Kern County reveals alarming child death review findings

During a recent government meeting, Kern County Public Health officials presented the 2023 Child Death Review Team report, highlighting the ongoing efforts to address and reduce childhood fatalities. Brynn Kerrigan, the director of Kern County Public Health, introduced the presentation, which was led by Chad Casto, the program manager and chair of the Child Death Review Team.

Established in 1988 under California state legislation, the Child Death Review Team aims to investigate child deaths resulting from abuse, neglect, and other preventable causes. The multidisciplinary team, which meets monthly, includes representatives from various agencies and reviews cases brought to the coroner's office. These cases encompass accidental deaths, homicides linked to child abuse, suicides, and natural deaths under unusual circumstances.

The primary objectives of the review process are to identify preventable deaths, report on such incidents, pinpoint systemic gaps, and implement recommendations to avert future tragedies. The team’s work is crucial in fostering a collaborative approach to child safety and health within the community.