Counter Pedophilia Investigate Unit

A former Monument man accused in the murder of his 7-year-old daughter pleaded guilty to a lesser count Monday, a week after a judge cited what he called “stunningly sloppy police work” on the case.

Slated to begin trial Monday, Hanif Sims took a last-minute plea to child abuse resulting in death, averting courtroom battles over a tape that proved Sims never made a confession that authorities said he did.

Sims, 31, faces 27 to 40 years in prison rather than the automatic life term he would have received with a murder conviction. (more…)

Child sexual abuse, prescription drug abuse, truancy and other child welfare issues were the topics of a public forum in Beckley Monday.

Representatives from child advocacy agencies, the Department of Health and Human Resources, law enforcement, public education, community groups and private citizens participated.

The statewide organization “Prevent Child Abuse West Virginia” is funding child-issues forums across the state. (more…)