BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) — The family of 8-year-old Genesis Mata is speaking out following her death, calling for change within Kern County’s child welfare system and urging the community to take a stand for other children in danger.

Relatives and community members gathered in Bakersfield to honor Mata, who police say was tortured and killed earlier this month. Her father, Ray Mata Jr., and stepmother, Graciela Bustamante, are charged with murder, torture, mayhem and multiple counts of child abuse. They are due back in court Aug. 14.

Genesis’ cousin, Sabrina Guerrero, said her family had made several reports to Child Protective Services, including one from the child’s school that opened an investigation into visible injuries. She said the agency failed to act in time.

“CPS has failed

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