News releases about a recent probe into state child protective services need to be put into perspective.
Two reports recently were filed in a federal lawsuit against Oklahoma’s Department of Human Services, charging it with failing to protect children from physical and sexual abuse. The reports contained the stories of nine children who were placed back with abusive parents or in foster homes or shelters where they were abused.
First, though the media reported the investigations were independent, investigators were hired by attorneys suing the state. Knowing that, it’s hard to ascertain how independent the reports may be.
Also, the reports concluded that the experiences of the nine probably are indicative of the care of many. We hope that the alleged experiences of these nine, if true, were the exception.
Undoubtedly, DHS doesn’t always get it right nor is it always able, for many reasons, to provide all the protection children need. DHS has a tough job caring for children whose own parents and families are a danger to those very children.
Of course, having a tough job should not be an excuse. If the agency, which has been under fire in recent years, needs more impetus for change, then we would hope it would come as a result of the lawsuit.
The one change we would like to see is more openness. We understand the need to protect children’s privacy, but privacy also prevents greater accountability. DHS is subject to internal agency controls and the courts, but no outside or public review.
When news agencies hear reports of child abuse or problems with a family, foster family or DHS supervision, news agencies are denied access to all reports and court hearings. It’s almost impossible for anyone to assess any decision the agency makes. No one has any idea what’s going on in any case, not until a Kelsey Briggs or a Ryan Luke dies.
Privacy should be balanced with accountability.
