Sole custody abusive dad subject of DCF child abuse report (Hardwick, Massachusetts)

We've reported on this case before. Abusive dad RANDALL LINTS had sole custody. And yet the Fathers Rights guys in Massachusetts still wail about how discriminated against they are in custody matters. Total bullsh**. The reality is that the system bends over backwards to accommodate abusive fathers in custodial matters, and won't interfere with the father's "rights" till it's often too late.

http://www.whdh.com/story/29960177/dcf-to-release-report-on-hardwick-child-abuse-investigation

DCF releases report on Hardwick child abuse investigation

Posted: Sep 04, 2015 10:16 AM Updated: Sep 05, 2015 5:11 PM

Hardwick (WHDH) - The Department of Children and Families released on Friday a report on its investigation into what led a young Hardwick boy to be hospitalized.

Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker held a press conference on Friday and said the report was intended to identify failures of DCF processes that led to the injures sustained by 7-year-old Jack Loiselle. "These kids deserve the same chances other kids have," Baker said of children in DCF care. "To go to school, play with their friends, and find the kind of security, predictability and unconditional support that most of us take for granted so that they can grow, learn and succeed."

Baker said the report showed that DCF, despite its best intentions and efforts, does not have the policy framework, operating rules and other aspects that are required to properly served children. Several policies are more than 10 years old.

"DCF does not have a parental capability review policy for all cases involving custody issues," he said. "Neither the courts, nor DCF, did enough diligence concerning the childhood of Jack's biological father. His own childhood was enormously troubled and should have been factored into every decision concerning Jack's care, well being and safety."

By Jan. 1, the Western Massachusetts region of DCF will return to its previous management structure by recreating the Central Massachusetts region, costing between $1 million and $2 million.

"DCF has the authority to recruit, hire and train the social work team and the staff it needs to deal with rising case load and if we need to we will find the money to support the department's efforts," he said.

Baker said many people who work in DCF do good work every day, but the systemic issues show that much more needs to be done in order to keep children safe.

According to authorities, Loiselle weighed just 38 pounds.

The 7-year-old was unconscious and suffering from starvation and dehydration.

He had bruises on his face and bleach burns on his hands and knees.

At last check, he remains unresponsive at a long-term rehabilitation facility.

DCF became involved with the family in February, eight months after Randall Lints was granted sole custody of his son.

Police arrested and charged Lints a week after Jack was taken into intensive care.

Governor Charlie Baker will discuss the case Friday afternoon.