(AP) -- Federal monitors say foster children in Fulton and DeKalb counties experience a "high" rate of abuse and neglect while in state care. 

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution writes that federal monitors found that in the first six months of last year 25 of the 2,348 children in those two systems were abused or neglected while in state care.  The report says the systems have "no higher obligation" than to ensure these children's safety.  The systems are overseen by the state Division of Family and Children Services. 

Independent monitors were appointed by a federal judge to review the performance of the systems after Georgia settled a 2005 lawsuit calling for reforms. 

DFCS spokeswoman Dena Smith says the agency has added staff and resources and should see improvement in the next report.

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