Bioethicist says Stephan Conviction Highlights Need for Reporting of Neglect
CALGARY: The meningitis death of a 19-month-old boy who suffered for weeks while his parents treated him with home remedies is calling attention to the responsibilities of those who know about child abuse or neglect, but don’t report it.
Alberta’s Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act says anyone with “reasonable or probable grounds to believe that a child is in need of intervention” must report it, and that anyone who fails in their duty can be fined up to $2,000 or jailed for up to six months.
However, Justice Department spokesman Dan Laville admitted Thursday charges have never been laid under that specific section.
“This does not mean the Act is not being used for other purposes, it just means to date charges have not been laid under this section,” Laville said in an email.