How Could You? Hall of Shame-Ireland-Sophie’s case-Child Death and Alannah case

This will be an archive of heinous actions by those involved in child welfare, foster care and adoption. We forewarn you that these are deeply disturbing stories that may involve sex abuse, murder, kidnapping and other horrendous actions.

From Tulsa, Ireland,14-year-old Sophie “took her own life while on an overnight stay at home prior to her discharge from a residential psychiatric service, following numerous episodes of self harm and suicidal ideologies.”

Alannah was raped by her foster care giver. “Alannah, who had been placed in foster care with extended family, where it was known that the male carer had a number of historical criminal convictions mostly committed when he was under the influence of alcohol.

The National Review Panel reports noted the male carer had attended counselling about his alcohol use, which he claimed was under control, and his partner confirmed that it was no longer a problem.

During the period the assessment was being arranged, Alannah was raped by her male carer at home while the other family members were away.

The NRP report says he was under the influence of alcohol at the time and noted that after the rape her “female carer was supportive in very difficult circumstances and assisted her to get the appropriate services”.”

“NRP chairperson Dr Helen Buckley said that “in respect to Sophie’s case, while it was clear that Tusla staff acted quickly to support Sophie and her family, disparities in how both Tusla and CAMHS viewed her mental health struggles meant they were not aligned in her treatment.”

“In relation to Alannah’s case, Dr Buckley said: “We found that at time the Agency was experiencing staffing issues which resulted in a poor assessment and supervision processes while she was in relative foster care”.

She said while the report noted that the assault could not have been foreseen, there were clear deficits in the services provided and learnings for all.”
Reviews published on girl’s death and rape of teen in foster care
[RTE 3/31/26 by Dyanne Connor]

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