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ChildLine Referral Leads to Arrest for Alleged Neglect

Posted by Joseph D. Lento | Aug 04, 2024 | 0 Comments

A Clinton County man has been charged with five felony counts of endangering the welfare of a child and one misdemeanor count of corruption of minors after Officer Bryan M. Burger of Mill Hall Borough Police Department investigated a March 11 ChildLine referral.

Robert Edward Winslow, III, is a 39-year-old father of three who's been working with caseworkers from Clinton County Children and Youth Services (CYS) since February 2021. Caseworkers have visited his home more than 50 times to investigate 25 alleged neglect issues since then.

Enlisting legal help is vital when you've been accused of neglecting a child. The LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team is here to offer the assistance you need if you ever face such charges. Learn more about how we can help with your case by submitting our confidential online contact form or calling us at 888-535-3686.

Alleged Neglect Leads to ChildLine Referral and Criminal Charges

ChildLine is Pennsylvania's 24-hour hotline through which anyone can report suspected child abuse or neglect. Many can make ChildLine reports anonymously.

Mandated reporters, who are required by law to contact ChildLine or an equivalent service/agency when they suspect child abuse or neglect may be occurring, have to identify themselves when filing reports. Mandated reporters include teachers, religious figures, and others who may have substantial knowledge of a child's health and safety.

Initially, CYS caseworkers investigated Winslow's home to conduct a welfare check on a child with alleged mental health issues. Since then, reports indicate that caseworkers discovered Winslow has consistently failed to ensure his children receive proper medical and dental care.

One of the children developed an infection after complaining of dental pain but not being brought by Winslow to see a dentist. Caseworkers have also found that Winslow's home has sometimes lacked adequate food for the children. Per an affidavit, CYS workers reported placing sanctions on Winslow for neglect.

Winslow also allegedly refused to refill the medication for his child with mental health issues when they ran out on one occasion. In addition, caseworkers had informed Winslow on multiple occasions that he would need to keep sharp items in a lockbox to prevent his children from harming themselves.

Winslow deemed this measure “unnecessary” and refused to comply. The affidavit states a Clinton County judge had to issue a court order requiring Winslow to comply with the caseworkers' requests.

Caseworkers who visited the home in January for a welfare check when Winslow's children couldn't wake him reported finding the home in very poor condition. For example, they allege the home was strewn with trash and debris, and ceiling tiles had fallen down.

A ChildLine investigation isn't a criminal case. However, caseworkers can and often do alert law enforcement when they discover signs of abuse or neglect like those described above.

Child Neglect Is a Serious Matter

Neglect is considered abuse. Someone who's been accused of neglecting their children can face serious criminal penalties.

Even if someone avoids a conviction, a ChildLine referral could result in their name being added to Pennsylvania's ChildLine registry. This may limit their future employment opportunities.

Don't gamble with your future if you're facing charges involving alleged child neglect. At the LLF Law Firm, our Criminal Defense Team will protect your rights. Get started today by calling our offices at 888-535-3686 or contacting us through our online form.

About the Author

Joseph D. Lento

"I pride myself on having heart and driving hard to get results!" Attorney Joseph D. Lento passionately fights for the futures of his clients in criminal courtrooms in Philadelphia and across Pennsylvania as well as in New Jersey and nationwide. He does not settle for the easiest outcome, and instead prioritizes his clients' needs and well-being. With unparalleled experience occupying several roles in the criminal justice system outside of being an attorney, Joseph D. Lento can give you valuable behind-the-scenes insight as to what is happening during all phases of the legal process. Joseph D. Lento is licensed in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York, and is admitted pro hac vice as needed nationwide. In the courtroom and in life, attorney Joseph D. Lento stands up when the bell rings!

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