10 social workers put on leave in deadly toddler sex abuse case as investigation continues

Ten social workers have been put on leave after a two-year-old boy was sexually assaulted and murdered, allegedly by his cousin.

The child, known as “Baby Jaxon,” was found unresponsive in his crib on Sunday, April 9. He died days later in a hospital.

Prosecutors say his then-17-year-old cousin, now 18, sexually assaulted and physically abused him while he was living with relatives.

The teen has been charged with murder, child assault causing death and sexual assault. Prosecutors are seeking to try him as an adult.

Investigators say the alleged abuse took place after Jaxon was placed with relatives in February. The case has triggered intense scrutiny of Santa Clara County’s child welfare system.

The California Department of Social Services has opened an independent investigation, and the county is already under a Corrective Action Plan.

According to the Mercury News, state officials believe the county places greater emphasis on keeping families together than ensuring children’s safety.

Family members say they raised concerns before Jaxon’s death. His maternal aunt, Riley Wallace, told ABC 7, “It was not the best life that he needed to be given.”

She also said the child was born premature and was likely affected by fetal alcohol syndrome and autism. Wallace said the family had been involved with county child welfare services since Jaxon’s birth.

Another aunt, Jessica Moreno, posted a message on Facebook shortly before his death saying, “My nephew is on his way to heaven to be with his mama. He officially has no brain activity.”

Santa Clara County spokesperson Peter Gallotta told media the county is cooperating fully with investigators.

District Attorney Jeff Rosen said in a news conference his office is reviewing whether additional individuals could face criminal charges but declined to say whether the county itself is under investigation.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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