‘A crash and burn disaster’: Michigan Senator pushes for CPS reform after 5-year-old’s death

Michigan Senator Jim Runestad is advocating for CPS reform following the tragic death of 5-year-old Ethan Belcher, who was tortured and killed despite numerous warnings and signs of abuse. Runestad, alongside Ethan's family and their attorney, criticizes CPS for returning Ethan to his abusive parents and pushes for legislative access to CPS records through Senate Bill 605 to prevent similar tragedies. A report from Michigan’s Office of the Child Advocate highlights failures by CPS and local police in handling Ethan's case, including inadequate investigation and documentation of injuries. Ethan's family continues to seek accountability and systemic change to protect other children from abuse.