Could you have saved Ricky? Part 10: The Office Search

Through the fall of 2005, police looked in a lot of places for clues to Ricky Holland's disappearance, even obtaining a search warrant for a purple comforter that Lisa Holland had taken to a dry cleaner three ...

[val]

I used to run a licensed day care a long time ago, and I'd like to think I would immediately call the authorities if I saw any signs of abuse, such as Ricky coming over to my house to find something to eat. I had no hesitation in reporting parents when children appeared in my home with suspicious black and blue marks one day...we have to look out
for the innocent children (and adults)
in this world. What else are we here for?

[I agree]

Seems like most people involved in this case were 'too worried' about being 'wrong' when they could have reported something. Like they were afraid of a backlash if the suspicions were unfounded. It's really sad that this happened - that little boy's life was worth more than the Hollands being mad because they were being investigated.

[Disappointed]

I feel disappointed when CPS workers are not law enforcement, not licensed in therapy, some may not even have degrees. But they carry the life of our children in their hands.
I also feel diappointed knowing that CPS offices are run different based on the County that they operate in. Kent County CPS workers approach things differently that Ingham County CPS workers
Ingham County CPS worker have a repuation of not removing children from an unsafe environment unless it's a crack house.
Ingham County CPS workers do not follow proper protocal by not following up with both parents about their investigations. Ingham County CPS workers LIE!
I have had my now 4-year old son have several CPS investigations done by Ingham County since my son was 1. He's been picked up with large bruises on his head, stiches, burns, bruises on his back, butt, thighs and arms. He's mentioned being hit, being exposed to guns and following along while a dead animal has been buried. He's exhibited agressive behaviors, outbursts and has even told Dr's he's "angry"
I lost faith in Igham County CPS when I noticed they lied in one of their reports. They did not follow up properly as indicated by Kent County CPS workers and they yelled at me on the phone. I've contacted their supevisors by phone, several letters and still no follow up. They seem to be part of a "good ol boy network" that seems to involve other outside agencies.
The amount of pictures, doctors visits and therapist my son has had to endure is frightening and discouraging. I hope and pray something, someone, somewhere will intervene before something else happens.

[sandi]

For the record .. I know little ricky's biological dad While all this was going on he was fighting for custody of his son. So the answer is yes he could have been saved if our system wasn't so flawed!!!