Cornell University releases report on Oswego County CPS initiated by death of Erin Maxwell

June 22, 10:16 AMAlbany CPS and Family Court ExaminerDaniel Weaver

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Cornell University's ILR School has released a 36 page report, Oswego County Process Review for Child Protective Services, which offers an analysis and recommendations for the Oswego County Child Protective Services. The tragic life and murder of Erin Maxwell was the catalyst for the report.

Following Erin's murder, Oswego County Department of Social Services commissioner, Frances Lanegan, requested that Cornell University's School of Industrial and Labor Relations and the regional office of New York State's Office of Children and Family Services review Oswego County's Child Protective Services procedures.

The report which was funded by the Office of Children and Family Services made the following five findings and recommendations.

1. The volume and rate of incoming child protective work has outpaced the resources of the Department’s child protective staff.

2. While there are some very good managers and supervisors, supervisory practice needs to be strengthened to produce more consistency among senior caseworkers.

3. Lack of sufficient systems and technology support contributes significantly to workers having less time to spend on investigations.

4. In reviewing documents prepared by Oswego County CPS managers, supervisors, and staff (including support staff), it is apparent that a proactive culture has existed for many years of developing appropriate, timely written procedures and protocols for a variety of standard operations.

5. A review of the media accounts over the last nine months has made it very apparent that Oswego County DSS needs to significantly improve its relationship with the community. In addition, both the school systems and the agency need to find ways to strengthen their relationships and collaborate more effectively.

The report goes on to recommend that Oswego County hire more staff immediately. It also recommends additional training and improved procedures. The entire report can be read at www.syracuse.com.

The following video gives more details on the tragic life and death of Erin Maxwell.