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January 23, 2008

Judge hears testimony in suit over foster-care system

PROVIDENCE -- A school psychologist and a foster mother testified about their relationships with two boys who are part of a federal civil rights lawsuit alleging major flaws in the state's foster care system.

U.S. District Judge Ronald Lagueux asked the women to testify to determine if they have close enough relationships with the boys to represent their interests in the lawsuit.

Lagueux is considering whether to dismiss the case -- and whether the two adults have standing to bring the lawsuit on behalf of the children.

Seven children in foster care are identified as plaintiffs.

Mary Melvin, a former foster mother for one of the seven children, says she still has pictures of the boy and cares about him, even though she has not seen him in a decade.

The suit was brought by state Child Advocate Jametta Alston.

-- The Associated Press

Posted by Mike McKinney  at 4:15 PM | Permalink

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