A lack of resources and support has marred the experience for many of those who take in kids. Even as Maine reforms its child protection system, the need for placements will only continue to grow.
Eric Russell
Staff Writer
Eric Russell has been a general assignment reporter at the Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram since 2012 and has been a journalist in Maine since 2004. Because he doesn’t have a specific geographic or topical area to cover, Eric often is free to roam the state in pursuit of the most interesting stories, whether it’s tackling the big topic of the day or chasing ideas that fall just outside the boundaries of everyday news. His favorite assignments are ones where he can leave the office and meet with people in their homes or their workplaces to talk about their struggles and challenges – and sometimes their triumphs. Or to try and answer complicated questions. Eric grew up in Southern Maine, went to college at the University of Maine and worked in Bangor for eight years before joining the Press Herald. He lives in Brunswick with his wife, a school teacher, and two daughters.
Posted inMaine, News, Politics
LePage urged to apologize for ‘disrespectful’ outburst at Republican lawmaker
In an unprecedented letter to the governor, the Legislature’s Government Oversight Committee says his actions – including calling a state senator a ‘repugnant human being’ – were undignified and disrespectful.
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Posted inMaine, News, Politics
LePage’s proposed reforms to child protection system get mixed reaction at hearing
Bills to increase investment in caseworkers and foster families get support before a legislative committee, but lawmakers also hear complaints about systemic problems that have worsened because of the erosion in social services.
Posted inMaine, News, Politics
Challengers’ task: Portray Sen. King as out of touch
That’s no easy feat given the Maine independent’s popularity, but two millennial candidates are ready to tango on North Korea, guns and Trump.
Posted inMaine, Politics
As critics question LePage’s plan to overhaul child protection system, its cost is pegged at $21 million
Bills submitted by the governor call for a series of changes, winning some praise but also drawing skepticism that extensive reforms are really needed.
Posted inMaine, News, Politics
LePage submits bills to overhaul Maine’s troubled system for protecting children
The proposals include adding 18 positions, raising workers’ pay and reducing the emphasis on family reunification, but the overall cost of the reforms remains unclear.
Posted inMaine, News, Politics
Carol Palesky, outspoken anti-tax crusader, ex-convict, dies at 78
The former Topsham woman led an unsuccessful effort to cap property taxes in Maine in 2004 – after serving two jail sentences.
Posted inMaine, News, Politics
LePage calls state senator ‘repugnant,’ storms out of meeting after report says he didn’t drive timber decision
There were allegations Maine’s governor was involved in a decision to divert wood from two mills whose owners criticized him.
Posted inCops & Courts, Maine, News
Father of Bangor man who drowned while fleeing police sues department, 4 officers
Gary Manuel files a wrongful death lawsuit in U.S. District Court after the March death of his 22-year-old son, Peter Manuel.
Posted inMaine, News
Union representing Maine child protective workers recommends ways to improve system
The employees’ union surveyed frustrated caseworkers who feel they haven’t had much of a voice in needed changes at the Department of Health and Human Services.