Kansas Agency's Failure to Act: Tragic Consequences for Girl's Family

Child welfare officials in Kansas investigated the family of a 5-year-old girl, Zoey Felix, five times in the 13 months leading up to her rape and murder, but were unable to confirm allegations of neglect or drug use by her mother. The family repeatedly declined offers of help, and despite concerns raised by neighbors, the agency failed to reach the family in the month before Zoey's death. The girl's father and a homeless man have been charged in connection with her murder. Kansas Governor Laura Kelly plans to push for legislation to expedite the release of information in cases of child abuse or neglect.