Toddler’s death last year in Waimea under investigation by prosecutor’s office
News Source: Hawaii Tribune Herald
KAILUA-KONA — The death of 3-year-old Fabian Garett-Garcia in foster care in Waimea last year has prompted a murder investigation, with 44-year-old Chasity Alcosiba arrested in connection with the case. Fabian’s parents, Sherri-Ann Garett and Juben Garcia, expressed their devastation upon learning of their son’s murder and thanked the Hawaii County Police Department for their efforts. However, the county prosecutor’s office initially declined to press charges against Alcosiba.
The parents, along with their attorney Jeffrey Foster, hope that criminal charges will be filed promptly and pursued vigorously, and they advocate for changes in how the state Department of Human Services Child Welfare Services division responds to child abuse complaints. Fabian was found not breathing in a foster home in Waimea and was pronounced dead at North Hawaii Community Hospital on July 25, 2017.
A pathologist’s report revealed that Fabian died from blunt force trauma to the head, leading to a murder investigation. This development followed a Hawaii Supreme Court ruling that overturned a family court ruling that restricted the parents from speaking publicly about the case. The family court had awarded DHS foster custody of the children based on concerns about substance abuse and living conditions, leading to their placement in a licensed foster home.
The DHS intervenes in cases where children’s safety is at risk, including removing them from their parents’ custody and placing them with licensed caregivers. The department investigates allegations of abuse or neglect and takes necessary actions to protect the children. Despite the tragic outcome for Fabian, the department assures the public that the caregiver involved has not been caring for foster youth since July 2017.
The case highlights the challenges in child welfare and the legal system, emphasizing the need for careful oversight and responsiveness to ensure the safety and well-being of children in foster care.
