Too little, too late: we need to do more to protect Minnesota’s most vulnerable children

On Wednesday, a group of concerned citizens joined us to discuss the need for reforms to Minnesota’s child protection system. Several were frontline professionals who had seen too many children suffer or die at the hands of their caregivers.

We all agree that more must be done to protect children.

Earlier this week a Minneapolis woman was sentenced to probation – and ordered to take a parenting class – in connection to her toddler’s death back in 2022. The parenting class is too little, too late, in our opinion.

Her 2-year-old boy, Ona’Je Prince Sincere Jackson, arrived at the hospital unresponsive with multiple bruises and scratches, and died a short time later. Doctors also found injuries on the boy’s 4-month-old brother: rib fractures, burn marks, and blood in his right eye. Tests showed the infant was exposed to fentanyl. Witnesses said they saw the woman strike her children.

The woman’s partner, who had a history of domestic assault and child abuse, was convicted in December of killing the boy. He was sentenced to six years in prison.

Indeed, the boy’s caregivers failed to protect him, but so did the system.

Among other issues this legislative session, we’re advocating for parents to be held accountable for dangerous activities that put their children in harm’s way. We’re urging for more data and transparency around reports of child maltreatment and deaths. And we’re supporting the creation of a task force to re-examine some of the system’s current policies and practices.

Our work for vulnerable children is possible

through support from readers & listeners like you. Thank you.