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The state of California created "a community care system for its developmentally disabled residents that is managed and operated by private entities," which moved residents of state-run institutions into these care homes. But "owned and operated by people with few qualifications, the system is dangerous, and even deadly, for the people it is supposed to protect." And often, the state has done little to check the system and ensure that people in need receive the proper care. The Tribune examines individual cases, including a mother who lost her adoptive son when his medical emergency was mishandled and a care home that housed a sex offender who allegedly abused another resident while living there.