DCFS: Child deaths on the rise
Updated: January 18, 2013
SPRINGFIELD -- A new report released by DCFS is showing some scary
numbers. 90 children died last year in Illinois from child abuse and
neglect. That's of the completed cases, more than 60 are still under investigation.
Suffocation by neglect was the leading cause of death, followed by intentional abuse or injury. 69% of the victims never saw their first birthday.
Advocates say it's sad to think these deaths could've been prevented. Dianne Cox with Creative Kids Daycare in Decatur says she's always trying to offer new tips to parents; and make sure they're up to date on the latest information, especially when it comes to sleeping conditions for infants and recalls.
She says it's hard to say why abuse and neglect happens, but believes there are ways to stop it. One of the biggest, she thinks, is by offering more education and resources.
Suffocation by neglect was the leading cause of death, followed by intentional abuse or injury. 69% of the victims never saw their first birthday.
Advocates say it's sad to think these deaths could've been prevented. Dianne Cox with Creative Kids Daycare in Decatur says she's always trying to offer new tips to parents; and make sure they're up to date on the latest information, especially when it comes to sleeping conditions for infants and recalls.
She says it's hard to say why abuse and neglect happens, but believes there are ways to stop it. One of the biggest, she thinks, is by offering more education and resources.
