Mountain State Times

The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS) has initiated an investigation into allegations of misconduct at Cross Lanes Child Care and Learning Center. This action follows the emergence of a video on social media that raised concerns.

To address these issues, DoHS has assigned the Bureau for Social Services' Institutional Investigative Unit and the Bureau for Family Assistance's Child Care Licensing Unit to the facility. These teams are conducting a thorough investigation to review staff conduct, evaluate child safety protocols, and ensure compliance with licensing standards.

Based on the findings from the Institutional Investigative Unit, DoHS will decide on any necessary actions. These could include further law enforcement involvement or even closing the facility.

“Our top priority is the safety and well-being of children in West Virginia’s care facilities. We take these allegations very seriously and are committed to acting swiftly and severely, based on the findings,” said Cynthia Persily, Ph.D., Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Human Services. “Our team is dedicated to ensuring that all care facilities meet the highest standards of safety and conduct.”

The department encourages individuals to report suspected child abuse or neglect directly through Centralized Intake for Abuse and Neglect by calling 1-800-352-6513 instead of posting on social media. Direct reporting ensures concerns are addressed promptly by appropriate authorities.

Additionally, under W. Va. Code §49-2-803, certain individuals are mandated reporters required to report within 24 hours after suspecting abuse or neglect, including child care workers. If a mandated reporter believes a child suffered serious physical abuse, they must immediately report it to the West Virginia State Police and any relevant law enforcement agency.

For information on a child care provider's licensure status, visit dhhr.wv.gov/bfa/ece/pages/providersearch.aspx.