Neighbors demand answers about reports of abuse filed before death of West Haven boy

Community members are demanding answers following the tragic death of a 12-year-old West Haven boy.

This comes after the Weber School District confirmed that employees reported abuse and neglect concerns multiple times to the state.

Residents are now questioning how, despite these reports, the boy still fell through the cracks and remained in the custody of his father and stepmother, who are now behind bars and accused of playing a role in his death.

As the memorial for 12-year-old Gavin Peterson grows, so do the emotions in the community.

_______________
Hit the subscribe button to stay up-to-date on the latest news, and turn on the notifications to get alerted when the big stories break as we bring them to you live!

Follow KUTV 2News on our other social media pages for more photos, videos and reports:
Facebook: KUTV2News
TikTok: @kutv2news
X: @kutv2news
Instagram: @kutv2news
Threads: @kutv2news

Call the Newsroom: 801.839.1234
_______________
KUTV is a Utah-based station and a CBS Television affiliate owned and operated by Sinclair Broadcast Group. Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. is one of the largest and most diversified television broadcasting companies in the country today. Sinclair owns and operates, programs or provides sales services to nearly 200 television stations in 86 markets. Sinclair's television group reaches close to 40% of US television households and includes FOX, ABC, MyTV, CW, CBS, NBC, Univision and Azteca affiliates.

#kutv #saltlakecity #news #utah #westhaven #abuse #dcfs #reportabuse #domesticviolence

[gypsimoon]

That lunch lady reported what was happening with that boy so many times. It was on the school district and CPS not intervening.

[DeeDee-dnzn]

As a teacher I reported emotional neglect of a child that fell on deaf ears. The year he went into junior high and had no one caring teacher to share with, he committed suicide. His fifth grade teacher and I, his sixth grade teacher, were his stability. We both reported the neglect but it was passed over because he was clothed, fed, and lived in a nice house. He took care of his mom. She didn't take care of him. He got one special day a month with her. Otherwise, he was pretty much on his own. After the suicide, both of us were questioned as to why we didn't report the situation. We told authorities to look in their records. We also vowed to never let this happen again.

When I moved to a new area and was subbing in a school, I saw a student who reminded me very much of the brilliant boy I had who committed suicide. That school didn't want to listen to me either. I told them I would be in the office daily reporting it until they did something. They finally listened and helped this child. What a difference. He grew up to be a very loving adult and has done well in his life.

[craeford]

"There are so many Gavins out there"

[critterscute]

Another child failed by the “system.” Will it ever end? 😞

[loribaker]

This is so heartbreaking. No child should have been treated this way. His last hours were horrible. Poor child. I'm happy that little Gavin is in the arms of Jesus and will never be sad or in pain ever again. Rest softly little Gavin. You're such a beautiful little boy. ❤️

[jodicotton]

I was one. Many many years ago. The elementary school stepped in and brought my mom to task. Her social status stopped the abuse. She still hated me but her need to not be exposed was more important.

[whatsamatteryou]

Family protected probably knew someone in CPS. They need to be charged and locked up too!

[cthulholmhastur]

😕😭 Ive posted this before, and ill keep it up. If you see evil, SAY IT. And DON'T STOP UNTIL IT'S CONQUERED! God bless that poor child's soul. 😢😭

[sarashattuck]

Everyone knows, it was reported, and this is just one example of how the system failed one individual child. There are hundreds if not thousands every year.

[ladypamela]

Prayers for famiy and friends. Someone dropped the ball. This is horrible

[TalLeGal]

I’ve had school-teachers tell me they report repeatedly and usually LE & DCF don’t act on it, tells them it doesn’t meet the standard for them to intervene.😒

[deniseeugene]

I am a former CPS in New York City. Judge Judy was a Manhattan Family Court judge. Attorneys CPS and others were petrified to go into her court unprepared. I was so scared during the CPS removal situation. But I did it. Most CPS only have bachelor's degrees. It could be in basket weaving. The complexities of families and safety require great training and supervision. In New York visits must be documented. CPS can knock on your door 24/7. It used to be very challenging. Due to many fatalities. Training is ongoing. The pay for CPS has increased . And they are waiting for the MSWs at graduations.

[MistReated-cp]

My deepest condolences 🙏🕊️
Please speak out ❤

[Wendykay-mu]

I hope everyone stays on this and make sure CPS is held accountable. Their is NO EXCUSE FOR THIS. NONE

[jeyaletchumy]

Rest In Peace in Heaven Gavin 🙏🙏😭
Malaysian 🇲🇾

[pamk]

They did speak up and speak out. That poor child’s condition was reported several times to DFS.

[Laura-tmjr]

A precious angle is at peace and rest and not in pain any more Fly high sweet boy❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[LisaMartinez-op]

Gavin, im sorry this world failed you. Rip Angel ❤

[bonnieyuse]

Not At Some Point Should the Accusations be Checked On...Immediately!!! ASAP!!! Because how many times do People make Excuses and Turn a Blind Eye not wanting to Believe it!!! Its Unfathomable to the Normal Mind to imagine Abusing A Child!!! So if it gets Reported...Immediately CPS...and Perhaps Even Police should Pop In!!! 😡

[angelaness]

I was terribly abused as a child and no school facility did anything despite the many bruises, cuts and fear on and in me. Please pay attention save the other Gavons out there.