A woman who says her special needs brother died from abuse is calling for an investigation into Oklahoma's child welfare services.
Valerie Wood-Harber presented an electronic petition with 460,000 signatures to Gov. Mary Fallin's office Tuesday. Wood-Harber is calling for an investigation into the agency after she made 22 unanswered calls in a span of weeks to report alleged abuse of her brother. Fifteen-year-old Quinten Wood later died of pneumonia.
Department of Human Services spokeswoman Sheree Powell says in a statement the agency is investigating the death with police and others.
DHS has been plagued with problems over the years, leading to a class-action lawsuit after the death of several children under the state's watch. Following the lawsuit, DHS announced approval of a $153 million plan to overhaul the system.
_____________________________
KGOU is a community-supported news organization and relies on contributions from readers and listeners to fulfill its mission of public service to Oklahoma and beyond. Donate online, or by contacting our Membership department.
