Texas adoption agency cleared after boy's death

Texas adoption agency cleared after boy's death

Posted: Mar 01, 2013 2:44 PM EST

Updated: Mar 01, 2013 2:44 PM EST

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) - State authorities say they found no violations at a Fort Worth agency that processed a West Texas family's adoption of a Russian boy who later died.

Texas Department of Family and Protective Services spokesman Patrick Crimmins said Friday that an investigation of the Gladney Center for Adoption showed the agency followed state rules in the adoption of 3-year-old Max Shatto. The boy died Jan. 21 outside his family's home in Gardendale, near Odessa.

Russian authorities have alleged the boy died due to mistreatment. Authorities in West Texas say they are continuing to investigate the case.

The state Child Protective Services division is proceeding with its separate investigation into allegations the boy was abused and neglected.

The Shatto family continues to care for Max's half-brother, also adopted from Russia.

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