DCYF discloses near fatality of 14-year-old

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Department of Children, Youth and Families on Friday disclosed the near fatality of a 14-year-old.

Damaris Teixeira, a spokesperson for DCYF, said that the incident occurred on February 15 of this year and was confirmed as the result of maltreatment in April.

The youth’s family also had prior involvement with the department.

“Due to an internal oversight, this case did not result in a public disclosure at the time,” Teixeira said.

She added that DCYF has taken steps to ensure timely disclosures for near fatalities and fatalities in the future.

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.