In re M.C. CA3

BACKGROUND

Given the limited issues on appeal, we provide only a short summary of the relevant facts. In September 2024, the Lassen County Child and Family Services Department (Department) filed a dependency petition under section 300, subdivisions (b)(1), (g) and (j) on behalf of minor M.C. Under subdivision (b)(1) (failure to protect), the petition alleged that both parents were drug abusers and mother had left the then-nine-year-old minor alone while going out at night to steal copper.2 The petition noted the minor’s half siblings had “received permanent placement services in part due to mother’s illicit drug abuse.” Mother and the minor were also alleged to be “squatting” (living without permission) in a trailer. Under subdivision (g) (failure to provide support), the petition alleged that mother left the minor with the Department without a viable plan for care and supervision, and that mother led “a transient life style” and father was incarcerated. Under section 300, subdivision (j) (sibling abuse), the petition alleged the minor’s three half siblings were former dependents of the juvenile court who received permanent placement services “in part due to [mother’s] illicit…