The Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF) announced Wednesday that it is suspending all new admissions and referrals to Ocean Tides Inc., a residential and educational facility for at‑risk youth located in Narragansett. The decision follows an internal investigation that uncovered significant safety and supervision deficiencies affecting the children enrolled at the program.

Investigation findings and immediate actions

DCYF officials said the review identified gaps in staffing levels, especially on the overnight shift, and other operational shortcomings that could jeopardize the well‑being of the young people in the facility’s care. As a result, the department placed Ocean Tides’ operating license on probation and ordered the facility to double its overnight staffing numbers before the license can be reinstated.

Corrective plan required

The agency has given Ocean Tides a deadline of November 6 to submit a written Plan of Corrective Action outlining how it will address the identified issues. DCYF will closely monitor the plan’s implementation and will take further steps, up to and including revoking the license, if the facility fails to meet the required standards.

Impact on families and youth

Parents and guardians who had placed children at Ocean Tides are being notified of the pause and are being offered alternative placement options through DCYF’s network of approved providers. The department emphasized that the safety of Rhode Island’s children remains its top priority and that the temporary suspension is intended to protect vulnerable youth while the facility works to improve its operations.

State oversight and future monitoring

DCYF spokesperson Laura McDonough said, “We are committed to ensuring that every program serving our children meets the highest standards of safety and care. Ocean Tides must demonstrate concrete improvements before we can resume referrals.” The department added that it will continue to conduct regular inspections of the facility throughout the corrective process.

Community response

Local advocacy groups for children’s welfare have welcomed the department’s swift action, noting that increased oversight is essential for protecting at‑risk youth. However, some community members expressed concern about the limited availability of alternative residential options for families in urgent need of services.

Ocean Tides’ leadership has not yet issued a public statement regarding the suspension or the corrective action plan.

Original reporting: NBC 10 WJAR (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.