Velvet Martin chose to place her daughter, Samantha, in foster care. She made this choice after Samantha's birth in 1993, when she learned that Samantha would have severe disabilities. Velvet felt that foster care would allow her daughter to get the medical care she would surely need. Eventually, Velvet (who had regular visitation) & school officials began documenting injuries that Samantha was suffering.
The wounds ranged from bumps and bruises to fractures and bone breaks. The girl was also well underweight and hovered around 50 pounds between age 10 and 13.
Velvet Martin began fighting for Samantha's return to her home.
Months later, while still in foster care, Samantha was dead.
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The written news story (and accompanying video) can be found at
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