Shorts

By Charlie Leduff

UPDATE on the Detroit woman whose children froze to death in the back of a van…
One of the few shelters reserved for women and children that she tried to access operates illegally.
It’s flunked its fire and building inspections.

Plagued with faulty wiring, plumbing, elevator, and exposed electrical outlets.
A 50-gallon drum of hydraulic oil near the boiler, uninspected sprinklers, faulty fire doors and emergency lighting.
It’s never been issued a certificate of occupancy.

It is illegal to kennel dogs under such conditions.
But the city has allowed it to operate in this condition for more than a year because of “great need.”
And there is great need.
There is a great need to fix this place.
I saw a baby this morning having his breakfast on the vestibule floor.

Americans send hundreds of millions of dollars to Detroit, which is ultimately responsible for the shelters.
Where has the money gone?
Not here.
In its great wisdom, the city voted today to double the shelter’s capacity.
I spoke with the head of the shelter. He promises fixes are on the way. I’ll hold him do his word.

I said it before. I’ll say it again. Billions overseas. Billions for illegals.
And for our children? Gruel on a floor, and a bed in the cemetery. Outrageous.