DCF employee arrested after helping sex trafficking suspect escape police

HARTFORD, Conn. (WFSB) – Yesterday afternoon, the Hartford Police Department was notified of a person with the Department of Children and Families who has a felony arrest warrant for a crime related to child sex trafficking.

Responding officers developed information confirming that a woman with a felony warrant was in the building, but refused assistance by staff, police said.

According to police, while officers were investigating, the social worker assigned to the woman, Melissa Roberson, moved the woman and her four-year-old child to the rear of the building after notifying her that police were looking for her. I sneaked it out through the exit and took it to another place. .

Police also said the woman was only allowed supervised visits to DCF facilities, and Mr Roberson said the woman’s custody rights had been removed following an investigation into allegations of child sexual abuse and trafficking. said he knew.

Through DCF administration, Roberson was persuaded to return to 250 Hamilton Street, where he was immediately detained.

The woman also returned to the facility where she was held for a warrant.

The 4-year-old was safely returned to her foster home.

Both parties have been transferred to detention for processing.

Roberson was first charged with obstructing prosecution and endangering minors.

DCF has issued a statement.

The investigation remains active and ongoing.

If you have information about your case, call the HPD Tips Line at 860-722-TIPS (8477).

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