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State to review DCYF

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Gov. Maggie Hassan (D) has initiated “a comprehensive, independent review of the child protective services of the Division of Children Youth and Families (DCYF).”

The decision came after the homicide of 21-month-old Sadie Willott in September.  Sadie’s mother is charged with the crime.

“Our preliminary review of Sadie Willott’s death and other homicide and assault cases involving child victims raised significant concerns about DCYF’s prior contacts with those families,” said Attorney General Foster

In a somewhat similar case last year, toddler Brielle Gage died in her mother’s care.  Brielle’s mother was arrested earlier in 2014 for allegedly beating another child, leading policymakers to question why Brielle was left in her mother’s custody. 

Due to confidentiality laws, DCYF will not comment on the cases.  

However, family reunification remains a primary goal of DCYF.  Some DCYF critics even argue that DCYF is too zealous in removing children from their homes.

In 2011 the legislature temporarily established a Redress of Grievances Committee that heard many complaints about how family courts ended custody and visitation for parents. 

Do you have an opinion on DCYF?  Comment below!

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