Family of Gizzell Ford sues DCFS, says agency failed to report signs of trouble

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The family of 8-year-old Gizzell Ford, found dead in her home in Chicago's Austin neighborhood last year, is suing the Department of Children and Family Services.

The girl's body was found in a home on the 5000-block of West Adams Street on July 12, 2013 she shared with her father and paternal grandmother. They have been charged in her murder.

An autopsy showed signs of head trauma, broken bones, deep lacerations, cuts, bruises, puncture wounds, burns and ligature marks on her legs and wrists, according to a release from Serafin and Associates, Inc.

Ford's mother and maternal grandfather are suing DCFS. They say the agency failed to report signs of trouble that led to her death even after a caseworker visited the "decrepit and garbage-strewn home" weeks before her body was found.

DCFS did not comment on pending litigation.