The death of 2-month-old Ezra Johnson in July has raised serious concerns about Colorado's child protective services (CPS).
His mother, Lisa Johnson, and her boyfriend, Alexander Avila, face first-degree murder charges, while the state’s CPS is under scrutiny for its handling of the case.
Family members and former foster parents are calling for accountability and a review of child welfare policies.
Investigation into Ezra Johnson’s Death
Lisa Johnson, 31, and Alexander Avila, 33, have been charged with first-degree murder following the death of Ezra on July 26.
The Jefferson County Coroner confirmed that Ezra died from methamphetamine intoxication, with dangerously high levels of the drug found in his system.
Gage Martinez, 19, has also been arrested for evidence tampering in connection with the case.
While details about the incident remain sealed, investigators believe that both Johnson and Avila were involved in Ezra’s death.
The case has drawn attention to the possible role of drugs and criminal activity in the infant’s tragic passing.
Concerns Over Child Protective Services
The handling of Ezra’s case by Jefferson County CPS has sparked outrage.
Family members, including the Lyddons, who previously fostered Ezra’s older brother, claim CPS failed to protect the infant despite multiple warnings.
The Lyddons, who helped Ezra’s mother during her pregnancy, raised concerns about the safety of Ezra’s living situation but were told that he had to return to his mother.
Critics, including the Lyddons, believe that federal regulations under the Family First Prevention Services Act restrict CPS from acting quickly enough in cases where children are at risk.
This law, they argue, hinders the agency’s ability to intervene in situations involving suspected danger.
The Lyddons’ Involvement in Ezra’s Life
Steffany and Nick Lyddon temporarily cared for Ezra after his birth and noticed several red flags about his home environment.
They contacted CPS multiple times, but despite their concerns, Ezra was returned to his mother.
The Lyddons say that CPS should have taken stronger action to ensure his safety, and they continue to question whether more could have been done.
Their involvement in Ezra’s life highlighted ongoing issues with the safety of children under CPS supervision, and they now regret that the infant was sent back to an unsafe home.
Legal and Social Implications
The death of Ezra has led to calls for a review of CPS policies, especially the Family First Prevention Services Act, which many believe prevents CPS from acting quickly enough in cases of suspected child abuse.
Jefferson County Human Services has defended their handling of the case, but many remain critical of the agency’s response.
As Lisa Johnson, Alexander Avila, and Gage Martinez await court dates, the Lyddons are left to grieve and advocate for changes in child welfare practices to prevent future tragedies.
