Collin County establishes task force to address rising child abuse cases

A proposed task force aimed at addressing child abuse in Hunt County is in the early stages of development, as discussed during the Commissioners Court Regular Session on June 24, 2025. The initiative, inspired by successful models in Collin County, seeks to unite various agencies to tackle the rising demands for child advocacy services, which have surged since the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the meeting, officials highlighted the urgent need for collaboration among local organizations to combat the increasing rates of child abuse and family violence. "COVID has devastated our families and kids," one commissioner noted, emphasizing the long-lasting impact on vulnerable populations. The task force aims to bring together stakeholders to create a comprehensive approach to these pressing issues.

While discussions are ongoing, the task force is still in its infancy, with efforts focused on identifying key partners and securing buy-in from various agencies. "It's going slow," acknowledged one official, indicating the complexity of coordinating multiple entities. The goal is to finalize the task force's structure before presenting it to the court for approval.

In addition to the task force, the meeting also addressed staffing needs within the sheriff's department. The sheriff proposed hiring five new positions, down from an initial request for seven, to enhance patrol capabilities and investigations. The estimated cost for these positions, including equipment and uniforms, was discussed, with officials weighing the potential use of state funding to support these hires.

The meeting concluded with a commendation for the dedicated work of law enforcement personnel, underscoring the importance of their roles in maintaining community safety. As Hunt County moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on fostering collaboration and addressing the critical needs of its residents.