Family of 2-year-old killed sues South Hill day care, DCYF | Tacoma News Tribune

The family of Sarai, a 2-year-old girl murdered by her mother’s boyfriend, Augustino Maile, in 2022, is suing the state and a local daycare for alleged negligence in protecting her. Sarai's tragic death exposed systemic failures within Washington state's child welfare system, particularly the DCYF's decision to return her to a dangerous environment despite prior abuse allegations. The lawsuit details how daycare workers observed visible injuries on Sarai but failed to report them, violating mandatory reporting laws. The family's attorney, Raymond J. Dearie, Jr.

, criticized the lack of action from both the state and the daycare, highlighting the devastating consequences of such oversights for vulnerable children. The family seeks justice for Sarai and aims to drive change in the child protection system to prevent future tragedies. Following her death, reviews indicated an overwhelming burden on DCYF staff and called for improved resources and training. Both Maile and Sarai's mother have been sentenced to prison for their roles in the abuse and death. This case raises urgent questions about accountability and the need for systemic reform in child welfare services.