Head of NYC’s embattled children’s services agency resigns

Commissioner for the Administration of Children’s Services Gladys Carrión is stepping down following a series of high-profile child abuse cases.

Carrión submitted her resignation to Mayor Bill de Blasio, who has defended Carrion in the past despite ordering investigations of the agency. She served three years as commissioner.

“I have struggled with this decision but have come to the conclusion that it is best for my well-being,” Carrión wrote,ABC7 reported. “After 40 years of working on behalf of children and families, it is time for me to retire.”

Carrión testified before the New York City Council in October and cried as she talked about 6-year-old Zymere Perkins, who was beaten to death with a broom.

“I have committed my entire career to helping children and families,” Carrión said, New York Post reported at the time. “Losing a child is unbearable, and it’s my responsibility, and one that I take seriously.”

“These are our children, these are my children,” she added.

De Blasio said he accepted Carrión’s resignation and said her four decades of public service were marked with “excellence and an unparalleled commitment to the children and families of New York.”

The city is looking for a “passionate reformer” to continue Carrión’s work, de Blasio continued, but while Comptroller Scott Stringer recognized Carrion’s passion, he called for a clear plan for reform.

“It’s clear our City is failing our most vulnerable children,” Stringer said. “Whether its kids being put in dangerous foster care homes, cluster sites with serious violations, or commercial hotels where there are no services, the status quo is unacceptable.”

“Commissioners come and go, but fundamental change must be here to stay.”