RIVERSIDE – (INT) - Riverside County officials have released a summary of findings from an independent review of the Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) Children’s Services Division (CSD). It comes in the wake of criticism of how children in foster care are being handled.

The county’s Executive Office requested the review last year to ensure DPSS’ Children’s Services Division is following policies and practices that lead to safer outcomes for children, while reducing risks from future third-party claims and lawsuits.

Special outside counsel conducted the review to analyze CSD’s practices and policies along with claims and lawsuits filed between 2008 and 2018. The independent review concluded that Riverside County’s children’s division had experienced similar claims as other counties in California.

The public report also details how DPSS is enhancing and expanding safeguards to protect children from abuse and neglect.

“Protecting children is our first priority,” said Riverside County CEO George Johnson. “Our goal throughout this stringent process of external review and self-analysis is to emerge as a leader in best practices for children and families at risk.”

Story Date: October 5, 2019