Multiple Social Workers Placed on Leave in County
- At least 10 Santa Clara County social workers were placed on paid leave while investigators probe a foster-care child's death. - The action follows the death of a 2-year-old boy who had been placed with a relative caregiver, prompting protests. - County officials now face multiple investigations and renewed scrutiny of child-welfare practices (kentucky.com).
Santa Clara County placed at least 10 child welfare workers on paid leave amid an investigation into the death of a 2-year-old foster child. (nbcbayarea.com) The boy died last month after county officials placed him with a relative caregiver, triggering protests outside the county's San Jose headquarters. (mercurynews.com) Protesters waved signs and demanded accountability, with some shouting that the county "failed our kids." (cbsnews.com) County officials confirmed the workers' removal as a precaution while internal and external probes continue, including from law enforcement. (sfgate.com) This case echoes past scrutiny of Santa Clara County's child welfare division, which handles over 600 investigations monthly and has faced lawsuits over child safety lapses. (childsworld.org) The toddler showed signs of abuse and neglect before placement, according to a county report, raising questions about oversight in foster care placements. (ktvu.com) Child protective services workers assess families and decide removals or placements; here, the county had prior contact with the family. (childwelfare.gov) County Executive Javier Herrera said the review will "identify what went wrong," amid calls for systemic reform from advocates. (apnews.com) California removed over 13,000 children into foster care last year, with counties under pressure to balance family preservation and safety. (childwelfare.ca.gov) No charges have been filed in this case, and the investigation continues; county leaders pledged improvements to prevent future tragedies. (cnn.com)
