Grand Jury Investigates the San Diego Child Welfare Services

San Diego’s Child Welfare Services or Child Protective Services (CWS or CPS) is responsible for taking children out of their homes if it believes that the children are in danger. Over the last two decades, many parents have complained about the manner in which CWS has taken their kids away from them. So many people have complained, in fact, that San Diego’s Grand Jury has investigated San Diego’s CWS multiple times. In 2009 alone, the San Diego Grand Jury investigated the San Diego CWS twice. Each investigation was a lengthy process that included the testimonies of multiple witnesses. At the conclusion of each investigation, the San Diego Grand Jury made a report and made some recommendations.

In one of the investigations, at least one CWS employee testified in front of the Grand Jury, saying that CWS employees “have the ability to consciously manipulate the Risk Assessment tool for the purpose of supporting any decision [they]…make.” The Risk Assessment tool is a form that is used by CWS social workers to assess the level of risk and may support the removal of the child. The fact that San Diego social workers manipulate the Risk Assessment tool to satisfy their own objectives is an alarming revelation.

The Risk Assessment tool is also important because it is used in Gomez hearings, also known as Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) Grievance Hearings. The CACI is a list of child molesters and child abusers available for all law enforcement and judges to see. Once CWS investigates a parent for child abuse, or even child neglect, there is a very good chance that the San Diego social worker will put the parent on the CACI. The parent must have a CACI Grievance Hearing in order to get off the list of child abusers. However, the person who decides whether or not you stay on the list uses the Risk Assessment tool to make his or her decision. That the Risk Assessment tool can be easily manipulated does not bode well for parents who are fighting for their rights.

If you or a loved one is currently being placed on the Child Abuse Central Index or is in danger of being placed on the CACI, please contact us immediately at Wallin and Klarich via phone at 1-877-230-1529 or fill out our consultation form for a free evaluation of your San Diego County case. We have experienced and skilled San Diego criminal defense attorneys who can aggressively handle your case. We understand the seriousness of your situation and will provide you with the best legal counsel.