October 1, 2013

The Honorable Judge Paula Gomora

River Valley Justice Center

3200 W. McDonough Street

Joliet, IL 60431

Re: John Smith

Case#: 13 JA 123

DOB: 9/5/1999

Dear Judge Gomora,

The following information is presented to the court for the 10/13/13, Adjudicatory Hearing. The case came to the attention of DCFS on 7/1/2013, a Shelter Care Hearing was held on 7/2/2013 and probable cause was found.

John is currently placed in a relative placement with his paternal grandmother in Joliet, IL. CASA has visited the home and found it to be clean and appropriate.

John attends Washington Junior High School in Joliet. On 9/25/2013, CASA obtained school records which indicated that John was passing all his classes with all A’s except a B in math.

On 9/12/2013, CASA spoke with Sue Johnson, LCSW, who sees John weekly for individual counseling. Ms. Johnson indicated to CASA that John has just recently begun to feel comfortable and start opening up regarding his feelings. Ms. Johnson also confirmed on 9/12/2013, that John attends sessions regularly.

Ann Jones, caseworker with One Hope United informed CASA on 9/20/2013 that biological mother, Pam Smith is currently enrolled in domestic violence classes through Hope for Non Violence and is attending regularly. Also on 9/20/2013, Ms. Jones informed CASA that biological mother is not compliant with individual counseling and has been dropped by the service provider for too many failed appointments.

As of this writing CASA has not had any contact with biological father, Ronald Smith. On 9/20/2013, One Hope United caseworker Ann Jones, informed CASA that she also has not been able to contact Mr. Smith.

CASA Recommends:

  • Minor remains in his current relative foster placement.
  • Both biological parents comply with services requested by One Hope United.

Respectfully Submitted,Approved by,

Joe LDenise Beran

CASA/GALDirector of Case Management

Cc: State’s Attorney, Attorney for the People

Public Defender, Attorney for Mother

Public Defender, Attorney for Father

Public Defender, Attorney for the Minor

One Hope United