In re J.L. CA2/8

J.L., who was seven years old when she was detained by the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (Department) in May 2013, appeals the juvenile court’s order declining to assert dependency jurisdiction and dismissing the petition under Welfare and Institutions Code section 300, subdivisions (b) and (d). There was substantial, undisputed evidence that J.L.’s mother (mother), who has been in and out of prison throughout the child’s life, left J.L. for two years with relatives who physically and sexually abused her. We conclude the record does not contain substantial evidence to support the order of dismissal, and therefore, we reverse.

BACKGROUND

Mother was released from prison in November 2012, her latest felony incarceration in a criminal career dating back to 1991. She had left J.L. in the care of J.L.’s maternal cousin, Anthony R, and his girlfriend. Mother testified Anthony was a “second striker” as a result of convictions for terrorist threats he made to loss prevention personnel at a Walmart store where his sister was shoplifting, in an attempt to help her get away. Anthony’s 19-year-old brother, Damell R, also resided in the home. Anthony…