In re Sebastian S. CA1/2

BACKGROUND

Jorge and Maria S. have three sons: Michael, born in 1993;2 Andrew, born in 1995; and Sebastian, born in 2002. From 1994 to 2010, the bureau received eight referrals for neglect and abuse concerning one or more of the sons. One of the referrals, for emotional abuse of Michael in 2001, was substantiated. In February 2011, Michael reported Maria’s drug abuse to a person who informed the bureau. After investigation, on February 25, 2011, the bureau filed a juvenile dependency petition, pursuant to section 300, on behalf of Sebastian and Andrew,3 alleging substance abuse, mental illness, domestic violence and neglect on the part of Maria, and substance abuse, domestic violence, and neglect on the part of Jorge. When the two younger brothers were detained, Michael reported that Jorge and Maria were separated and that Jorge was “largely homeless.” A social worker attempted to call Jorge to inform him about a February 28, 2011 court date. Jorge returned the call and left a voicemail, but did not call back when requested. The brothers’ relative caretaker reported that Jorge called Michael and berated him for talking to the bureau. Jorge wanted to visit Sebastian, but the…