Willow Smith's Bedroom Photo Triggers CPS Investigation: Report
Willow Smith may already have a burgeoning career as a singer and actor. But at 13, she's still just a kid.
Which is why Los Angeles County's Child Protective Services has opened an investigation into her equally famous parents -- Will and Jada Pinkett Smith -- after 20-year-old actor Moises Arias posted a picture of himself shirtless in bed with the teenage Willow.
Her parents just do understand, but will CPS investigators?
A Fresh Prince?
Radar Online reports that a source with knowledge of the investigation told them it was "formally opened last week and is being taken very seriously by the department."
The source told Radar that "Will and Jada Pinkett Smith have been extremely cooperative with officials. Of course, they aren't happy that their parenting skills are under scrutiny, but they understand."
The picture, posted by Arias to social media, depicted the "Hannah Montana" actor shirtless in bed with the 13-year-old Smith. Though Arias later deleted the photo, an anonymous tip to authorities spurred the investigation.
What a CPS Investigation Entails
So what happens during a CPS investigation?
In California, when CPS receives a tip regarding possible child abuse, neglect, or exploitation, the agency determines if an in-person response is called for. If the investigation reveals the need for services, the CPS case can last for up 12 months.
Of course, the reported CPS investigation may also conclude that no harm was done.
According to Radar's source, CPS social workers will be talking with Willow and Arias, along with Willow's parents. "This won't just be one or two visits with the family, and it will likely be an open investigation for at least a month, out of an abundance of caution," the source said.
No word yet on whether Smith's parents plan to make her move in with her auntie and uncle in Bel Air.
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Related Resources
- Willow Smith bedroom photo upsets critics -- but not her parents? (Los Angeles Times)
- Can Will Smith's Son Jaden Really Pursue Emancipation? (FindLaw's Celebrity Justice)
- Dad Jailed for Duct Tape Pic of Daughter (FindLaw's Blotter)
- Who Has a Duty to Report Child Abuse? (FindLaw's Blotter)
