COLORADO CHILD ABUSE CASES ARE ON THE RISE

Colorado reports an unforeseen surge in abuse and deaths of children, including increases by half in several urban counties.

The State Office of the Child's Representative said child abuses cases in courts increased by more than 50 percent in Boulder and Jefferson counties.

Officials attributed

Authorities reported on the incidents as part of a news conference organized by Rep. Debbie Stafford, vice chair of the House Welfare Committee.

Donald Cassata, social services director in Adams County, reported "significant increases in terms of referrals this year and significant numbers of meth children. We're also finding these are more difficult cases to deal with."