Family Says Justina Pelletier Will Be Released From State Custody

BOSTON (CBS) – A Connecticut teenager is being released to her family after a long custody battle. Justina Pelletier's sister says the family will be reunited on Wednesday.

Justina's family lost custody 16 months ago when Children's Hospital said it found evidence of medical abuse and the state of Massachusetts stepped in.

WBZ asked Justina's mother, Linda, about potential legal action against the state but she would not comment.

"I'm still numb from it," Linda Pelletier said Tuesday. "I am so excited, and Justina started crying."

The family is planning to hold a news conference on Wednesday.

Massachusetts Secretary of Health and Human Services John Polanowicz weighed in on the judge's ruling, calling the result a collaborative effort.

"Today's decision is a result of our collaboration with the Pelletier family around the reunification plan, and the strong work of staff at the Susan Wayne Center for Excellence in helping Justina along her road to recovery. The Court's ruling reflects a thorough review of this complex case, and we are very pleased with the result," he said in a statement.

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