Senator Amedore Introduces Legislation in Response to Kenneth White Case

Senator George Amedore introduced legislation, in response to the tragic Kenneth White case in Knox, which would clarify the law in order to expedite access to child abuse and maltreatment records when law enforcement agencies are involved in a missing child case. 

“We need to do everything possible to help law enforcement officials do their jobs and keep our communities safe, while at the same time being mindful of privacy issues surrounding CPS records,” said Senator George Amedore. “This legislation clarifies an existing statute and removes the question of when it’s appropriate to release records to law enforcement during a criminal investigation.” 

“I applaud the Senator for aiding law enforcement in obtaining vital information that could assist in locating a missing or abducted child. In these types of cases, seconds matter. This law will allow for child protective agencies and law enforcement to share information which is paramount,” said Albany County Sheriff Craig D. Apple, Sr. 

In December, five year old Kenneth White was reported missing by his older cousin who was watching him at the time. She claimed two masked men entered the house where Kenneth and his two siblings lived with their custodial aunt, and abducted the boy. 

When the Albany County Sheriff’s Office contacted CPS to request access to Kenneth’s records, they were denied. Tragically, Kenneth White was found dead later that night and his cousin, who had originally reported him missing, has been charged with his murder. 

After a review of the case, it was determined that the records should have been turned over when requested. This legislation clarifies existing law and parameters for when CPS records should be turned over to law enforcement. 

“Unfortunately, this legislation would not have changed the outcome of this horrible tragedy,” said Senator Amedore. “But it will fix a serious flaw and ensure that law enforcement officials have access to the information they need during cases involving missing children when every second counts.” 

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