Hidden Truth, Eternal Pain: Baltim
*”Zona’s Cry for Help Ignored: Baltimore Authorities Hide Records of Preventable Death”
*A Life Lost, A System Failed*
Five-year-old Zona Byrd’s emaciated body, weighing just 17½ pounds, is a haunting testament to Baltimore’s broken child protection system. Her parents, Bernice and Gerald Byrd, face murder and child abuse charges, but the real question remains: how did this happen?
*A Preventable Tragedy*
Zona’s death was not an isolated incident. Maryland’s child fatality rate due to suspected abuse or neglect has skyrocketed, with two children dying every week. The system designed to protect them failed miserably.
*Authorities Stonewall Transparency*
Baltimore State’s Attorney Ivan Bates refuses to release records detailing interactions between Child Protective Services and the Byrd family. Citing ongoing investigation and trial, Bates prioritizes secrecy over accountability.
*Lawmakers Demand Justice*
Sen. Cory McCray, Delegates Jackie Addison, and Stephanie Smith urge transparency to ensure accountability and protect vulnerable children. “Zona deserved better,” Smith said. “Maryland has a law requiring publication of Child Protective Services records. It’s time to use it.”
*A City’s Shame*
Gov. Wes Moore and Mayor Brandon Scott’s silence is deafening. Their inaction perpetuates a culture of indifference, leaving Baltimore’s children vulnerable to abuse and neglect.
*The Alarming Reality*
– 2 child fatalities per week in Maryland due to suspected abuse or neglect
– Zona’s parents had previously harmed their children and lost custody
– Social workers stopped visiting the family earlier this year
*A Call to Action*
Marylanders demand answers. Release the records. Hold accountable those who failed Zona. Protect our children.
Leave a Reply