Baby Doe Case Prompts New Child Welfare Protocols In Mass.

BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker is making changes to the state's child welfare department following a series of high-profile cases, including the death of a toddler who became known as Baby Doe after her remains turned up on a Boston Harbor beach over the summer.

The girl was later identified as 2-year-old Bella Bond. The state Department of Children and Families has been criticized for its handling of complaints against the girl's mother. Rachelle Bond is now charged with being an accessory in her daughter's death, which prosecutors are calling a murder.

Baker said a new intake policy unveiled Tuesday will clarify protocols used to screen and investigate reports of abuse of neglect. The changes are also designed to help social workers identify which cases should be sent up for a higher-level review.