Thomas Bruce
7000 Danial Ln
Bay City, OR, 97107
Tommybruce922@gmail.com
971-283-8920
05/29/2024
To whom it may concern,
Governor's Advocacy Office
Department of Human Services, Child Welfare
500-Summer St. NE, E-17
Salem, OR, 97301-1097
Dear Governor's Advocacy Office,
**Subject: Formal Complaint Against DHS, Child Welfare Office**
Caseworker: Brenda Malmaquest of the
Location: Tillamook DHS Child Welfare Office
I am writing to formally complain about the handling of my case by Brenda Malmaquest, who is
urrently assigned as my case worker in the matter of my daughter, Gemma Diane Lewis.
**Issues with Case Handling:**
1. **Lack of Support and Services:**
I struggle with understanding all the requirements needed to reunite with my daughter due to my
own mental abilities. Ms. Malmaquest has failed to provide the necessary support and services
to assist me in this reunification process. Specifically, I have not received the adequate
guidance or resources critical for my success in this matter.
2 . **Incorrect Information on Appointments:**
On multiple occasions, I have been given incorrect dates and times for important appointments
and meetings. This has caused significant confusion that has hindered my ability to comply with
the requirements set forth by DHS.
3. **False Accusations of Improper Behavior:**
I received a letter from Ms. Malmaquest alleging improper behavior during a phone call. This
accusation is untrue and unfounded. I have a recording of the conversation that clearly
demonstrates my respectful conduct throughout the call.
4. **False Accusations and Threats to Family and Friends:**
The Department of Human Services, Child Welfare and its staff falsely accused me of being a
danger to children, despite having a signed letter from a judge stating that I am allowed to be
around children, given the special restrictions of my offense. Additionally, DHS has made
threats to my family, friends, and loved ones, warning them to stay away from me or face
having their own children taken away. These actions not only constitute threats but also a
defamation of my character.
**Impact on Reunification Efforts:**
The issues outlined above have severely impacted my efforts to reunify with my daughter. It is
crucial for both Gemma's well-being and my own that these matters are addressed promptly and
appropriately.
**Request for Resolution:**
Given these circumstances, I respectfully request the following actions:
1. A thorough review of my case and the conduct of Ms. Malmaquest.
2. An assignment of a new caseworker who is fit to provide the necessary support and accurate
information.
3. An investigation into the false allegations and threats made against me, with a review of the
judge's letter allowing me to be around children.
4. An end to the defamation of my character and the baseless threats made to my family,
friends, and loved ones.
I am committed to doing everything in my power to ensure my daughter returns to my care, and
I need the Department's support to make this possible. I am willing to cooperate fully with any
investigation and provide any additional information required.
Please acknowledge receipt of this complaint and inform me of the steps that will be taken to
address these issues. I trust that you will handle this matter with the seriousness it deserves.
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.
Sincerely,
Thomas Bruce
971-283-8920
