PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Rhode Island’s child advocate is urging the state cut ties with an agency she says has grossly neglected children in two group homes.
The Providence Journal reports that Child Advocate Jennifer Griffith released a report Tuesday suggesting welfare officials stop placing children with the Blackstone Valley Youth and Family Collaborative. Griffith says the agency doesn’t provide a safe environment for children.
Blackstone operates two group homes in Pawtucket. According to Griffith’s report, Blackstone failed to report drug and alcohol abuse by residents. Griffith says the agency didn’t monitor youth and provided false documents.
Griffith’s report follows the indictment of a former Blackstone counselor who prosecutors say used the company’s van to operate a sex ring.
Blackstone could not be reached for comment.
