Foster Girl's Horrific Abuse Sparks Investigation

Manitoba's families minister has initiated an internal investigation into the severe abuse of a six-year-old girl in foster care, which has resulted in injuries that may cause lifelong paralysis. The child was hospitalized in critical condition on September 19, with police reporting significant bruising and fractured bones. Her foster mother has been charged with aggravated assault and failing to provide necessaries of life, while the foster father faces a charge of failing to provide necessaries of life.

Search warrant documents reveal police are investigating allegations of abuse against two other foster children previously in the couple's care. The foster mother reportedly admitted to slamming the girl multiple times. Authorities are scrutinizing how the system allowed such egregious abuse to occur, with the families minister vowing to compel evidence and witnesses for the investigation.

While a comprehensive review was not immediately ordered, the Advocate for Children and Youth is also investigating. The incident highlights concerns about oversight and resource allocation within child welfare services, as provincial standards for checking on foster children are detailed, underscoring the need for more robust monitoring to prevent children from falling through the cracks.