reports/JudgeMartinDissent.pdf
http://www.wboy.com/story/31492747/the-commission-to-eliminate-child-abuse-and-neglect-fatalities-cecanf-today-released-its-final-report

US: Warner, Klobuchar Announce Key Provisions to Help Prevent Human Trafficking Pass Senate Commerce Committee (Press release)
Senator Mark Warner – March 17, 2016
Klobuchar is a national leader in the fight to combat human trafficking. Her bipartisan legislation, the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act, was signed into law last May. The legislation was modeled after Minnesota’s “Safe Harbor” law, which gives incentives for all states to have a safe harbor provision to help ensure minors who are sold for sex aren’t prosecuted as defendants, but are instead treated as victims. When a state passes a safe harbor law, it means that kids sold for sex should be steered towards child protection services, rather than being arrested, charged, or convicted under a state’s criminal laws. In addition to law enforcement provisions, the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act helps victims rebuild their lives by using fines and penalties against perpetrators to improve the availability of victim services.
http://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=ED417422-EC41-4216-87DC-92FEC621375B

INTERNATIONAL

Ethiopia: Child Adoption going wrong
Addis Admas – March 17, 2016
It has been noted that agencies in Ethiopia have been overly occupied with amassing wealth and money via sending children abroad.
http://www.diretube.com/articles/child-adoption-going-wrong-in-ethiopia_11988.html

International: The hormone cortisol has been linked to increased aggression in 10-year-old boys
Medical News Today – March 17, 2016
Spanish researchers have studied the relationship between hormones and aggressive behaviour in girls and boys between the ages of eight and ten. The results, published in the American Journal of Human Biology, confirm that the subjects who experienced the greatest increase in levels of aggression by ten years of age were those whose cortisol levels had also increased during those two years. Report: Developmental Trajectories of Aggressive Behavior in Children from Ages 8 to 10: The Role of Sex and Hormones: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/308025.php?tw
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/308025.php?tw

New Zealand: Shining the Light on New Zealand’s Historic Child Abuse
Scoop Independent News – March 18, 2016
The Oscar winning film Spotlight is easily one of the most important, powerful films of the last few years. For many viewers the most disturbing and shocking moment of the film is when the list of cities from around the world, where this kind of clerical abuse had occurred, is screened. Numerous Australian and New Zealand cities are featured. To the uninitiated that list of cities is horrifying.
http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1603/S00299/shining-the-light-on-new-zealands-historic-child-abuse.htm

Nigeria: Imo sets up committee to tackle illegal child adoption, trafficking
National Mirror – March 18, 2016
Imo State Deputy Governor, Prince Eze Madumere, has expressed worry over mounting irregularities in the process of child adoption in the state. Following the development, the state government yesterday set up a 10-man committee to investigate the anomalies.
http://nationalmirroronline.net/new/imo-sets-up-committee-to-tackle-illegal-child-adoption-trafficking/

United Kingdom: Christian Groups Fight against Scottish Proposal to Assign Government Guardian to Every Child
Religion Today – March 17, 2016
The law was approved in 2014 and will go into effect in August. The law assigns a guardian, such as a teacher or nurse, to monitor the well being of every child until they turn 18. That guardian is able to access school and medical and legal documents.
http://www.kpdq.com/11751752/

United Kingdom: How behavioural therapy can progress stalled casework
Community Care – March 17, 2016
Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) was originally utilised in the treatment of individuals with autism, intellectual disability, and learning disability, however, it has many applications across different service areas. As ABA is not insight-based, it is likely to be more effective than social work interventions that are dependent on improving the service user’s understanding or insights into their own behaviour.
http://www.communitycare.co.uk/2016/03/17/behavioural-therapy-can-progress-stalled-casework/

United Kingdom: Research reveals public misconceptions about children adopted from care
Coram – March 17, 2016
New research undertaken by YouGov for 29 independent adoption agencies in England has revealed that people significantly underestimate the primary reasons why adoption is decided on as the best placement option for a child. Neglect and abuse account for 70% of cases where adoption is decided on as the best option for a child, but of those 2,105 people in the UK surveyed by YouGov, over three in five (61%) underestimated the significance of these factors.

 

 

Pasco deputy arrested for child abuse

FOX 13 News, Tampa Bay

A PCSO arrest affidavit says 29-year-old Deputy Ryan Robert Ferguson was charged with child abuse after the incident, which reportedly took place at …

Pasco corrections deputy arrested on child abuse charge – TBO.com

Pasco corrections deputy arrested for child abuse – WTSP.com

Pasco Deputy Accused In Child’s ‘Violent and Severe’ Beating – Patch.com

 

Long Island foster parent charged with beating, sexually abusing children in his care

New York Daily News

The predator is accused of sexually abusing children as young as 8 and forcing them to live under punishing conditions — beating them, forcing them …

Verona woman charged with child abuse

Staunton News Leader

VERONA – The Augusta County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Verona woman Sunday after she was accused of beating her child last year, according to a …

 

Verona woman charged with child abuse

Staunton News Leader

VERONA – The Augusta County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Verona woman Sunday after she was accused of beating her child last year, according to a …

 

Galion man accused of beating infant

Bucyrus Telegraph Forum

Crawford County Prosecutor Matthew Crall said the Galion Police Department was called about a possible case of child abuse Friday at Galion …

Father accused of deadly child abuse to start his own defense

WBTV

The State has rested its case in the murder trial of a man accused of beating his baby to death in 2012. Now Todd Boderick must decide whether to …

In Charlotte murder trial, father cross-examines mother over baby girl’s death – Charlotte Observer

 

C.A.A.R.E. dinner brings child abuse at forefront

Columbia Daily Herald

C.A.A.R.E. member Maneika Loggins shares the story of 23-month-old Colten May, one of the group’s eight children who represent abuse victims.

 

Man sentenced for beating autistic child

LaGrange Daily News

LaGRANGE — A former Army medic accused of falsely imprisoning and striking a 5-year-old autistic child pleaded guilty to several charges against …

Boy’s Uncle Arrested for Alleged Child Abuse

Khmer Times

An elderly man was arrested and charged by the Banteay Meanchey Provincial Court yesterday over allegations that he confined and tortured his …

Caretaker charged with beating 17-month-old girl to death

lehighvalleylive.com

Northampton County District Attorney John Morganelli said the child died … bruises that Morganelli is investigating as possible signs of child abuse.

 

POLICE: Man accused of beating, biting child

Chambersburg Public Opinion

WAYNESBORO – A South Mountain man was taken into custody Thursday on felony child abuse charges after police say they found multiple bruises …

AZ: Arizona has a real need for foster parents
Glendale Star – March 17, 2016
The discovery of an abandoned newborn girl in Mesa last week brings attention to the importance of Arizona’s “Safe Haven” law and the continuing critical need for more foster parents.
http://www.glendalestar.com/opinion/article_a6ce7e66-ea33-11e5-ba11-074549a70d5a.html

CO: Ban on Conversion Therapy Clears Colorado House (Includes audio)
Public News Service – March 18, 2016
A bill that would ban mental-health professionals licensed in Colorado from engaging in so-called “conversion therapy” with a patient younger than age 18 is headed to the state Senate after clearing the House on Thursday.
http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2016-03-18/social-justice/ban-on-conversion-therapy-clears-colorado-house/a50914-1

FL: Florida Department of Juvenile Justice Ends All Contracts with Youth Services International
Capital Soup – March 16, 2016
The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) announced today that it will begin immediately transitioning all contracts statewide for residential programs run by private provider Youth Services International (YSI), Inc. YSI holds contracts for the current year for seven programs throughout Florida.
http://capitalsoup.com/2016/03/16/florida-department-of-juvenile-justice-ends-all-contracts-with-youth-services-international/

GA: Child Advocates Educate About Child Abuse (Includes video)
WRBL – March 17, 2016
One out of every ten children in the US suffers from child abuse and that abuse affects the entire community–financially and emotionally. Child advocates say this is the most prevalent health problem facing children — and it’s preventable.
http://wrbl.com/2016/03/17/child-advocates-educate-about-child-abuse/

IL: Child Abuse Council impacted by Illinois budget impasse (Includes video)
Our Quad Cities – March 17, 2016
Without a state budget the Child Abuse Council has had to put nearly 50 families with children under five years old on waiting lists. Despite that challenge, the non-profit still held an annual conference to help children exposed to violence.
http://www.ourquadcities.com/news/child-abuse-council-impacted-by-illinois-budget-impasse

IL: ISU study: Foster care to college graduation ‘Against All Odds’
WJBC – March 17, 2016
Illinois State University has been researching children in foster care, specifically the challenge they face in getting a college degree, as only six percent of foster youth graduate from college. PODCAST: Listen to Scott’s interview with Houston and ISU’s College of Arts and Sciences Dean Greg Simpson: https://audioboom.com/boos/4315364-doris-houston-greg-simpson-isu-college-of-arts-and-sciences-3-17-16
http://www.wjbc.com/2016/03/17/isu-study-foster-care-to-college-graduation-against-all-odds/

IN: IPS principals re-educated on reporting child abuse (Includes video)
WTHR – March 17, 2016
IPS principals became the students Thursday as about 60 of them got a lesson on the law, and a few new rules about reporting child abuse.
http://www.wthr.com/story/31499029/ips-principals-re-educated-on-reporting-child-abuse

MA: Framingham State University partners with Wayside Youth and Family Support Network
Wicked Local Framingham – March 17, 2016
Framingham State University and MassBay Community College announced they are collaborating partners with Wayside Youth and Family Support Network’s Estrella Program to assist in improving college success rates for foster youth, who are aging out of the Department of Children and Families.
http://framingham.wickedlocal.com/news/20160317/framingham-state-university-partners-with-wayside-youth-and-family-support-network?rssfeed=true

ME: Bill to treat ‘drug-addicted babies’ based on harmful misconceptions (Opinion)
Portland Press Herald – March 18, 2016
Importantly, the measure doesn’t consider the need for treatment for the drug-addicted mothers.
http://www.pressherald.com/2016/03/18/maine-voices-bill-to-treat-drug-addicted-babies-based-on-harmful-misconceptions/

MI: Same-sex couple’s custody battle hampered by outdated state laws (Includes video)
WJBK – March 17, 2016
An estranged same-sex couple in Monroe County is locked in a custody battle over their two children. It is quite a mess and the main reason is that Michigan laws have not caught up to reproductive science and our lawmakers have failed to do anything about it.
http://www.fox2detroit.com/news/local-news/109442442-story

MT: Legal help for poor, disabled often hard to come by
KTVQ – March 17, 2016
An aging population, suicidal and homeless kids, Indian child welfare cases, rising domestic violence — Yellowstone County caregivers and advocates laid out a litany of legal troubles during a forum Wednesday.
http://www.ktvq.com/story/31496834/legal-help-for-poor-disabled-often-hard-to-come-by

NJ: Christie cut threatens resources to protect 650 kids in foster care
Newsworks – March 17, 2016
Liza Kirschenbaum, the executive director of Court Appointed Special Advocates of New Jersey, said the $850,000 funding reduction would hurt the organization’s ability to provide volunteers to help those kids cope.
http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/new-jersey-more/item/92018-christie-cut-threatens-resources-to-protect-650-nj-kids-in-foster-care

RI: Raimondo Announces Choice for New Child Advocate (Press release)
Rhode Island Government – March 17, 2016
Governor Gina M. Raimondo has nominated Jennifer A. Griffith, Esq. to be the state’s new Child Advocate. Raimondo will submit her name to the Rhode Island State Senate today for advice and consent. Also: Lawyer Jennifer Griffith named as R.I.’s child advocate: http://www.providencejournal.com/news/20160317/lawyer-jennifer-griffith-named-as-ris-child-advocate
http://www.ri.gov/press/view/27100

SC: Gov. Haley to push for more foster parents
Associated Press – March 17, 2016
To reach the goal, Haley says her cabinet agencies agreed to streamline inspections and licensing of foster homes.
http://nbc26.tv/2016/03/17/gov-haley-to-push-for-more-foster-parents-in-south-carolina/

SC: New Home, Fresh Start: Church Helps Women Transitioning Out of Jail
Outreach Magazine – March 17, 2016
When Jefferies asked what it would take for them not to return to jail, many said they needed a place other than home to go to after release to avoid the negative influences — drugs, violence, prostitution — that led to their arrests. So, Jefferies researched transitional housing programs and launched Angels Charge after a community member gifted her a house. By October 2014, the ministry had received an additional home. About 12 women live in each house, where they learn to pay bills, budget and find work.
http://www.outreachmagazine.com/ideas/16139-new-home-fresh-start-church-helps-women-transitioning-out-of-jail.html

TX: Cardboard cutouts spark conversation on child abuse (Includes video)
KSAT – March 17, 2016
Each sweet face represents one child abused at the hands of an adult, a real problem for our community. Kim Abernathy, president of Childsafe said, “We know that one in four girls and one in five boys will be sexually abused before their 18th birthday. And we know that only one in 10 victims ever tell.”
http://www.ksat.com/web/ksat/family/cardboard-cutouts-spark-conversation-on-child-abuse

TX: More Kids Sleeping in State Offices Amid Foster Shortage
Texas Tribune – March 17, 2016
Sixteen children spent at least two nights sleeping in CPS offices last month, according to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services — more than three times the number from the year before. Overall, the number of children spending multiple nights in offices with caseworkers has spiked in the last 11 months, with an average of about 10 children left in the placement of last resort each month since April 2015. Also: Texas foster-care crisis: Children sleeping in CPS offices again as more removed from homes but state out of places to care for them: http://trailblazersblog.dallasnews.com/2016/03/texas-foster-care-crisis-children-sleeping-in-cps-offices-again-as-more-removed-from-homes-but-state-out-of-places-to-care-for-them.html/
http://www.texastribune.org/2016/03/17/more-kids-sleeping-cps-offices-amid-placement-shor/

US: Child Abuse Fatalities Commission Staggers to a Close (Opinion)
Youth Today – March 17, 2016
The commission spent two years and millions of dollars, churning out blog posts so empty of substance they could be turned into Mad Libs, and drawing conclusions not on scholarship but on a steady diet of newspaper horror stories (listen to commission conference calls or read transcripts and you’ll hear the constant references to those stories).
http://youthtoday.org/2016/03/child-abuse-fatalities-commission-staggers-to-a-close/

US: More young Americans support gay adoption: survey
HealthDay News – March 17, 2016
These statistics from the U.S. National Center for Health Statistics reflect a steady rise from 2002, and a significant shift in attitudes across the nation among people 15 to 44 years old. The report doesn’t explore the reasons for this change. But one gay dad who studies sexuality believes familiarity with gays and lesbians has fostered growing acceptance of gay families.
http://medicalxpress.com/news/2016-03-young-americans-gay-survey.html

US: Parent mentors insure more uninsured children, improve access, eliminate disparities
Medical News Today – March 17, 2016
Randomized trial reveals that Parent Mentors insure more children faster than traditional Medicaid/CHIP outreach, and children’s access to healthcare and parental satisfaction improve, quality of well-child care is enhanced, thousands of dollars are saved per child, jobs are created, disparities are eliminated, and the intervention potentially could save our nation billions of dollars. Report: Parent Mentors and Insuring Uninsured Children: A Randomized Controlled Trial: http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/early/2016/03/16/peds.2015-3519
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/308036.php?tw

US: The Commission to Eliminate Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities (CECANF) today released its final report (Press release)
PRNewswire – March 17, 2016
The Commission to Eliminate Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities (CECANF) today released its final report: Within Our Reach: A National Strategy to Eliminate Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities. CECANF was established by Public Law 112-275 (112th Congress), the Protect Our Kids Act of 2012. Report: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/cb/resource/cecanf-final-report Also: Commission: US lacks strategies to lower child abuse deaths: http://www.columbian.com/news/2016/mar/17/efforts-to-cut-child-abuse-deaths-lacking/ Also: Federal Commission Releases Recommendations to End Child Abuse Fatalities: http://youthtoday.org/2016/03/federal-commission-releases-recommendations-to-end-child-abuse-fatalities/ : Also: The Dissenting Report of the Honorable Judge Patricia M. Martin CECANF Commissioner: http://nccpr.org/reports/JudgeMartinDissent.pdf
http://www.wboy.com/story/31492747/the-commission-to-eliminate-child-abuse-and-neglect-fatalities-cecanf-today-released-its-final-report

US: Warner, Klobuchar Announce Key Provisions to Help Prevent Human Trafficking Pass Senate Commerce Committee (Press release)
Senator Mark Warner – March 17, 2016
Klobuchar is a national leader in the fight to combat human trafficking. Her bipartisan legislation, the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act, was signed into law last May. The legislation was modeled after Minnesota’s “Safe Harbor” law, which gives incentives for all states to have a safe harbor provision to help ensure minors who are sold for sex aren’t prosecuted as defendants, but are instead treated as victims. When a state passes a safe harbor law, it means that kids sold for sex should be steered towards child protection services, rather than being arrested, charged, or convicted under a state’s criminal laws. In addition to law enforcement provisions, the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act helps victims rebuild their lives by using fines and penalties against perpetrators to improve the availability of victim services.
http://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=ED417422-EC41-4216-87DC-92FEC621375B

INTERNATIONAL

Ethiopia: Child Adoption going wrong
Addis Admas – March 17, 2016
It has been noted that agencies in Ethiopia have been overly occupied with amassing wealth and money via sending children abroad.
http://www.diretube.com/articles/child-adoption-going-wrong-in-ethiopia_11988.html

New Zealand: Shining the Light on New Zealand’s Historic Child Abuse
Scoop Independent News – March 18, 2016
The Oscar winning film Spotlight is easily one of the most important, powerful films of the last few years. For many viewers the most disturbing and shocking moment of the film is when the list of cities from around the world, where this kind of clerical abuse had occurred, is screened. Numerous Australian and New Zealand cities are featured. To the uninitiated that list of cities is horrifying.
http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1603/S00299/shining-the-light-on-new-zealands-historic-child-abuse.htm

Nigeria: Imo sets up committee to tackle illegal child adoption, trafficking
National Mirror – March 18, 2016
Imo State Deputy Governor, Prince Eze Madumere, has expressed worry over mounting irregularities in the process of child adoption in the state. Following the development, the state government yesterday set up a 10-man committee to investigate the anomalies.
http://nationalmirroronline.net/new/imo-sets-up-committee-to-tackle-illegal-child-adoption-trafficking/

United Kingdom: Christian Groups Fight against Scottish Proposal to Assign Government Guardian to Every Child
Religion Today – March 17, 2016
The law was approved in 2014 and will go into effect in August. The law assigns a guardian, such as a teacher or nurse, to monitor the well being of every child until they turn 18. That guardian is able to access school and medical and legal documents.
http://www.kpdq.com/11751752/

United Kingdom: How behavioural therapy can progress stalled casework
Community Care – March 17, 2016
Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) was originally utilised in the treatment of individuals with autism, intellectual disability, and learning disability, however, it has many applications across different service areas. As ABA is not insight-based, it is likely to be more effective than social work interventions that are dependent on improving the service user’s understanding or insights into their own behaviour.
http://www.communitycare.co.uk/2016/03/17/behavioural-therapy-can-progress-stalled-casework/

United Kingdom: Research reveals public misconceptions about children adopted from care
Coram – March 17, 2016
New research undertaken by YouGov for 29 independent adoption agencies in England has revealed that people significantly underestimate the primary reasons why adoption is decided on as the best placement option for a child. Neglect and abuse account for 70% of cases where adoption is decided on as the best option for a child, but of those 2,105 people in the UK surveyed by YouGov, over three in five (61%) underestimated the significance of these factors.
http://www.coram.org.uk/news/new-research-reveals-public-misconception-about-scale-abuse-children-needing-adoption

Baltimore school cops charged with beating boy after video goes online

Ars Technica

Baltimore school cops charged with beating boy after video goes online. Officer tells 16-year-old boy to “go the f*** home,” “get the f*** out of here.”.

 

Police arrest man accused of beating, choking woman and child

WLKY Louisville

“He was torturing the child to get the mother to talk. That’s part of the reason he tortured the child. He also accused the child of being in collusion with …

Jeffersonville Police search for man accused of beating wife, child – WHAS11.com

Child battery suspect taken into custody – Newsandtribune

Police arrest man accused of beating 8-year-old son, mother – WDRB

 

Father fights for custody of child after alleged beating by estranged wife

WLWT Cincinnati

The father of a beaten 10-month-old baby cannot imagine what his youngest son went through the night he was allegedly beaten by his mother and …

 

Hialeah man accused of beating 7-year-old son at after-school…

Local 10

Ana Herrada faces a child neglect charge for allegedly urging her husband to beat their son, while Reinaldo Herrada faces a child abuse charge.

Dad accused of beating boy at Hialeah self-defense school – Local 10

Dad shown in video beating son has criminal record – Local 10

 

Campbellsburg, Ky. woman accused of severely beating child in he – WDRB 41 Louisville News

WDRB

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Kentucky State Police have arrested a Campbellsburg, Ky., woman after they say she beat a child so badly she had to …

 

Man gets life in prison in child’s beating death

AdVantage News

EDWARDSVILLE — A Granite City man was sentenced Wednesday to 70 years in prison for the 2012 beating death of 20-month-old Jaesean “Bug” …

Madison County man to serve 70 years for toddler beating death – Belleville News-Democrat

70 year sentence in toddler’s beating death – KMOV.com

Man prosecutor calls ‘monster’ sentenced to 70 years – Alton Telegraph

 

Mom’s Boyfriend Charged In 2-Year-Old’s Beating Death

Patch.com

Dason Darius Hogan, 22, of no fixed address was charged Friday with multiple counts of child abuse and murder in the death of Michael Lee-Ashley …

 

Man Gets 20-Year Term for Starving, Beating Foster Children

ABC News

A third former operator of a San Antonio day care center was sentenced Friday to 20 years in prison for forcing his three adopted children to sleep in a …

Former S.A. day care owner gets 20 years in child abuse case – Laredo Morning Times

Daycare owner gets 20-year sentence in child torture case – KENS 5 TV

 

Canton man accused of beating toddler, small child with a belt

Canton Repository

CANTON. Police called to Skyline Terrace apartments for a report of “trouble” were told by a woman there that her boyfriend had beaten her small …

 

Foster Mom Warned Social Services Agency Before Child’s Death in Halfway House

NBC Bay Area

The former foster mother of a medically-fragile girl in the Santa Clara County foster system is questioning why the child was removed from her care …

Santa Clara County foster child dies after being sent to live with dad in recovering addicts home – KGO-TV

Police: Stepmother arrested after child’s death

Cincinnati.com

A four-year-old boy was found dead Wednesday morning after police said he was punished by his stepmother in Franklin. Franklin Police responded …

Death of boy dipped in scalding water ruled a homicide – WXIX

Neighbors react to death of child after scalding – WKEF ABC 22

Cops: Boy dies after stepmom punished him with scalding water – CBS News

 

 

Arrest made in Grand Junction child death

9NEWS.com

A woman was arrested on charges of child abuse resulting in death and first-degree murder after a three-year-old girl was found dead in Grand …

Aunt charged in 3-year-old’s death, GJPD says – KKCO-TV

Woman Arrested in Death of Three Year Old Niece – WesternSlopeNow

3-year-old girl killed in Grand Junction; legal guardian accused of murder – The Denver

 

Yolo defense attorney claims bias, wants new judge in child death case

Sacramento Bee

Davis police began an investigation into possible child abuse, quickly focusing on Dorsey. Cameron died days later at the hospital. Dorsey, then 21 …

 

Convictions overturned in child’s death at Fishers day care

Indianapolis Star

A Fishers couple sentenced in the 2013 death of a toddler at their home day care had their convictions overturned Tuesday by the Indiana Supreme …

Santa Clara County: Foster child dies after being sent to live with dad in home for recovering addicts

San Jose Mercury News

SAN JOSE — Santa Clara County officials are reviewing why a medically fragile 2-year-old girl was sent home to live with her father in a transitional …

 

New charge filed against Kansas couple in child’s death

KSNT (press release) (registration) (blog)

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas couple faces upgraded murder charges in the death of the man’s missing 7-year-old son. Online court records …

New charge filed against Kansas City, Kansas, couple in child’s death – Topeka Capital Journal

New charge filed against Kansas couple in child’s death – Bryan-College Station Eagle

Charges upgraded against KCK couple accused in boy’s death – KMBC Kansas City

 

Velva day care operator reaches plea deal in child’s death

Washington Times

MINOT, N.D. (AP) – A child care operator charged with negligent homicide in the drowning death of a 5-year-old Velva girl has reached a plea …

Velva day care operator reaches plea deal in child’s death – KFGO

Velva day care operator reaches plea deal in child’s death – Wahpeton Daily News

North Dakota day care operator reaches plea deal in child’s death, will avoid jail –

 

 

25 years after child’s death, mom goes on trial for murder

NJ.com

Lodzinski, now 47, was charged in August 2014 with the death of her son, whom she reported missing the evening of May 25, 1991 from a carnival in …

 

When A Child Dies Of A Preventable Disease, Should The Parents Be Punished?

WGBH News

In the Canadian province of Alberta, two parents are on trial for the death of their son—aged 18 months—who died of meningitis after they insisted on …

 

New charge filed against Kansas couple in child’s death

Kansas City Star

A Kansas couple faces upgraded murder charges in the death of the man’s missing 7-year-old son.

 

Woman charged with manslaughter in Ontario child death

Penticton Herald

VAUGHAN, Ont. – York Region Police have charged a woman with manslaughter in connection with the death of a toddler nearly three years ago.

 

 

 

AK: Demand for child foster care heightens
The Cordova Times – March 16, 2016
A new study by the University of Alaska’s Institute of Social and Economic Research shows that nearly 2,700 Alaska children were in foster care in any given month of 2015, up 20 percent over the monthly average in 2014. Study: http://www.iser.uaa.alaska.edu/Publications/webnote/2016_03_16-WebNote21-GrowingNumberOfAlaskaChildrenInFosterCare.pdf
http://www.thecordovatimes.com/article/1611demand-for-child-foster-care-heightens

AR: Interim Director Of Division Of Children And Family Services Named
Arkansas News Bureau – March 15, 2016
A high-ranking Department of Human Services attorney will serve as interim director of the agency’s Division of Children and Family Services until a permanent director is named, DHS said Tuesday. Mischa Martin is DHS’ deputy counsel of county legal operations and assistant director of the compliance and monitoring section of the agency’s Division of Developmental Disabilities Services. In the latter capacity she manages the division’s Quality Assurance, Licensure, Policy, and Information Technology sections and has oversight of the state’s five human development centers .
http://swtimes.com/news/state-news/interim-director-division-children-and-family-services-named

AZ: Foster case placement rises for African-American children in Arizona
Arizona Daily Star – March 16, 2016
The number of African-American children removed from their homes in Arizona has increased nearly 10 percent in the last two years, now accounting for nearly 30 out of every 1,000 children statewide. “This is absolutely something that we’re concerned about,” said Katherine Guffey, the chief quality improvement officer for Arizona’s Department of Child Safety.
http://tucson.com/news/local/foster-case-placement-rises-for-african-american-children-in-arizona/article_b3fb13cd-a7fc-5f96-95ae-62cbb0a232e6.html

CT: Malloy releases extensive list of new state budget cuts (Includes video)
WTNH – March 16, 2016
Connecticut Governor Dannel Malloy released details late Wednesday afternoon outlining another round of state budget cuts that will affect more than 40 state agencies. In all, the Governor is cutting more than 78 million dollars from the bottom line. That includes almost 17.2 million from the Department of Developmental Services, almost 7.2 million from the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, and more than 6.5 million from the Department of Children and Families.
http://wtnh.com/2016/03/16/malloy-releases-updated-list-of-state-budget-cuts/

ID: Testimony: ‘Terrible idea,’ ‘Harmful to religion,’ ‘Doubt on international adoption’
The Spokesman-Review – March 16, 2016
In testimony this morning on HB 568, the anti-Sharia and foreign law bill: … Janelle Bettis Wise said, the bill casts “doubt on the international adoption that’s blessed me with my youngest child. She said “I must know that my daughter’s legal foreign adoption will be given due deference by the Idaho courts.”
http://www.spokesman.com/blogs/boise/2016/mar/16/testimony-terrible-idea-harmful-religion-doubt-international-adoption/

IL: Child welfare agencies remind residents that help is available
HOI-19 – March 16, 2016
“By engaging the parent educators, it’s closing the circle. It’s not only giving the child a safe place to be and a respite from the parent, but it’s engaging the parent in how to become a better parent,” said Jeff Gress, Pres. and CEO of Crittenton Centers. Information Gateway resource: Parent Education Programs: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/preventing/programs/parented/
http://www.cinewsnow.com/news/local/Child-welfare-agencies-remind-residents-that-help-is-available-372298442.html

IN: Removing kids from throes of parents’ addiction
Lake Geneva News – March 15, 2016
With the increase of drug-related crimes in Walworth County, more children’s lives are being disrupted. County based groups–the district attorney’s office, the sheriff’s department and the Walworth County Alliance for Children–are working to provide safety for these children.
http://www.lakegenevanews.net/Articles-County-Report-i-2016-03-17-260121.114135-Removing-kids-from-throes-of-parents-addiction.html

LA: The Department of Children and Families wants to undo Bobby Jindal’s 2010 reorganization
The Times-Picayune – March 16, 2016
The Louisiana Legislature is considering approving a major reorganization of the Department of Children and Families that seeks to undo a 2010 agency shakeup that took place under former Gov. Bobby Jindal.
http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/03/department_of_children_reorganization.html

MD: Senate gives early nod to state budget
The Frederick News-Post – March 16, 2016
Other committee amendments seek reports from the administration about efforts to reduce caseloads for public defenders, child welfare workers, and parole and probation officers.
http://www.fredericknewspost.com/news/continuing_coverage/annapolis_2016/senate-gives-early-nod-to-state-budget/article_2504e793-dca5-58bf-a862-f550d8968ee5.html

NE: AG’s opinion ‘puts to rest’ concerns about faith-based foster care bill, sponsor says
The Lincoln Journal Star – March 16, 2016
Foster care agencies wouldn’t violate federal law or endanger state funding by refusing to help same-sex couples become foster parents, Nebraska Attorney General Doug Peterson says.
http://journalstar.com/legislature/ag-s-opinion-puts-to-rest-concerns-about-faith-based/article_f6b0f921-6281-5557-baf1-c3e62f74ae8d.html

PA: Local church leaders accused of enabling child abuse
Daily Commercial – March 16, 2016
A Catholic priest in Mount Dora was charged in western Pennsylvania on Tuesday with conspiracy and child endangerment after he reportedly helped provide jobs to a friar who was a known sexual predator. The jobs included a position as a high school athletic trainer, which enabled the friar to molest more than 100 children, according to an Associated Press story.
http://www.dailycommercial.com/news/article_d148b5cc-451d-5744-aa5a-ddb739ab5dd2.html

PA: Pa. school districts borrow and borrow as Wolf plans another budget veto
Pittsburgh Tribune-Review – March 16, 2016
The latest budget proposal is an approximately $6 billion spending plan that Republicans say is designed to complete a $30 billion spending package. It calls for the use of about $260 million in reserves while the state forgoes a $305 million payment it regularly makes for school construction projects and delays more than $200 million in Social Security payments to school employees and reimbursements to counties for child welfare costs.
http://triblive.com/news/allegheny/10157118-74/million-district-budget

RI: Don’t leave them kids alone: State lawmakers target parents
Associated Press – March 16, 2016
Parents who fear the judgment of neighbors if they leave their kids alone at home or in a car may soon have more than a “tsk, tsk” to worry about in Rhode Island.
http://customwire.ap.org/dynamic/stories/U/US_UNATTENDED_KIDS?SITE=RIWAR&SECTION=US&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2016-03-16-13-01-13

SC: State officials launching new foster care program (Includes video)
WIS – March 16, 2016
Governor Haley and the Department of Social Services are launching a new program to help recruit foster parents. The initiative is called Champions for Children. According to Governor Haley, 54 percent of foster children are not placed within their own county because there aren’t enough foster families. Also: Gov. Haley to push for more foster parents in South Carolina: http://counton2.com/ap/gov-haley-to-push-for-more-foster-parents-in-south-carolina/
http://www.wistv.com/story/31490737/state-officials-launching-new-foster-care-program

VA: Gordon begins work as new head of Mathews Social Services
Gloucester Mathews Gazette-Journal – March 16, 2016
Tiffany Gordon of Gloucester was recently appointed to serve as director of the Mathews County Department of Social Services.
http://www.gazettejournal.net/index.php/news/news_article/gordon_begins_work_as_new_head_of_mathews_social_services

WA: Commission recommends child fatality review team
Associated Press – March 16, 2016
The Protect Montana Kids Commission is recommending the state create a panel to review child fatalities or near fatalities that occur due to abuse and neglect, examine any trends, educate the public about prevention and recommend policies and practices that might help reduce such occurrences.
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2016/mar/16/commission-recommends-child-fatality-review-team/?utm_source=RSS_Feed&utm_medium=RSS

US: Protect Children at Home If Possible, in Foster Care If Necessary (Opinion)
Chronicle of Social Change – March 17, 2016
The debate, according to Heimpel, is between those who believe that the mandate of child welfare agencies “should go beyond child protection, and focus on keeping families together” and those who believe that “the child welfare system is really about child protection, and that keeping families together is the provenance of other agencies.”
https://chronicleofsocialchange.org/blogger-co-op/protect-children-home-possible-foster-care-necessary/16581

US: 6 Things I Wish You Knew About Foster Care (Opinion)
The Huffington Post – March 16, 2016
After 13 years of caring for children in foster care, and over 50 children through my own home, I continue to find that even my own family members and friends do not understand what it is truly like. Here are 6 things I want you to know about what it is truly like.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dr-john-degarmo/6-things-i-wish-you-knew-_b_9469710.html

US: Juvenile Justice Guidelines for Tribes Ready for Comment
Indian Country Today – March 16, 2016
The Bureau of Indian Affairs, Department of Justice and Department of Health and Human Services have released a draft of the revised Model Indian Juvenile Code for comment. This is the first update of the code, which provides federal guidance to tribes dealing with troubled kids, in more than 30 years.
http://indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com/2016/03/16/juvenile-justice-guidelines-tribes-ready-comment-163764

INTERNATIONAL

Canada: Meet Nova Scotia’s first Mi’kmaw child welfare specialist
The Coast – March 17, 2016
Natalie Doucette is part of a cultural resurgence in First Nations communities.
http://www.thecoast.ca/halifax/meet-nova-scotias-first-mikmaw-child-welfare-specialist/Content?oid=5276130

AL: Taxpayer-Funded Discrimination Introduced in State Legislature
Human Rights Campaign – March 18, 2016
This week, the Alabama House Health Committee delayed a vote on HB 158, the “Alabama Child Care Provider Inclusion Act” when its sponsor, Rep. Rich Wingo of Tuscaloosa, introduced a substitute for his original bill. The substitute would change the name of the bill to the “Alabama Child Placement Agency Inclusion Act.” The bill seeks to enable state-contracted and state-license child placing agencies to refuse to offer services to Alabama’s children and families if those services conflict with the religious beliefs of the provider.
http://www.hrc.org/blog/taxpayer-funded-discrimination-introduced-in-alabama-legislature?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss-feed

AZ: CarePortal pilot program connects churches with families in the child welfare system (Includes video)
ABC 15 – March 18, 2016
Families in the child welfare system are getting divine intervention through a Tucson-based program which connects social service workers with charitable churches.
http://www.abc15.com/news/region-central-southern-az/tucson/careportal-pilot-program-connects-churches-with-families-in-the-child-welfare-system

CA: Santa Clarita Foster Family Fights to Keep Child in Indian Child Welfare Act Custody Battle (Includes video)
NBC Los Angeles – March 20, 2016
Dozens of people converged on a Santa Clarita neighborhood Sunday to demonstrate against authorities’ plans to take a 6-year-girl from her foster family’s custody and place her with Choctaw Nation blood relatives who live in Utah.
http://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/lexi-choctaw-foster-family-battle-indian-child-welfare-act-santa-clarita-372896221.html

CA: Harris addresses truancy, sex trafficking at Holman service
Los Angeles Wave – March 18, 2016
California Attorney General Kamala Harris — the state’s so-called “top cop” — stood in the pulpit at Holman United Methodist Church March 13 quoting scriptures like a veteran preacher at the church’s Women’s History Month celebration. Harris ended her talk calling for action on behalf of victims of sex trafficking in the United States. “Seventy-two percent of whom are born right here in the U.S. More than 50 percent of those trafficked for sex in L.A. come from the foster care system.”
http://wavenewspapers.com/harris-addresses-truancy-sex-trafficking-at-holman-service/

CT: FBI director supports wife’s effort in counseling juveniles
Darrien News-Review – March 18, 2016
“Every foster child in this great state gets a lawyer,” said Patrice Comey, a former volunteer at Bridgeport Superior Court. “These lawyers each has up to 100 cases, but once they have a case they’re to express the best interests of the child in court. And if the lawyer or the judge or anyone feels that what the child wants is in conflict with their best…then he can ask for an advocate for the child separate.”
http://www.dariennewsonline.com/local/article/FBI-director-supports-wife-s-effort-in-6922764.php

FL: What all was in the Florida Legislature’s final “school choice” bill?
Tampa Bay Times – March 18, 2016
Starting in 2017-18, students (so long as they’re not subject to expulsion or suspension orders) could attend any public school in the state that has not reached capacity; “preferential treatment” in open enrollment would be given to: (1) children of active-duty military personnel who move for work; (2) children who move because of foster care placement; (3) children whose parents have died, divorced or changed custody; and (4) students who live in the school district.
http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/the-buzz-florida-politics/what-all-was-in-the-florida-legislatures-final-school-choice-bill/2269940

FL: Whistleblower suit sheds light on decision to dump youth contractor
Palm Beach Post – March 18, 2016
In a 2012 Leon County Circuit Court whistleblower suit, six former YSI staffers alleged the company faked documents, hid problems and hoodwinked state inspectors into believing it was making good on tens of millions of dollars in DJJ contracts.
http://www.mypalmbeachpost.com/news/news/whistleblower-suit-sheds-light-on-decision-to-dump/nqn55/?icmp=pbp_internallink_referralbox_free-to-premium-referral

MA: Child abuse deaths drop
New England Center for Investigative Reporting – March 21, 2016
The Department of Children and Families said the number of deaths from maltreatment fell from 39 in 2013 to 22 in 2014. The agency has not yet compiled child abuse deaths for 2015. Not all the news is good: The 2014 dead included 10 children who had been under state watch at some point before their deaths, suggesting that social workers continue to miss warning signs.
http://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2016/03/20/massachusetts-child-abuse-deaths-drop-but-report-shows-social-workers-still-miss-warning-signs/1LUgL1LOTGEnVIYZcc9sNI/story.html

NE: Faith-Based Foster Placement Bill Advances
KFOR – March 18, 2016
A legislative committee has advanced a bill that would prevent the state from punishing faith-based child placement groups in Nebraska that refuse to work with same-sex foster parents. Also: Discriminatory Adoption Bill Passes Out of Committee: http://www.hrc.org/blog/nebraskas-discriminatory-adoption-bill-passes-out-of-committee
http://www.kfor1240.com/Faith-Based-Foster-Placement-Bill-Advances/22582360

NJ: April Is National Child Abuse Prevention Month (Press release)
Cape May County Herald – March 18, 2016
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for Children is kicking off National Child Abuse Prevention Month with a Go Blue for CASA Dress Down Day on April 1. Schools and businesses are encouraged to dress down or wear blue to raise awareness of child abuse and neglect in our communities
http://www.capemaycountyherald.com/community/article_79526422-ecbb-11e5-89ec-071ab04b7aad.html

NY: Cheryl Dinoflo selects new Department of Human Services Commisioner
WHAM TV – March 21, 2016
Cheryl Dinolfo has named Corinda Crossdale as the new Department of Human Services Commissioner.
http://13wham.com/news/local/cheryl-dinoflo-selects-new-department-of-human-services-commisioner

NY: Q&A with Child Protective Services supervisor
Daily News – March 21, 2016
Sandy Wojtaszczyk, commonly referred to as “Sandy W” to keep people from stumbling over her last name, has been at Genesee County’s Department of Social Services for 17 years. She has worked her way up to supervisor of Child Protective Services and oversees eight case workers. April is Child Abuse Awareness month. As it approaches, she is reminded of the importance of CPS and how “the caseworkers here at DSS do an excellent job working with the families and doing everything possible to keep children safe,” she said.
http://www.thedailynewsonline.com/bdn01/qa-with-child-protective-services-supervisor-20160321

NY: Increase in CPS cases tied to heroin (Includes video)
WGRZ – March 19, 2016
Case workers with Child Protective Services in Erie County have noticed an increase of child neglect cases tied to the growing heroin epidemic.
http://www.wgrz.com/news/increase-in-cps-cases-tied-to-heroin/91222961

OK: From Group Home to Foster Care Community, Oklahoma Agency Adapts to Trends (Opinion)
Chronicle of Social Change – March 21, 2016
When the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) laid out its Pinnacle Plan as part of the settlement of a class action lawsuit. A child had to have severe behavior, such as violence or sexual acting out, to be placed in a group home. And any child placed in a group home would have to leave within a few months of behavioral stabilization, rather than staying until adulthood.
https://chronicleofsocialchange.org/blogger-co-op/group-home-foster-care-community-venerable-agency-adapts-child-welfare-trends/16618

OK: DHS prepares to release plan to cut programs, services (Includes video)
KOCO – March 18, 2016
Powell said DHS has been working on the plan since their agency took an additional 4 percent cut out of their annual state allocations for this fiscal year. “It’s very distressing to us, because Oklahomans rely on DHS. Very vulnerable Oklahomans rely on our services,” Powell said.
http://www.koco.com/news/dhs-prepares-to-release-plan-to-cut-programs-services/38588744

OR: DHS fires two top officials; agency hit with lawsuit alleging severe abuse (Includes video)
KPTV – March 18, 2016
On Thursday, DHS Director Clyde Saiki announced the firings of Jerry Waybrant, chief operating officer for the child welfare and self sufficiency programs, and Lois Day, director of the child welfare program. DHS cited “continuing concerns in leadership and direction.” Deputy Director Reginald Richardson will serve as interim director until a permanent replacement is selected. Waybrant’s position at DHS will be discontinued. Also: $60 million lawsuit: 2 preschoolers endured extreme starvation on Oregon’s watch: http://www.oregonlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/03/60_millon_lawsuit_2_preschoole.html Also: $60 Million Lawsuit Filed Against Oregon Over Malnourished DHS Foster Kids:http://www.lawyerherald.com/articles/39546/20160321/60-million-lawsuit-filed-against-oregon-over-malnourished-dhs-foster-kids.htm
http://www.kptv.com/story/31513231/dhs-fires-two-top-officials-agency-hit-with-60-million-lawsuit-alleging-severe-abuse

PA: Hotline staff haunted by clergy child sex abuse calls
Associated Press – March 19, 2016
Restricted by weak laws, the clerks and counselors who staffed the hotline could do little to help the callers or the possible victims. All they could do was to alert local law enforcement officials — the very people who, according to a recent state grand jury report, often ignored or colluded with church officials to hide the abuse.
http://www.philly.com/philly/wires/ap/news/nation/20160319_ap_a136b3a8d0b74ddd93e5d8f6f59b896c.html

RI: Don’t leave them kids alone: lawmakers target parents
Associated Press – March 18, 2016
State lawmakers are debating a bill that would punish parents for leaving a child younger than 7 alone in a car. They’ve also proposed legislation to ban kids under 10 from being home alone and older kids from being home alone at night. Legislation could even extend to private preschools, where a bill would ban outdoor recess when the temperature drops below freezing.
http://www.ksl.com/?sid=38918697&nid=1009

SC: Gov. Haley signs bill aimed at reducing SC domestic violence fatalities
Waltonian – March 19, 2016
Haley said Wednesday that the Department of Social Services wants to recruit about 1,500 more foster care families. Nikki Haley signs a bill into law Tuesday afternoon that’s aimed at reducing the number of people killed by domestic violence in SC.
http://waltonian.com/2016/03/gov-haley-signs-bill-aimed-at-reducing-sc-domestic-violence/

TX: ‘Things are very tight and very grim here at DHS’ (Video)
KOCO – March 18, 2016
In the midst of the state?s budget shortfall, the Oklahoma Department of Human Services prepares to make cuts to programs and services. “Things are very tight and very grim here at DHS,” said Sheree Powell, communications director for Oklahoma DHS.
http://www.koco.com/news/things-are-very-tight-and-very-grim-here-at-dhs/38589528

TX: GUEST EDITORIAL: More CPS caseworkers needed
Dallas Morning News – March 18, 2016
In theory, being a caseworker in Texas’ child-welfare system should be a challenging but rewarding job, with a payoff in protecting vulnerable kids and supporting fragile families. In reality, it’s a recipe for burnout. Investigators and caseworkers for Child Protective Services, part of the state’s Department of Family and Protective Services, are so overloaded that they quit in droves, which leads to constant worker turnover, which worsens the burden and makes more workers quit.
http://www.gosanangelo.com/opinion/editorials/guest-editorial-more-cps-caseworkers-needed-2e1c0e6a-6807-5dec-e053-0100007f7348-372432031.html

TX: How Texas’ Foster Care System is Failing LGBTQ Youth (Includes audio)
Texas Standard: – March 18, 2016
Texas is home to more than 27 million people — 16,000 of them are children in foster care. But for those 16,000 kids, there are fewer than 2,000 foster families. In order to house the rest, Texas hires subcontractors. Children who identify as LGBTQ, like Sharp, are most often cared for by these subcontractors, rarely by families.
http://kut.org/post/how-texas-foster-care-system-failing-lgbtq-youth

VT: Lawmakers look at protecting foster parents’ rights
WCAX – March 18, 2016
Vermont senators gave preliminary approval Friday to a bill to create a new working group to examine the relationship between the Department for Children and Families and foster parents.
http://www.wcax.com/story/31513443/vt-lawmakers-look-at-protecting-foster-parents-rights

US: Johns Hopkins Professor Endangers the Lives of Transgender Youth (Opinion)
Huffington Post – March 20, 2016
The American College of Pediatricians (ACP) is designated a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center. I’m also already hearing from parents of transgender children that relatives and people hostile to them in the community are using this position statement to threaten to report them to child protective services and take their children away.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/brynn-tannehill/johns-hopkins-professor-e_b_9510808.html

US: The Crisis Within: How toxic stress and trauma endanger children
Examiner-Enterprise – March 18, 2016
When children don’t get a break from the stress — when adults can’t or don’t know how to shield their children from it — their developing bodies go on a stress hormone production binge that can alter typical gene expression within their DNA. In some cases, parts of their brains are smaller and their chromosomes shorten.
http://examiner-enterprise.com/news/nation/crisis-within-how-toxic-stress-and-trauma-endanger-children

INTERNATIONAL

Australia: Victims tell their stories to Australia’s royal commission on child sexual abuse
National Catholic Reporter – March 21, 2016
Since its first hearing three years ago, the inquiry — the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse — has received 29,223 telephone calls from victims and other interested parties, as well as 16,171 letters and emails. It has conducted 4,874 sessions in private (to provide, where requested, a safe and confidential environment for those testifying) and made 961 referrals to authorities, including police, many of which have resulted in arrests and charges.
http://ncronline.org/news/accountability/cardinal-pell-testifies-long-distance-australia-s-church-remains-center-royal

United Arab Emirates: Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak: A Life Dedicated to the UAE’s Welfare
WAM (Emirates News Agency) – March 19, 2016
As Abu Dhabi is getting ready to pay tribute to the Mother of the Nation and to thank her for a life dedicated to the UAE’s progress, it is important to look at the diverse spheres in which Sheikha Fatima has left an indelible imprint. Her concern for and commitment to the long-term success of the UAE are best exemplified in her work for child welfare. This, of course, resonates with the legal and cultural orientations of the UAE, where the rights and welfare of children always figure high on the national priorities.
http://www.northkoreatimes.com/index.php/sid/242343035

United Kingdom: Faith groups helping parents reclaim kids from gov’t? (Opinion)
OneNewsNow.com – March 20, 2016
Christian organizations in Scotland are helping parents in a final courtroom battle in the United Kingdom Supreme Court to regain their children from the government’s control — which has been exercised over every child from birth to age 18. This could be the last chance they have they have to stop the government in its tracks before the law hits the point of no return.
http://www.onenewsnow.com/legal-courts/2016/03/20/faith-groups-helping-parents-reclaim-kids-from-gov-t
23 March 2016: Oklahoma

Following recent revenue failures, the state of Oklahoma is forced to cut back the Department of Health’s child abuse prevention program as well as other state-sponsored social programs. The Start right program provides in-home support to new foster parents in order to assist them with parenting skills and other resources. The elimination of the program will impact over 700 families who currently receive assistance. The consequences of this drastic development are yet to be seen.

24 March 2016: Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has approved a child protective services law, which has tightened the rule and procedures when reporting child abuse or neglect. In addition to expanding the amount of professions who qualify as “mandated reporters,” the new law also requires persons in professional or supervisory roles involving children to personally make a verbal or online report to ChildLine at 800-932-0313 and to follow up with a written report within 48 hours.

18 March 2016: New York

Following the recent indictment of a 60-year-old foster father for sexually abusing five foster children placed into his care as well as additional victims, Thomas Spota, Long Island District Attorney, has vehemently decried the New York City Administration for Children’s Services and called for an institutional overhaul. Despite raising “red flags” frequently, the NYC Administration for Children’s Services placed over 140 boys into the care of the perpetrator for over two decades.

20 March 2016: Washington

The Commission to Eliminate Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities has recently published its conclusions after having studied the fatalities of children from abuse or neglect. The federal Commission calls for “fundamental changes in child protection” in order to prevent the abuse of children who are already at risk. Accordingly, the Commission proposed a new national strategy, “Within Our Reach,” which would lead to the collaboration among agencies and professions that come into contact with children as well as data-driven decisions that consider the socioeconomic conditions, which put children at risk.

AR: Martin named interim head of the Division of Children and Family Services
Talk Business & Politics – March 15, 2016
Mischa Martin, a Department of Human Services attorney who has worked with child welfare cases in Arkansas since 2008, has been named interim director of the Division of Children and Family Services.
http://talkbusiness.net/2016/03/martin-named-interim-head-of-the-division-of-children-and-family-services/

CA: Santa Clara County: Foster child dies after being sent to live with dad in home for recovering addicts
San Jose Mercury News – March 15, 2016
Santa Clara County officials are reviewing why a medically fragile 2-year-old girl was sent home to live with her father in a transitional home for recovering drug addicts, about two months before she was found dead.
http://www.montereyherald.com/general-news/20160315/santa-clara-county-foster-child-dies-after-being-sent-to-live-with-dad-in-home-for-recovering-addicts

CO: Scholarship Directs College Money To Foster Care Youth (Includes video)
CBS Denver – March 15, 2016
Less than two percent of teens in foster care will graduate from college; one of the biggest barriers for them is paying tuition. The Helen McLoraine Scholarship Program for Foster Care and Emancipating Youth is designed to improve that statistic.
http://denver.cbslocal.com/2016/03/15/scholarship-money-foster-care-youth/

FL: DCF to move ahead with foster-care changes after bill fails
News Service of Florida – March 15, 2016
A bill aimed at reforming the way Florida foster children are placed in group homes died on the last day of the 2016 legislative session.
http://www.newschief.com/article/20160315/NEWS/160319633/-1/news300?Title=DCF-to-move-ahead-with-foster-care-changes-after-bill-fails

IN: Call for drug-testing of pregnant women comes with a caveat
Batesville Herald Tribune – March 15, 2016
A surge in heroin and painkiller abuse – and a related spike in the number of drug-dependent newborns – has doctors calling for drug tests for all pregnant women. But first, doctors and health officials want lawmakers to shield addicted, expectant mothers from punishment.
http://www.batesvilleheraldtribune.com/news/local_news/call-for-drug-testing-of-pregnant-women-comes-with-a/article_fa4575d2-89f8-5d42-8160-4d9259a2e095.html

IN: Principal resigns in wake of DCS scandal
Indianapolis Star – March 15, 2016
An Indianapolis Public Schools principal resigned amid questions over his failure to immediately report suspected child sexual abuse involving a counselor at his school.
http://www.indystar.com/story/news/education/2016/03/14/ips-principal-resigns-wake-counselor-scandal/81765474/

KS: DCF responds to allegations aimed at agency by father on hunger strike
Topeka Capital-Journal – March 15, 2016
The Kansas Department for Children and Families on Tuesday countered a man’s allegations that his children haven’t been returned to his care because he has used medical marijuana by stating his accusations are false.
http://cjonline.com/news/2016-03-15/dcf-responds-allegations-aimed-agency-father-hunger-strike

KY: Botched child abuse case prompts reform calls
Courier-Journal – March 16, 2016
A Bullitt County lawmaker is proposing legislation to impose stricter rules on the Cabinet for Health and Family Services when it comes to investigating some cases of child abuse and how it handles services for foster families.
http://www.courier-journal.com/story/news/politics/2016/03/16/botched-child-abuse-case-prompts-reform-calls/81769518/

ME: State to require training of child abuse reporters
Associated Press – March 16, 2016
A Maine bill requiring training for people mandated to report suspected child abuse is headed to Gov. Paul LePage for his potential signature. Information Gateway Resource: Mandated Reporting: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/responding/reporting/mandated/
http://www.wcsh6.com/news/local/augusta-waterville/maine-to-require-training-of-child-abuse-reporters/84791922

MN: Bremer donates $2.5 million for child abuse treatment
Forum News Service – March 14, 2016
A $2.5 million gift will go a long way to advance the treatment of abused and neglected children in the region, University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital officials say. The Otto Bremer Trust, the majority owner of Bremer banks in Minnesota, North Dakota and Wisconsin, announced the donation Monday at a press conference.
http://www.brainerddispatch.com/news/3986720-bremer-donates-25-million-child-abuse-treatment

NY: Monroe County to replace human services head
Rochester Democrat and Chronicle – March 15, 2016
Reed oversees a department with more than 900 employees and a roughly $538 million budget. That includes about $383 million in county funding — just over a third of the county’s $1 billion budget.
http://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/2016/03/15/monroe-county-cheryl-dinolfo-replace-human-services-commissioner-kelly-reed/81803930/

OK: State taking steps to rise above worst states for child sex abuse victims to get justice
Tulsa World – March 13, 2016
It would expand the criminal statute of limitations for child molestation to 18 years from the time the crime was discovered. It is currently 12 years, which was expanded in 2005 from seven years.
http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/state/oklahoma-taking-steps-to-rise-above-worst-states-for-child/article_79a247fd-ead2-55bf-915e-a52fbe0b3b07.html

OR: Kate Brown’s temporary human services director now permanent
Oregonian – March 15, 2016
Clyde Saiki, who’s presided over a shakeup and worked with lawmakers and Brown’s office on reform plans, will officially shed his status as interim human services director as soon as he’s confirmed by the Oregon Senate, Brown’s office said Tuesday.
http://www.oregonlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/03/kate_browns_temporary_human_se.html

PA: New drop-in center for homeless youths to be dedicated today
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – March 16, 2016
The 412 Youth Zone is operated by McKeesport-based Auberle with $2 million in funding from the Allegheny County Department of Human Services. It is being dedicated this afternoon during a ceremony that will include Bishop David Zubik of the Pittsburgh Catholic Diocese and Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald.
http://www.post-gazette.com/local/city/2016/03/16/New-drop-in-center-for-homeless-youths-to-be-dedicated-today/stories/201603150135

US: Before Flint, Lead-Contaminated Water Plagued Schools Across U.S. (Includes audio)
National Public Radio – March 16, 2016
Across the country, it’s hard to know whether there’s lead in school water. Researcher and activist Yanna Lambrinidou of Virginia Tech says for the vast majority of schools, there is no requirement to test for lead. Even if a school finds lead, there’s no mandate to fix it or tell parents.
http://www.npr.org/2016/03/16/470512927/before-flint-lead-contaminated-water-plagued-schools-across-u-s?ft=nprml&f=2,3,46

US: “Foster Care vs. Family Preservation” Is the Wrong Debate (Opinion)
The Chronicle of Social Change – March 15, 2016
I contend that the concept of emotional security gets lost in the term family preservation, which sounds more like the preservation of a valued societal social structure than the protection of a child’s emotional security. In reality a primary reason for preserving the family rests with preserving the emotional security necessary for development of the capacity to trust and form lasting healthy relationships.
https://chronicleofsocialchange.org/featured/16584/16584

US: Transracial Adoption Support Systems Scarce Despite Difficulties (Includes video)
NBC News – March 15, 2016
Families adopting transracially – when the child and parents are of different races – may immerse the child in the parents’ culture while failing to expose them to their own ethnic heritage, leading to a struggle with identity as the child grows and are treated as an outsider.
http://www.nbcnews.com/news/asian-america/transracial-adoption-support-systems-scarce-despite-difficulties-n531866

INTERNATIONAL

France: Valls appeals to French cardinal over child abuse allegations
Deutsche Welle – March 15, 2016
French Prime Minister Manuel Valls says Cardinal Philippe Barbarin must “take responsibility” over an alleged pedophilia cover up. He is one of six people implicated in an investigation into a 70-year-old priest.
http://www.dw.com/en/valls-appeals-to-french-cardinal-over-child-abuse-allegations/a-19118938

Mom in child death receives new trial

Boston Herald

ANOTHER CHANCE: Kristen A. LaBrie, shown at her arraignment in 2009, was granted a new trial on charges of attempted murder in the death of her …

 

AR: Martin named interim head of the Division of Children and Family Services
Talk Business & Politics – March 15, 2016
Mischa Martin, a Department of Human Services attorney who has worked with child welfare cases in Arkansas since 2008, has been named interim director of the Division of Children and Family Services.
http://talkbusiness.net/2016/03/martin-named-interim-head-of-the-division-of-children-and-family-services/

CA: Santa Clara County: Foster child dies after being sent to live with dad in home for recovering addicts
San Jose Mercury News – March 15, 2016
Santa Clara County officials are reviewing why a medically fragile 2-year-old girl was sent home to live with her father in a transitional home for recovering drug addicts, about two months before she was found dead.
http://www.montereyherald.com/general-news/20160315/santa-clara-county-foster-child-dies-after-being-sent-to-live-with-dad-in-home-for-recovering-addicts

CO: Scholarship Directs College Money To Foster Care Youth (Includes video)
CBS Denver – March 15, 2016
Less than two percent of teens in foster care will graduate from college; one of the biggest barriers for them is paying tuition. The Helen McLoraine Scholarship Program for Foster Care and Emancipating Youth is designed to improve that statistic.
http://denver.cbslocal.com/2016/03/15/scholarship-money-foster-care-youth/

FL: DCF to move ahead with foster-care changes after bill fails
News Service of Florida – March 15, 2016
A bill aimed at reforming the way Florida foster children are placed in group homes died on the last day of the 2016 legislative session.
http://www.newschief.com/article/20160315/NEWS/160319633/-1/news300?Title=DCF-to-move-ahead-with-foster-care-changes-after-bill-fails

IN: Call for drug-testing of pregnant women comes with a caveat
Batesville Herald Tribune – March 15, 2016
A surge in heroin and painkiller abuse – and a related spike in the number of drug-dependent newborns – has doctors calling for drug tests for all pregnant women. But first, doctors and health officials want lawmakers to shield addicted, expectant mothers from punishment.
http://www.batesvilleheraldtribune.com/news/local_news/call-for-drug-testing-of-pregnant-women-comes-with-a/article_fa4575d2-89f8-5d42-8160-4d9259a2e095.html

IN: Principal resigns in wake of DCS scandal
Indianapolis Star – March 15, 2016
An Indianapolis Public Schools principal resigned amid questions over his failure to immediately report suspected child sexual abuse involving a counselor at his school.
http://www.indystar.com/story/news/education/2016/03/14/ips-principal-resigns-wake-counselor-scandal/81765474/

KS: DCF responds to allegations aimed at agency by father on hunger strike
Topeka Capital-Journal – March 15, 2016
The Kansas Department for Children and Families on Tuesday countered a man’s allegations that his children haven’t been returned to his care because he has used medical marijuana by stating his accusations are false.
http://cjonline.com/news/2016-03-15/dcf-responds-allegations-aimed-agency-father-hunger-strike

KY: Botched child abuse case prompts reform calls
Courier-Journal – March 16, 2016
A Bullitt County lawmaker is proposing legislation to impose stricter rules on the Cabinet for Health and Family Services when it comes to investigating some cases of child abuse and how it handles services for foster families.
http://www.courier-journal.com/story/news/politics/2016/03/16/botched-child-abuse-case-prompts-reform-calls/81769518/

ME: State to require training of child abuse reporters
Associated Press – March 16, 2016
A Maine bill requiring training for people mandated to report suspected child abuse is headed to Gov. Paul LePage for his potential signature. Information Gateway Resource: Mandated Reporting: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/responding/reporting/mandated/
http://www.wcsh6.com/news/local/augusta-waterville/maine-to-require-training-of-child-abuse-reporters/84791922

MN: Bremer donates $2.5 million for child abuse treatment
Forum News Service – March 14, 2016
A $2.5 million gift will go a long way to advance the treatment of abused and neglected children in the region, University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital officials say. The Otto Bremer Trust, the majority owner of Bremer banks in Minnesota, North Dakota and Wisconsin, announced the donation Monday at a press conference.
http://www.brainerddispatch.com/news/3986720-bremer-donates-25-million-child-abuse-treatment

NY: Monroe County to replace human services head
Rochester Democrat and Chronicle – March 15, 2016
Reed oversees a department with more than 900 employees and a roughly $538 million budget. That includes about $383 million in county funding — just over a third of the county’s $1 billion budget.
http://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/2016/03/15/monroe-county-cheryl-dinolfo-replace-human-services-commissioner-kelly-reed/81803930/

OK: State taking steps to rise above worst states for child sex abuse victims to get justice
Tulsa World – March 13, 2016
It would expand the criminal statute of limitations for child molestation to 18 years from the time the crime was discovered. It is currently 12 years, which was expanded in 2005 from seven years.
http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/state/oklahoma-taking-steps-to-rise-above-worst-states-for-child/article_79a247fd-ead2-55bf-915e-a52fbe0b3b07.html

OR: Kate Brown’s temporary human services director now permanent
Oregonian – March 15, 2016
Clyde Saiki, who’s presided over a shakeup and worked with lawmakers and Brown’s office on reform plans, will officially shed his status as interim human services director as soon as he’s confirmed by the Oregon Senate, Brown’s office said Tuesday.
http://www.oregonlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/03/kate_browns_temporary_human_se.html

PA: New drop-in center for homeless youths to be dedicated today
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – March 16, 2016
The 412 Youth Zone is operated by McKeesport-based Auberle with $2 million in funding from the Allegheny County Department of Human Services. It is being dedicated this afternoon during a ceremony that will include Bishop David Zubik of the Pittsburgh Catholic Diocese and Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald.
http://www.post-gazette.com/local/city/2016/03/16/New-drop-in-center-for-homeless-youths-to-be-dedicated-today/stories/201603150135

US: Before Flint, Lead-Contaminated Water Plagued Schools Across U.S. (Includes audio)
National Public Radio – March 16, 2016
Across the country, it’s hard to know whether there’s lead in school water. Researcher and activist Yanna Lambrinidou of Virginia Tech says for the vast majority of schools, there is no requirement to test for lead. Even if a school finds lead, there’s no mandate to fix it or tell parents.
http://www.npr.org/2016/03/16/470512927/before-flint-lead-contaminated-water-plagued-schools-across-u-s?ft=nprml&f=2,3,46

US: “Foster Care vs. Family Preservation” Is the Wrong Debate (Opinion)
The Chronicle of Social Change – March 15, 2016
I contend that the concept of emotional security gets lost in the term family preservation, which sounds more like the preservation of a valued societal social structure than the protection of a child’s emotional security. In reality a primary reason for preserving the family rests with preserving the emotional security necessary for development of the capacity to trust and form lasting healthy relationships.
https://chronicleofsocialchange.org/featured/16584/16584

US: Transracial Adoption Support Systems Scarce Despite Difficulties (Includes video)
NBC News – March 15, 2016
Families adopting transracially – when the child and parents are of different races – may immerse the child in the parents’ culture while failing to expose them to their own ethnic heritage, leading to a struggle with identity as the child grows and are treated as an outsider.
http://www.nbcnews.com/news/asian-america/transracial-adoption-support-systems-scarce-despite-difficulties-n531866

INTERNATIONAL

France: Valls appeals to French cardinal over child abuse allegations
Deutsche Welle – March 15, 2016
French Prime Minister Manuel Valls says Cardinal Philippe Barbarin must “take responsibility” over an alleged pedophilia cover up. He is one of six people implicated in an investigation into a 70-year-old priest.
http://www.dw.com/en/valls-appeals-to-french-cardinal-over-child-abuse-allegations/a-19118938
South Carolina mom charged with child’s death

WJCL News

LANCASTER, S.C. (AP) –A Lancaster mother has been charged with homicide by child abuse after officials say her daughter was bludgeoned to …

Mother charged with homicide by child abuse in 2013 death of daughter, 5 – Charlotte Observer

Child’s mother charged in death – Lancaster News

Mother whose daughter was bludgeoned to death in 2013 charged – News Talk 94.3 WRHI

Full Coverage

 

Layton woman pleads guilty to obstructing child’s death investigation

KUTV 2News

(KUTV) A Layton woman whose boyfriend is facing murder charges in the death of her 2-year-old son pleaded guilty Monday to obstruction of justice.

Home daycare operator found guilty in child’s death in Mississauga

CBC.ca

A woman accused of killing an infant girl at her home daycare in Mississauga, Ont., in January 2011 has been found guilty of manslaughter.

Woman who ran unlicensed daycare found guilty of manslaughter in baby’s death – Winnipeg Free Press

Woman who ran unlicensed daycare found guilty of manslaughter in baby’s death – The Globe and Mail

Woman who ran unlicensed daycare guilty of manslaughter in baby’s death – Globalnews.ca

Full Coverage

 

Sapulpa child death under investigation

KOKI FOX 23

Sunday afternoon, they got a call about the child disappearing. About 20 people searched the area looking for the toddler. He was supposed to be …

3-year-old Sapulpa boy dies after being found unresponsive – kjrh.com

Missing Sapulpa Toddler Dies After Being Found Unresponsive – News On 6

Reported missing Sapulpa 3-year-old dies at Tulsa hospital – Tulsa World

Full Coverage

 

Toddler Death in Canada: What do we owe children?

Bioethics.net

In 2012 Alberta, Canada, 19-month-old Ezekiel Stephan died after … The child was airlifted to a hospital and after five days he was removed from life …

 

 

 

 

Video: Foster mother charged in child’s death

Sioux Falls Argus Leader

A Sioux Falls woman faces several charges including murder in the January death of a 2-year-old child. Mary Beth Jennewein, 32, was the child’s …

 

Mother of missing children tied to child death

The Albany Herald

Three children reported missing Wednesday evening, from left, Jaleel Garrison, Amyelle Garrison, and Kamella Gibson, have been found and are now …

Cause of death still undetermined in child death investigation – WFXL FOX 31

Child abductions linked to Albany baby death – WFXL FOX 31

Fugitive arrested in Marion; mom fled Georgia after child found dead – Ocala

Full Coverage

Noah Thomas case: Father seeks to exclude evidence of child’s death

Roanoke Times

The father of Noah Thomas is asking a judge to exclude evidence of the boy’s death as his trial is scheduled to begin Wednesday. Lindsay Honeycutt …

AZ: Fed up with excuses, red tape 3 foster moms forge new path at Capitol
Arizona Republic – March 14, 2016
The three have become fixtures at the Capitol as they make their case for Jacob’s Law. That’s the nickname for House Bill 2442, which was written to respond to their pleas for a quicker and smoother path to trauma and other services for children in foster care.
http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/politics/2016/03/14/foster-moms-break-down-barriers/81488040/

CA: New resource opens for homeless young adults
San Diego Union Tribune – March 12, 2016
Four recently homeless young adults will live for up to two years at the house, where the nonprofit Doors of Change will help them leave behind their traumatic pasts and lay the foundation for a brighter future.
http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/2016/mar/12/doors-of-change-shelter/

FL: Building a solid system to help children with mental health needs (Opinion)
Florida Times-Union – March 14, 2016
Jacksonville’s children have the worst health outcomes of any children in “any large city in Florida,” reports a consulting firm. That was the situation about five years before a new system was constructed. The Jessie Ball duPont Fund started the effort to create an architecture for mental health services for children. Also: Mental Health, Substance Abuse Reforms Get Approval: http://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/post/mental-health-substance-abuse-reforms-get-approval#stream/0
http://jacksonville.com/opinion/editorials/2016-03-14/story/building-solid-system-help-children-mental-health-needs

GA: Busy April ahead as Northwest Georgia observes Child Abuse Prevention Month
Hometown Headlines – March 15, 2016
Churches are asked to select one Sunday in April to designate as “Child Abuse Prevention Sunday”. On this day, we ask that congregations pray for families and children as well as the wisdom and resources to decrease abuse issues confronting our community.
http://johndruckenmiller.com/blog/2016/03/15/busy-april-ahead-as-northwest-georgia-observes-child-abuse-prevention-month/

ID: Strengthening Idaho Families to Prevent Child Abuse (Includes audio)
Public News Service – March 15, 2016
About 200 children’s advocates will gather today and tomorrow in Boise for the 17th annual Strengthening Families Training Institute. The conference will cover a range of topics. Paula Sellars, a conference speaker and author of the Stewards of Children program with the group Darkness to Light, will explain how to encourage bystanders to find the courage to come forward when they suspect a child needs help. Information Gateway Resource: Parent Education to Strengthen Families and Reduce the Risk of Maltreatment: https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/issue-briefs/parented/
http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2016-03-15/childrens-issues/strengthening-idaho-families-to-prevent-child-abuse/a50850-1

ID: Rep. Redman’s “Safe Families” bill passes House, 53-15
Spokesman-Review – March 14, 2016
Rep. Eric Redman’s legislation to amend Idaho law to empower non-profits to train and oversee “host families” for parents who are in crisis or serving in the military and want to temporarily have someone else care for their kids has passed the House on a 53-15 vote. The bill, HB 573, is entitled the “Safe Families Act.”
http://www.spokesman.com/blogs/boise/2016/mar/14/rep-redmans-safe-families-bill-passes-house-53-15/

IL: Loss of faith-based foster care agencies a ‘nonissue’ in Illinois
Lincoln Journal Star – March 14, 2016
The head of one of Nebraska’s largest foster care services says if faith-based child placing agencies lose government funding for refusing to work with same-sex couples, his organization and others could fill the void.
http://journalstar.com/legislature/loss-of-faith-based-foster-care-agencies-a-nonissue-in/article_f64c9bdd-e591-5c57-86e7-454556653bad.html

KS: CarePortal provides support for families
McPherson Sentinel – March 14, 2016
“CarePortal helps develop a network of churches, agencies, businesses and community partners by combining technology with grassroots leadership to engage, connect and equip local churches to help at-risk children and families right in their own community,” said Tate Williams, the state director of CarePortal for Missouri and Kansas. “It is a highly innovative effort that leverages the collaborative efforts of non-profits, state and contracted agencies and your church to care for those in crisis in your community.”
http://www.mcphersonsentinel.com/news/20160314/careportal-provides-support-for-families?rssfeed=true

MA: Cambridge Family and Children’s Service appoints Bob Gittens as executive director
Wicked Local Cambridge – March 14, 2016
Cambridge Family & Children’s has a long history of serving children, adolescents, and families in the Cambridge and Greater Boston areas. The agency provides foster care, developmental disabilities support, youth and residential services, adoption services and family counseling and stabilization.
http://cambridge.wickedlocal.com/article/20160314/NEWS/160317716

MN: Helping doctors prevent and detect child abuse: ‘No bruise in an infant is normal’
Star Tribune – March 14, 2016
The Masonic Children’s Hospital in Minneapolis has received a $2.5 million grant to detect and prevent child abuse, with a new program to help doctors and nurses in the difficult task of differentiating accidental injuries from abuse.
http://www.startribune.com/helping-doctors-prevent-and-detect-child-abuse/372000041/

MT: Child protection specialists face daunting job
Missoulian – March 13, 2016
Turnover is one of the many problems that have plagued this state agency. Director Sarah Corbally, who is leaving the job in April, has said about 30 of the 178 positions across the state are vacant at any given time; some remain open longer than a year.
http://missoulian.com/news/state-and-regional/montana-child-protection-specialists-face-daunting-job/article_ea10e0b7-4c1a-56ab-89f3-b329abe9d7bd.html

MT: Child care faces historic changes
MTN News – March 12, 2016
Congress passed into Law the reauthorized Child Care and Development Block Grant in November 2014, targeting weak and inconsistent child care regulations across the nation. The reauthorization provides some child care funding, in return, states must meet new care mandates that are detailed in individual state plans. Draft plan link: http://dphhs.mt.gov/Portals/85/hcsd/documents/ChildCare/FY2016-2018CCDFPlanDRAFT-StateofMontana.pdf
http://www.ktvq.com/story/31455957/montana-child-care-faces-historic-changes

NC: Taking a Peek Inside North Carolina’s Government Data Analytics Center
Government Technology – March 14, 2016
We have other health-care initiatives underway — including a Medicaid analytics pilot — and we also are developing child welfare analytics to protect and ensure the safety of children across North Carolina.
http://www.govtech.com/data/Taking-a-Peek-Inside-North-Carolinas-Government-Data-Analytics-Center.html

NC: Program aims to reduce number of children in foster care
Times News – March 13, 2016
“The High-Fidelity pilot allows us to give children and families extra attention and support from professionals with expertise in these types of issues and also in the social services system,” said Rhonda Cox, Smoky’s senior director of care coordination.
http://www.blueridgenow.com/article/20160313/NEWS/160319922/1151?Title=Program-aims-to-reduce-number-of-children-in-foster-care

NE: State’s only certified child abuse pediatrician fills a crucial gap in protection
Omaha World Herald – March 13, 2016
Dr. Suzanne Haney is trying to reprogram this group of about 40 social workers, not only to look for signs of child abuse but also to know how to discern one type of injury from another. To reject popular misconceptions and, in the process, save a few more children from bad situations.
http://www.livewellnebraska.com/health/nebraska-s-only-certified-child-abuse-pediatrician-fills-a-crucial/article_0f597cf4-dbb6-5a5c-8356-136e4effbead.html

NJ: Woman can’t sue New Jersey school over sex abuse, court rules
Associated Press – March 12, 2016
A woman who said she was raped several times by an assistant marching band director at her New Jersey high school can’t sue the school, according to an appellate court ruling that found public schools weren’t meant to be held liable through the state’s child sex abuse law.
http://triblive.com/usworld/nation/10135533-74/court-woman-state

OK: Tulsan shares her dark past as she lobbies for Oklahoma law change on child sex crimes
Tulsa World – March 14, 2016
Ginger Lewis, 45, testified in February before the House Criminal Justice and Corrections Committee and put confessional-like letters from her father on a website, toprevail.org, which contains her story and the reasons she is seeking the expansion and eventual elimination of the statute of limitations on child molestation.
http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/columnists/ginniegraham/tulsan-shares-her-dark-past-as-she-lobbies-for-oklahoma/article_dd57d89e-24f0-5288-9c3f-30fc9c5177f6.html

OR: DHS inaction could soon become a crime (Includes video)
KOIN 6 – March 12, 2016
A KOIN 6 investigation showed that for at least a decade, former leaders at DHS knew about cases of abuse and neglect among foster children and — for the most part — did nothing about it. Once Senate Bill 1515 is signed, that will become a crime.
http://koin.com/2016/03/12/dhs-inaction-could-soon-become-a-crime/

PA: Here is how ChildLine hotline failed to help victims of clergy sex abuse
Penn Live – March 14, 2016
Scores — if not hundreds — of parents and individuals in the state’s Catholic Church communities called Pennsylvania’s ChildLine hotline throughout those years to report that they suspected a priest of molesting a child, according to former Childline staffers.
http://www.pennlive.com/news/2016/03/altoona_diocese_priest_sex_abu.html

PA: Children and youth funding requests tentatively approved
Times News – March 12, 2016
Carbon County’s Children and Youth program has been notified that its state funding requests are tentatively approved for 2016-17. On Thursday, the commissioners discussed a piece of correspondence from the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare regarding Carbon County Children and Youth’s allocations in the amount of $4.68 million.
http://www.tnonline.com/2016/mar/12/children-and-youth-funding-requests-tentatively-approved

TN: Bethany Christian Services Promotes New Branch Director
The Chattanoogan – March 14, 2016
Bethany Christian Services, a global nonprofit located in 36 states and working in more than 15 countries around the world, promoted Amy Scott as director of its Chattanooga branch
http://www.chattanoogan.com/2016/3/14/320031/Bethany-Christian-Services-Promotes.aspx

TX: Children’s Hope attorney claims state violated constitutional rights (Includes video)
Fox 34 – March 14, 2016
“What they have as far as the world that they know, taken from them as quickly as it was, I’m not surprised that some of these children ended up with some significant psychological problems. The way that the state handled the removal, it’s almost irreprehensible,” Thigpen said. Thigpen said the move violated the children’s constitutional rights.
http://www.fox34.com/story/31466924/childrens-hope-attorney-claims-state-violated-constitutional-rights

TX: High foster care caseloads jeopardize children, advocacy group says
Austin American-Statesman – March 12, 2016
Despite improvements, the safety of Texas children is still jeopardized by the high caseloads assigned to Child Protective Services caseworkers, an advocacy group said Wednesday.
http://heralddemocrat.com/news/texas/high-foster-care-caseloads-jeopardize-children-advocacy-group-says

UT: Lawmakers hold the balance on LGBT, religious rights issues
Deseret News – March 12, 2016
Utah lawmakers teed up several proposals this year that some perceived as upsetting a delicate compromise struck 12 months ago between religious freedom and gay rights.
http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865649940/Lawmakers-hold-the-balance-on-LGBT-religious-rights-issues.html

US: Equipping Parents with Learning Activities Helps Close Cognitive Development Gap Between Disadvantaged and High-Resourced Children
Newswise – April 01, 2016
Home-based interventions that teach parents to engage children in playful interactive learning activities can close the cognitive development gap between disadvantaged children and high-resource peers, according to a new study led by RTI International. Study: Home-Based Early Intervention and the Influence of Family Resources on Cognitive Development: http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/pediatrics/early/2016/03/10/peds.2015-3766.full.pdf
http://www.newswise.com/articles/view/649713/?sc=rsla

US: Formerly incarcerated moms fight for reforms to save families
YES! Magazine – March 14, 2016
For years, Dianna had struggled with addiction. She gave birth to her oldest daughter during the two years she spent in prison. By the time she was standing at the bus stop, though, she had been sober for several years. But losing her children undid all the progress and stability she’d built over the years, spiraling Dianna back into addiction, arrests and incarceration.
http://www.pri.org/stories/2016-03-14/formerly-incarcerated-moms-fight-reforms-save-families

US: It Happens Here Too: Thousands of American Girls Face Forced Marriage
Take Part – March 14, 2016
Gaps in marriage-protection laws have allowed children as young as 10 to wed adults.
http://www.takepart.com/article/2016/03/14/child-marriage-virginia?cmpid=tp-rss

US: White House Takes Action to Keep Babies Clean, Dry, Healthy
Huffington Post – March 14, 2016
Last week the White House announced a major policy initiative to help the one in three American families who experience diaper need. For someone who has spent the last 12 years working to get free diapers to families who cannot afford them, it was obviously a big day.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/joanne-goldblum/white-house-takes-action_b_9461242.html

INTERNATIONAL

Australia: Tasmanian Government commits $20m to fix child protection system
ABC News Australia – March 15, 2016
Tasmania’s revamped child protection system will include a 24-hour hotline for community members and professionals to report concerns about at-risk children.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-03-15/government-commits-20m-to-fix-child-protection-system/7248282

Australia: The argument against relaxing international adoption laws
Essential Baby – March 14, 2016
In June 2012 Australia closed its intercountry adoption program with Ethiopia, commonly recognised as its most complex, unpredictable and challenging, following several years of issues with the program.
http://www.essentialbaby.com.au/conception/adoption-fostering/the-argument-against-relaxing-international-adoption-laws-20140304-3460e

India: Child adoption racket busted; network targets poor mothers
The Hindu – March 12, 2016
A poor Dalit woman who gave her 35-day-old girl child for ‘adoption’ to a couple based in Ambattur near Chennai triggered speculation of operation of an illegal child adoption racketeering at the Government District Headquarters Hospital here. On being alerted by the Childline, District Child Welfare Committee (CWC) chairperson R. Sakunthala conducted an enquiry into the ‘adoption’ of the child of Dharmalakshimi and Senthilkumar of Peravur and found something fishy in the adoption procedure. The official conducted a preliminary enquiry based on a complaint lodged by Kaliammal (65), mother of Senthilkumar, who alleged that her daughter-in-law had sold the child as she already had a two-year-old girl child and did not want one more girl.
http://m.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/child-adoption-racket-busted-network-targets-poor-mothers/article8344271.ece

CO: Our View: Social services is on the right track to help Moffat County children
Craig Daily Press – March 11, 2016
Kudos to Moffat County Social Services for all its hard work in getting the community involved in finding foster parents for children in need.
http://www.craigdailypress.com/news/2016/mar/11/our-view-social-services-right-track-help-moffat-c/

DE: Bi-partisan effort protects addicted infants
Newsworks – March 11, 2016
Rep. Ruth Briggs King, R-Georgetown, is co-sponsoring the bi-partisan legislation that would put a federal law known as the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) into Delaware code.
http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/delaware/item/91790-bi-partisan-effort-in-delaware-protects-addicted-infants

FL: Free transfer bill passes Florida legislature, goes to Gov. Rick Scott to sign
Palm Beach Post – March 11, 2016
If Gov. Rick Scott signs the bill, students would be allowed to transfer to other schools in the state and be immediately eligible to play for their new school, providing the school has room on its roster and the coach allows the player to join the team. However, a player would not be eligible if they played that same sport in the same season at a different school unless they transferred under special circumstances, such as parents’ military placement, a parent’s death or divorce or foster care placement.
http://highschoolbuzz.blog.pbgametime.com/2016/03/11/free-transfer-bill-passes-florida-legislature-goes-to-gov-rick-scott-to-sign/

FL: Mental Health, Substance Abuse Reforms Get Approval
News Service of Florida – March 11, 2016
Mark Fontaine, executive director of the Florida Alcohol and Drug Abuse Association, she he thinks policymakers “are beginning to really understand the impact of mental health and substance abuse on the entire system.” “They’re understanding the impact on the courts — the child welfare system — and the health care system,” Fontaine said.
http://miami.cbslocal.com/2016/03/11/mental-health-substance-abuse-reforms-get-approval/

IN: Augustine: Children caught in the crosshairs of substance abuse
Pharos-Tribune – March 11, 2016
According to the KIDS COUNT in Indiana Data Book, in 2014 Indiana logged the highest number of methamphetamine incidents in the nation. That means police found an active meth lab or dumpsite or seized equipment or ingredients used to make meth. Caught in the middle are more than 350 children who were removed from their homes because of these conditions.
http://www.pharostribune.com/opinion/columns/article_309d0182-7901-5d22-961e-d4e9d3a68f7e.html

MD: 1 in 5 Children in Maryland Experience Food Insecurity (Includes audio)
Public News Service – March 14, 2016
SNAP benefits will run out for thousands of people in Maryland on April 1st because of a change in federal work requirements. Those running food pantries say they may not have enough to feed everyone.
http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2016-03-14/hunger-food-nutrition/1-in-5-children-in-maryland-experience-food-insecurity/a50827-1

ME: Youth First Campaign Calls for Closing Long Creek Youth Center (Includes audio)
Public News Service – March 14, 2016
The time has come to close the Long Creek Youth Development Center, according to a new national campaign called Youth First. The campaign identified 80 old and large prisons it says not only are expensive to run but poor choices for handling youth. Long Creek was built in 1853 and designed to hold 163 young offenders. Even though the facility was renovated in 2002, said Liz Ryan, president and chief executive of Youth First, she’d like to see a different approach.
http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2016-03-14/juvenile-justice/youth-first-campaign-calls-for-closing-long-creek-youth-center/a50800-1

MT: A daunting task: Child protection specialists working out of Miles City discuss demands of the job
Helena Independent Record – March 13, 2016
Across the state, a wide range of groups has volleyed rage at Montana’s Child and Family Services workers. About two dozen men and women picketed outside the Billings regional office, holding signs with messages like “Child Protective Services declares war on families.” An organization called “Grandparents Group of Montana” has staged rallies at the Capitol and in cities around the state. Their claims about the system are serious — kids are taken away from parents who have done nothing wrong and are stuck in the system too long. Child protection specialists have too much power with no one to keep them in check and hide behind confidentiality rules.
http://helenair.com/news/state-and-regional/a-daunting-task-child-protection-specialists-working-out-of-miles/article_02a1881b-c66b-58d1-8b31-cc0bfac4683f.html

NC: Child Advocacy Center begins work
Asheville Citizen-Times – March 11, 2016
“The CAC is a child friendly, neutral environment that helps advocate, intervene and respond to child abuse and neglect,” said Geoff Sidoli, executive director of the Mountain Child Advocacy Center. “It’s both providing services but also systems addressing how we intervene at a lot of different levels.”
http://www.citizen-times.com/story/news/local/2016/03/11/child-advocacy-center-begins-work/81652912/

NE: Boys Town becomes national advocate for residential care (Second of 2 parts)
Des Moines Register – March 13, 2016
All of the 360 students, ages 8 to 18, receive state-accredited schooling, access to sports, ROTC and other activities. About one-fourth will undergo therapy from a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist on staff because of past abuse or ongoing mental health problems. PART 1 OF 2: Midwest Academy highlights child welfare worries: http://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/investigations/readers-watchdog/2016/03/12/midwest-academy-highlights-what-worries-child-welfare-experts-group-care/81501780/ Information Gateway Resource: Group and Residential Care: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/outofhome/group-residential-care/
http://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/investigations/readers-watchdog/2016/03/13/boys-town-becomes-national-advocate-residential-care/81502526/

NH: How to save babies from the opioid scourge
Christian Science Monitor – March 13, 2016
A novel New Hampshire program helps infants exposed to drugs, at a time when a baby is born in the US every 25 minutes with symptoms stemming from a mother’s opiate use. The number of babies at risk for the short-term condition has risen dramatically at the hospital in recent years because of the prescription-opioid and heroin epidemic. Last year, nearly 1 in 10 babies here had been exposed to opioids before birth, up from 1 in 20 just a few years back.
http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Society/2016/0313/How-to-save-babies-from-the-opioid-scourge

NY: Elite Chabad Yeshiva Says School Is Free of Abuse Despite Newsweek Expose
Forward – March 13, 2016
The abuse allegations, which appeared in a March 3 Newsweek article, detailed past instances of alleged misconduct at Oholei Torah, a religious school of about 2,000 male students, kindergarten through high school, in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Crown Heights. In one such case, a student was said to have been thrown into a glass door or window. In other cases, reports of sexual abuse were allegedly ignored.
http://forward.com/news/335778/elite-chabad-yeshiva-says-school-is-free-of-abuse-despite-newsweek-expose/

OK: Tulsa advocates, DHS working on dwindling Laura Dester Shelter numbers (Includes video)
Tulsa World – March 14, 2016
The inevitable is coming: The Laura Dester Shelter will close, but it’s a painful winding-down. As part of a federal class-action lawsuit settlement in 2012 against the Oklahoma Department of Human Services, emergency shelters for abused and neglected children are to be eliminated. All children removed from their homes are to be placed in foster homes, which remains a significant need in Oklahoma. Oklahoma’s shelters had turned into long-term facilities, which research shows can further traumatize children.
http://www.tulsaworld.com/homepagelatest/tulsa-advocates-dhs-working-on-dwindling-laura-dester-shelter-numbers/article_64ef3fc3-1b0d-575f-a6f1-629eafa8828f.html

PA: Human service cuts roil commissioners
Daily Local News – March 13, 2016
On Thursday, the three-member board voted unanimously to adopt a resolution calling for, among other items, full statewide participation in human service block grant funding, restoration of funding for the services cut in previous years, and a rejection of an accounting “rebalancing” of funds that would leave counties short.
http://www.dailylocal.com/general-news/20160313/human-service-cuts-roil-commissioners

PA: Drug crisis hinders state effort to keep kids together
CNHI Harrisburg Bureau – March 11, 2016
Effects of the drug crisis are widespread and are now blocking efforts to help some of Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable citizens – children in foster care. The number of children in foster care in Pennsylvania was dropping for a decade. Until last year.
http://www.dailyitem.com/opinion/drug-crisis-hinders-state-effort-to-keep-kids-together/article_74cf5728-e7db-11e5-826c-6ffbc33ffb22.html

US: Helping Children With Attachment Disorder Succeed (Includes audio)
KPBS – March 12, 2016
A 7-year-old boy, his face pixilated on the TV screen, was seen being shuttled in and out of vans in Moscow last month. The story behind the pictures was disturbing. The boy’s American adoptive family had sent him back to Russia because they said his behavior was too threatening. For a brief period of time, Russia threatened to shut down all adoptions to America because of the incident. Whether or not the allegations against this little boy are true, they reinforce concerns about adopted children and a condition known as reactive attachment disorder. Some parents of children adopted internationally have reported difficulty in dealing with symptoms of attachment disorder and being completely unprepared for a child with this condition.
http://www.kpbs.org/news/2010/may/12/helping-children-attachment-disorder-succeed/

US: Getting Myself Back: Living in Foster Care with People Who Let Me Be a Child
Youth Today – March 11, 2016
My mom frequently threatened to leave me in an orphanage and told me that my life there would be 10 times worse. Meanwhile my mother and my stepfather, Fred, put up barriers and fake smiles to make us look like a normal family. Not everyone bought the act. In elementary school, I was put on the watch list of kids who misbehaved. My counselor often asked, “Leah, is everything OK at home?”
http://youthtoday.org/2016/03/getting-myself-back-living-in-foster-care-with-people-who-let-me-be-a-child/

US: Is a new day really dawning with No Child Left Behind’s successor law?
Washington Post – March 11, 2016
“We’re In This Together”: Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) opens the door for more engagement with all sorts of “stakeholders” at the state and local level. Educators and parents must be consulted, but ESSA gives education leaders wide latitude to involve others. Title IV of the law specifically identifies community-based organizations, local government (law enforcement, juvenile court, child welfare, public housing, and others with expertise) as resources. The men and women in charge have the opportunity to cast a wide net.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/answer-sheet/wp/2016/03/11/is-a-new-day-really-dawning-with-no-child-left-behinds-successor-law/

US: Refugee Children Say U.S. Is Wrong on Law
Courthouse News Service – March 11, 2016
A federal class action claims that immigration officials illegally deny the Special Immigrant Juvenile applications of abused and neglected refugee children by saying they are no longer children, though the Texas Family Code says they are.
http://www.courthousenews.com/2016/03/11/refugee-children-say-u-s-is-wrong-on-law.htm

US: Senator Collins Presses HUD Secretary on the Need to Reduce Youth Homelessness (Includes video) (Press release)
Senator Collins Website – March 11, 2016
In January of last year, Senator Collins introduced the Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act with Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT), which would reauthorize programs that help youth obtain housing, education and job training.
http://www.collins.senate.gov/newsroom/senator-collins-presses-hud-secretary-need-reduce-youth-homelessness

INTERNATIONAL

Australia: Youth Sexual Violence and Abuse taskforce to spearhead solutions
Foreign Affairs.co.nz – March 12, 2016
Treasurer and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Curtis Pitt has committed the Palaszczuk Government to taking action on the Preventing Youth Sexual Violence and Abuse in West Cairns and Aurukun Report.
http://foreignaffairs.co.nz/2016/03/12/youth-sexual-violence-and-abuse-taskforce-to-spearhead-solutions/

United Kingdom: Child protection system brings direct route for finding conviction information
Belfast Telegraph – March 14, 2016
A new enhanced child protection scheme will boost safeguarding of the vulnerable by making it easier for people to raise concerns, authorities said.
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/northern-ireland/child-protection-system-brings-direct-route-for-finding-conviction-information-34537015.html

IN: Lawmakers vote to repeal ISTEP, strengthen teacher background checks
Indianapolis Star – March 10, 2016
Proposals to repeal the state’s ISTEP test and strengthen teacher background checks cleared the General Assembly on the final day of the 2016 session and are now on their way to Gov. Mike Pence.
http://www.indystar.com/story/news/education/2016/03/10/lawmakers-vote-repeal-istep-strengthen-teacher-background-checks/81611266/

IN: What happened on final day of the 2016 General Assembly
Indianapolis Star – March 10, 2016
A proposal to strengthen educator background checks in the state and limit confidentiality agreements between a teacher and a school district is now on its way to Gov. Mike Pence. It would require schools check child welfare records to determine if teaching applicants have a verified case of child abuse or neglect against them.
http://www.indystar.com/story/news/politics/2016/03/10/whats-happening-final-day-2016-indiana-general-assembly/81577606/

MI: Allen on state task force on child abuse and neglect
Midland Daily News – March 11, 2016
Midland County Probate Judge Dorene S. Allen has been appointed to the Governor’s Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect. Allen is in her 16th year of serving as probate and juvenile judge for Midland County and overseeing the Midland County Juvenile Care Center.
http://www.ourmidland.com/police_and_courts/allen-on-state-task-force-on-child-abuse-and-neglect/article_8e0bec3e-677c-5374-b36e-b7f986bb35e5.html

MN: Research Shows Washburn Center for Children Treatment has Significant Impact on Children’s Social, Emotional and Behavioral Health (Press release)
Business Wire – March 10, 2016
A new report by the Center for Advanced Studies in Child Welfare (CASCW) at the University of Minnesota shows that social, emotional and behavioral health services provided by Washburn Center for Children have a significant impact on children’s well-being and quality of life. Report: http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=3&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwj98_Hw-rjLAhXswYMKHUxfB6sQFggjMAI&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcascw.umn.edu%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F01%2FWashburnReport.pdf&usg=AFQjCNF1Jg93AdPczwNODix0UEeVhwO1kQ
http://investor.biospace.com/biospace/news/read?GUID=31701794

NE: State senator’s proposal has merit (Opinion)
Norfolk Daily News – March 10, 2016
Sen. Kolterman’s measure would prevent child placement agencies that refuse to license gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender foster parents on religious principle from losing state funding.
http://norfolkdailynews.com/blogs/state-senator-s-proposal-has-merit/article_69199152-e6cb-11e5-bbad-7f0cc89b492a.html

NH: Senate bill adds drug addiction to child neglect laws
Associated Press – March 10, 2016
The New Hampshire Senate voted Thursday to give the state’s child protection agency more power to intervene immediately in cases where a parent is abusing drugs or a child is born drug dependent.
http://www.eagletribune.com/news/new_hampshire/senate-bill-adds-drug-addiction-to-child-neglect-laws/article_b5362796-e788-5655-94fb-59e835bb03cc.html

NY: OCFS Announces Policy to Allow Foster Parent Access to Social Security Numbers for Tax Purposes (Press release)
New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) – March 10, 2016
In February 2016, the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) resolved a long-standing problem that prevented foster parents and relatives raising children from obtaining a child’s social security number. This effectively blocked the foster parent and relatives from claiming children as dependents for tax purposes.
http://nysccc.org/fostercare/financial-supports/claiming-children-in-care/

OH: Area Foster Children are Involved in a Wilderness Survival Program (Includes video)
WLIO – March 10, 2016
Allen County Children Services, The Lima Police Department, and the Police Athletic Activities League have collaborated together to provide the first ever wilderness survival program put on for children involved with children services. The intent of the course is to impact the lives of children and provide them with an educational opportunity while developing self worth and self esteem.
http://www.hometownstations.com/story/31442829/area-foster-children-are-involved-in-a-wilderness-survival-program

OH: Children at Risk: Drug Epidemic Affecting Child Safety (Includes video)
WBNS – March 10, 2016
A recording obtained by 10 Investigates calls into question just how effective Ohio’s county agencies are in protecting children from the ravages of heroin-addicted parents.
http://www.10tv.com/content/stories/2016/03/10/Children_at_Riskx_Drug_Epidemic_Affecting_Child_Safety_.html

OK: Integris to assess community’s top health needs
The Miami News-Record – March 10, 2016
Partners of Ottawa County Inc. (POCI)is a 501(c)(3) organization working for the betterment of families, especially children and youth. Its two main projects are Haven Homes, an emergency shelter for teen males, and Cross Check Connection, an alternative to high school suspension. Other projects the coalition is involved with are Bright Futures Miami, Man-Up and Running Wild.
http://www.miamiok.com/news/20160310/integris-to-assess-communitys-top-health-needs?rssfeed=true

TN: DCS receives proclamation from the city
The Jackson Sun – March 10, 2016
Work at the Madison County Department of Children’s Services came to halt Thursday–if only for a few minutes–as Mayor Jerry Gist read a proclamation to the staff in honor of National Social Work Month.
http://www.jacksonsun.com/story/news/2016/03/10/dcs-receives-proclamation-city/81586408/

TX: New report points to a path forward for Texas foster care (Opinion)
American-Statesman – March 11, 2016
A report from the state’s Department of Family and Protective Services, the parent agency to CPS, confirms one of the main steps that legislators must take to make foster care a safe, healing, and stable place for children. The new report shows that CPS staff caseloads–largely a product of the Legislature’s budget decisions– continue to put children in danger. What does that mean for a child in foster care? Also: Editorial: CPS caseworker job is a recipe for burnout, but state is fighting reform: http://www.dallasnews.com/opinion/editorials/20160310-editorial-cps-caseworker-job-is-a-recipe-for-burnout-but-state-is-fighting-reform.ece Information Gateway resource: Caseload and Workload Management: https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/case-work-management/
http://www.mystatesman.com/news/news/opinion/new-report-points-to-a-path-forward-for-texas-fost/nqhqB/

UT: Legislature eliminates legal counsel requirement for disabled adults if parents seek guardianships
Deseret News – March 10, 2016
Utah will no longer require that disabled adults whose biological or adoptive parents petition courts to become their legal guardians have their own legal counsel under a bill passed Thursday by Utah lawmakers.
http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865649823/Legislature-eliminates-legal-counsel-requirement-for-disabled-adults-if-parents-seek-guardianships.html?pg=all

US: U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, other faith groups file Supreme Court brief in immigration case
Catholic News Service – March 11, 2016
Through their work, the brief points out, these faith-based groups have a “unique and firsthand knowledge of the adverse impacts that family separation, immigration detention and deportation have on immigrant families in the U.S., particularly young children.”
http://theleaven.org/usccb-other-faith-groups-file-supreme-court-brief-in-immigration-case/

US: AFT Joins Amicus Brief on Supreme Court Case United States v. Texas (Press release)
American Federation of Teachers – March 10, 2016
Statement from American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten on the amicus brief filed today by the AFT and 70 other organizations in United States v. Texas, which is being considered by the U.S. Supreme Court: “Every day, in classrooms across the country, our members see firsthand the damage caused by our nation’s broken immigration system…”
http://www.aft.org/press-release/aft-joins-amicus-brief-supreme-court-case-united-states-v-texas

US: Expert panel urges new approaches to curtail US opioid epidemic
Medical News Today – March 10, 2016
Overprescribing of opioids and opioid addiction are serious and growing public health problems in the U.S., and are the focus of a new report by an expert panel, entitled The American Opioid Epidemic: Population Health Implications and Potential Solutions.”
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/307719.php?tw

US: Parent partnerships: A better way to co-parent (Opinion)
The Washington Post – March 08, 2016
As evidenced by many families I know, there are plenty of circumstances where children flourish in single-parent households and in family arrangements that involve active and engaged parents who live apart. When I worked as a child welfare attorney, however, I saw first-hand that this was not always the case.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/parenting/wp/2016/03/08/parent-partnerships-a-better-way-to-co-parent/?wprss=rss_lifestyle

INTERNATIONAL

Columbia: & US: Bethany to offer adoptions from Colombia
Mission Network News – March 10, 2016
Bethany Christian Services is once again offering adoptions from Colombia through it’s international outreach, Bethany Global.
https://www.mnnonline.org/news/bethany-to-offer-adoptions-from-colombia/

Papua New Guinea: Questions asked why red tape’s holding up overhaul of PNG’s child welfare system
ABC News Australia – March 11, 2016
The man who drafted the legislation behind an overhaul of Papua New Guinea’s child welfare system, Dr Eric Kwa, says he’s as keen as anyone to find out why it’s been tied up in bureaucratic red tape for the last nine months.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-03-11/questions-asked-why-red-tape’s-holding-up-overhaul/7239020

CA: Child Abuse Victim Kept in a Cage Tells Her Story of Survival (Video)
KEYT – March 07, 2016
Vasquez, 19, works at Casa Pacifica in Camarillo, the same center that helped her after she was abused and neglected by a foster parent who adopted her and her little sister.
http://www.keyt.com/news/child-abuse-survivor-doesnt-dwell-on-the-past/38395826

CA: California’s two different visions for better foster care
The Christian Science Monitor – March 09, 2016
In California, there’s momentum to move more foster kids into families, not group homes. But for some kids, group homes can feel like family, too. The lessons could echo nationwide.
http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Society/2016/0309/California-s-two-different-visions-for-better-foster-care

CO: Enthusiastic turnout buoys hopes to turn around Moffat County foster parent shortage
Craig Daily Press – March 08, 2016
About 20 people came to an open house Monday at the Moffat County Department of Social Services to seek information about becoming a foster parent–and to provide support.
http://www.craigdailypress.com/news/2016/mar/08/enthusiastic-turnout-buoys-hopes-turn-around-moffa/

CT: Sen. Blumenthal convenes medical professionals to address Connecticut’s deadly opioid issue
The Register Citizen – February 26, 2016
While doctors have come a long way in treating children whose parents abuse opioids and other narcotics, Wolfson said there’s still work left to be done across all fields related to the treatment of opioid addition and prescription use.
http://www.registercitizen.com/health/20160226/sen-blumenthal-convenes-medical-professionals-to-address-connecticuts-deadly-opioid-issue

IA: Editorial: Supreme Court ruling on adoption: a step forward for civil rights
Iowa State Daily – March 09, 2016
While this case seems to focus on states’ relationships to one another, it is another major step forward for civil rights in our country, especially for the thousands of same-sex couple with adopted children.
http://www.iowastatedaily.com/opinion/article_1db8a052-e583-11e5-8e42-57844d899d19.html

KY: On the Senate Floor
Floyd County Times – March 08, 2016
Rep. Jeff Greer, D-Brandenburg (left), presents a bill before the House Health and Welfare Committee to require child protective services to conduct unannounced visits to residences where child abuse or neglect are reported. Greer was joined by Stephanie Wimpee, whose thirteen-year old nephew Tucker was killed in 2013.
http://floydcountytimes.com/news/3949/on-the-senate-floor

MS: Foster Care Legislation: ‘The Beginning to an End of Madness’
Jackson Free Press – March 09, 2016
An infant died only five days after entering the state’s custody a year ago, into a foster home not inspected by a state worker, with a foster mother who was recently convicted of a criminal offense and had lost her job.
http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2016/mar/09/foster-care-legislation-beginning-end-madness/

MT: Missoula Co. Attorney’s Office adds staff to handle increase in child abuse cases
NBC Montana – March 09, 2016
The number of child abuse and neglect cases filed by the Missoula County Attorney’s Office has nearly tripled since 2011. In 2015 there were 178 new cases, up from 64 in 2011.
http://www.nbcmontana.com/news/missoula-co-attorney-s-office-adds-staff-to-handle-increase-in-child-abuse-cases/38424586

NH: Review approved of New Hampshire’s child protection division
Associated Press – March 09, 2016
The Executive Council has approved a contract for an independent review of New Hampshire’s child protection division to ensure the state is providing the best protection for children in child abuse and neglect cases.
http://wtop.com/national/2016/03/review-approved-of-new-hampshires-child-protection-division/

NY: Girl in city-contracted foster home was repeatedly molested, then blamed for ‘acting out,’ new lawsuit alleges
New York Daily News – March 09, 2016
A girl under the care of a city-contracted foster home provider was repeatedly molested in her household–and then blamed for “acting out” when she complained about sexual abuse, a new Manhattan federal lawsuit alleges.
http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/girl-city-contracted-foster-care-molested-suit-alleges-article-1.2559041

PA: Lawmakers push to expand prosecution limits on child abuse cases
Pittsburgh Tribune-Review – March 09, 2016
A Pennsylvania legislator on Wednesday implied that inaction on child abuse legislation might be linked to an allegation of abuse against a priest related to House Judiciary Committee Chairman Ron Marsico, R-Dauphin County.
http://triblive.com/news/adminpage/10114296-74/marsico-committee-criminal

PA: Quality service review – A shout out (Opinion)
Gettysburg Times – March 09, 2016
There is something new afoot at Adams County Children & Youth Services (ACCYS). It is a Quality Service Review (QSR). Information Gateway resource: Child and Family Services Reviews: State and Local Examples: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/management/reform/child-and-family-services-reviews/examples/
http://www.gettysburgtimes.com/life_entertainment/columns/article_6980b515-95b1-5651-be74-4aff37045a28.html

TX: Texas Caseworkers Call For Foster Care Reforms
The Texas Tribune – March 09, 2016
Texas officials are fighting tooth and nail against court-ordered, potentially costly reforms to the state’s foster care system–a position that’s drawn fierce criticism from child welfare advocates.
http://www.texastribune.org/2016/03/09/texas-caseworkers-call-foster-care-reforms/

TX: Fostering the Process: More Work Ahead as Tribes Pick Up the Pace in Applying for Federal Funding of Child-Welfare Programs (Press release)
Marketwired – March 08, 2016
If Native children are overrepresented in the nation’s foster care system at more than 1.6 times the rate of the non-Native population, why has it taken so long for tribes to tap into billions in federal assistance?
http://www.bloomberg.com/research/markets/news/article.asp?docKey=600-201603081406MRKTWIREUSPR_____11G086668_001-1

US: A child’s first eight years critical for substance abuse prevention
Medical Xpress – March 09, 2016
An online guide about interventions in early childhood that can help prevent drug use and other unhealthy behaviors was launched today by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), part of the National Institutes of Health. Guide: https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-substance-abuse-prevention-early-childhood/index
http://medicalxpress.com/news/2016-03-child-years-critical-substance-abuse.html

US: A Baby Was Born a ‘Junkie’ (Opinion)
The Huffington Post – March 08, 2016
Junkie, addicted baby, oxytot is the language used by many medical professionals while caring for these babies. From the day that these babies are born, a stigmatizing label has been placed upon them. The media then uses such language to shock and reinforce the myth that babies are born addicted. They are not; they have Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome, (NAS) which is treatable.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/elaine-pawlowski/a-baby-was-born-a-junkie_b_9394230.html?utm_hp_ref=politics&ir=Politics

US: Block Grants Are Funding Suicide (Opinion)
The Chronicle of Social Change – March 08, 2016
If you read my first piece in this series on Title IV-E waivers, which are essentially short-term block grants, you can probably guess that I think converting Title IV-E into a block grant would be a terrible idea.
https://chronicleofsocialchange.org/analysis/block-grants-are-funding-suicide/16381

US: Don’t Be Afraid of the Block Grant Bogeyman (Opinion)
The Chronicle of Social Change – March 08, 2016
In my previous column on child welfare finance reform, I wrote about the incentives that push governments toward needlessly tearing apart families. Those incentives exist for everyone from the frontline caseworker to the child welfare agency chief.
https://chronicleofsocialchange.org/analysis/16266/16266

US: HUD Awards $1.6 Billion for Local Homeless Programs (Press Release)
Alliance Online News – March 08, 2016
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Julián Castro today awarded $1.6 billion in grants to provide funding to 6,400 local homeless housing and service programs across the U.S., Puerto Rico, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands. View a complete list of all the state and local homeless projects awarded funding: http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/comm_planning/homeless/budget/2015
http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/press/press_releases_media_advisories/2016/HUDNo_16-030

US: You Can’t Have Child Protection Without Family Preservation (Opinion)
The Chronicle of Social Change – March 09, 2016
I appreciate the opportunity to debate child welfare finance with Sean Hughes in the Chronicle. But I am disappointed that in his introduction to the latest installment, Daniel Heimpel chose to repeat what I view as The Big Lie of American child welfare–the idea that child protection and family preservation are at odds.
https://chronicleofsocialchange.org/blogger-co-op/cant-child-protection-without-family-preservation/16502

INTERNATIONAL

Australia: Triage system for at-risk Tasmanian children under major revamp of child protection services
ABC News Australia – March 10, 2016
Child protection services in Tasmania would no longer be the first point of contact for community members raising concerns about at-risk children, under a major revamp to be unveiled today.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-03-10/triage-system-for-at-risk-tasmanian-children-under-major-revamp/7235228

India: Child Welfare Institute Underway
The Express Tribune – March 10, 2016
The construction of a Child Welfare Institute in Bahawalpur was inaugurated on Wednesday. Provincial Child Protection Bureau Chairperson Saba Sadiq said the idea was to uplift the most vulnerable segment of the society. The government has introduced a phased programme under which Child Protection Bureau units will be opened in every district in the province.
http://tribune.com.pk/story/1062706/child-welfare-institute-underway/

New Zealand: Child protection policies widened (Press release)
Scoop Independent News – March 10, 2016
Social Development Minister Anne Tolley says that more services will soon be required to adopt child protection policies.
http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PA1603/S00175/child-protection-policies-widened.htm

United Kingdom: England’s teenage pregnancy rate halved in last 15 years
Medical News Today – March 09, 2016
The rate of under-18 conceptions in England has declined by 51% since 1998*, exceeding the goal of the original teenage pregnancy strategy, according to data released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Report: Conceptions in England and Wales: 2014: http://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/birthsdeathsandmarriages/conceptionandfertilityrates/bulletins/conceptionstatistics/2014
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/307670.php?tw

United Kingdom: Be careful what you measure in child protection because it influences practice (Opinion)
Community Care – March 08, 2016
There is understandable pressure that such a contentious public service should be transparent and accountable to the people who use and pay for it. But what are the measures to reliably gauge the quality of a service? Particularly where the protection of children is concerned?
http://www.communitycare.co.uk/2016/03/08/careful-measure-child-protection-influences-practice/

 

3.10.16  Mother charged with homicide by child abuse in 2013 death of daughter, 5

Charlotte Observer

A Lancaster mother was charged with homicide by child abuse Tuesday – almost three years to the day after her daughter was allegedly bludgeoned …

A Lancaster mother has been charged with homicide by child abuse after her daughter was … – Daily Journal

3.10.16‘Nanny cam’ baby sitter: Moriah Gonzales charged with child abuse

San Jose Mercury News

Moriah Gonzales, 20, who appeared in court with her attorney William Du Bois, was charged with child abuse. A protective order has been issued …

Livermore babysitter arrested for child abuse – KTVU San Francisco

Livermore: Baby-sitter arrested for child abuse was caught on ‘nanny cam’ – San Jose Mercury News

Livermore nanny pleads not guilty to smothering baby – KRON4.com

 

3.10.16  No fallout from Altoona child abuse

York Daily Record/Sunday News

While “profoundly” and “deeply” saddened by the child abuse allegations leveled by a grand jury against the Altoona-Johnstown Catholic Diocese last …

Report reveals child abuse – Pittsburgh Catholic

Child sex abuse: Do Pa. laws thwart prosecution? – York Daily Record/Sunday

 

 

3.10.16,  ‘He was a monster’: How child abuse by Catholic priests tore apart Pennsylvania towns

Raw Story

One of Brian Gergely’s fellow altar boys had a code he would use to signal danger in the room where they and the priest prepared for mass. “He would …

 

Dance instructor abused boy for more than a year, child abuse inquiry told

The Guardian

‘It is difficult to think of a time when he didn’t abuse me on the Thursday evenings he drove me home,’ an abuse survivor told the commission.

 

 

Rise in child abuse cases alarms Montana officials

Washington Times

HELENA, Mont. (AP) – Child abuse and neglect cases in Montana’s district courts have more than doubled since 2010, prompting renewed alarm from …

Rise in child abuse cases alarms Montana officials – Billings Gazette

Spike In Child Abuse Cases Alarms Officials – MTPR

Rise in child abuse cases alarms Montana officials – NBC Montana

Full Coverage

 

 

Attorney’s Office adding staff due to increase in child abuse cases

NBC Montana

The number of child abuse and neglect cases filed by the Missoula County Attorney’s Office has nearly tripled since 2011. 2015 saw an addition of 178 …

 

French judge probes Church cover-up of child abuse

FRANCE 24

Pell was giving evidence on Thursday to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse in Sydney via videolink from Rome …

Cardinal George Pell says he won’t resign over church child abuse scandal – Daily Mail

Australian child sex abuse survivors arrive back home from Rome – The Guardian

Cardinal Pell pledges to help child sex abuse survivors – BBC News

 

 

Indiana leaders gather to address increase of child abuse cases

WLKY Louisville

The community has seen a massive increase child abuse cases and blame it … County officials said 90 percent of their abuse and neglect cases are …

 

The link between drug abuse and child abuse, Indiana Youth Institute’s Glenn Augustine explains

WOWO.com

Glenn Augustine from the Indiana Youth Institute joined Charly Butcher on “Fort Wayne’s Morning News” to talk about the link that IYI is finding …

 

 

Out-of-home care

Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse

The Royal Commission released a consultation paper Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse in Out-of-home care: Consultation Paper on 8 …

 

Visual Diagnosis of Child Abuse, 4th Edition [USB flash drive]

American Academy of Pediatrics

Confidently recognize, establish, and prevent the occurrence of child physical and sexual abuse. New 4th edition revised and updated to include.

 

Royal Commission releases consultation paper on out-of-home care

Media releases, Child Abuse Royal Commission

The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse has released a consultation paper on out-of-home care today

 

Cameron Failing On Tackling Child Abuse, Says Rotherham MP

LabourList

Sarah Champion has accused David Cameron of breaking his promises on tackling child abuse following last month’s launch of Dare2Care, …

 

Colorado Springs attorney arrested on suspicion of assault, child abuse claims he’s been framed

ColoradoSprings.com

A Colorado Springs personal injury lawyer arrested on suspicion of assault, child abuse and victim tampering says he’s been “destroyed” by a frame …

 

Cass County Supervisors approve proclamation for Child Abuse Prevention Month

96.5 KSOM

(Atlantic) The Cass County Board of Supervisors approved a request from the Cass County Child Abuse Prevention Council to proclaim the mon…

 

Historic Child Abuse Charges

Western Australia Police

The WA Police Taskforce Tonalite was established within the Child Abuse Squad to investigate historical child sexual abuse, including allegations …

 

 

Residents urged to speak out about suspected child abuse or neglect

Southwark Council

Southwark residents are urged to open their eyes to child abuse and neglect, by a new government campaign from the Department of Education.

 

Former daycare worker in court on child neglect charges

Fox 35 Orlando

ORLANDO., Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) – Three former daycare workers were set to appear in court on charges of child neglect, but only one, Shannon …

 

D.A. investigating child neglect at local elementary school

WJHL

BRISTOL, TN (WJHL) -The Sullivan County District Attorney’s office continues looking in to child neglect at a local elementary school. Earlier this …

 

 

Woman charged with child neglect after smoking meth and driving

WOWK

Police say Megan Jewell Stowers was charged with child neglect and driving under the influence. Officers say the woman pulled into the parking lot of …

 

Sherburne Co. Man Accused Of Child Neglect Fails To Appear At Sentencing

CBS Local

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – A warrant has been issued for a Sherburne County man charged with child neglect after he failed to appear at his …

 

Man cited for child neglect after officers find child wandering on street

KETV Omaha

Authorities responded to 40th and Vinton streets at 3:12 p.m. Tuesday for a report of a wandering child. Police asked the girl her name but she was …

 

COURT: Two jailed for Harrogate child neglect

Harrogate Advertiser

Magistrates said that, charged with neglecting or abandoning a child on a reckless basis, Mr Atkinson had to be committed to prison because of …

 

Mother Of Missing Oklahoma Teenager Faces Child Neglect Charge

Times Record

Prosecutors with Attorney General Scott Pruitt filed three felony child neglect counts against the mother in Oklahoma County District Court. The mother …

 

 

Woman charged with child neglect after her daughter was found wandering alone

WDAY

UPDATE: The mother of a girl found wandering outside in Bismarck has been found and charged with child neglect. 35-year-old Helen Price is at the …

 

Lonna Barton gets 5 years in prison for child neglect

Firstcoastnews.com

Lonna Lauramore Barton enters the courtroom for her sentencing hearing Friday, March 4, 2016 at the Duval County Courthouse in Jacksonville.

Mother of Lonzie Barton sentenced for child neglect, lying to police – WOKV

Lonna Barton sentenced to 5 years – Firstcoastnews.com

Mother Sent To Prison For Having Sex While Child Drowned In Bathtub – CBS Local

 

 

Evansville father pleads guilty to child neglect

93.5 Duke FM

An Evansville father has pleaded guilty to child neglect. According to court records, John Bivens was arrested following the death of his one-month-old …

 

Judge Sammons Barred From Handling Child Neglect Case

Tennessee Bar Association

Judge Sammons Barred From Handling Child Neglect Case. By Amelia Ferrell … on Mon, 03/07/2016 – 5:22pm. Eighth Judicial District Judge Shayne …

 

 

Killarney baby death ‘sudden and unexplained’, gardaí say

Irish Times

The results of a postmortem will determine the course of the Garda investigation into the death of an 11-month old baby boy in an apartment in …

Results of postmortem due in Killarney baby death investigation – Irish Examiner

Gardaí treat Kerry baby death as ‘suspicious’ – RTE.ie

Investigation ongoing into death of baby in Kerry – RTE.ie

 

 

Inquest over baby’s death hears from neuropathologist

RTE.ie

Baby Darragh died on 19 February 2013, four days after being delivered by … the timing of hypoxia, a shortage of oxygen

 

Caretaker Charged After Boy Dies of “Shaken Baby Syndrome”

NBC Connecticut

Keith Frost is charged with manslaughter in the death of a 14-month-old child found unresponsive in a motel in Old Saybrook last December.

Caretaker Charged With Manslaughter in Baby’s Death – NECN

Arrest made in death of baby at Old Saybrook motel – WTNH Connecticut News (press release)

Old Saybrook Police Make Arrest In Baby’s 2015 Death – Hartford Courant

 

Court hearing rescheduled for Benton Harbor man charged in baby’s death

WNDU-TV

The man accused of killing an 8-month old baby did not appear before a judge this morning. Brandon Beshires, 30, asked for his own attorney instead …

 

Boyfriend cleared of Vic baby death

9news.com.au

A man has been cleared over the death of an 11-month-old baby girl who was found bruised and unresponsive after she spent a night in his care.

Boyfriend Brett Penrose cleared over the death of baby Charlotte Keen – Herald Sun

Wodonga man Brett Penrose found not guilty of manslaughter over 2004 death of baby Charlotte … – ABC Online

 

 

Baby death a suspected drowning

Otago Daily Times

A 10-month-old baby died in a suspected drowning at a Waikato home this evening. Police were called to the home in Putaruru about 8pm.

Baby’s death under investigation – SunLive

Baby drowns in bath tub in South Waikato – Waikato Times

Baby who died in Putaruru drowned in bath tub – Radio New Zealand

 

 

Woman gets 7 year sentence in baby death

WGAL Lancaster

… up to 7-years behind bars in the death of an infant she was babysitting. … Police say she was watching the baby in August 2014 in a home on North …

Baby sitter gets prison time over death of 3-month-old girl in Chambersburg – The Sentinel

Woman sentenced to up to 7 years in infant’s death – Chambersburg Public Opinion

 

Baby death

The Bellingham Herald

I cannot understand how the case regarding the recent death of the Shields baby could end so tragically. With family so close and available now to …

 

WA man denied bail after baby’s death

MSN.com

A man has been denied bail over the manslaughter of his baby, who was malnourished and had head injuries.

 

5 sources

Google News

A service set up to provide consistent maternity care for Whanganui women has been reviewed following the death of five babies and serious harm to …

 

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

POLICE Magazine

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is one of those heartbreaker types of calls, especially if you have children of your own. You know from past …

 

Baby death a suspected drowning

Google News

A 10-month-old baby died in a suspected drowning at a Waikato home this evening. Police were called to the home in Putaruru about 8pm.

 

Gardaí investigate death of baby boy in Kerry; man in hospital

Western People

Gardaí are investigating the death of an 11-month-old baby boy in Co Kerry. Shortly before 6pm yesterday evening emergency services were called to …

 

Jamarion Lawhorn’s stepfather begins serving term for child abuse

WZZM13.com

The mother of Jamarion Lawhorn, Kent County’s youngest convicted killer, quietly left the Kent County Jail after serving time for child abuse, making …

 

Jacksonville couple faces long prison sentence in beating death of child

ActionNewsJax.com

Jurors found Shavonn Norfleet guilty Friday of manslaughter and child abuse, but didn’t convict her on a third charge she faced of first-degree murder.

Father convicted in beating death of daughter – The Ledger

Jacksonville stepmother found guilty on two charges in death of child – ActionNewsJax.com

Shavonn Norfleet convicted of manslaughter, not murder in 4-year-old stepdaughter’s death – Firstcoastnews.com

 

 

Orange County man arrested for third time on child abuse charges

WFTV Orlando

The Florida Department of Children and Families said he was arrested a second time in January for the alleged beating of his three biological sons.

 

 

Eastern New Orleans woman accused of beating daughter over missing ice cream

NOLA.com

An eastern New Orleans woman was arrested late Thursday (March 3) on child abuse allegations after New Orleans police said she admitted beating …

 

 

Sentencing hearing for man who admitted to sexually assaulting, beating child

CTV News

A man who has admitted to sexually assaulting and severely beating a young girl in 2014 appeared in a Stony Plain courtroom Monday for sentencing …

 

 

Baltimore school police charged after video shows officer beating student

The Guardian

… investigated the video and arrested Anthony Spence on charges of second degree assault, second degree child abuse, and misconduct in office

 

 

 

State: Stepmom condoned boy’s deadly abuse

WJXT Jacksonville

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A Jacksonville mom accused of killing her stepdaughter not only ignored the 4-year-old’s abuse but assisted it and condoned it, …

State: Stepmom condoned girl’s deadly abuse – WJXT Jacksonville

Trial underway for stepmom charged in 4-year-old’s death – Firstcoastnews.com

Full Coverage

 

Urbandale police investigating infant death

DesMoinesRegister.com

Preliminary police investigation has not revealed anything to connect the infant’s death to a criminal act, said Urbandale Police Sgt. Gary Lang.

 

 

Woman pleads no contest in infant death

Chambersburg Public Opinion

CHAMBERSBURG – A Chambersburg woman pleaded no contest Monday morning to causing the death of 3-month-old Kaendra Desntinvil. Rosanna …

Pa. Babysitter To Serve 7 Years For Infant’s Death – CBS Local

Woman gets 7 year sentence in baby death – WGAL Lancaster

Chambersburg woman gets 3 1/2 to 7 years in prison in death of infant – Herald-Mail Media

Full Coverage

 

Police make arrest in Old Saybrook Econo Lodge infant death

theday.com

On Dec. 19, police responded to a call for an unresponsive infant at the lodge, located at 1750 Boston Post Road, and found the infant without a pulse …

 

 

2 Charged with Exposing Kids to Drugs After Dubuque Infant’s Death

KCRG

DUBUQUE, Iowa (KCRG-TV9) Police arrested two adults after an investigation into the death of an infant in Dubuque in December. Derrick Brown, 24 …

 

Special memorial mass takes place after infant death in Killarney

BreakingNews.ie

The 11-month-old baby boy was found dead in an apartment complex in the town on … The mass was held in the absence of Baby Karol’s body.

Results of postmortem due in Killarney baby death investigation – Irish Examiner

Injured man facing quiz over death of 11-month-old baby – Belfast Telegraph

Injured man facing quiz over death of 11-month-old baby – Irish Independent

Full Coverage

 

 

Caretaker arrested for manslaughter in Old Saybrook infant death case

FOX 61

When they got there they found a 14-month old infant with no pulse and not breathing. The infant was taken to the Middlesex Medical Center Shoreline …

29-Year-Old Charged in CT Infant’s Death – Patch.com

Old Saybrook Police Make Arrest In Baby’s 2015 Death – Hartford Courant

Arrest made in death of baby at Old Saybrook motel – WTNH Connecticut News (press release)

Full Coverage

 

After infant’s death, 2 Dubuquers accused of exposing children to drugs

Dubuque Telegraph Herald

A Dubuque infant’s death prompted an investigation that resulted in criminal charges against two parents accused of exposing their children to drugs.

 

Bond set for 4 people charged in infant’s death

WAPT Jackson

Bond set for 4 people charged in infant’s death … been set at $25,000 each for the four suspects charged in the death of 9-month-old Jada Freeman.

Bond set at $25000 each for 4 charged in infant’s death – WHLT22

Bond set at $25000 each for 4 charged in infant’s death – The Sun Herald

Bond set at $25000 each for 4 charged in infant’s death – New Jersey Herald

Full Coverage

 

 

What Children’s Brains Tell Us About Trauma: Invest Early

The Chronicle of Social Change

This column was adapted from oral remarks given by the author, Wendy Smith, an associate dean at the University of Southern California’s School of …

 

Ryan, Lowell public safety officials launch program to assist children traumatized by opioid epidemic

Lowell Sun

The goal is to help these children cope with trauma, build resiliency and decrease the likelihood that substance abuse will be transferred from one …

 

‘Murdered Child May Have Bitten Through Tongue’

Sky News

“There was no history of this child suffering the sort of trauma; like a severe road traffic accident; or the child falling several storeys from a building.

‘Murdered Child May Have Bitten Through Tongue’ – Isle of Wight Radio

Ayeeshia Jane Smith: Toddler ‘stamped on so hard she bit through her own tongue’, court hears – Times of India

Full Coverage

 

 

Free of Prison, Shaka Senghor Looks Back on a Life of Violence, Trauma and Child Abuse

The Root

… coming to terms with child abuse at the hands of his mother, and more. … and to help people really understand that post-traumatic stress disorder is …

 

Trauma on display at Kitchener City Hall art exhibit

CBC.ca

You can be traumatized from being the victim of child abuse or child sexual abuse or a car accident.’ – Tracey Plain, artist. “It’s really not that easy for …

 

 

 

Lynchburg man charged in connection to death of 5-month-old child

WDBJ7

Lynchburg Police Department investigation and a preliminary autopsy report determined that the child died from head trauma caused by the suspect.

 

Child, 2, dies from injuries

The Augusta Chronicle

During an examination, doctors found the child had suffered head trauma … Richmond County Coroner Mark Bowen said the child, Jada Mills, died …

 

Traumatic brain injuries can have lifelong effects

Scottsbluff Star Herald

Groups around the country are raising awareness about traumatic brain …. Non-accidental trauma abuse in children is more common than people …

 

Community-based counselors’ interventions for elementary school-age children coping with trauma

Taylor & Francis Online

Child trauma is a mental health concern and more information is needed about treatment in community mental health settings. This article presents …

 

 

AL: High Court Restores Gay Adoptive Mother’s Rights
Courthouse News Service – March 07, 2016
The U.S. Supreme Court has restored adoption rights for a parent divorced from her same-sex partner. Also: Breaking: US Supreme Court Reverses Alabama Supreme Court Ruling, Sides With Lesbian Adoptive Mom http://www.thenewcivilrightsmovement.com/davidbadash/breaking_us_supreme_court_reverses_alabama_supreme_court_ruling_sides_with_lesbian_mom
http://www.courthousenews.com/2016/03/07/high-court-restores-gay-adoptive-mothers-rights.htm

AL: Lawmaker introduces sex offender castration bill in Alabama (Includes video)
CBS News – March 07, 2016
Steve Hurst, a Republican from Munford, Ala., has attempted to pass similar legislation for more than a decade, introducing nearly identical bills seven times since 2006, most of which never made it out of committee. He said he was moved to begin pushing for the legislation after a foster parent advocacy group visited his office some years ago and relayed a “horrible” story of abuse.
http://www.cbsnews.com/news/lawmaker-introduces-sex-offender-castration-bill-in-alabama/

AR: Lieutenant Governor Tim Griffin recommends ‘complete reorganization’ of DHS
KTHV – March 07, 2016
“DHS provides critical services to our most vulnerable citizens, and DHS employees perform valuable work — especially those on the front lines across the state working every day to improve the lives of their fellow Arkansans. But even the best employees are hampered by an antiquated organizational structure, managerial obstacles, unacceptably poor internal communications, waste, mismanagement and duplication of work.”
http://www.thv11.com/news/politics/lieutenant-governor-tim-griffin-recommends-complete-reorganization-of-dhs/72407635

CA: Rising cases of horrific abuse push Valley Children’s Hospital to increase care
Fresno Bee – March 07, 2016
Dr. Philip Hyden has seen a lot over nearly 30 years of treating abused children, but nothing like what is happening to kids in the Central Valley. “I’ve lived in New York City; I’ve lived in L.A.; I’ve lived in Hawaii; I’ve lived in Denver; I’ve lived in Florida and Illinois,” he says, “and I’m telling you that the amount of time I’ve been here and the amount of cases I see per year is bewildering. It’s just overwhelming, what I see.”
http://www.fresnobee.com/news/special-reports/kids-day/article64153167.html

ID: House backs contentious foster care reforms
Associated Press – March 07, 2016
The Idaho House on Monday unanimously approved new foster care reforms that would allow judges to oversee adoptions and implement a timeframe for relatives to apply to care for a child. Republican Rep. Christy Perry, of Nampa, says the foster care system has been plagued by problems for years because of vague state laws.
http://www.argus-press.com/news/state_news/article_fe4efa86-5452-55dd-acd7-5973079c248a.html

IN: Marion Juvenile Court judge ‘extremely disturbed’ hospital didn’t report suspected abuse
Indianapolis Star – March 08, 2016
A Marion County juvenile court judge is “extremely disturbed” over yet another incident in which she believes suspected child abuse was not reported to child welfare officials, this time by hospital workers.
http://www.indystar.com/story/news/2016/03/07/marion-juvenile-court-judge-extremely-disturbed-hospital-didnt-report-suspected-abuse/81429888/

IN: Lawmakers pushed for more CASA support (Includes video)
WRTV – March 07, 2016
“If you can imagine a child going through the child welfare system after having been abused or neglected, and having no one to speak on their behalf alone, so CASAs are people from the community who will do that,” said Cindy Booth, executive director of Child Advocates.
http://www.theindychannel.com/news/local-news/lawmakers-pushed-for-more-casa-support

NH: Invoice would add heroin use to definition of child neglect
Nashua Telegraph – March 06, 2016
A Senate invoice requested by the New Hampshire Division of Well being and Human Providers would give the company extra jurisdiction in defending youngsters in houses with a mum or dad (or mother and father) affected by opioid abuse.
http://earthlymails.com/nh-bill-would-add-heroin-use-to-definition-of-child-neglect/

NJ: Governor Defends Veto of Lead-Poisoning Bill, Calls Problem ‘Over-Dramatized’
NJ Spotlight – March 07, 2016
In addition, Governor’s Spokesman Brian Murray, said, the Health Department commits nearly $15 million annually on lead screening and abatement. This includes $11 million for the child welfare division of its sister agency, the Department of Human Services, to help keep foster homes lead safe and $2 million to help local and county health offices in communities with high lead levels.
http://www.njspotlight.com/stories/16/03/06/governor-defends-veto-of-bill-to-fight-lead-poisoning-says-problem-is-over-dramatized/#

NY: Aging Out of Foster Care, And Into the Kitchen: New Bronx Program
City Limits – March 08, 2016
Project Renewal, a nonprofit organization empowering homeless New Yorkers to renew their lives through comprehensive medical, housing and job programs, is offering a new track of its award-winning Culinary Arts Training Program to young men and women who are aging out of foster care — a population that faces disproportionately high risks of unemployment and homelessness in their adult lives.
http://citylimits.org/2016/03/08/aging-out-of-foster-care-and-into-the-kitchen-new-bronx-program/

NY: State budget analysis addresses child abuse reports, poverty in Monroe County
Brighton-Pittsford Post – March 07, 2016
“Unfortunately, child abuse and poverty continue to make headlines and we’re even seeing increases in Monroe County,” said Brigit Hurley, policy analyst for The Children'[s Agenda. “New York State funding and policies directly impact the lives of children in our community, and we are a voice for those kids in Albany.” Report: http://thechildrensagenda.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/TCA-Review-NYS-FY2017-EXEC-BUDGET-FINAL.pdf
http://www.brightonpittsfordpost.com/news/20160307/state-budget-analysis-addresses-child-abuse-reports-poverty-in-monroe-county?rssfeed=true

OR: Legislature signals it’s time to end DHS’s ‘do nothing’ culture (Opinion)
Herald and News – March 08, 2016
Considering the rancor and divisiveness between Democrats and Republicans in the Oregon Legislature, it’s a minor miracle that anything has made it through in the waning days of the short legislative session.
http://www.heraldandnews.com/members/forum/editorials/legislature-signals-it-s-time-to-end-dhs-s-do/article_514ca975-5dfd-5eae-8787-b67a2358f1f4.html

PA: ‘Sealed’ adoptees deserve the truth (Opinion)
Sun Journal – March 06, 2016
To this day in many states, adoptees do not have access to their original birth records and they have to petition a court to find out any basic information about their existence. Considering the fact that my biological mother died of some form of cancer at age 62, one can certainly see why I would be seriously concerned. Information Gateway resource: Access to Adoption Records: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/systemwide/laws-policies/statutes/infoaccessap/
http://www.sunjournal.com/news/columns-analysis/2016/03/06/sealed-adoptees-deserve-truth/1883262

PA: With change in law, counties see big jump in child abuse reports
Pittsburgh Tribune-Review – March 05, 2016
If you see something, say something. Those six words are the philosophy behind a flurry of state laws passed in the aftermath of the 2011 Jerry Sandusky child sex-abuse scandal requiring more people — from school officials and day-care workers to ministers and medical professionals — to report suspected child abuse when they see it.
http://www.mcall.com/news/nationworld/pennsylvania/mc-pa-abuse-cases-up-20160305-story.html

PA: Clergy abuse hotline getting scores of calls after AG report
Associated Press – March 04, 2016
A hotline Attorney General Kathleen Kane created to solicit information about additional victims has gotten more than 100 calls since she issued her 147-report based on secret diocesan archives and other sources on Tuesday.
http://www.cruxnow.com/church/2016/03/04/clergy-abuse-hotline-getting-scores-of-calls-after-ag-report/?s_campaign=crux:rss

SC: Woman’s battle to get children back may help other domestic violence victims
Charleston Post and Courier – March 05, 2016
The moment he cleared the driveway, Jones grabbed the phone and dialed 911 for help. Instead, she found herself accused of child neglect and abuse. Domestic violence advocates call what happened to Jones a legal and bureaucratic nightmare that overwhelms far too many women who seek help out of abusive relationships in South Carolina, a state with the nation’s highest rate of women killed in domestic violence.
http://www.postandcourier.com/article/20160305/PC16/160309660/1177/woman-x2019-s-battle-to-get-children-back-may-help-other-domestic-violence-victims

SD: Judge rules second time for tribes in South Dakota Indian child welfare case (Opinion)
People’s World – March 07, 2016
For a second time, Federal Judge Jeffrey L. Viken ruled against South Dakota’s state Department of Social Services (DSS) and attorneys for the state Feb. 19. DSS, along with the state’s attorney Mark Vargo, and Judge Jeff Davis had held hearings over the past several years that resulted in the illegal removal of thousands of Indian children from their homes and placing them in white foster homes.
http://peoplesworld.org/judge-rules-second-time-for-tribes-in-south-dakota-indian-child-welfare-case/

TN: All Eyes on Tennessee: Legislative Assault on Transgender Students Expected to Move Forward Tomorrow (Opinion)
Human Rights Campaign – March 07, 2016
Tomorrow (Tuesday, 3/8/16) at 3:00 p.m. CT, the Tennessee House Education Administration & Planning Subcommittee is expected to hear HB 2414 — an outrageous bill targeting transgender students in public elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as those in public universities. The measure seeks to force transgender students to use restrooms and other facilities inconsistent with their gender identity.
http://www.hrc.org/blog/all-eyes-on-tennessee-legislative-assault-on-transgender-students-expected

TN: Foster parents and mentors are needed (Opinion)
Johnson City Press – March 06, 2016
It’s with the help of foster parents that many children are reunited with their parents or adopted by loving families. Unfortunately, some foster children are not so lucky. Far too many children will remain in foster care until adulthood.
http://www.johnsoncitypress.com/Editorial/2016/03/06/Foster-parents-and-mentors-are-needed-in-Tennessee.html?ci=stream&lp=1&p=

TX: HRC Presents Two Texas Agencies With All Children – All Families Seal of Recognition
Human Rights Campaign – March 07, 2016
The two agencies, Texas Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) and Jonathan’s Place, were the first agencies in the state of Texas to receive the ACAF Seal of Recognition.
http://www.hrc.org/blog/hrc-presents-two-texas-agencies-with-all-children-all-families-seal

WA: Nearly 200 homeless kids waiting for spot in state’s preschool program
Seattle Times – March 07, 2016
It would cost about $2 million to make space for them, according to a nonprofit organization based in Bellevue that advocates for Head Start providers and families. But time is running out in this Legislative session to fund an expansion.
http://www.seattletimes.com/education-lab/nearly-200-homeless-kids-waiting-for-spot-in-states-preschool-program/

WI: More Wisconsin babies born addicted to heroin
The Reporter – March 07, 2016
“The withdrawal impacts their entire body,” said Dr. Jamie Limjoco, a neonatologist and head of the neonatal intensive care unit at Madison’s American Family Children’s Hospital. “The nurses who care for them need to have a lot of patience. The babies have difficulty eating, sleeping and they are sweaty and frantic.”
http://www.fdlreporter.com/story/news/2016/03/05/more-wisconsin-babies-born-addicted-heroin/80608056/

INTERNATIONAL

International: Human Rights Council Opens Annual Full-Day Meeting on Information and Communications Technologies and Child Sexual Exploitation
United Nations Office in Geneva – March 07, 2016
Choi Kyonglim, President of the Human Rights Council, said that the objective of the meeting was to discuss different national, regional and international initiatives to empower children through information and communications technologies, and to enhance their protection from sexual exploitation. The aim was to share good practices and to identify a holistic approach to the enjoyment of the rights of the child through information and communication technologies.
http://www.unog.ch/unog/website/news_media.nsf/%28httpNewsByYear_en%29/E6C1755B928A39A0C1257F6F003EE5AC?OpenDocument

New Zealand: Human Rights Tribunal calls for change to outdated adoption laws
Stuff.co.nz – March 08, 2016
New Zealand’s 61-year-old adoption laws are discriminatory and outdated, according to a new ruling. A Human Rights Review Tribunal decision, which comes after two years of legal battles, has found the Adoption Act 1955 and the Adult Adoption Information Act 1985 contradicts the Human Rights Act and the Bill of Rights Act by discriminating against people based on sex, age, marital status and disability.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/77673787/human-rights-tribunal-calls-for-change-to-outdated-adoption-laws

United Kingdom: Essex Police launch new investigation into Eighties and Nineties child sexual offences allegations
Gazette News – March 08, 2016
Essex Police has announced it will re-examine historic accusations of sexual offences against children in the Eighties and Nineties. The decision comes after police met with staff who were formerly involved in child protection in Essex, who raised “serious concerns” about boys who had been in local authority and foster care.
http://www.gazette-news.co.uk/news/14328029.Police_launch_historic_care_abuse_probe/

 

AR: Arkansas governor proposes $5.3B budget for coming year
Associated Press – March 08, 2016
The bulk of the spending increases Hutchinson proposed Tuesday would go toward the Department of Human Services, with the governor proposing nearly $112 million in new funding. The state’s Medicaid program would receive $88 million of that, and $20.4 million would go toward the state’s child welfare programs.
http://newsok.com/arkansas-governor-proposes-5.3b-budget-for-coming-year/article/feed/979198?custom_click=rss

CO: State’s former child ombudsman to head children’s law center
Denver Post – March 08, 2016
Becky Miller Updike, who was the state child protection ombudsman from 2011-2013, will become executive director of the law center next month.
http://www.brushnewstribune.com/business/ci_29610823/colorados-former-child-ombudsman-head-childrens-law-center

IL: George H. Sheldon: DCFS making progress to move kids out of residential care (Opinion)
State Journal-Register – March 08, 2016
Since then, more names have been added to the list, and to date we have stepped more than 300 of our youth down to a setting that is better for their safety and well-being and more cost effective for the state. We now have the fewest number of youth in residential placements in at least seven years.
http://www.sj-r.com/opinion/20160308/george-h-sheldon-dcfs-making-progress-to-move-kids-out-of-residential-care?rssfeed=true

IN: [DCS] Indiana Department of Child Services Appoints Sam Criss as Deputy Director of Services and Outcomes (3/8/2016) (Press release)
Indiana Department of Child Services – March 08, 2016
Criss spent 20 years working in the areas of juvenile justice, mental health and child welfare. Most recently, Sam served as the President and CEO of Indiana Connected by 25, Inc.
http://www.in.gov/activecalendar/EventList.aspx?view=EventDetails&eventidn=243515&information_id=239083&type=&rss=rss

IN: New bill providing birth records to adoptees ‘huge’
Meadville Tribune – March 08, 2016
Indiana Gov. Mike Pence signed Senate Enrolled Act 91, a bill that opens all adoption records that were finalized prior to Jan. 1, 1994. These records will open beginning July 1, 2018, unless the birth parent files a contact preference form — a private communication from the birth parent to the child, with the Indiana State Department of Health.
http://www.meadvilletribune.com/cnhi_network/new-bill-providing-birth-records-to-adoptees-huge/article_af458f9d-554d-5f17-bbce-05b0ae15b796.html

MI: 556 kids living in meth labs in state (Includes video)
Fox 28 – March 07, 2016
In 2014 alone, Michigan state troopers reported 861 meth incidents – most of them in Southwest Michigan. That same year, Child Protective Services removed 556 children from meth labs, the highest number since the state started keeping track.
http://www.fox28.com/story/31409939/2016/03/07/556-kids-living-in-meth-labs-in-michigan

MS: Child services funding bill $4M short
Clarion-Ledger – March 08, 2016
The House Appropriations Committee passed a bill that would add about $27.9 million to the Division of Family and Children’s Services’ budget, but the amount is $4 million short of what was requested under a federal lawsuit against the state
http://www.clarionledger.com/story/news/politics/2016/03/08/child-services-funding-bill-4m-short/81479094/

NC: State officials: Hundreds may seek foster care to age 21
Winston-Salem Journal – March 07, 2016
State health officials project that at least 350 youths statewide will choose to receive foster-care assistance between ages 18 and 21.
http://www.journalnow.com/news/local/n-c-officials-hundreds-may-seek-foster-care-to-age/article_0bc1a193-9a41-5e29-a260-cbfa43cc4217.html

NY: Buffalo Urban League files court papers to try to clear its name
Buffalo News – March 08, 2016
Buffalo Urban League officials said they want “stricken from the record” a report from the comptroller’s office that concluded the organization overbilled the county by tens of thousands of dollars, failed to properly train its staff, failed to protect children’s privacy in digital records or honor Department of Social Services reporting requirements.
http://www.buffalonews.com/city-region/erie-county/buffalo-urban-league-files-court-papers-to-try-to-clear-its-name-20160308

OK: Fostering the Process: More Work Ahead as Tribes Pick Up the Pace in Applying for Federal Funding of Child-Welfare Programs
Marketwired – March 08, 2016
Statistics reveal that Oklahoma tribes, and tribes in general, still have a significant task ahead of them on the foster care front.
http://www.bloomberg.com/research/markets/news/article.asp?docKey=600-201603081406MRKTWIREUSPR_____11G086668_001-1

RI: Hasbro Children’s raises $1.1M at annual Nerf Ball event
Providence Business News – March 08, 2016
Of the total raised, the event’s live auction “Fund-a-Need” alone raised more than $205,000 for the Lawrence A. Aubin Sr. Child Protection Center at the hospital. The only program of its kind in the state, the center treats children who suffer from abuse and neglect.
http://www.pbn.com/Hasbro-Childrens-raises-11M-at-annual-Nerf-Ball-event,112705?category_id=138&sub_type=stories,packages

SD: Process to Receive A Fostering License Is Extensive (Includes video)
KDLT – March 08, 2016
In order to become a licensed foster parent in the state of South Dakota you have to be at least 21 years of age, your home has to be inspected and determined safe, you have to be screened for past criminal activity and you have to complete a 30 hour foster parent education and training program.
http://www.kdlt.com/news/local-news/process-to-receive-a-fostering-license-is-extensive/38413358

WI: La Crosse County experiencing serious dip in foster homes (Includes video)
WXOW – March 08, 2016
La Crosse County had around 100 general foster homes able to take children in need of help just a few years ago. Now the county says that number has fallen to 70. Information Gateway Resource: Approaches and Barriers to Retaining Resource Families: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/permanency/recruiting/retaining/approaches/
http://www.wxow.com/story/31419035/2016/03/08/la-crosse-county-experiencing-serious-dip-in-foster-homes

WV: House to consider drug tests for public assistance recipients
Herald Dispatch – March 09, 2016
The West Virginia House of Delegates will vote on a bill Wednesday that would establish a three-year pilot program to drug-test certain applicants for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, commonly referred to as TANF.
http://www.herald-dispatch.com/news/wv-house-to-consider-drug-tests-for-public-assistance-recipients/article_aa5117f3-e1f4-5138-84a8-2f57cf059c30.html

INTERNATIONAL

Australia: Catholic Church establishes new body to handle abuse complaints in Canberra
ABC – March 09, 2016
Archbishop Christopher Prowse from the Canberra and Goulburn Archdiocese has launched the Institute for Professional Standards and Safeguarding.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-03-09/catholic-church-establishes-new-body-to-handle-abuse-complaints/7234494

United Kingdom: Be careful what you measure in child protection because it influences practice
Community Care – March 08, 2016
Process indicators should ideally have a clear connection to the benefits of intervention. Yet the only outcomes indicators that are collected routinely – such as rates of re-referrals within 12 months of case closure – measure failure rather than success.
http://www.communitycare.co.uk/2016/03/08/careful-measure-child-protection-influences-practice/

United Kingdom: Reported child sex crimes up a third in England, Wales
Agence France-Presse – March 08, 2016
Reported child sexual offences rose by a third last year in England and Wales, figures released on Wednesday showed, an increase partly blamed on predators targeting victims over the internet.
http://news.yahoo.com/reported-child-sex-crimes-third-england-wales-040539260.html

Illinois Mom Warns About Seeds From ‘Suicide Tree’ After Child’s Death

ABC News

An Illinois woman is drawing attention to the dangers of a seed available online after she said her 22-year-old transgendered child died after ingesting …

Mother warning against ‘Suicide Seeds’ after death of child – WPEC

Woman dies after ingesting exotic seeds bought online – wwlp.com

Full Coverage

 

Childcare centre at Logan’s Hyperdome temporarily closes after child’s death

ABC Online

A childcare centre at Logan, south of Brisbane, has temporarily closed after the sudden death of a child at a home, who had been looked after at the …

Toddler death sparks childcare alarm – Courier Mail

Full Coverage

 

Father, girlfriend charged with murder in child’s death

WKYC-TV

Father, girlfriend charged with murder in child’s death … CANTON, OHIO – Officials have charged the child’s father in connection with the 3 year old’s …

Police investigating 3-year-old child’s death in Canton as a homicide – newsnet5.com

Death of Hailey: “My baby is dead.” – Canton Repository

Father charged with murder after 3-year-old dies in Canton home – fox8.com

Full Coverage

 

Man Arrest for Child’s Death

KOAT Albuquerque

Man Arrest for Child’s Death … NEW THIS MORNING, AN ALBUQUERQUE MAN IS CHARGED WITH CHILD ABUSE RESULTING IN DEATH.

Police investigating child’s death in northeast Albuquerque – KFDA

Police arrest man in northeast Albuquerque child death – KRQE News 13

Police investigating child’s death in northeast Albuquerque – SFGate

Full Coverage

 

KC woman pleads guilty in child’s death

KMBC Kansas City

He then found the other child, who was dead. Chishahayo denied hitting the children. She told police that her 9-year-old had hit the children, using a …

Kansas City woman pleads guilty to murder in daughter’s death – Kansas City Star

KC mom pleads guilty in death of two-year-old daughter – fox4kc.com

Woman accused of killing a child, abusing two others pleads guilty – KMBZ

Full Coverage

 

Baby Sitter Sentenced to 20 Years in Child’s Death

NBC Connecticut

The baby sitter found guilty of manslaughter in the death of a 19-month-old New Haven boy was sentenced to 20 years in prison on Tuesday.

New Haven baby sitter sentenced to 14 years in toddler’s death – New Haven Register

Baby sitter sentenced in death of 19-month-old boy – WTNH Connecticut News (press release)

Babysitter sentenced for killing 19-month-old New Haven boy – FOX 61

Full Coverage

 

Man arrested in 1-year-old’s death

KOAT Albuquerque

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —Police have arrested a man in the death of a … could, but the child was pronounced dead at the scene Monday afternoon.

 

Iowa House strengthens penalty in child death cases

Quad City Times

DES MOINES — The death of a 17-month-old Cedar Rapids girl was the catalyst for Iowa House passage of legislation to set a mandatory minimum of …

Iowa House strengthens penalty in child death cases – Waterloo Cedar Falls Courier

Iowa House calls for stronger penalty in child death cases – Mason City Globe Gazette

Iowa House calls for stronger penalty in child endangermment deaths – The Gazette: Eastern Iowa Breaking News and Headlines

Full Coverage

 

Georgia man awaiting trial in hot-car child death faces new charges

London Free Press

Justin Ross Harris arrives for his court appearance at Cobb Superior Court on Monday, Oct. 12, 2015 in Marietta, Ga. Police have said Harris left …

New charges for Georgia man awaiting trial in hot-car child death – Yahoo News

New charges for Georgia man awaiting trial in hot-car child death – Reuters

New charges for Georgia man awaiting trial in hot-car child death – WSAU

Full Coverage

 

Mother, grandparents arrested for neglect in child death

WAPT Jackson

—Forrest County authorities have arrested a mother and grandparents on charges of child neglect that resulted in the death of a 10-month-old girl.

3 relatives charged in Forrest County child’s death – Hattiesburg American

Bond set for 4 charged in 10-month-old baby’s death – WDAM-TV

Forrest County family arrested for death of baby – WJTV

Full Coverage

 

 

Man Arrest for Child’s Death

MSN.com

New this morning, an albuquerque man is charged with child abuse resulting in death

 

 

AK: Historic agreement gives tribe foster care control
Juneau Empire – March 03, 2016
When children are taken out of their homes due to neglect or abuse, they’re under the responsibility and jurisdiction of the State Office of Children’s Services. Now, through an agreement signed Wednesday night at the Elizabeth Peratrovich Hall between the State of Alaska and Central Council of the Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska, the Central Council will be able to take over child welfare cases of tribal children.
http://juneauempire.com/local/2016-03-03/historical-agreement-gives-tribe-control-over-foster-cases

AR: Law Enforcement Handing Out Laura’s Card (Includes audio)
Public News Service – March 07, 2016
In Arkansas, there’s an effort under way to change that (High percentage of people in domestic violence situations). As part of Laura’s Card, which was signed by the governor last year, law enforcement officers are handing out a flyer to anyone involved in a domestic situation. Attorney General Leslie Rutledge says it puts crucial information right into the hands of someone who needs help.
http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2016-03-07/domestic-violence-sexual-assault/arkansas-law-enforcement-handing-out-lauras-card/a50729-1

AZ: KidsCare Program Extension Advances in Legislature (Includes audio)
Public News Service – March 04, 2016
The Arizona Legislature is moving closer to restoring KidsCare, a comprehensive health insurance program for the state’s children. The state House passed the measure this week, and supporters say it has a lot of momentum heading for another vote in the Senate. Comments from Joe Fu, director of health policy for the Children’s Action Alliance.
http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2016-03-04/childrens-issues/kidscare-program-extension-advances-in-az-legislature/a50702-1

CA: Family Supports Save Lives — Research finds a link between investment in preventive services and reduced child deaths
Rise Magazine – February 29, 2016
When child welfare systems are forced to cut their budgets, often it’s preventive services that are hardest hit. The belief is that family supports are nice if the government can afford them, but it’s investigations that prevent child deaths. But a 2012 study of 20 years of child deaths in Sacramento, Calif., found that cutting preventive services put children at risk?and wasted money. Information Gateway Resource: Family Engagement and Retention in Prevention Services: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/preventing/developing/family-engage/
http://www.risemagazine.org/2016/02/family-supports-save-lives/

CO: Boulder’s sense of itself now challenged by homeless youth plan
Associated Press – March 06, 2016
Attention Homes, which will run the complex, has worked with runaways and troubled teenagers for decades in Boulder. In each of the last two years, it has helped nearly 750 young people at its day drop-in and overnight emergency services facility, up from 196 in 2011.
http://www.summitdaily.com/news/21002081-113/boulders-sense-of-itself-now-challenged-by-homeless

CO: New girls on the block: Despite opposition, group home residents move in (Includes video)
Daily Sentinel – March 06, 2016
“We don’t want it to be an institution,” said Brinton, who has run the state-licensed facility in Grand Junction since 1997. “Some of these kids have never had a birthday party. Some of these kids have been through a lot of trauma. They’re not terrible people.” But the arrival of the girls in this group home has caused outrage and concern among some neighbors in three nearby subdivisions, Tuscany Village, Crest View and the Knolls.
http://www.gjsentinel.com/news/articles/new-girls-on-the-block

IN: Adopting the baby dropped off at a fire station and other children (Includes video)
WTHR – March 07, 2016
Keating said the first step in cases like this is to check the clearinghouse for missing children to make sure the child wasn’t stolen. They place it in emergency foster care and then start the process of finding adoptive parents.
http://www.wthr.com/story/31400578/adopting-the-baby-dropped-off-at-a-fire-station-and-other-children

KS: Get serious about protecting at-risk children (Opinion)
Hutchinson News – March 06, 2016
A police chief’s assertion that three children were severely abused despite at least a dozen reports to child welfare authorities is another warning that the state of Kansas is failing to adequately protect at-risk children.
http://www.hutchnews.com/opinion/editorials/kansas-must-get-serious-about-protecting-at-risk-children/article_39283631-30cc-56f0-b32b-458b5f26f77f.html

MN: High school dropouts try to get back in the game (Includes audio)
Minnesota Public Radio – March 07, 2016
“I started ditching school freshman year,” said Lazo, now 18. “Started hanging out with the bad crowd. My life went really negative after that.” Lazo failed freshman-year English and fell behind. She said there were good counselors at Johnson, but she didn’t like to ask for help. Catching up became more difficult as she and her siblings were shuffled among foster care, her grandmother’s house and her mother’s house.
http://www.mprnews.org/story/2016/03/07/graduation-gap-dropout

MN: Winona County’s lack of foster homes affecting children, budget
Glen Olson Daily News – March 04, 2016
County foster care licensor Jenny Losinski said that the need is especially urgent right now, with only two active homes licensed with the county. Without more, Losinski said they’ve had to use private services, which also fill up and cost money, and move children to out of county locations.
http://www.winonadailynews.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/winona-county-s-lack-of-foster-homes-affecting-children-budget/article_38a2b9c0-898b-572c-a125-5071cb8e8f84.html

MO: House-passed bill opens some adoptees’ birth records
News Tribune – March 06, 2016
Just getting the bill through the House has “been a pretty difficult process because it?s so complex,” Dodd said. “It takes a pretty good effort to educate everybody on what exactly it is that is broken about the system that we’re needing to have fixed.”
http://www.newstribune.com/news/2016/mar/06/house-passed-bill-opens-some-adoptees-birth-record/

MO: House-passed bill opens some adoptees’ birth records
News Tribune – March 06, 2016
Just getting the bill through the House has “been a pretty difficult process because it’s so complex,” Dodd said. “It takes a pretty good effort to educate everybody on what exactly it is that is broken about the system that we?re needing to have fixed.”
http://www.newstribune.com/news/2016/mar/06/house-passed-bill-opens-some-adoptees-birth-record/

NC: Carousel Center speaks out about childhood sexual assault
Live 5 WECT – March 04, 2016
“We have forensic interviewers and therapists who are specially trained to talk and interview children so children feel comfortable and they’re able to tell their stories.” says Sarah Nolan Dickman, a nurse practitioner with the Carousel Center. “We want the children to tell what happened by being asked opened ended questions.”
http://www.live5news.com/story/31391800/carousel-center-speaks-out-about-childhood-sexual-assault

NE: Kearney-based transportation service helps foster care kids
Associated Press – March 06, 2016
According to Child and Family Services Supervisor Byran Allen of the Department of Health and Human Services in Kearney, transportation services are vital part of helping caseworkers to ensure foster kids are going to the places they need to go such as to home visitations, doctor appointments and court.
http://www.argus-press.com/news/state_news/article_8b97e385-7c50-5090-999b-024727536b2a.html

NE: Legislature makes child welfare more transparent
North Platte Bulletin – March 06, 2016
On March 1, lawmakers passed LB 954 to speed up the delivery of records to the agency that oversees child welfare. The records, including confidential records, are sent to the inspector general of Nebraska Child Welfare. The Legislature created the Inspector General’s office in 2012, seeking to stem the rising number of child welfare scandals coupled with sharply higher costs.
http://www.northplattebulletin.com/index.asp?show=news&action=readStory&storyID=31658&pageID=24

NM: New Mexico governor acts on remaining bills
Associated Press – March 04, 2016
Child protective services will give preference to grandparents and other family members when finding a new home for children that have been taken into state custody.
http://www.chron.com/news/article/New-Mexico-governor-acts-on-remaining-bills-6870888.php

NY: Rush to the rescue of NYC’s nonprofits: It’s a crisis moment
New York Daily News – March 02, 2016
Most New Yorkers are aware of the homelessness crisis because they see people sleeping on the sidewalks and read tragic stories of families in terrible shelter conditions. Largely unnoticed, however, is another crisis: the impending insolvency of many of the nonprofit human services agencies that we depend on to care for the homeless and 2.5 million other struggling city residents.
http://www.nydailynews.com/opinion/sesso-wylde-rush-rescue-nyc-nonprofits-article-1.2549531

OK: DHS paying millions to child welfare consultants
Associated Press – March 06, 2016
The Oklahoma Department of Human Services has paid out more than $5.6 million over the past four years to a New Jersey-based consulting group to oversee reforms to the state’s child welfare system. The payments to Public Catalyst have continued while DHS offers voluntary buyouts to more than 400 employees in an effort to reduce spending by the agency because of declining state revenues.
http://okcfox.com/news/local/oklahoma-dhs-paying-millions-to-child-welfare-consultants

PA: New Facility Helping Former Foster Children Transition Into Adulthood
WESA – March 07, 2016
“One of the important aspects of the Youth Zone is this opportunity to have a place where you belong, a place where you can come and you’re welcome, where you can just sit down and study. You can take a break and watch TV. It isn’t all about services,” said John Lydon, CEO of Auberle, the McKeesport nonprofit organization that runs the Youth Zone.
http://wesa.fm/post/new-facility-helping-former-foster-children-transition-adulthood

PA: Bishop pledges transparency in dealing with abuse reports:
Catholic Spirit – March 04, 2016
Bishop Mark L. Bartchak of Altoona-Johnstown committed the Pennsylvania diocese to be transparent in its efforts related to the sexual abuse of minors by clergy and to make public the names of all priests found to have a credible allegation of abuse against them and the status of each man within the diocese.
http://thecatholicspirit.com/news/nation-and-world/pennsylvania-bishop-pledges-transparency-in-dealing-with-abuse-reports/

TX: 2012 abuse case ending, questions remain about state agency
Associated Press – March 06, 2016
In December, a federal judge ruled the system — which with nearly 30,000 children is one of the largest child protection agencies in the U.S. — is unconstitutionally broken and that many of the kids often leave state custody in worse shape than before.
http://www.chron.com/news/texas/article/2012-abuse-case-ending-questions-remain-about-6873376.php

TX: After Three Decades of Public Service, DFPS Commissioner Specia Stepping Down from Top Job (Press release)
Guidry News – March 04, 2016
Judge John Specia Jr. today announced his intention to retire as Commissioner of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) effective May 31, 2016.
http://www.guidrynews.com/story.aspx?id=1000075612#sthash.9B6HkmyG.dpuf

TX: Mentoring Moms helping pregnant inmates break the cycle of incarceration (Includes video)
KTRK-TV – March 04, 2016
It’s the only program of its kind inside any jail in the United States and you can find it in Harris County. It’s called Mentoring Moms. It’s an idea that is helping pregnant inmates change their lives so they can strengthen their families. Information Gateway Resource: Child Welfare Practice With Families Affected by Parental Incarceration: https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/parental-incarceration/
http://abc13.com/society/mentoring-moms-helping-pregnant-inmates-inside-jail/1232067/

VA: Child abuse bill would add hearsay exception (Includes video)(Correction)
WHSV – March 03, 2016
If passed, it would allow statements from children younger than 13, made to another person, to be used in court. The bill would also also allow the teacher, or whomever the child speaks with, to testify in court potentially on the victim’s behalf.
http://www.whsv.com/content/news/Child-abuse-bill-would-add-hearsay-exception–370976151.html

US: Can a 3-year-old represent herself in immigration court? This judge thinks so.
Washington Post – March 05, 2016
Jack H. Weil, a longtime immigration judge who is responsible for training other judges, made the assertion in sworn testimony in a deposition in federal court in Seattle. His comments highlighted the plight of thousands of juveniles who are forced to defend themselves each year in immigration court amid a surge of children from Central America who cross the southwestern U.S. border.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/can-a-3-year-old-represent-herself-in-immigration-court-this-judge-thinks-so/2016/03/03/5be59a32-db25-11e5-925f-1d10062cc82d_story.html

US: “Spotlight” on Child Abuse (Opinion)
Glimmer Mirror – March 04, 2016
The Oscar ceremonies were noteworthy for a number of reasons, but the biggest news was the Best Picture award for the movie, Spotlight. Chronicling the true story of a team of Boston newspaper reporters on the quest for answers in a massive child sex abuse scandal, this movie has given us another way to broach the most distasteful subject of all. There are children in our community who are being sexually abused as you read this and we all have a role to play in protecting them.
http://gilmermirror.com/view/full_story/27111817/article–Spotlight–on-Child-Abuse?instance=lead_story_left_column

US: Poll Shows Support for Shifting Youth Prison Strategies (Includes audio)
Public News Service – March 04, 2016
A new poll shows a majority of Americans are in favor of shifting the youth justice system from incarceration to rehabilitation. It was released Thursday by Youth First, a new campaign calling for the closure of youth prisons. Also: Poll Supports Juvenile Justice Reform: http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2016-03-04/juvenile-justice/poll-supports-juvenile-justice-reform/a50695-1
http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2016-03-04/criminal-justice/poll-shows-support-for-shifting-youth-prison-strategies/a50681-1

US: Senator calls for GAO probe to protect babies born drug-dependent
Pharmacist – March 04, 2016
Sen. Robert Casey (D-PA) has asked the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to look into whether states are complying with a federal law aimed at protecting babies born drug-dependent. In a letter sent to the watchdog agency, Casey — the ranking Democrat on the U.S. Senate subcommittee on children and families — called on GAO to determine what steps could be taken “to improve compliance and save the lives of vulnerable infants.”
http://www.pharmacist.com/us-senator-calls-gao-probe-protect-babies-born-drug-dependent

INTERNATIONAL

Australia: Opinion: Utilising social benefit bonds to help combat family violence in Australia
Australasian Lawyer – March 05, 2016
We first reported on “social benefit bonds” — the innovative financial instrument that pays a return based on the achievement of agreed social outcomes — in 2012, when the NSW government announced the trial of a $10 million social benefit bond involving the Benevolent Society.
http://www.australasianlawyer.com.au/news/opinion-utilising-social-benefit-bonds-to-help-combat-family-violence-in-australia-212737.aspx

Canada: Man jailed for helping Old Order Mennonite children flee foster care
CBC News – March 04, 2016
A rural Manitoba man is going to jail for helping Old Order Mennonite children run away from their foster homes in the midst of a child abuse investigation involving the RCMP and the province’s Child and Family Services department.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/old-order-mennonite-child-abuse-excessive-discipline-1.3476159

Canada: Manitoba nixes plan to change how it counts kids in care
CBC News – March 04, 2016
Manitoba’s New Democratic Party government is backing off a plan to change how it counts the number of children in its care. “We previously announced, based on faulty research, a change in how we were going to be counting voluntary placements going forward,” said Family Services Minister, Kerri Irvin-Ross.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/children-in-care-legislation-manitoba-1.3475866

Uganda: Tightening foreign adoption rules to thwart child trafficking
Reuters – March 04, 2016
Child rights campaigners in Uganda have welcomed a new law that restricts fast-track foreign adoptions in which children — often with living parents — can be whisked overseas in a matter of days.
http://news.yahoo.com/uganda-tightens-foreign-adoption-rules-thwart-child-trafficking-141340880.html

 

 

AZ: Arizona launches new system for submissions of fingerprints
Associated Press – March 03, 2016
Arizona is launching a new electronic service to allow people applying for state credentials to be foster parents and work in various occupations to submit their fingerprints electronically for required background checks.
http://azdailysun.com/news/state-and-regional/arizona-launches-new-system-for-submissions-of-fingerprints/article_49161c0d-0d0b-5e4f-bb26-fe6b409d58e1.html

FL: Lawmakers send adoption changes to governor
News 4 JAX – March 03, 2016
A bill that would allow judges to place the best interests of children in adoption cases above the biological parents’ wishes is heading to Gov. Rick Scott.
http://www.news4jax.com/web/wjxt/news/lawmakers-send-adoption-changes-to-governor

FL: Millions in state funding could come to Florida’s foster care system (Includes video)
WFTV – March 03, 2016
Lori Bainbridge, the foster care liaison for Community Partnership for Children, said the spike is because of new laws that created stricter criteria for a child to be removed from a home. The intent was to protect children from abuse and neglect, but the result has overwhelmed the system and families caring for children.
http://www.wftv.com/news/local/millions-in-state-funding-could-come-to-floridas-foster-care-system/137944630

MA: L-S student Madelyn Paquette is spokesperson for Baby Safe Haven New England
Wicked Local: Lincoln Journal – March 03, 2016
Reports of abandoned babies in Massachusetts are declining, according to Baby Safe Haven New England Director Michael Morrissey. Baby Safe Haven is a national group that advocates for the Safe Haven Act. Baby Safe Haven New England advocates for the Massachusetts version of the law.
http://lincoln.wickedlocal.com/article/20160303/NEWS/160307827

MO: The state House has voted to allow Missouri-born adoptees access to their original birth certificates when they turn age 18
Associated Press – March 03, 2016
The Missouri House voted 125-28 Thursday for a bill allowing Missouri-born adoptees to access their original birth certificates when they turn 18. The bill now goes to the Senate. Information Gateway resource: Obtaining Birth and/or Adoption Records: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/adoption/search/records/
http://www.dailyjournal.net/view/story/3323a2f554d24dfea89f29a7bde56f4f/MO–Adoption-Birth-Certificates

NE: Faith-based adoption and foster care agency bill stirs up controversy
Kearney Hub – March 03, 2016
During a Feb. 17 Judiciary Committee hearing on LB975 to prevent the state from taking action if faith-based child-placing agencies chose not to work with unmarried or same-sex couples who want to become adoptive or foster parents, state Sen. Adam Morfeld of Lincoln accused the agencies of discrimination.
http://www.kearneyhub.com/news/local/faith-based-adoption-and-foster-care-agency-bill-stirs-up/article_86688d44-4b0e-549a-94cc-248bcc630be2.html

PA: Child abuse bill would add hearsay exception (Includes video)
WHSV – March 03, 2016
If passed, it would allow statements from children younger than 13, made to another person, to be used in court. The bill would also also allow the teacher, or whomever the child speaks with, to testify in court potentially on the victim’s behalf.
http://www.whsv.com/content/news/Child-abuse-bill-would-add-hearsay-exception–370976151.html

PA: Pennsylvania bishop promises reforms after abuse report
Associated Press – March 03, 2016
The bishop of a central Pennsylvania diocese has apologized and promised reforms after the state attorney general released a scathing report on clergy sex abuse of children and created a hotline seeking more accusations.
http://www.foxnews.com/us/2016/03/03/pennsylvania-bishop-promises-reforms-after-abuse-report.html

RI: State child advocate convenes study group on recent infant deaths
Providence Journal – March 03, 2016
The state’s child advocate has appointed eight people to study the recent deaths of three infants, two of them in state custody, and recommend changes that might prevent such tragedies.
http://www.providencejournal.com/news/20160303/ri-child-advocate-convenes-study-group-on-recent-infant-deaths?rssfeed=true

TX: City of Lubbock Hosts Meeting to Address Urgent Foster Care Needs (Includes video)
KLBK 13 – March 03, 2016
Along with representatives from child placing agencies and local religious leaders, Mayor Glen Robertson announced his goal to call on the community to partake in creating more foster families that children can come home to. It’s been an ongoing issue for quite some time, but just recently the city announced that it is in dire need of more foster families.
http://www.everythinglubbock.com/news/klbk-news/city-of-lubbock-hosts-meeting-to-address-urgent-foster-care-needs

VA: Peters: Stop Serving Eviction Notices To Virginia’s Foster Care Youth (Opinion)
Richmond Times-Dispatch – March 03, 2016
It’s time to stop serving eviction notices on Virginia’s youth who are turning 18 and aging out of the foster care system. The result of this action is homelessness, school dropouts and incarceration, as well as the need for continued long-term public assistance.
http://www.richmond.com/opinion/their-opinion/guest-columnists/article_88ac1235-37f7-5267-b4fc-438bbf9bd810.html

US: Child Abuse Allegations Plague the Hasidic Community
Newsweek – March 03, 2016
While there is no evidence that child abuse is any more likely to occur in ultra-Orthodox schools than in public or secular institutions, stories like Reizes’s-an alleged abuser sheltered and victims unwilling to talk for fear of losing the only way of life they know-are common in the Hasidic school system.
http://www.newsweek.com/2016/03/11/child-abuse-allegations-hasidic-ultraorthodox-jewish-community-brooklyn-432688.html

US: My Grief Is Real: The Tears of a Foster Parent (Opinion)
The Huffington Post – March 03, 2016
If you experience grief and loss when your foster child leaves, this is a reflection of the love that developed between you and your child; a reflection of the love that you gave a child in need. As you know, children in foster care need us to love them; they need us to feel for them. When they leave our homes, we should grieve for them, as it simply means that we have given them what they need the most; our love.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dr-john-degarmo/my-grief-is-realthe-tears_b_9368542.html?utm_hp_ref=parents&ir=Parents

US: U.S. senator calls for GAO probe to protect babies born drug-dependent
Reuters – March 03, 2016
The request comes in response to a Reuters investigation in December that identified the preventable deaths of 110 babies whose mothers used opioids during pregnancy and were subsequently sent home to families ill-equipped to care for them.
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-baby-opioids-gao-idUSKCN0W5211

INTERNATIONAL

Uganda: Foreigners Banned From Adopting Children
The Monitor – March 04, 2016
Parliament on Wednesday passed a new law on legal guardianship of children, in a radical measure targeting gangs of criminals who collude with foreigners to trade in children under the guise of philanthropic adoption.
http://allafrica.com/stories/201603040542.html

United Kingdom: Campaign against child abuse launched
Wigan Today – March 03, 2016
A new campaign to tackle child abuse has been launched as a shocking study shows a third of people do not report their suspicions about a young person’s welfare.
http://www.wigantoday.net/news/local/campaign-against-child-abuse-launched-1-7771739

 

AR: Exit interview: DHS director John Selig looks back on successes, challenges
Talk Business & Politics – March 03, 2016
It’s been an eventful decade since John Selig was appointed Department of Human Services director in 2005 by Gov. Mike Huckabee. He led DHS through a merger with the Department of Health under Huckabee, a move that was reversed under Gov. Mike Beebe.
http://talkbusiness.net/2016/03/exit-interview-dhs-john-selig-looks-back-on-successes-challenges/

CA: California Clears Way for Increased Use of Therapeutic Foster Care
The Chronicle of Social Change – March 03, 2016
California counties will now be able to offer a therapeutic treatment model in a supportive family setting through its Medi-Cal services, thanks to an agreement with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Amendment: http://www.dhcs.ca.gov/formsandpubs/laws/Documents/09-004_ApvPkg.pdf Information Gateway resource: Treatment Foster Care: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/outofhome/foster-care/treat-foster/
https://chronicleofsocialchange.org/news-2/california-clears-way-for-increased-use-of-therapeutic-foster-care/16341

CA: Common Sense Kids Action Announces New Legislative Ratings (Press release)
Marketwired – March 03, 2016
Common Sense Kids Action announced today that it has launched a new initiative that will rate legislation based on how the potential law would help or harm kids.
http://finance.minyanville.com/minyanville/news/read?GUID=31657044

CA: Kern County program designed to provide one-on-one mentorship with a nurse for new moms (Includes video)
KGET – March 02, 2016
A program in Kern County is designed to help support new moms. The Nurse Family Partnership is a program through the Public Health Services Department that provides free one-on-one mentorship with a nurse for new moms who come from low income households.
http://www.kerngoldenempire.com/news/kern-county-program-designed-to-provide-one-on-one-mentorship-with-a-nurse-for-new-moms

CA: Why is LA shutting down centers for kids who have nowhere else to go? (Opinion)(Audio)
KPCC – March 02, 2016
Los Angeles County’s Department of Child and Family Services has announced plans to close two facilities that serve kids who are facing homelessness.
http://www.scpr.org/programs/take-two/2016/03/02/46863/why-is-la-shutting-down-centers-for-kids-who-have/

CT: The Bridge kicks off ‘Host Home’ foster care program
The Street – March 02, 2016
The Bridge Family Center is now licensed to offer a child-placement and foster care program called Host Home. This new program allows the Bridge to place youths, ages 11-17, in need of respite from their current living situation, in safe, stable, temporary home environments.
http://business-news.thestreet.com/west-hartford-news/story/the-bridge-kicks-host-home-foster-care-program/1

FL: Born into suffering: Drug-addicted babies on the rise (Includes video)
WBBH – March 02, 2016
It wasn’t the first time Charley was exposed to methadone. Charley’s story is an incredibly complicated one that has frustrated the Chiddisters. The Florida Department of Children and Families admits cases like his are challenging.
http://www.nbc-2.com/story/31370443/born-into-suffering-drug-addicted-babies-on-the-rise#.VthSfqT2amw

FL: Innocents Lost–A Miami Herald I-Team Investigation (Video)
Miami Herald – March 02, 2016
A year-long Miami Herald investigation found that, in the last six years, 477 Florida children have died of abuse or neglect after their families had come to the attention of the Department of Children and Families.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/article63545647.html

FL: Lawmakers Poised To Pass Child Welfare Bills (Includes audio)
WFSU – March 02, 2016
After a spate of child deaths in Florida, the Department of Children and Families is doubling down on child welfare reforms. Now state lawmakers are poised to pass a suite of bills to bolster that effort.
http://news.wfsu.org/post/lawmakers-poised-pass-child-welfare-bills

FL: Florida agency agrees to pay victim of horrific child abuse case–but Legislature balks
Miami Herald – March 01, 2016
For the second year in a row, the Florida Legislature is poised to finish a session without awarding any of the legal damages owed to the surviving victim of one of the most horrific child abuse cases in state history.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article63435807.html

IN: New program to help human trafficking victims in Indiana, Tri-State (Includes video)
WAVE 3 – March 01, 2016
An Indiana bill headed to Governor Mike Pence’s desk would require someone convicted of human trafficking to become a registered sex offender. It’s one of several ways people across the state are trying to combat what’s becoming a massive problem. One way is through a new problem launched in the Tri-State. It’s called ITVAP, or the Indiana Trafficking Victim Assistance Program. It’s separated into five regions. Ours is the southwest region, which covers 19 counties.
http://www.wave3.com/story/31361068/new-program-to-help-human-trafficking-victims-in-indiana-tri-state

MI: HHS expands Head Start in Flint (Press release)
Dept. of Health and Human Services – March 02, 2016
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services today announced that Head Start and Early Head Start services will expand immediately in Flint, Michigan to help children and families exposed to lead in the city’s water supply. The expansion was made possible through one-time emergency funds of $3.6 million and is one of several steps HHS is taking as the agency designated to lead the federal response and recovery effort in Flint.
http://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2016/03/02/hhs-expands-head-start-in-flint.html

MO: Children With Guns: Who Gets Punished? (Includes audio)
Public News Service – March 03, 2016
Missouri leads the nation in the number of children getting their hands on guns and accidentally hurting themselves or others. State Rep. Stacey Newman (D-St. Louis) has authored a bill that says a person could be prosecuted for first-degree child endangerment if he or she knowingly fails to keep a loaded deadly weapon out of the reach of a child who’s younger than 17.
http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2016-03-03/childrens-issues/children-with-guns-who-gets-punished/a50667-1

MO: PD partners with community to bring awareness to child abuse
Bolivar Herald-Free Press – March 03, 2016
The Bolivar Police Department is proud to announce its partnership with Missouri KidsFirst, Southwest Baptist University, Polk County Children’s Division and the Bolivar R-1 School District to help bring child abuse prevention awareness to Polk County through the “Pinwheels for Prevention” campaign.
http://bolivarmonews.com/news/pd-partners-with-community-to-bring-awareness-to-child-abuse/article_9ca55778-e00d-11e5-8a73-9bd5b84f53a9.html

MS: Our Opinion: Foster care upgrade needs priority passage
Jackson Free Press – March 02, 2016
The Mississippi House on Monday overwhelmingly approved a bill that would lead to establishing a free-standing Division of Child Protective Service and, in the process, apparently end a federal lawsuit first filed in 2004 alleging inadequate administration of the state’s foster care system.
http://djournal.com/opinion/opinion-foster-care-upgrade-needs-priority-passage/

MS: Community bands together to curb child abuse, neglect
WLOX – February 29, 2016
The stories are graphic. They make us angry. They are stories of children being neglected, abused and some even killed. One Mississippi community is taking a stand to help those who can’t help themselves.
http://www.wlox.com/story/31342946/ms-community-bands-together-to-curb-child-abuse-neglect

NY: How to Measure Foster Care Outcomes (Includes video)
WGY – March 03, 2016
Foster care. Two words that conjure up all kinds of imagery. Many different possible outcomes enter our field of vision as we strive to get it right. So how are we doing? The federal government and states are attempting to find out through a massive research project.
http://www.wgy.com/onair/upstate-issues-57169/how-to-measure-foster-care-outcomes-14440707/

PA: Inside the Mechanicsburg training center that trains child welfare caseworkers (Includes video)
WHTM – March 02, 2016
“Imagine what it feels like to be separated from your families and your friends,” a soothing-voiced teacher tells a dozen 20-something students, who have closed their eyes and are imagining themselves as children taken from their homes by the child welfare system.
http://abc27.com/2016/03/02/inside-the-mechanicsburg-training-center-that-trains-child-welfare-caseworkers/

PA: Job seekers flagged for past child abuse case on the rise
Associated Press – March 02, 2016
The number of adults in Pennsylvania who sought a child abuse clearance last year almost tripled after a new law took effect in response to the Jerry Sandusky and clergy child sexual abuse scandals.
http://www.witf.org/news/2016/03/job-seekers-flagged-for-past-child-abuse-case-on-the-rise.php

PA: Reports of child abuse swamp police under updated Pennsylvania law
Pittsburgh Tribune-Review – March 02, 2016
Although no one is questioning the push for greater awareness of possible abuse, the surge has created a crushing workload for police officers who say they can’t keep up with the reports.
http://triblive.com/news/westmoreland/10045370-74/abuse-reports-child

VT: Race Plays Role in Decision to Adopt Abroad
University of Vermont (Press release) – March 02, 2016
As America continues to adopt more children internationally than any other country, hundreds of thousands of children in the U.S.–most of whom are children of color–sit in foster care awaiting adoption. The article “We Didn’t Even Think about Adopting Domestically: The Role of Race and Other Factors in Shaping Parents’ Decisions to Adopt Abroad” in the journal Sociological Perspectives revealed a number of race-based reasons why people choose to adopt abroad and how the complicated issue of race in America plays into that decision.
http://www.uvm.edu/~uvmpr/?Page=news&storyID=22426&category=ucommfeaturea

US: As Substance Abuse Rises, Hospitals Drug Test Mothers, Newborns
Health News Digest – March 02, 2016
Launched in September 2013, a regional universal drug screening program for moms delivering at Cincinnati-area hospitals, which involves dual screening of mothers and their newborns, has been embraced by the Greater Cincinnati Health Council and has become one of the most visible of such programs in the United States. Others are watching it closely as they grapple with an exponential rise in both illicit and prescription drug abuse and a lack of clear guidelines for testing.
http://www.healthnewsdigest.com/news/National_30/As-Substance-Abuse-Rises-Hospitals-Drug-Test-Mothers-Newborns.shtml

US: To Improve Child Welfare, Let Social Workers do Social Work (Opinion)
Chronicle of Social Change – March 02, 2016
In Texas, one-sixth of new caseworkers quits within six months. In Florida, case worker turnover averaged 37 percent in 2014. I know first-hand the reasons for high social worker turnover in child welfare. I abandoned an easier and better-paying career to become a child welfare social worker in the District of Columbia. I lasted almost five years before giving up in exhaustion and despair.
https://chronicleofsocialchange.org/featured/improve-child-welfare-let-social-workers-social-work/16201

INTERNATIONAL

France: Child Abductees from the Island of Réunion Are Grown and Want Answers
VICE News – March 03, 2016
Sylvie told VICE News that the film was the key to a mystery she had been trying to solve for decades. Watching the documentary, she finally understood what had happened to her 45 years ago, when she and other children were snatched from the island of Réunion–a French overseas territory in the Indian Ocean–and sent to the mainland for a new life.
https://news.vice.com/article/frances-child-abductees-from-the-island-of-runion-are-grown-and-want-answers

Pakistan: Senate panel passes bill against child abuse
The Express Tribune – March 03, 2016
Almost seven months after the country’s largest child sex abuse case was uncovered, a Senate panel on Wednesday passed a bill which criminalises–among other offences–child pornography, mental and physical abuse while proposing severe punishments.
http://tribune.com.pk/story/1058455/criminalising-pornography-senate-panel-passes-bill-against-child-abuse/

Papua New Guinea: Peter O’Neill ‘surprised to hear’ PNG child welfare law remains uncertified
The Guardian – March 03, 2016
The prime minister of Papua New Guinea has expressed his surprise to learn a key piece of child protection legislation, which would enable much needed anti-violence measures, has not been certified by his government. Also: Papua New Guinea risking lives with inaction on sexual violence, says MSF (Médecins Sans Frontières): http://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2016/feb/29/papua-new-guinea-risking-lives-sexual-violence-medecins-sans-frontieres
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/mar/03/peter-oneill-surprised-to-hear-png-child-welfare-law-remains-uncertified

Philippines: Legal adoption, foster care promotes children’s well-being, says DSWD
GOVPH – March 02, 2016
As the country observes the Adoption Consciousness Month, Mark Anthony Viernes of DSWD-10 said during the Philippine Information Agency’s (PIA) media forum, Talakayan sa PIA on February 26 that it is the aim of the department’s adoption program to provide a permanent family to children who no longer receive parental care while the foster care program is created to prepare children for permanent placement.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2601456889771/legal-adoption-foster-care-promotes-children-s-well-being-says-dswd

United Kingdom: Survivors attack SNP over historical child abuse inquiry
The Scotsman – March 03, 2016
Survivors of historical child abuse have accused First Minister Nicola Sturgeon of “walking by on the other side” after she declined their request for a meeting.
http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/survivors-attack-snp-over-historical-child-abuse-inquiry-1-4042146

 

Official: 3-month-old twin dies after suffering injuries from child abuse

WSOC Charlotte

A Connelly Springs couple has been charged with child abuse after investigators said one of their 3-month-old twin boys suffered the brain injury, …

 

The Latest: Defense Pushes for Delay in Child Abuse Case

ABC News

Richter and his wife Sophia Richter were scheduled to be sentenced Monday after being convicted in December of kidnapping and child abuse after …

The Latest: Defense pushes for delay in child abuse case – KTAR.com

RAW VIDEO: Victim in Richter child abuse case speaks out – Tucson News Now

The Latest: Sentencing delayed in child abuse case – Montana Standard

Full Coverage

 

Former pastor pleads to child abuse

Times Daily

Freddy Hovater, 110 Iris Lane, Spruce Pine, pleaded guilty to child abuse and third-degree assault with sexual motivation, Franklin County District …

Former pastor pleads guilty to child abuse and torturing a child – WAAY

Full Coverage

 

 

Clark County child abuse cases rise, leaders expand prevention efforts

Springfield News Sun

As the number of child abuse cases has climbed in Clark County, advocates and service providers are working to expand aid for victims and their …

 

 

Senate committee considers bills designed to combat child abuse, neglect

WMUR Manchester

Those bills, along with another that is up for a vote on Thursday, were developed by the Commission on Child Abuse Fatalities, a group of lawmakers, …

 

Day care owner sentenced to 30 years in heinous child abuse case

KSAT San Antonio

SAN ANTONIO – A mother and owner of a northwest side day care was sentenced to 30 years in prison Friday in a child abuse stemming from 2012.

Daycare owner convicted in child abuse case sentenced to 30 years – KENS 5 TV

Mother sentenced to 30 years for child abuse – FOX 29

Mother gets 30 years for abusing 3 adopted children – WOAI

Full Coverage

 

 

Help end child abuse by reporting it: Rhonda Wurgler, Medina County Children’s Center

cleveland.com

Each pinwheel represents one of the 437 cases of child abuse or neglect that were investigated in Medina County last year. The event was sponsored …

 

Australian Cardinal George Pell was ‘deceived’ about child abuse scandal

Deutsche Welle

The pope’s closer adviser, George Pell, has said denied knowledge of child abuse cases in his native Australia. He said he was not expressly told …

Cardinal George Pell says pedophile priest ‘wasn’t of much interest’ to him – Daily Mail

Child abuse inquiry: I have Pope’s full backing, says cardinal – Hindustan Times

Cardinal George Pell faces tough questions on child abuse and what he knew – The West Australian – The West Australian

 

Lebanon baby sitter has bond revoked in child abuse case

The Tennessean

A Lebanon woman accused of child abuse of a 2-year-old had her bond revoked Monday because of two drug charges while free on bail.

 

Senate OKs $2.6 million online system to report child abuse

Crain’s Detroit Business

LANSING — A Michigan department will soon likely have to put together a new $2.6 million online reporting system for child abuse and neglect cases …

Senate OKs $2.6 million online child abuse reporting system – WZZM13.com

Senate OKs $2.6 million online child abuse reporting system – WWMT-TV

Senate OKs $2.6 million online child abuse reporting system – Petoskey News-Review

Full Coverage

 

Job seekers flagged for past child abuse case on the rise

Newsradio 1070 WKOK

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — The number of adults in Pennsylvania who sought a child abuse clearance last year almost tripled after a new law took …

 

The Latest: Defense pushes for delay in child abuse case

Las Vegas Sun

The Latest: Defense pushes for delay in child abuse case. Published Monday, Feb. 29, 2016 | 11:05 a.m.. Updated 21 minutes ago. TUCSON, Ariz

 

Fort Wayne State Rep explains bill that creates child abuse registry

WOWO.com

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WOWO): A Senate Bill would redefine child abuse in Indiana. State Representative Bob Morris (R-Fort Wayne) tells WOWO news …

 

 

Tech sorority raises awareness towards child abuse

fox34.com

Members of a Texas Tech sorority will be spending the next few days see-sawing to raise awareness towards their national philanthropy.

 

 

Upgrades Being Made at Deirdre’s House

Morris County

Morris Prosecutor Enhances Technology in the Fight Against Child Abuse … Endangerment Unit in the ongoing fight against child sexual abuse.

 

Research Paper Child Abuse

College of Engineering – Purdue University

In general, we shall conduct our discussion research paper child abuse in places. Notes 1. Previously Economics was to determine whether a local …

 

 

The relationship between poverty, child abuse and neglect

Joseph Rowntree Foundation

This report identifies and discusses evidence about the relationship between poverty and child abuse and neglect.

 

Bibb Sheriff’s investigating child abuse incident at elementary school

WGXA

Bibb Sheriff’s investigating child abuse incident at elementary school. By Molly Wilkins Tuesday, March 1st 2016. 3-1-16 – BIBB TEACHER ARREST …

 

 

New Kindergarten Regulation Targets Safety, Child Abuse

People’s Daily

New revisions connected to kindergartens in China have been released, including clauses covering abuse and children’s safety.

 

High school coach to plead guilty in child sex abuse case

The Big Story – Associated Press

DOVER, Del. (AP) — A former high school teacher and wrestling coach who is facing child sex abuse charges has agreed to enter a guilty plea in …

 

Boyfriend of missing woman Zulma Pabon arrested for child neglect

wtvr.com

Dr. John Gibbs, who is the father of a child with Pabon, was arrested on charges of felony child neglect. Dr. Gibbs is being investigated for neglecting …

Father charged with child neglect; Chesterfield mother, nurse still missing – WWBT NBC12 News

Full Coverage

 

 

Sanford man, woman arrested on charges of child neglect with great bodily harm

WFTV Orlando

A man and a woman were arrested Tuesday on child neglect charges after investigators said a young girl was shot in the hand in a Sanford home.

 

Stead woman arrested for child neglect, animal abuse and drugs

KOLO

30-year-old Laura Beth Hesse is charged with child neglect, willful and malicious torture/maiming/killing of a dog/animal, Driving Under the Influence …

 

Lonna Barton to be sentenced Friday on child neglect charges

Firstcoastnews.com

JACKSONVILLE, Fla.- Lonna Barton will be sentenced Friday on child neglect charges related to the death of her 21-month-old son Lonzie.

Missing Florida boy’s mom faces 5 years for child neglect – WESH Orlando

Missing Florida Boy’s Mom Faces 5 Years for Child Neglect – NBC 6 South Florida

Missing Florida boy’s mom faces 5 years for child neglect – STLtoday.com

Full Coverage

 

Mother, grandparents arrested for neglect in child death

WAPT Jackson

—Forrest County authorities have arrested a mother and grandparents on charges of child neglect that resulted in the death of a 10-month-old girl.

Mother, grandparents arrested in deadly child neglect case – Mississippi News Now

Mother, grandparents arrested in deadly child neglect case – The Sun Herald

Bond set for 4 charged in 10-month-old baby’s death – WDAM-TV

Full Coverage

 

Mother charged with child neglect in connection to her son’s death; turns herslef in to police

kjrh.com

Tina Morgan, also known as Tina Taylor, faces charges of child neglect and permitting abuse. A warrant for her arrest was issued Wednesday.

Tulsa Police Arrest Mother Of Toddler Kicked In Head, Killed – News On 6

Mother turns herself in after south Tulsa toddler death – KOKI FOX 23

Full Coverage

 

Buchanan County, Va. deputies charge trio with meth, child neglect charges

WJHL

Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested three people on methamphetamine and child neglect charges, following a welfare check on a home Feb. 23.

 

Stead woman arrested on suspicion of child neglect, animal abuse

KRNV My News 4

(MyNews4.com & KRNV) — A 30-year-old woman was arrested Tuesday on suspicion of multiple charges, including child neglect, killing a dog and …

Stead Woman Arrested for Child Neglect, Animal Abuse, DUI and Drug Charges – ThisisReno

Full Coverage

 

Mankato Man Faces Child Neglect Charges For Leaving Baby in Car

KEYC

A Mankato man faces two charges related to child neglect after leaving his baby in a vehicle. 42-year-old Thomas Charette is facing one count of child …

 

Woman charged with child neglect

Muskogee Daily Phoenix

Woman charged with child neglect … A Muskogee woman was charged Tuesday in connection with the alleged abuse of an 11-year-old child.

 

LPD investigates alleged child neglect case

Fox 34

A neighbor called it a simple misunderstanding, police said otherwise after finding a three year old girl walking around an apartment complex alone.

 

child neglect

KOBI-TV NBC5 / KOTI-TV NBC2

Mobile County, Ala. (WPMI) — An Alabama toddler has been placed in foster care after a video showing the boy’s mother apparently high on synthetic …

 

The relationship between poverty, child abuse and neglect

Joseph Rowntree Foundation

This report identifies and discusses evidence about the relationship between poverty and child abuse and neglect.

 

 

Postdoc – Predicting Child Health using Social-medical Record Data

NRC Carrière

Identifying and registering forms of child abuse and neglect is an important task of preventive child healthcare organisations in the Netherlands.

 

 

Woman, mother charged in child abuse case

Mansfield News Journal

MANSFIELD – A Mansfield woman was arraigned Thursday in Mansfield Municipal Court on a third-degree felony child endangering warrant, accused …

 

 

Man accused of beating child turns himself in

mySanAntonio.com

Days after a woman was arrested and accused of watching her boyfriend injure her 8-year-old child, the man accused in the attack turned himself into …

 

 

Father accused in son’s death booked with beating younger child with tent pole

NOLA.com

Furnell Daniel, the Waggaman man accused of fatally beating his 14-year-old son because of low grades, was rearrested on charges of disciplining …

 

 

Child beaten in the street

Castanet.net

A Kelowna woman was horrified after witnessing a man repeatedly strike a small child on the street Friday night. Melissa was smoking on her balcony …

 

Couple arrested in Fountain slaying also faces child abuse charges

The News Herald

A couple accused of beating a woman to death are now facing charges of child abuse after allegedly leading law enforcement on chase that at times …

 

Senate committee considers bills designed to combat child abuse, neglect

WMUR Manchester

Those bills, along with another that is up for a vote on Thursday, were developed by the Commission on Child Abuse Fatalities, a group of lawmakers, …

 

 

Brooklyn monster who beat pregnant ex-girlfriend so badly she lost her unborn child gets 32 years …

New York Daily News

The cold-hearted monster who viciously beat his pregnant ex-girlfriend so badly it led to their unborn child’s death completely denied his involvement …

Brooklyn Man Sentenced To Over 30 Years In Prison For Beating Pregnant Ex-Girlfriend – News One

Full Coverage

 

Daycare worker accused of strangling, beating child

WTTV CBS4Indy

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (Feb. 26, 2016)– Police are searching for a man accused of strangling a child at a daycare facility on the west side. An arrest …

 

Sharia in UK: Muslim sharia courts back chopping hands off criminals book claims

Express.co.uk

SHARIA law courts in the UK condone rape, wife-beating and the forced marriage of young girls, a shocking new investigative book has claimed.

Sharia courts in the UK are run by extremists who back cutting off criminals’ hands, says Muslim … – Daily Mail

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‘Teen Mom OG’ Farrah Abraham Tears Up Over Past Child Abuse Claims In Dr Drew Clip [VIDEO]

Design & Trend

(Photo : Instagram/ Farrah Abraham) Farrah Abraham of “Teen Mom OG” got emotional when talking about the child abuse she endured at the hands …

 

 

Prosecutor in baby’s death: Child ‘a dirty little secret’

Detroit Free Press

She would have named him Robert. Instead, the days-old newborn whose mother, Angela Alexie, gave birth to him by herself in a dirty, drafty garage …

 

 

A daycare center accused in baby death can keep operating

The Hechinger Report

This article is the sixth in a series investigating the child care system in Mississippi. Ethan Henderson’s parents began leaving their 10-week-old son …

 

Teen dad charged in shaken baby death of infant son

Buffalo News

The baby was taken to Women & Children’s Hospital where he died. … said the police had no prior contact with Fiorentino before the baby died.

Teen father charged in shaken-baby death of 2-month-old son – Buffalo News

Williamsville teen charged with manslaughter following infant son’s death – wivb.com

Teen charged in infant’s death – WGRZ.com

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Scam online fundraisers pop up in wake of Syracuse baby’s death

News 10NBC

News10NBC continue to track the investigation into the death of a Syracuse … family is standing behind one fundraiser called simply “Baby Maddox.”.

 

 

Trial of Berkeley County man charged in baby’s death to continue Friday

West Virginia MetroNews

MARTINSBURG, W.Va. — The trial of Joshua McDonough, the Berkeley County man charged in the death of a 21-month-old girl, will be resuming …

 

Trial starts for mom in death of infant left in garage

Detroit Free Press

The murder trial is set to start today for an Eastpointe mother accused in the Christmas 2014 death of her newborn son after he was left in an unheated …

 

 

Uncle pleads guilty in baby’s death

WOODTV.com

WYOMING, Mich. (WOOD) — The uncle who police say piled blankets and pillows atop a crying 5-month-old baby to keep him quiet has pleaded …

Nephew, father plead guilty for roles in death of baby boy – WTOL.com

Nephew, father plead guilty for roles in death of baby boy – Iron Mountain Daily News

Pleas entered in infants’s suffocation death at Wyoming apartment – WZZM13.com

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Baby sitter charged with murder in death of Staten Island 16-month-old

AOL News

STATEN ISLAND (WPIX) – The baby sitter charged with killing 16-month-old Staten Island toddler faced the family of the young boy amid sobs, shrieks …

Staten Island sitter tortured toddler to death over two days: Prosecutors – Metro.us

Babysitter Charged With Torturing Staten Island Toddler to Death – New York Magazine

Full Coverag

 

 

Man sentenced to prison in baby Kayleigh Cassell’s death

Albany Times Union

FORT EDWARD — A Kingsbury man who admitted guilt in connection with the death of his girlfriend’s 13-month-old daughter was sentenced Friday to …

Woman escorted from court as Kingsbury man sentenced in child’s death – WRGB

Joshua Bennett sentenced for child death – Glens Falls Post-Star

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New Jersey mother pleads guilty to burning baby to death in road

NewsDaily

New Jersey mother pleads guilty to burning baby to death in road. Monday, February 29, 2016 Barbara Goldberg for Reuters. Hyphernkemberly …

 

 

Hartford Mother Arraigned In Baby’s Death

97.5 Y-Country

31 year old Autumn Atchley, herself facing charges in the death of baby Carter Donovan, was arraigned Tuesday. She’s charged with being an …

 

 

Grandpa defends Bellingham mother charged in baby death

AM930 KBAI

KGMI News. BELLINGHAM, Wash. – A man who says he’s the great-grandfather of the 3-month old who police say died from neglect is defending his …

 

LA prosecutors decline to file charges baby’s shooting death

CNS News

LA prosecutors decline to file charges baby’s shooting death. By the Associated Press | February 26, 2016 | 7:25 AM EST. LOS ANGELES (AP) — Los …

 

Learning about signs of child trauma part of police training

Corpus Christi Caller-Times

Rachel Denny Clow/Caller-Times New Haven Police Sgt. Rene Dominguez talks about the relationship between the police department and Yale Child …

 

 

Newly released affidavit shows child killed in 2006 died from blunt force trauma

WIBW

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW)– An affidavit released from a 2006 cold case shows two year-old Eli Clemons died from blunt force trauma to the head.

 

 

Couple charged with injuring 15-month-old child

Tyler Morning Telegraph

A couple is in jail on felony child abuse charges after a 15-month-old was found with head trauma. Brittany Jaynes, the child’s mother, and her live-in …

 

Local trauma surgeon addresses increase in young gun violence vi – WSVN-TV – 7NEWS Miami Ft …

7Online WSVN-TV

MIAMI (WSVN) — A South Florida trauma surgeon opened up to 7News about a disturbing trend that appears to be on the rise: children and teens …

 

Work together as a community to serve children

STLtoday.com

Thanks very much to the Post-Dispatch and Nancy Cambria for the excellent special report on childhood trauma and toxic stress (“The crisis within,” …

 

 

Children with PTSD

ADVANCE

Any number of things could trigger PTSD in a child. There are the large-scale traumas that are easily recognizable, such as if a child has been in a car …

 

New service with Oxford’s health trust aims to help victims of child sex abuse

Oxford Mail

“Trauma can affect children and teenagers in a lot of different ways, relationships with themselves, their parents, or how well they do at school.

New service with Oxford’s health trust aims to help victims of child sex abuse – The Oxford Times

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Bill Aims To Reduce Infant Mortality Through Better Data Collection

Forbes

Sudden infant death syndrome, suffocation, abusive head trauma from being shaken, unexplained sudden death… There are a number of tragic ways …

 

 

Mom charged in infant’s death

KARE

WOODBURY, Minn. – A Woodbury woman is charged with second degree manslaughter in connection with the death of her 13-week old son last …

 

Multiple agencies investigating infant’s death in East Alton

Alton Telegraph

The infant was transported to Alton Memorial Hospital but died and a special police unit that investigates infant deaths was working on determining a …

East Alton infant death under investigation – fox2now.com

Foul play not suspected in death of East Alton infant – Alton Telegraph

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Clarksville Man Arrested in Infant Death Case

KARK

The infant’s death took place at an apartment on Shady Grove Road, and the body has been sent to the Arkansas State Crime Lab for an autopsy.

Infant death investigated; father arrested – Russellville Courier

Clarksville Police Investigate Infant Death – Times Record

Police arrest father after death of infant – 4029tv

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Judge sets bail for Millinocket man accused in infant’s death

Bangor Daily News

BANGOR, Maine — A Superior Court judge Tuesday set bail at $25,000 cash or $100,000 surety for a Millinocket man charged with manslaughter in …

Millinocket man accused in infant’s death released on bail – Bangor Daily News

Millinocket man accused in infant’s death released on bail – Bangor Daily News

Millinocket man accused in infant’s death released on bail – WGME

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North Country man faces murder charge after infant’s death

WSYR

North Country man faces murder charge after infant’s death … second-degree murder after the child died at Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse.

Man faces murder charge in death of 6-week-old infant – WatertownDailyTimes.com

Upstate man charged with murder in the death of his girlfriend’s 6-week-old baby – New York Daily News

Jefferson County man to be charged in death of girlfriend’s baby – Syracuse.com

Full Coverage

 

 

Testimony continues in fourth day of infant death trial

UpperMichigansSource.com

Russell has been charged in the death of three-month-old PennyAnn MacDonald who was under her care. The case officer took the stand Thursday …

 

 

Mahanoy City Woman Heads to Trial in Infant Death

PA home page

SHENANDOAH, SCHUYLKILL COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) 52 year-old Pietrina Hoffman of Schuylkill County is heading to trial in the death of an infant …

Charges against Mahanoy City woman held over in infant death – Republican & Herald

Charges held over in infant death – Standard Speaker

Full Coverage

 

Roanoke Police investigating circumstances surrounding infant’s death

WSLS

ROANOKE (WSLS 10) A death investigation involving a five-month-old infant is underway tonight in Roanoke. On Sunday, February 28, Police …

 

 

Millinocket man accused in infant’s death has history of violence

Bangor Daily News

BANGOR, Maine — The Millinocket man arrested late Wednesday in connection with the death of a 6-month-old boy last year has a history of violence …

Maine man charged with manslaughter in infant’s death – Hastings Tribune

Full Coverage

 

 

Infant Deaths Due To Herpes Simplex Virus, Congenital Syphilis, and HIV in New York City

Pediatrics – AAP News

Rates of infant death due to nationally reportable sexually transmitted infections such as HIV infection^, and CS^, have decreased over the past 2 …

 

 

Police investigating 3-Month-Old Infant Death

MyCenTx

A three month old infant is dead after he was found not breathing in his home over the weekend.

 

 

Clarksville Man Arrested in Connection with Infant Death Case

Fox16

The Clarksville Police Department said it is investigating the death of a six-month-old infant that was reported on February 25.

 

Unexplained deaths in infancy: England and Wales QMI

Office for National Statistics

It includes sudden infant deaths and infant deaths where the causes remained unascertained after a full investigation. The linked data about parents …

 

 

Maine father sentenced for infant son’s death

Shoreline Media Group

The medical examiner determined that the infant died from a head injury, but the defense contended the death was a “medical mystery.” An expert …

 

CA: Sex Abuse, Drugs, Lack of Food Pose ‘Immediate Risk’ to Kids at State-Funded Group Homes (Includes video)
NBC Bay Area – March 01, 2016
A three-month NBC Bay Area Investigation reveals serious health and safety violations at facilities that house over 3,700 abused and neglected children in California.
http://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local/Bay-Area-Group-Homes-for-Children-and-Teens-369305871.html

CO: Denver County Human Services to close center for foster teens
Denver Post – March 01, 2016
A Denver County home for troubled teenagers in foster care will close in July, and 64 workers with the Human Services Department will lose their jobs.
http://www.denverpost.com/news/ci_29578534/denver-county-human-services-close-center-foster-teens

MI: Senate OKs $2.6 million online child abuse reporting system
Associated Press – March 01, 2016
A Michigan department will soon likely have to put together a new $2.6 million online reporting system for child abuse and neglect cases after the state Senate approved legislation that’s headed for Gov. Rick Snyder.
http://www.wzzm13.com/news/politics/michigan-politics/senate-oks-26-million-online-child-abuse-reporting-system/63273859

MO: Child Abuse Bill Might Not be Deterrent to Moms’ Drug Use (Includes audio)
Public News Service – March 02, 2016
Christi Power, who heads the nonprofit “Preferred Family Health,” a statewide program for treatment of substance abuse or mental-health issues, said she understands that the point of the legislation is to protect unborn babies, but thinks it could backfire, making women who are addicted too afraid to see a doctor.
http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2016-03-02/childrens-issues/mo-child-abuse-bill-might-not-be-deterrent-to-moms-drug-use/a50650-1

MS: Legislation would form agency to handle foster care issues
Daily Journal – March 01, 2016
The creation of the new Division of Child Protection Services is part of the settlement of a federal lawsuit filed against the state for its administration of Mississippi’s foster care system. The state, including Gov. Phil Bryant and Attorney General Jim Hood, has conceded problems with the foster care system and has agreed in a court settlement to many of the changes in the legislation passed Monday by the House.
http://djournal.com/news/legislation-would-form-agency-to-handle-foster-care-issues/

NE: Attorney general’s view sought on bill to protect faith-based foster care groups
Scottsbluff Star-Herald – March 01, 2016
A state senator wants Nebraska’s attorney general to weigh in on the constitutionality of a legislative proposal to shield faith-based groups that assist with foster care placements and adoptions.
http://www.starherald.com/news/regional_statewide/attorney-general-s-view-sought-on-bill-to-protect-faith/article_9d527ecf-6238-5f94-b61c-4a4a6717f105.html

NH: Bills aims to bridge gaps in child protection system
Associated Press – March 01, 2016
A trio of bills aimed at protecting New Hampshire’s abused and neglected children got a favorable reception from a Senate committee on Tuesday, though the chairman questioned whether one measure would give police and state workers too much access to sensitive information.
http://www.argus-press.com/news/state_news/article_7b94e8a1-fe1d-5c66-953b-65e36e85b2e1.html

NY: In the aftermath of FEGS, human service providers warn of crisis
Politico – February 23, 2016
FEGS, the largest human services provider in New York, was thought to be too big to fail and its bankruptcy, officially declared last March, highlighted how precarious the entire sector had become. While some wrote FEGS off as an anomaly, others decried poor management. Still others derided a nonsensical business plan that saw the nonprofit stretch itself too thin.
http://www.capitalnewyork.com/article/city-hall/2016/02/8591750/aftermath-fegs-human-service-providers-warn-crisis?news-image

PA: Advocate doubts latest clergy-abuse report will effect change, Pa. Catholic Conference backs current statute of limitations
PennLive.com – March 01, 2016
But as of now, the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference backs a task force recommendation made in 2012 that no changes should be made to the state’s current statute of limitations in sexual abuse cases, which their report says is adequate.
http://www.pennlive.com/news/2016/03/sex_abuse_catholic_church_alto.html

PA: Central Pa. diocese covered up widespread child abuse for decades: AG Kane
Metro – March 01, 2016
After a two year investigation, Attorney General Kathleen Kane announced that she discovered cases of hundreds of young victims being abused by priests in the Altoona-Johsntown diocese – but cannot bring criminal charges against any of the alleged predators. Also: Grand jury: 2 bishops hid sex abuse of hundreds of children: http://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/grand-jury-2-bishops-hid-sex-abuse-of-hundreds-of-children/ Information Gateway Resource: Clergy as Mandatory Reporters of Child Abuse and Neglect: https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubPDFs/clergymandated.pdf
http://www.metro.us/philadelphia/central-pa-diocese-covered-up-widespread-child-abuse-for-decades-ag-kane/zsJpca—tFYGVY7TjWP3U/

PA: Everyone has a role to play in protecting Pennsylvania’s children: Angela Liddle (Opinion)
Penn Live – February 24, 2016
After the Jerry Sandusky child sexual-abuse scandal laid bare PA’s child-protection deficiencies, state legislators overhauled our laws and equipped the box with tools that work. We now have mandatory child-abuse clearances and criminal history-background checks for those professionals and some volunteers who are directly responsible for children.
http://www.pennlive.com/opinion/2016/02/everyone_has_a_role_to_play_in.html

TX: Touring the Hellscape of Texas Foster Care (Opinion)
Youth Today – March 02, 2016
A court decision released last December is a guided tour through the hellscape that is foster care in Texas. It chronicles abuse in foster care that isn’t just common, it’s rampant. And it documents how the state turned a blind eye to suffering on a massive scale.
http://youthtoday.org/2016/03/touring-the-hellscape-of-texas-foster-care/

WA: Schools to add sexual abuse in plans to keep children safe
Kent Reporter – March 01, 2016
Legislation requiring school districts to include sexual abuse in their plans to help distressed students is headed to Gov. Inslee’s desk after the Senate gave it its unanimous support earlier Tuesday.
http://www.kentreporter.com/news/370733101.html#

WI: Fundamental reform needed of juvenile justice system (Opinion)
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel – March 01, 2016
The county has started work on a plan to get juvenile offenders out of Lincoln Hills and bring them closer to home in facilities that will provide better programs and a more humane setting. But for that to happen, the state has to pitch in to provide Milwaukee County with the resources it would need to create local programs and build local facilities for young offenders.
http://www.jsonline.com/news/fundamental-reform-needed-of-juvenile-justice-system-b99679357z1-370730601.html

INTERNATIONAL

Italy: Italy tribunal approves lesbian couple’s adoption of each other’s children
Agence France-Presse – March 01, 2016
A Rome family court has approved a lesbian couple’s request to simultaneously adopt each other’s daughters in a legal first in Italy, gay groups said Tuesday.
http://www.globalpost.com/article/6740404/2016/03/01/italy-tribunal-approves-lesbian-couples-adoption-each-others-children

AZ: DCS Closes Emergency Placement Center For Children
KJZZ – February 29, 2016
A central Phoenix emergency center for children removed from their homes is officially closed. The placement center run by Arizona’s child welfare agency and a nonprofit was open less than a year and served more than 2,000 kids. Also: Emergency placement center for children closing down (Includes video) : http://www.cbs5az.com/story/31348774/emergency-placement-center-for-children-closing-down
http://kjzz.org/content/271401/arizona-dcs-closes-emergency-placement-center-children

AZ: Helping former foster youth achieve their potential at ASU
Arizona State University – February 29, 2016
Bridging Success at ASU, a partnership between ASU’s University College and the College of Public Service and Community Solutions, has programs and people in place to support foster youth in every phase of their college journey — and has rallied champions in key units across ASU who are also committed to help foster youth enroll in, transition to and successfully graduate from ASU.
https://asunow.asu.edu/20160229-solutions-helping-former-foster-youth-achieve-their-potential-asu

CA: County’s foster youth waiting rooms to shut down after failing to live up to their promise
Los Angeles Times – March 01, 2016
Known as Youth Welcome Centers, they were hailed by Los Angeles County officials as an important way to address the chronic shortage of foster homes, especially for children hardest to place. They were the only facilities in the county system with a no-refusal policy and quickly became a place for youths who would otherwise be homeless. But in the next few days, the county plans to close both of its centers, acknowledging they didn’t work as intended.
http://www.latimes.com/local/countygovernment/la-me-foster-care-last-resort-20160301-story.html

CA: Foster Care Fallout: Agency accused of violating kids’ rights (Includes video)
ABC 30 – February 29, 2016
A taxpayer-funded, multi-million dollar agency with a checkered past is now accused of violating basic rights of foster kids. “I got pregnant because Promesa didn’t give me what I wanted,” said a teen we’re identifying only as S.H. A new lawsuit claims Promesa denied reproductive health care to the teens in its group homes.
http://abc30.com/news/foster-care-fallout-agency-accused-of-violating-kids-rights/1224944/

CA: Elite team of foster families care for drug-addicted babies in Sonoma County
Press Democrat – February 27, 2016
Inside a remodeled two-story house somewhere in Santa Rosa, there’s a room where drug-addicted newborns are loved. The walls are painted green and pink and blue and yellow and then blue again in rows of stripes. The crib is antique, and it matches the changing table — both white. White curtains with lace edging hang over the windows, and a little stuffed lamb rests on pink bed sheets, waiting for its next owner.
http://www.pressdemocrat.com/news/5080993-181/elite-team-of-foster-families

CA: Latino youth see significant rise in psychiatric hospitalizations
Tribune News Service – February 27, 2016
While mental health hospitalizations of young people of all ethnicities have climbed in recent years, Latino rates stand out.
http://www.staradvertiser.com/breaking-news/latino-youth-in-california-see-significant-rise-in-psychiatric-hospitalizations/

GA: Lack of foster homes in Carroll called ‘critical’
Douglas County Sentinel – February 29, 2016
With only 14 active foster homes in Carroll County, all of which are filled to capacity, the Department of Family and Children Services is in desperate immediate need of more.
http://www.douglascountysentinel.com/regional_news/lack-of-foster-homes-in-carroll-called-critical/article_a777d15a-2caa-50fd-a10c-e9c285e6dd91.html

IA: Advocates Battling For Anti-Trafficking Laws
WHO – February 29, 2016
A long-time opponent of sex trafficking in Iowa says people are finally starting to take him seriously. State Senator and former Deputy-Sheriff Kevin Kinney says, when he prosecuted the first human-trafficking case in Iowa over ten years ago, he had a hard time getting people to listen, but, time has proven him right.
http://whoradio.iheart.com/articles/1040-who-radio-news-121648/advocates-battling-for-antitrafficking-laws-14433430/

ID: Bill on foster parent rights goes before committee
Idaho Press Tribune – February 29, 2016
The bill, presented by Rep. Christy Perry, R-Nampa, grants foster parents some rights in advocating for the placement of a foster child and changes policy on how a child would be placed. The House Judiciary, Rules and Administration Committee unanimously moved the draft forward for a second read. Multiple foster parents told stories of the children they foster suffering from attachment and behavioral issues as a result of being moved from foster home to foster home without notice. Also: Contentious foster care reform bill headed to Idaho House: http://www.khq.com/story/31348449/contentious-foster-care-reform-bill-headed-to-idaho-house
http://www.idahopress.com/members/bill-on-foster-parent-rights-goes-before-committee/article_75e4436b-5e70-5ffe-94fa-6ff21ac564de.html

IN: Hotline Aims to Reduce Infant Deaths in Indiana (Includes audio)
Public News Service – March 01, 2016
There’s a renewed effort in Indiana to prevent babies from dying before their first birthday. The state has one of the highest infant-mortality rates in the country, and has been near the top of that list for years. Now the Indiana State Department of Health’s Maternal and Child Health Division (MCH) has launched the MOMS Helpline, a hotline that new moms and pregnant women can call with questions or find help when they need it.
http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2016-03-01/childrens-issues/hotline-aims-to-reduce-infant-deaths-in-indiana/a50641-1

MI: LSJ investigation: some MI parents face high hurdles in child welfare cases (Includes audio)
WKAR – February 29, 2016
The role of the state’s Child Protective Services is to protect Michigan kids from abuse and neglect. It is also supposed to prioritize keeping children with their parents whenever possible. But some parents say the agency isn’t doing enough to keep families together, leading to more children in Michigan’s foster care system. We talk to reporter Justin Hinkley about his recent investigation into those claims for the Lansing State Journal.
http://wkar.org/post/lsj-investigation-some-mi-parents-face-high-hurdles-child-welfare-cases#stream/0

MO: ‘Nobody wants to stop it:’ When abusive parents use homeschooling to sneak under the radar (Includes video)
KSHB – February 29, 2016
While it doesn’t speak for the majority of homeschooled children, there are some who become victims of daily abuse, and even death, at the hands of their parents who use the system to sneak under the radar. Information Gateway Resource: Mandated Reporting: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/responding/reporting/mandated/
http://www.kshb.com/news/local-news/investigations/nobody-wants-to-stop-it-when-abusive-parents-use-homeschooling-to-sneak-under-the-radar

MT: Human Trafficking in Montana (Includes video)
KFBB – February 29, 2016
“What happens is these kids, these young women, end up going out because they have this dysfunction at home,” says Lockerby. “So they leave the home early. They tend to be a higher level of runaways, they tend to go into foster care, where the home situation is more fragmented. And then all the sudden from foster care they end up out on the streets on their own and independent…a juvenile who runs away and leaves foster care and is on their own will be approached by an offender within 72 hours of being independent.”
http://www.kfbb.com/story/31348073/human-trafficking-in-montana

MT: Top Administrator in Montana Child Protection Services Resigns
Flathead Beacon – February 29, 2016
Sarah Corbally will leave her job in April, becoming the second high-ranking administrator to leave since November.
http://flatheadbeacon.com/2016/02/29/top-administrator-in-montana-child-services-resigns/

NE: Hearing on faith-based adoption bill ‘became an inquisition,’ Capitol speaker says
Lincoln Journal Star – February 29, 2016
“I have never seen citizen witnesses treated so poorly,” Jeff Downing told about 150 people who attended the noon-hour Religious Liberty in the Public Square Rally at the state Capitol. Downing’s comments referenced a Feb. 17 hearing on state Sen. Mark Kolterman’s bill (LB975) to protect faith-based child-placing agencies from adverse action by the state, including lost funding, if they choose not to work with same-sex couples or unmarried people who wish to become adoptive or foster parents.
http://journalstar.com/legislature/hearing-on-faith-based-adoption-bill-became-an-inquisition-capitol/article_8c409b5a-0e1c-5199-9d0b-7f4d04b39149.html

NM: Feds: Detention is last resort for tribal youth
Associated Press – February 29, 2016
The federal government recommends Native American courts dole out treatment, counseling and foster care to young criminals instead of fines and detention, a change in tribal guidelines that reflects a national shift in juvenile justice reform. Information Gateway Resource: Working With American Indian Children and Families: https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/systemwide/diverse-populations/americanindian/
http://www.daily-times.com/story/news/local/navajo-nation/2016/02/29/feds-detention-last-resort-tribal-youth/81132494/

OH: Mental Health Treatment Inequities Separating OH Families (Includes audio)
Public News Service – March 01, 2016
A recent 40-county survey in Ohio found nearly one-third of multi-system youth who entered child services in June, 2015 did so because their parents relinquished custody.
http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2016-03-01/youth-issues/mental-health-treatment-inequities-separating-oh-families/a50628-1

PA: Hidden Homeless: Defining ‘homeless’ a key issue
Daily Item – February 27, 2016
“All it takes is a transmission failure and low-paying jobs aren’t always the most forgiving when people miss a couple days of work,” Feldhaus said. The official federal Department of Housing and Urban Development estimate put the homeless number in Pennsylvania at 15,000 in 2015, 3,400 of them ages 18-and-under.
http://www.dailyitem.com/news/hidden_homeless/hidden-homeless-defining-homeless-a-key-issue/article_dc36c30a-dcdd-11e5-8fa7-1fb8b835075b.html

TX: Protecting Children from Sexual Abuse: Texas Serves As a Model
Youth Today – March 01, 2016
Jenna’s story of sexual abuse is not uncommon. One in 10 children in the United States will become a victim of sexual abuse before the age of 18. But fewer than 40 percent of them disclose the abuse. Only 200,000 cases of child sexual abuse are substantiated by child welfare agencies in the United States each year. So, we can only speculate on how many children are suffering in silence.
http://youthtoday.org/2016/03/protecting-children-from-sexual-abuse-texas-serves-as-a-model/

WI: New secretary takes over Department of Corrections as leadership shifts
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel – February 29, 2016
State and federal authorities are investigating allegations of sexual assault, child neglect, prisoner abuse and other crimes at Lincoln Hills and Copper Lake School for Girls, which share a campus 30 miles north of Wausau.
http://www.jsonline.com/news/statepolitics/new-secretary-takes-over-department-of-corrections-as-leadership-shifts-b99678952z1-370573281.html

WI: Young lawyers provide free help to young homeless people
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel – February 29, 2016
During February, volunteers from the Young Lawyers Division of the state bar held a clinic every Wednesday evening at a drop-in center for homeless youths run by Pathfinders, on N. Holton St.
http://www.jsonline.com/news/young-lawyers-provide-free-help-to-young-homeless-people-b99678680z1-370557761.html

US: Casey Foundation Launches $5.4 Million Youth Success Initiative(Press release)
Philanthropy News Digest – March 01, 2016
Through its Learn and Earn to Achieve Potential (LEAP) initiative, the foundation aims to increase educational and employment opportunities for young people between the ages of 14 and 25 who are in foster care, the juvenile justice system, or homeless. To that end, over the next three to five years local partnerships in Alaska, Arizona, California, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, and New York will adapt a pair of evidence-based models to meet the needs of these youth, including providing support to address the personal life traumas they may have experienced.
http://philanthropynewsdigest.org/news/casey-foundation-launches-5.4-million-youth-success-initiative

US: Giving Foster Youth a Chance at College
Youth Today – March 01, 2016
Nearly one-half of the nation’s 500,000 kids in foster care leave high school without a diploma, and only about 3 percent ever obtain a college degree, according to the San Francisco-based Stuart Foundation. Its report, “The Invisible Achievement Gap Report,” shares that overall, foster youth have the lowest educational attainment of any cross-section of the population, including low-income families, English language learners and racial minorities. Report: Report: http://youthtoday.org/2016/03/giving-foster-youth-a-chance-at-college/
http://youthtoday.org/2016/03/giving-foster-youth-a-chance-at-college/

INTERNATIONAL

Bangladesh: Values-based child protection system
The Daily Star – March 01, 2016
In Bangladesh a large number of children are deprived of their basic human rights due to unacceptable health, nutrition and education as well as social conditions. In addition, recently children are facing violence in a range of settings including at home and in the family, in schools and in care and justice systems, in workplaces and in the communities.
http://www.thedailystar.net/law-our-rights/values-based-child-protection-system-784234

International: Pell: Church made ‘enormous mistakes’ on child abuse
Central Queensland news – March 01, 2016
Cardinal George Pell has told the Royal Commission into Child Sexual Abuse the Catholic Church’s predisposition on abuse allegations was not to believe children.
http://www.cqnews.com.au/news/cardinal-george-pell-has-told-the-roya/2947186/

Italy: Italy prepares new adoption law including gay couples
Deccan Chronicle – March 01, 2016
Italy’s government is working on a new law on adopting children, to include gay couples, after cutting a controversial adoption provision from a bill on civil unions last week, a prominent minister said on Sunday.
http://deccanchronicle.com/world/europe/290216/italy-prepares-new-adoption-law-including-gay-couples.html

Joshua Bennett sentenced for child death

Glens Falls Post-Star

He is the focus of a child death investigation in Kingsbury. … died before a judge sentenced him to serve up to 8 years in connection with her death.

Woman escorted from court as Kingsbury man sentenced in child’s death – WRGB

Kingsbury man sentenced to 6-8 years for role in death of toddler – WNYT

Full Coverage

 

Child’s death emphasizes the need for backup cameras

WPEC

PALM BEACH COUNTY, FL (CBS12) — As a family mourns the death of a 1-year old boy, we’re learning more about the growing and disturbing trend …

 

Bond denied again in Staunton child death

Staunton News Leader

STAUNTON – For the second time in a week, a Staunton man accused of beating his young son to death was denied bond. “This is an extremely …

 

Woman convicted in child’s death

Watertown Daily Times

JEFFERSON — A Jefferson woman charged with one count each of neglecting a child resulting in death and second-degree reckless homicide …

 

Jury selection continues in Etowah County child death trial

WAFF

GADSDEN, Ala. (AP) – A second day of jury selection has begun in the trial of an east Alabama man accused in the death of his 20-month-old …

Jury selection taking place in trial of man accused of killing toddler in ‘ritual’ – AL.com

Full Coverage

 

 

[VIDEO] Update in Hartford Child Death Case

94.9 WSJM-FM

Monday, prosecutors charged Beshires with first degree murder, felony murder and first degree child abuse. Investigators say the infant died from …

 

 

 

Texas CPS makes changes after child deaths

KXAN.com

AUSTIN (KXAN) — A new report details changes in a Texas agency after child abuse and neglect deaths across the state, including a central Texas …

 

Jury selection continues in Etowah County child death trial

WVTM13

Jury selection continues in Etowah County child death trial … Stephon Lindsay is charged with capital murder in the 2013 death of his daughter …

 

 

Sixteen-Year-Old Makes Court Appearance In Child Death

WOAI.com – iHeartRadio

(Edinburg, TX) — A 16-year-old accused of killing his six-month-old son will undergo drug tests and a mental exam before being tried for capital murder …

 

 

The Latest

WRGB

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — In his first televised interview on the tragic murder of 21-month-old Maddox Lawrence, Onondaga County District Attorney Bill …

 

Mom exonerated in child’s death after…

Google News

Mom exonerated in child’s death after 25 years. CTV News – 7 hours ago . A woman who pleaded guilty to killing her stepdaughter 25 years ago was …

 

 

CA: Ex-DA hopes to open charter school for foster children, troubled youth
Santa Cruz Sentinel – February 28, 2016
Buller’s Legacy Academy likely would be the first public charter in California targeting foster youth and kids on probation as well as those expelled or chronically truant. It’s an idea that came to Buller, 58, before he retired in 2014 after serving as the county’s assistant district attorney, overseeing juvenile crime.
http://www.santacruzsentinel.com/article/NE/20160228/SPORTS/160229677

CA: Police: San Jose principal failed to report sex-abuse claim before arrest, charge
San Jose Mercury News – February 26, 2016
Hearing that one of his teachers might be having sex with a student, the principal of a San Jose charter school did not alert law enforcement. Instead, he investigated the claim himself and decided it was nothing more than a rumor.
http://www.mercurynews.com/crime-courts/ci_29568103/san-jose-house-probe-teacher-student-tryst-elicits

IN: Lawmakers work to tighten loopholes to keep predators out of schools
Fox 59 – February 26, 2016
An alarming new report is still raising red flags about loopholes in teacher screenings in Indiana. Now, lawmakers are trying to fix the problem.
http://fox59.com/2016/02/26/lawmakers-work-to-tighten-loopholes-to-keep-predators-out-of-schools/

LA: Judge rules in favor of priest who didn’t report allegations of sexual abuse (Includes video)
WBRZ 2 – February 26, 2016
Judge Mike Caldwell ruled a part of the state’s children’s code requiring priests to be mandatory reporters of abuse that they learn during “priviledged conversations,” is unconstitutional today. The ruling means Priests don’t have to speak up if they learn children are the victims of abuse during confessions.
http://www.wbrz.com/news/judge-rules-in-favor-of-priest-who-didn-t-report-allegations-of-sexual-abuse

MI: Parents outgunned in child welfare cases
Hometown Life – February 26, 2016
McGaughy’s family was saved by the Detroit Center for Family Advocacy, a small agency that prevents foster care in nearly 90% of its cases by offering parents targeted legal help and social work that costs a fraction of what taxpayers spend on foster care.
http://www.hometownlife.com/story/news/local/watchdog/2016/02/25/parents-outgunned-child-welfare-cases/76572142/

NC: Years Later, America’s Children Finally Start to Recover From Recession
Imperial Valley News – February 28, 2016
America’s children are starting to recover from the worst effects of the Great Recession, although some ill effects still linger, says a comprehensive new report on child well-being from Duke University. “Overall child and youth well-being has returned to levels near those attained in 2007 and 2008, before the Great Recession had its negative impacts,” said the report’s lead author, Kenneth Land, an emeritus professor of sociology at Duke.
http://www.imperialvalleynews.com/index.php/news/national-news/7957-years-later-america-s-children-finally-start-to-recover-from-recession.html

NH: DCYF cites high caseloads, looks at adding 24/7 staffing
Concord Monitor – February 27, 2016
Heavy workloads and high staff turnover at the state’s Division for Children, Youth and Families are impacting the agency’s ability to keep children safe, according to a recent report from the division. The topic will likely be featured prominently as the Commission to Review Child Abuse Fatalities, composed of lawmakers, state officials and advocates weighs whether to expand the agency’s staffing from eight-hour days to 24/7 coverage.
http://www.concordmonitor.com/news/21261497-95/dcyf-cites-high-caseloads-looks-at-adding-247-staffing

NJ: Court says mom abused baby addicted to drugs
MyCentralNJ – February 26, 2016
Mom did not tell doctors about her addiction until three days after she delivered the newborn who was showing signs of withdrawal.
http://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/crime/jersey-mayhem/2016/02/26/court-says-mom-abused-baby-addicted-drugs/80929398/

NV: Olive Crest helps former foster care youths live on their own
Las Vegas Review Journal – February 28, 2016
The teens have been participating in Olive Crest’s Project Independence program, which provides assistance for employment and education for current or former foster care youths ages 17 to 21; and the nonprofit’s DREAMR Project, which stands for determined, responsible and empowered adolescents mentoring relationships.
http://www.reviewjournal.com/view/olive-crest-helps-former-foster-care-youths-live-their-own

OR: Bills could bring big changes to embattled DHS (Includes video)
KOIN 6 – February 28, 2016
The Department of Human Services could be in for a major overhaul if state legislators move forward with 2 bills this week. House Bill 4080 already passed the Oregon House of Representatives and the Senate. It’s now awaiting Governor Kate Brown?s signature. The bill would create a commission to keep a close eye on the embattled department.
http://koin.com/2016/02/28/oregon-bills-could-mean-big-changes-for-dhs/

PA: Lackawanna County settles foster child abuse case
Scranton Times-Tribune – February 27, 2016
Lackawanna County agreed to settle a federal lawsuit filed by the mother of a 7-year-old boy who was sexually abused his foster parents’ adopted son. The mother filed suit in August 2014, alleging the abuse could have been avoided had the county’s former Children and Youth Services — now called the Office of Youth and Family Services — heeded a written profile that warned the adopted son previously sexually abused others.
http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/lackawanna-county-settles-foster-child-abuse-case-1.2012322

SD: Judge calls arguments in ICWA case ‘frivolous at best’
Native Sun News – February 24, 2016
A three year old class action lawsuit, which involves the first 48 hours after an Indian child is taken from his or her family that alleges the State of South Dakota regularly violates the Constitutional Rights of Indian parents and provision 1922 of the Indian Child Welfare act, may now move forward.
http://www.nsweekly.com/news/2016-02-24/More_News/Judge_calls_arguments_in_ICWA_case_frivolous_at_be.html

TN: Exposing Child Sex Slavery in Tennessee: The Help Available and How Kids Are Targeted
WZTV Fox 17 – February 25, 2016
Rachel Irby — who runs Unchained Movement — a rescue home for sex slaves, says “the girl didn’t really have good choices in front of her…she could stay in foster care where she was being abused or she could run away and experience the street life.” It’s a situation Irby understands. Her mother tried to sell her for sex as a child. She says her own mom was trafficked at the age of 14.
http://fox17.com/news/local/exposing-child-sex-slavery-in-tennessee-the-help-available-and-how-kids-are-targeted

TX: CPS makes changes after child deaths (Includes video)
KXAN – February 26, 2016
A new report details changes in a Texas agency after child abuse and neglect deaths across the state, including a central Texas case that galvanized the attention of the community.
http://kxan.com/2016/02/26/texas-cps-makes-changes-after-child-deaths/

TX: Eradicating child abuse at all levels (Opinion)
The Leader – February 26, 2016
In one year alone, more than 65,000 cases of child abuse are confirmed in Texas. Of this total number, 71 percent of the children were involved in sexual abuse and 25 percent of them were younger than 5 years old. As a lawmaker in Texas, I have always been committed to strengthening the laws for the protection of our children by advocating prevention through education, strengthening laws against perpetrators or finding ways to best support victims to be able to overcome abuse.
http://starlocalmedia.com/theleader/voices/eradicating-child-abuse-at-all-levels/article_e2cb2dcc-dcd4-11e5-8ed0-9baa1aa75f5f.html

VT: Special Report: This never ends for him
VT Digger – February 28, 2016
Studies in the United States have estimated 1 out of every 4 girls and 1 out of every 6 boys are sexually abused before they turn 18. In the course of a single year, 1 out of 12 children are sexually victimized in some way. However, allegations of abuse from children are often murky — nonlinear or even nonverbal — and difficult to investigate.
http://vtdigger.org/fullimagestory/special-report-never-ends/

WA: New child welfare agency is needed, but don’t stop there (Opinion)
Herald Net – February 28, 2016
The timing was unrelated, but there was poignancy in the fact that Gov. Jay Inslee’s executive order to move toward breaking up the gargantuan Department of Social and Health Services and create a new child welfare agency, came just a week after the latest verdict against DSHS: $8 million for two Whatcom County girls placed in foster care with an accused child molester. Simply put, DSHS is too big to ably perform all the tasks assigned it. In a state that has long marginalized children, and is paying a $100,000 daily fine for neglecting their education, the DSHS Children’s Administration division generates lurid headlines and huge settlements and verdicts.
http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20160228/OPINION03/160229311

WI: Vision evolves into mission for children
USA Today Network – February 26, 2016
A group called the SPROUT Partnership that has been meeting in the Fond du Lac community since 2010 is working toward the goal of assuring that all Fond du Lac County children receive nurturing and responsive relationships and supportive environments. What began as a vision evolved into a mission, that the infant and early childhood communities of Fond du Lac County would strengthen their ability to support the social and emotional health of young children.
http://www.fdlreporter.com/story/life/2016/02/26/vision-evolves-mission-children/80993462/

WV: Children suffer with parents’ addiction
Herald-Dispatch – February 29, 2016
“When your brain is addicted, you suffer from chemical deficiency,” Miller said. “Your brain becomes sick, and it doesn’t function properly. People ask, ‘How can they choose drugs over children?’ but it’s not a choice for those folks. They have disease, their brain is sick, and they don’t think like everyone else. How else can it be explained?”
http://www.herald-dispatch.com/news/children-suffer-with-parents-addiction/article_3eeb5984-9b8c-5982-a58d-f7673ce1b9c0.html

US: Child marriage in US decried: State bills would keep girls from becoming wives
Associated Press – February 29, 2016
Child marriage wasn’t an issue of note for Virginia state Sen. Jill Vogel until she heard the stories circulating in her district about a man in his early 50s marrying a girl in her mid-teens, warding off a police investigation of his relationship with her.
http://www.journalgazette.net/news/us/Child-marriage-in-US-decried-11582157

US: Lost in encryption debate: child abuse
New York Daily News – February 29, 2016
Lost in the debate: This fight is not just about stopping terrorists. It’s about protecting children and others from abusers. With current smartphone encryption, and even stronger encryption that Apple and other tech companies are developing, evidence of some of these most abhorrent and hard-to-prove crimes is becoming increasingly difficult to obtain. Staff at Safe Horizon saw such evidence all too often — until the new operating systems started rolling out in 2014. These images were key factors leading to the arrest and prosecution of several offenders.
http://www.nydailynews.com/opinion/zwang-polenberg-lost-encryption-debate-child-abuse-article-1.2545392

US: Addressing Multi-Generational Dysfunction in Foster Care (Opinion)
Huffington Post – February 26, 2016
As a researcher I typically rely on existing studies to support my theories and findings; however, multi-generational dysfunction within families is an issue I have first hand knowledge of. Having worked in foster care for the past 9 years, I’ve found a significant number (if not the majority) of families have a history of child welfare involvement.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dr-mark-echols/addressing-multigeneratio_b_9322696.html

US: Child Welfare Agents Enjoy Immunity From Suit, 3rd Circuit Rules
FindLaw – February 26, 2016
Child welfare workers who took away a child from its mother during an investigation into her possible drug use enjoy immunity from suit because there was no notice that they were violating a clear constitutional right.
http://blogs.findlaw.com/third_circuit/2016/02/child-welfare-agents-enjoy-immunity-from-suit-3rd-circuit.html

US: Practicing positivity and resilience to help foster children overcome obstacles and prepare for success
Points of Light – February 26, 2016
The experience made Muizz think about “second and third chances, and the importance of being resilient.” She began drafting an idea for what would become known as Positive Resistance, a nonprofit with the motto, “A Broken Home Does Not Mean a Broken Life.”
http://www.pointsoflight.org/blog/2016/02/26/practicing-positivity-and-resilience-help-foster-children-overcome-obstacles-and

US: Religious Freedom Bills Surge After Last Year’s Same-Sex Marriage Ruling
BuzzFeed News – February 26, 2016
More than 100 bills have been introduced in this year’s legislative session to protect religious freedom or allow people to refuse services based on their faith. In at least eight states, legislatures currently are advancing bills. Related: MO: Dangerous Anti-LGBT Bills Pending in Missouri: http://www.hrc.org/blog/dangerous-anti-lgbt-bills-pending-in-missouri Related: GA: Major Companies Denounce Georgia’s Religious Refusal Legislation: http://www.hrc.org/blog/major-companies-denounce-georgias-religious-refusal-legislation
http://www.buzzfeed.com/dominicholden/religious-freedom-bills-surge-after-last-years-same-sex-marr?utm_term=.neOWpVXjoD#.jj23N7GX8z

US: Young People Reveal Holes in the Foster Care Safety Net
New American Media – February 26, 2016
Liberty Dycus, 23, who was adopted from Ethiopia as a child, ended up in foster care after being abused. She says that when she emancipated at 19, she “never felt more alone.” She wishes there had been ‘someone who’d said, ‘Let’s make a plan for you. Let’s get you in the right direction.'” Instead, like some other former foster youth during their transitional years, she became homeless.
http://newamericamedia.org/2016/02/young-people-reveal-holes-in-the-foster-care-safety-net.php

INTERNATIONAL

Canada: Hopeful Adoptive Parents Tackling “Unfair” Provincial Adoption Law
Pembina Valley Online – February 29, 2016
A local couple is hoping to change a Manitoba law they say unfairly limits their chance of adopting a child. Unlike residents of Ontario, B.C and the Yukon, hopeful adoptive parents like Jeff and Meghan in Manitoba are not allowed to publicly share their adoption profiles, either online or in print media. “So in other Provinces they’re allowed to make Facebook pages, hand out business cards, put up posters… in Manitoba were limited to going through agencies and word of mouth,” Jeff says. “Those are our only options in Manitoba.”
http://www.pembinavalleyonline.com/local/48883-hopeful-adoptive-parents-tackling-unfair-provincial-adoption-law

Canada: Outcomes & priorities for action to address violence against indigenous women and girls
Morningstar – February 26, 2016
Inuit, Metis, and First Nations leaders, families of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls (MMIWG), Manitoba Premier Greg Selinger, Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne, federal, provincial and territorial Ministers today committed to ongoing urgent and coordinated action to prevent and address violence against Indigenous women and girls, and to continue this work during the National Inquiry on MMIWG.
http://news.morningstar.com/all/canada-news-wire/20160226C5969/outcomes-priorities-for-action-to-address-violence-against-indigenous-women-and-girls.aspx

Maldova: Can Moldova’s Battered Teens Be Saved From Human Traffickers?
Daily Beast – February 29, 2016
Moldovan social workers say that such kids are easy prey for human traffickers, and the statistics bear them out. Moldova is among the countries with the highest incidence of human trafficking in Europe.
http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2016/02/29/can-moldova-s-battered-teens-be-saved-from-human-traffickers.html

South Korea: ‘Rod of love’ tradition hinders eradication of child abuse
Korea Herald – February 29, 2016
Corporal punishment, or “rod of love,” remains the most common justification behind what escalates into child abuse, according to the counselor.
http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20160229000786

South Korea: Reunited twins give hope to adoptees
Korea Times – February 29, 2016
The incredible story of Samantha Futerman and Anais Bordier, identical twins born in South Korea who were separated at birth then found each other after 25 years, made headlines a few years ago. The sisters visited Seoul last week to promote “Twinsters,” a documentary about their own story which will hit the big screens on March 3.
http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/culture/2016/02/135_199318.html