Haleigh Poutre
| Haleigh Poutre | |
|---|---|
| Born | February 24, 1994 Westfield, Massachusetts |
| Nationality | American |
Haleigh Poutre (born February 24, 1994) is an American child and the subject of a multi-pronged legal controversy. On September 11, 2005, Poutre was hospitalized with severe brain injuries after she was allegedly beaten into a coma by Jason Strickland and Holli Strickland, her stepfather and maternal aunt respectively.[1]
The Stricklands (who had legally adopted Poutre) were arrested on various criminal charges associated with the beating.[2]
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[edit] Aftermath
The Department of Social Services (DSS) was criticized for failing to recognize that the brain-damaged child had been in danger, apparently accepting claims in earlier situations that Poutre had self-inflicted injuries.[citation needed]
DSS assumed custody for Poutre, and physicians declared that Poutre was in a persistent vegetative state (PVS).[1] The DSS then moved to terminate life support as provided by medical equipment. The stepfather sued to prevent termination of life support, presumably seeking to avoid murder charges against him.[citation needed]
[edit] Supreme Court intervention
The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled that life-support equipment, including a mechanical respirator, could be withdrawn. However, the day after the decision, health care attendants found that Poutre could breathe on her own and follow simple commands.[1]
In 2007, age 13, Poutre reportedly remained in rehabilitative care. The child abuse case against Jason Strickland has not been settled.
In February 2008, 14-year-old Poutre was reportedly making statements about her abuse.[1]
[edit] See also
[edit] References
- ^ a b c d Boston Herald Court records: Haleigh Poutre ’making statements’ about abuse, February 27, 2008
- ^ Fahrenthold, David A. (2005-12-05). "Custody Battle Is Waged Over Comatose Girl". washingtonpost.com. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/12/11/AR2005121100826.html. Retrieved 2008-07-24.
[edit] External links
- MassLive.com Haleigh Poutre index page
- DSS sought early end to life support
- Judge mulls dismissing charges
- Virtually Brain Dead
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