Illinois Department of Children and Family Services Director Bobbie Gregg says abuse claims at state-run youth centers are "appalling" and "unacceptable," but have plagued child welfare in the state for decades.
Gregg testified Wednesday before state lawmakers in the wake of a newspaper investigation. The Chicago Tribune has published a series looking into allegations of violence, assault and prostitution at residential treatment facilities where wards of the state are placed. The Tribune cited interviews and data from the agency.
Gregg says she hopes the lawmaker hearings on the issue are a chance to pursue reforms.
She was named to the post last year by outgoing Gov. Pat Quinn. Gregg says her tenure won't be renewed and she's leaving the job later this month after Gov.-elect Bruce Rauner takes office.
