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New Mexico Lawmaker Demands Major Reform of Children’s Agency After Troubling Report

KVIA•Thursday, April 16, 2026 at 12:50 AM•Rishi Oza

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AI Summary

The New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department (CYFD) is facing intense scrutiny following a report by Attorney General Raúl Torrez, which highlighted eight systemic failures in the agency after a foster child's suicide. The 214-page report, based on over 20,000 documents, reveals alarming issues, including children sleeping in offices and being shuffled between nearly 100 foster homes. State Senator Nicole Tobiassen expressed her concern, emphasizing the devastating impact on children’s lives. While CYFD claims progress has been made, including hiring new staff and ending office stays, the AG has also filed a lawsuit against the agency, indicating ongoing challenges in ensuring child safety and welfare.

Key Details: • Attorney General Raúl Torrez released a 214-page report on April 8. • CYFD has hired nearly 250 new staff in the last six months. • Children were found sleeping in CYFD offices in Las Cruces as recently as January. • The practice of children staying in offices ended on February 12. • A lawsuit has been filed against CYFD by the Attorney General.

new-mexico children law foster-care cyfd

People & Organizations

Las CrucesAlbuquerqueNew Mexico Department of JusticeRaúl TorrezValerie SandovalNicole TobiassenChildren, Youth, and Families Department

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