MANCHESTER, N.H. — The father of Elijah Lewis, a young boy who died under tragic circumstances, has reached a $2.25 million settlement in a lawsuit filed against New Hampshire state agencies. Elijah, only 5 years old at the time of his death in September 2021, was determined to have been a victim of abuse and neglect.
Danielle Dauphinais, Elijah’s mother, was sentenced in 2024 to a term of 50 years to life for second-degree murder following the investigation into her son’s death. Timothy Lewis, Elijah’s father, initiated legal action in December 2024 against the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services and the state’s Division for Children, Youth, and Families.
In the lawsuit, Lewis’s attorneys argued that the Division for Children, Youth, and Families had prior knowledge of the risks Elijah faced but failed to take appropriate action to protect him by leaving him in his mother’s custody. This allegation highlighted ongoing concerns about the state’s child welfare system.
As part of the settlement agreement, 70% of the funds, approximately $1.575 million, will be allocated to a trust benefiting unnamed parties, while the remaining 30%, totaling $675,000, will go directly to Timothy Lewis. Despite the settlement, the state has maintained its position, denying any wrongdoing or liability in relation to Elijah’s death.
This tragic case has drawn attention to potential gaps in New Hampshire’s child protective services. Following the findings of abuse and neglect, many advocates have called for reforms to ensure the safety and well-being of children within these systems.
The settlement represents a significant financial resolution for the Lewis family but underscores the profound loss experienced due to Elijah’s untimely death. The ongoing discussions surrounding child welfare and safety remain a priority for both the community and state officials.
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