CPFSA relocates American boys from private facility amid abuse probe

By Nakinskie Robinson    

 

Seven of eight American boys are now being housed at the Residential Child Care Facilities amidst a probe into allegations of abuse at the Atlantis Leadership Academy in Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth, last month.

 

The Academy, which advertises itself as a faith-based school, serves teens struggling with substance abuse, anxiety disorders and deviant behaviour.

 

The boys, aged 14 to 18, are now receiving medical support. 

 

The Child Protection and Family Services Agency says the eighth boy, an 18-year-old, who has aged out of the children's court jurisdiction, was safely returned to the US in February, in coordination with his family and the US Embassy.

 

The agency disclosed that, it was during an unannounced visit to the private facility on February 8, when signs of abuse and neglect were observed, leading to the immediate removal of the boys.

 

The nature of the alleged abuse was not disclosed.

 

It said, on the following day, the matter was presented in the local family court and an interim order was granted for the children to be retained by the CPFSA while a probe was launched.

 

Chief Executive Officer Laurette Adams-Thomas said, while they are in Jamaica, the children's well-being is top priority. 

 

"The children have undergone medical assessments and are generally in good health receiving ongoing care. This includes specialised psychotherapeutic support and occupational therapy. We are also collaborating with the International Social Services, that's ISSUSA, for the safe reintegration of these teens with their families," she outlined. 

 

The matter has since been referred to the Criminal Investigations Branch of the Jamaica Constabulary Force for a separate investigation.

 

Mrs. Adams-Thomas said the CPFSA will return to court on April 3. 

 

"The CPFSA will provide an update on the home studies being conducted and to receive any further instructions from the court," she said, noting however that the agency "cannot comment on these investigations which are under the jurisdiction of law enforcement authorities".