In re Sean T. CA2/2

BACKGROUND

Detention and section 300 petition On June 3, 2011, the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (the Department) received a referral alleging that Sean was a victim of emotional abuse by mother, who had untreated mental health problems. Mother had been evaluated on May 27, 2011, after exhibiting psychotic symptoms. She had reportedly burned papers in her bedroom while Sean was present and kicked maternal grandmother Cecelia T. (maternal grandmother). Mother had not been hospitalized because she had agreed to seek psychiatric treatment. She later refused to do so. Mother initially presented well during a June 3, 2011 interview with the Department’s social worker at the home mother shared with maternal grandmother and maternal great-grandmother. As the interview progressed, however, mother began exhibiting symptoms of paranoia. She admitted suffering a “breakdown” in November or December of 2010 and being hospitalized approximately six years ago, but denied having any current mental health issues. Mother said she had been prescribed medication but refused to take it because it had not worked in the past. The social worker spoke with a Department of…