Governor Brewer Responds to DPS Report on Not Investigated Child Abuse & Neglect Cases

Statement

Governor Jan Brewer today responded to the release of the official report from the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) regarding its administrative review into the thousands of cases of potential child abuse and neglect that were designated as "not investigated," or "NI."

Statement from Governor Brewer

"From the moment I first learned of this unacceptable and unlawful practice, I have insisted that there be a full and thorough understanding of how and why this occurred, so we could ensure that it never happens again in Arizona. That is why I took immediate action to create the CARE Team -- whose diligent, transparent and independent oversight has been instrumental -- and directed DPS to conduct an independent, thorough review of the process that led to this inexcusable situation. I also announced in my State of the State address a reorganized Division that reports directly to me.

"The DPS report is comprehensive and I am grateful to the dedicated investigators. While I continue to carefully review the report, one thing is crystal clear: it is vital that our state must continue the urgent effort to statutorily establish a new, standalone child protection agency whose core focus is safeguarding Arizona's abused and neglected children. We must breakdown the levels of bureaucracy, change the culture that allowed this unconscionable practice to be implemented behind the scenes and provide the necessary resources to protect Arizona's children.

"Because the safety of our children is one of the most important priorities -- and because it is imperative that we work restore to public trust in our child safety system -- I will be calling a Special Session in the immediate future to address this urgent issue. I look forward to working with lawmakers to accomplish this mission on behalf of Arizona children and families."

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