Media Statement

Dec. 9, 2020

Contact: Debra Johnson

360-789-7926

DCYF Statement on V.O. Settlement

Olympia— The Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) settled a lawsuit brought by a young woman who alleged that former Children’s Administration failed to protect her from maltreatment. Originally filed as a $50 million tort claim, the suit settled for $2 million. Although the facts of the lawsuit remain disputed, DCYF hopes the settlement will allow the woman to receive the services and support necessary for her well-being. 


DCYF’s mission is to protect children and strengthen families and the agency takes its mission seriously. DCYF has policies and practices for investigating allegations of abuse and neglect of children in out-of-home care. The agency and its leadership are committed to reviewing the effectiveness of these practices and adopting new ones when needed to protect children.

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