Rutherford County’s First Safe Baby Court Graduation is Friday, April 16 Apr 16, 2021 at 07:15 am by WGNS
Murfreesboro – On Friday, April 16 at 3:30 p.m., the Rutherford County Juvenile Court will hold the first graduation ceremony of its Safe Baby Court program.
Safe Baby Court is a program focused on families with children under three years old. It provides a plethora of wraparound services to parents struggling with substance use disorders and/or mental health issues in an effort to keep children in safe, stable home environments. Safe Baby Court participants meet regularly with judges, court staff, and engaged community partners to help them along on a path to healthier, happier lives for them and their children.
Child Abuse Cases Increase as COVID Dies Down in Rutherford County Apr 07, 2021 at 10:49 pm by WGNS
Now that most children are back in school, Rutherford County Juvenile Court Judge Donna Scott Davenport said that there has been an increase in child sexual abuse reports..
During the peek of the COVID Pandemic, most children were out of school and listed as “Distant Learners.” Police departments all over the country reported an increase of package delivery personnel reporting what they saw as child abuse crimes.
If you know of a situation that involves an abused child, you can call the Department of Children Services and remain anonymous. To report the issue, call 877-237-0004.
Family Preservation Initiative Promises New Solutions To Help Vulnerable Children and Families Mar 10, 2021 at 09:43 am by WGNS
A new, cutting-edge court program in Tennessee is changing the way the judiciary interacts with at-risk children and their families. This new program is right here in Rutherford County.
Unlike other programs which connect with juveniles only after they have become involved in the child welfare or justice systems, the Family Preservation Initiative seeks to identify and aid youths and their families during the pre-petition stage or just after an initial petition is filed. With successful intervention at this stage, the Family Preservation Initiative can prevent traumatic family separations and provide crucial support and services when people need them the most.