Report finds state department allowed sex offenders to care for children (LANSING-MPRN) (Michigan Public Radio Network) - A report from Michigan's Auditor General says the state Department of Human Services has allowed sex offenders and others with criminal pasts to look after children. The report says the department failed to conduct thorough background checks and update its records on people who are paid a fee by the state for caring for children from low-income families. As a result, the department allowed roughly 1,900 criminals to care for children, usually in home settings. That group includes people convicted of child abuse and neglect and sex crimes. The report says that placed nearly 4,600 children at risk. Officials with the department say they could do a better job if they were allowed to fingerprint everyone who gets paid to care for children. A bill to do that is before the Legislature. © Copyright 2012, Michigan Public Radio Network