It is unconscionable in this day and age that these children had to exist in such deplorable conditions and that an innocent baby suffered and died alone in a locked car.
Yes, there is blame and accountability considering this family had child neglect charges filed a few years ago (that were apparently dropped and expunged) and a large part of the responsibility should go to Child Protective services. And I do not wish to hear that “we are overworked, understaffed, underpaid.” That is no excuse..If you passed by an injured, dying person on the side of the road would you walk on?
And also blame and accountability lies with the relatives..how could they not be aware the children were most likely starving and living in filth? Again, inexcusable. And I might add they are totally responsible for raising the parents with absolutely no idea how to take care of children. If your adult children are in trouble, there are many resources you could look into instead of doing nothing.
Also, does this apartment complex conduct inspections? Do our tax dollars pay for living conditions as deplorable as these?
What a tragedy for our city. DHS, agencies set up to help families and children at risk, churches, and even neighbors - open your eyes and do something.
This should never have happened so ask yourself: What can we do to prevent this from happening again?
Dawn Devine
Harrison