Justice for Murdered Joliet Toddler
In November 2017, seventeen-month-old Sema’j Crosby was reported missing, and then found just days later smothered and hidden underneath a couch in her family’s Joliet home. The family was under Illinois Department of Children and Family Services’ Contract, with caseworkers having visited the household ten times prior to this tragedy. Yet, despite what authorities called “deplorable” living conditions within the home, Crosby remained with her mother until later found murdered.
While we are proud to see this case settled and happy to see the $6.4 Million Settlement awarded to Crosby’s four siblings, no amount of money can possibly bring Sema’j Crosby back. We hope that this tragedy serves to remind organizations such as Children’s Home & Aid, as well as other contractors with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, of their contractual obligations to provide the best possible care for children.
There was no reason Sema’j had to die, and the money that will go to her brothers and sisters will never ease the pain.
This death is evidence of how detrimental organizational oversight can be when it comes to the care, wellness, and safety of children. As one of the supervisors admitted, the Children’s Home & Aid organization took on too many cases and were overworked. This created room for negligence and failure in ensuring the safety of Sema’j Crosby prior to her passing. DCFS and similar organizations should monitor the amount of cases passed on to any private organizations. In addition, private organizations should not accept cases unless they can provide ALL services and comply with ALL DCFS regulations.
At Deratany & Kosner, we want to give you the justice you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been a victim of negligence, contact us today to schedule a free consultation