DCFS Audit: 102 Child Deaths After Contact

A disturbing new audit paints a picture of failures at the Department of Child and Family services, with 102 at risk kids dying on their watch. 

The audit covers the last three reporting years. And it shows the lapses and lack of resources at DCFS are costly, with cases not being solved, protocol not being followed, and children dying as a result.

According to the audit, many children were contacted by DCFS prior to their death. The report found that agents are not completing investigations within the standard 60 days. The audit found 16 percent of cases remained open after the deadline. The emergency hotline has also proven ineffective, according to the audit. Some callers have been sent to voicemail. 

Current acting director Marc Smith says DCFS has already began implementing the recommendations in the audit. And just before it came out, a group of lawmakers announced a caucus to reform DCFS. Governor J.B Pritzker also says he’s adding more than 100 new case workers. 

05/08/19 11:49AM