A new federal audit says West Virginia’s Bureau for Social Services failed to meet key child-protection requirements in about 91% of the cases reviewed. The report by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Inspector General, examined how the state handled child-abuse and neglect referrals — an audit prompted in part by the 2024 death of Kyneddi Miller.
Among 100 cases sampled, auditors found dozens of missing notification letters, late or incomplete assessments, and interviews that were never conducted. They also noted safety plans that weren’t followed and risk assessments that weren’t finished.
The report makes four recommendations, including better training and clearer policies. The state agreed with all of them and says steps are being taken to improve the system.