Ten social workers have been put on leave following a tragic incident involving a two-year-old boy who was sexually assaulted and subsequently murdered by his cousin.
The child, referred to as “Baby Jackson,” was discovered unresponsive in his crib on Sunday, April 9, and passed away in the hospital several days later.
Prosecutors claim that his cousin, who was 17 at the time and now 18, abused him both sexually and physically while living with the family.
The cousin has been charged with murder, multiple counts of sexual assault—including forcible sodomy—and child assault leading to death. Authorities are seeking to try him as an adult.
Reports indicate that the alleged abuse happened after Jackson was placed under the care of a relative in February. This case has ignited serious scrutiny regarding the child welfare system in Santa Clara County.
The California Department of Human Services has initiated an independent investigation, with the county already adhering to a corrective action plan.
State officials, as reported by local media, seem to believe that the county has prioritized keeping families together over ensuring children’s safety.
Family members voiced their concerns prior to Jackson’s death. His maternal aunt, Riley Wallace, stated, “It wasn’t the best life he deserved,” and noted that Jackson was born prematurely, likely affected by fetal alcohol syndrome and autism. She mentioned that the family had been in contact with county child welfare services since his birth.
Another aunt, Jessica Moreno, shared on Facebook just before his death that “my nephew is heading to heaven to be with his mother. Officially, he has no brain activity.”
A spokesperson for Santa Clara County, Peter Gallotta, mentioned that the county is fully cooperating with the investigation.
The District Attorney, Jeff Rosen, indicated at a news conference that his office is contemplating whether more individuals might face charges, but he did not confirm if the county itself is under investigation.
The investigation remains ongoing.
