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Court-Appointed Guardian Urges Caution as L'Aquila Judges Weigh Next Steps in 'Forest Family' Case

A brief stay in the Vasto protected home is judged insufficient to authorize reunification.

Overview

  • The Juvenile Court reserved its decision after the Dec. 4 hearing reviewing the children's removal and the suspension of parental authority.
  • Court-appointed guardian Marika Bolognese recommended extending observation and gave an unfavorable opinion on an immediate return, citing the limited assessment period.
  • The three children remain in the Vasto community with their mother accommodated separately there, while the father has moved into housing offered by a local restaurateur.
  • The Court of Appeal in L'Aquila is scheduled to examine the suspension of parental authority on Dec. 16.
  • Judges are weighing options such as a gradual reunification, continued community placement with the mother nearby, or temporary care with relatives, and an Australian embassy delegate is expected to visit this week following a Rome protest.