Boy found with dead chicken around his neck sues former foster mother

UNION COUNTY, N.C. — The boy who was found with a dead chicken around his neck while handcuffed to a porch is suing his former foster parent, Wanda Larson, the Union County Department of Social Services and Union County.

The lawsuit that was filed last week alleges systemic negligence and claims that Larson used her “connections” and “friendships” with Union County officials to “manipulate” her custody of the boy.

The suit claims Union County failed to "monitor, supervise, oversee and evaluate the dangerous home environment" for the boy.

(Wanda Larson/Dorian Harper)

The boy was 11 years old when he was found by a deputy in November 2013.

Larson and her boyfriend, Dorian Harper, were arrested and pleaded guilty to multiple child abuse charges while caring for the boy in their foster home.

Union County officials declined to comment on the development.

Union County officials declined to comment on the development.

Charlotte attorney James Wyatt said government agencies typically have immunity from claims like this.

"I think Union County is going to say they're immune from suit,” Wyatt said. “And they may be, and it'll depend in part on what the relevant laws and statutes state, as well as what kind of insurance coverage they carry."

Union County attorneys are expected to file their answer to the complaint by mid-December.

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