Autistic Teen Dies After Being Placed with Abusive Parent
- David Almond, a 14-year-old boy with autism, was returned to his abusive parent by the state.
- Shortly after the return, David tragically died.
- The case raises troubling questions about child welfare and the protection of vulnerable youth.
The tragic death of David Almond, a boy with autism, has raised serious concerns regarding the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF) and its decision to reunite him with his abusive father. John, the father, reported to emergency services that he found David unresponsive, leading to a harrowing scene that has left family members devastated. David's grandparents, Linda and Boy Dawes, have publicly criticized DCF for allowing the reunion despite the father's long history of abuse and neglect. Linda and Boy Dawes assert that DCF failed to communicate with them, which they believe could have prevented David's death. They express frustration over the agency's lack of contact and accountability, stating, "If they would have contacted us, this would not have happened." Following the tragedy, the grandparents expected to regain custody of the surviving brothers but were instead informed that DCF had placed them in separate group homes, further complicating the family's situation. The Dawes family has not received any apology from DCF regarding David's death, intensifying their feelings of betrayal. Boy Dawes emphasized the agency's responsibility, urging DCF to acknowledge its mistakes. In response to the allegations, DCF has remained silent on the specifics of the Almond case, citing privacy laws, but reiterated its commitment to family reunification efforts. The case highlights ongoing concerns about the effectiveness of child protective services and the need for accountability in safeguarding vulnerable children.