‘Lack of curiosity’ about family’s religious beliefs was ‘missed opportunity’ to save eight-year-old, inquest hears
Summary
An inquest into the death of eight-year-old Elizabeth Struhs found that authorities missed chances to investigate her family’s extreme religious beliefs that rejected medical treatment. Elizabeth died from diabetic ketoacidosis after her father stopped giving her insulin, and several government agencies failed to question the family’s beliefs deeply enough.Key Facts
- Elizabeth Struhs died on 7 January 2022 from diabetic ketoacidosis, a complication of type 1 diabetes.
- Her father stopped providing insulin, the necessary treatment for her condition.
- The family belonged to a religious sect called the “Saints” that rejects medical care in favor of prayer.
- Elizabeth was hospitalized in 2019 for the same condition due to delayed medical help.
- Both parents were convicted of child neglect related to Elizabeth’s care.
- Authorities, including police and child safety workers, did not deeply explore the family’s religious beliefs.
- The coroner suggested adopting recommendations from Victoria’s cults inquiry, which looks into controlling behaviors in groups like cults.
- Queensland police recently created a reporting system to track cult-related crimes but face challenges balancing religious freedoms and child safety.
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