TULSA, Okla. (AP) — The state Department of Human Services claims plaintiffs in a class-action lawsuit seeking changes in Oklahoma's foster-care system are trying to exploit a Bartlesville infant's death for their case.

The Tulsa World reports that DHS filed a motion to keep Children's Rights from questioning employees about the Nov. 4 death of Maggie Trammel, who was found in a washing machine.

Children's Rights said in a statement that DHS has pointed to fewer children in foster care as proof that children in the state's care are safer. It said information from those who worked on Maggie's case may show whether DHS is manipulating the plaintiff class size by improperly keeping children out of state custody.

DHS said it has safely reduced the number of children in foster care.