Past time for closure

Anyone who has dealt with or read about the Arkansas Department of Human Services realizes it is probably the worst-run, ill-managed division of state government, but revelations last month are beyond comprehension.

Clarence Garretson was sentenced to life in prison for sexually assaulting minors in his care, most foster children. Between 1998 and 2004, the department placed 35 children in Garretson’s home. That alone should have been a red flag.

Now at least seven people are suing individual members of the department: Former directors Kurt Knickrehm and Richard Weiss, along with Debbie Williams, Nikole Hurst, Carol Gillis, Patsy Chase, and Robbie McKay. Allegations in the suit are that these employees ignored repeated pleas, complaints, and allegations from the victims. Also included was Logan County director Dick Pickarts, who the suit says “obtained actual knowledge” of at least one case of sexual abuse, but did nothing.

These employees will have their day in court; if they are found guilty, however, I don’t believe civil penalties are sufficient. If proven, I would urge authorities to seek possible criminal charges. Their neglect and incompetence (again, if proven) ruined peoples lives.

It’s wishful thinking to believe Leslie Rutledge would take up the cause. Our attorney general is too busy making media appearances, so she’s probably not apt or capable. Perhaps a courageous prosecutor who knows something about the law will.

Regardless, it’s obvious the agency is a train wreck. Poor management, ineptitude, and frankly, just uncaring people who have long ceased to fulfill their mission to protect the most vulnerable children in our state. It’s past time for Asa Hutchinson to dismantle this organization and start from the ground up.

ANTHONY LLOYD

Hot Springs