This video is no longer available.
MONROE, N.C. – Major moves again at the Union County Department of Social Services. Β Janet Curlee, the Social Work Program Administrator, has been fired. Β WCCB obtained a copy of Curlee’s notice of dismissal, dated March 5, 2014, and written by Division Director Rae Ann Alepa. It says, in part, “Over the past few months, we have met on multiple occasions to discuss my concerns regarding your personal conduct, job performance, and the performance of the work units under your direction.” Β
Alepa goes on to say, “The issues included: addressing the number of delinquent cases that were not processed and reviewed in a timely manner, your lack of support and resistance to implementing improved processes, effectively carrying out local and state directives and the use of poor judgment demonstrated in addressing critical case issues and personnel issues.”
Curlee was making more than $68,000 a year. Β She had been employed by the county since 1979, resigned in 1996, and was re-hired as the program administrator in 2012. Β Her record indicates no other disciplinary actions. Β
Β
DSS has been in upheaval since now ex-Child Protective Services Supervisor Wanda Sue Larson was arrested and charged with felony child abuse in November. Β Five children in her care were removed from her allegedly dilapidated, filthy Monroe home. Β Larson’s arrest prompted the state to investigate the department. Β Β Β Β
Β
According to an organizational chart obtained by WCCB, Larson reported directly to the Social Work Program Manager for Child Protective Services Kevin Williams. Β Williams is currently suspended. Williams reported directly to the now-fired Janet Curlee. Β We left a phone message for Curlee and stopped by her Marshville home, but no one answered.
Β
Social Worker Megan Long was fired in January for “grossly inefficient job performance.” Β Also, the state women’s prison in Raleigh tells WCCB that Wanda Sue Larson has been transferred to their facility. Β It’s not public information as to why.
