DCF Regional Director Resigns
MIAMI (CBS4) - Months after receiving a slap on the wrist for the death of a 10-year-old girl murdered by her adoptive parents, The Department of Children and Families Miami Regional Director, Jacqui Colyer, has resigned.
The agency received sharp criticism following the girl's death that brought about several personnel changes at DCF, including the removal of an investigator.
Police found the girl's decomposed body in the back of Jorge Barahona's truck in February. Her twin brother survived after being found badly burned with toxic chemicals.
An investigation led by DCF revealed that there were warning signs of abuse prior to the incidents. A hotline caller said the twins were being bound and locked in a bathroom, but DCF investigators failed to notify police during their 3-day search.
In a letter to the DCF leadership and Southern Region colleagues, Colyer is described as a passionate and committed member of the agency. Colyer had more than 25 years of experience in social services and the agency plans to continue working with her in other roles in the community in the future.
Colyer position will be filled by Esther Jocobo, the former deputy director for Children's Legal services who has roughly two decades of legal and social services experience.
In regards to Jocobo , Secretary for the Florida Department of Children & Families, David E. Wilkins said "She brings with her an impressive resume as the former Assistant State Attorney and Division Chief of Domestic Crimes in Miami-Dade County. She has been very active in the Miami community and her business acumen and leadership skills are recognized throughout the State."
The agency has made no connection between Colyer's resignation and the murder conviction.
