A Lewis and Clark County District Court judge on Wednesday released a long sought after report detailing a 2006 state child abuse and neglect investigation into a now-defunct privately run residential treatment center for teen boys.
"The court was absolutely correct to allow (the Montana Advocacy Program)http://www.mtadv.org/ to release this report, so that we can shine the light on what really happened to these youths at this facility," said Andrée Larose, an attorney with MAP, and the person who first reported the abuse allegations to state and local authorities in 2005. "This is exactly the type of scrutiny that needs to take place to keep our children safe."
By JOHN S. ADAMS Tribune Capitol Bureau
Full Story: http://www.greatfallstribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071213/NEWS01/712130301/1002
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The mission of the Montana Advocacy Program (MAP)is to protect and advocate the human, legal, and civil rights of Montanans with disabilities while advancing dignity, equality, and self-determination. MAP http://www.mtadv.org/ is a non-profit 501-C-3 organization that deserves the support of all Montanans as it strives to protect and improve the lives of many in Montana. Please consider MAP as you plan your year-end contributions. Russ
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DPHHS Director Defends Agency’s Handling of Abuse Case
The head of the state Department of Public Health and Human Services on Monday defended her agency's handling of abuse allegations at a private residential treatment center for juveniles.
Department director Joan Miles acknowledged the agency failed to meet a deadline that led to the dismissal of an administrative appeal involving officials at the now closed Swan Valley Youth Academy, north of Condon. She said such a hearing would have accomplished little since the facility had already voluntarily closed following two department investigations.
Full Story: http://www.flatheadbeacon.com/articles/article/dphhs_director_defends_agencys_handling_of_abuse_case/1817/