Transparency & Accountability

In The Imprint, reporter Jeremy Loudenback highlighted California’s efforts to change mandatory reporting laws, a movement spurred by advocates who believe the current system unnecessarily pulls innocent families into the child welfare system. Loudenback featured the story of Roger De Leon, Jr., who was investigated for suspected abuse only to be later found innocent, as one traumatic example.

In a searing new memo released today, Lives in the Balance: A Bold Plan to Fix America’s Broken Child Protection System, the Center for the Rights of Abused Children lays bare an unflinching truth:

State lawmakers promised transparency and accountability when they created the Department of Child Safety, or DCS. But has it lived up to those promises?

Arizona Governor Doug Ducey has signed into law Senate Bills 1076 & 1307, passed unanimously by the Arizona legislature & sponsored by Senator Nancy Barto.

Warning signs missed by the DCS that could have prevented Chaskah Davis Smith's murder. Scottsdale grandmother served warrant.

It is estimated that roughly half of all children abused to death across the country are missed by investigative authorities.

Grandmother accused of murdering 11-year old Chaskah Davis Smith had history of family issues and abuse.

Grandmother arrested after being accused of horrific abuse and murder of Chaskah Davis Smith.

Hi friends, A few months ago, I was invited to write a chapter for a reference book on American foster care. I’m thrilled to share this sneak peek with you in advance of [...]

This is not an easy read. But to understand just how broken the child welfare system is, I need you to stay with me. In April of this year, police in Wichita, Kansas [...]