3 newborns test positive for meth

Child Protective Services, under the Division of Youth Services, reports a troubling start to the new fiscal year, with data from October 2024 revealing three newborns testing positive for methamphetamine at birth.

These figures are just for October and do not include ongoing cases, where CPS is actively working with families who need additional support.

“Each of these cases represents a newborn who deserves a healthier start to life. This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about our duty to step up as a community to protect and nurture these children,” said Mariah Barcinas, CPS supervisor. “We need to come together to support families and prevent substance exposure from affecting our children’s lives from the very beginning.”

DYS administrator Vivian T. Sablan emphasized the importance of community-wide awareness and resources: “Our focus at DYS is not just on responding to these cases, but on building a network of support to prevent them. We want parents and families to know that help is available and that seeking support early can make a difference. These children deserve a healthy start, and it’s up to all of us to make that possible.”

Alongside newborn exposure cases, October 2024 data also revealed 63 new reports, involving 162 children and a total of 224 separate allegations, including emotional abuse and neglect, physical abuse and various support services. CPS has prioritized these cases by providing services and interventions that address both immediate safety and long-term family stability.

DYS calls on the community to join in raising awareness, sharing information about available resources and supporting families in need. By creating a supportive environment where families feel comfortable seeking help, DYS aims to reduce the risk of future cases and ensure that every child in the CNMI has the opportunity to thrive.

For more information about Child Protective Services or to report a concern, contact CPS at (670) 237-1005-14 or visit our website at dys.gov.mp or our Facebook Page: “DCCA DYS.” (PR)

Vivien T. Sablan