Babcock v. Tyler

DAVID R. THOMPSON, Circuit Judge:

In this case we consider whether Washington Department of Social and Health Services (“DSHS”) caseworkers are entitled to absolute immunity. The caseworkers performed investigative and placement services in child dependency proceedings which had been transferred to Washington from Louisiana pursuant to interstate compact. Consistent with a recommendation of the DSHS, the Washington court placed the children in the home of Lee and Janet Michael. Lee Michael sexually abused the children. He had a prior criminal record which included charges of forceable rape,…