DCYF discloses near fatalities of 2 children

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Department of Children, Youth and Families on Friday disclosed the near fatality of two children.

The department said it had prior involvement with the families of both children but no open cases at the time of the incidents.

Damaris Teixeira, a spokesperson for DCYF, said that the incidents occurred on October 23, 2019, and August 27, 2022.

She added that the two cases were confirmed to be the result of maltreatment but an oversight resulted in no public disclosure being released.

“The department has taken steps to ensure for timely disclosure going forward in cases of child near fatalities and fatalities,” Teixeira said.

The Office of the Child Advocate has also been notified of the report.

“Due to confidentiality laws, DCYF is prohibited from sharing additional information,” Teixeira said.