In re Baby Girl R.

I. FACTUAL AND PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND

S.R. and Baby Girl R. were transported by ambulance to a hospital shortly after S.R. gave birth in a homeless encampment. The identity of Baby Girl R.’s father is unknown. S.R. informed hospital staff she was unaware of her pregnancy and was using methamphetamines daily. Baby Girl R. tested positive for the drug and exhibited withdrawal symptoms. The hospital placed S.R. on an involuntary psychiatric hold as she displayed paranoia, delusions, and aggression. When the hospital discharged S.R. a few days later, she returned to the homeless encampment and left Baby Girl R. at the hospital. The Department initiated dependency proceedings and the court placed Baby Girl R. in protective custody due to S.R.’s inability and failure to care for the child. Despite diligent search efforts, the Department was unable to locate S.R. after she left the hospital. The Department interviewed several of S.R.’s relatives, including her father, stepmother, sister, brother, and cousin, none of whom had seen S.R. for several years. S.R.’s relatives reported that she had a history of substance abuse and mental health issues. At the disposition hearing, the…