In re J.C. CA3

FACTS AND PROCEEDINGS

On October 2, 2011, the Butte Interagency Narcotics Task Force went to mother’s home to investigate suspected narcotics violations and to conduct a Drug Endangered Children’s investigation. The officers discovered baggies of methamphetamine in a sweater in mother’s closet and in a beanie in her bedroom. Marijuana was found in a cupboard above the refrigerator, on a desk in the living room, and drying in a living room closet. A digital gram scale was located in a box on mother’s dresser and a used methamphetamine smoking pipe was found in her purse. Mother admitted that the drugs and paraphernalia belonged to her and was arrested on child endangerment and drug possession charges. The minors and their two half siblings were detained. On October 4, 2011, Butte County Department of Employment and Social Services (the Department) filed section 300 petitions on behalf of the minors, then ages five and seven, alleging mother has had a substance abuse problem, primarily methamphetamine and marijuana, since the age of 16 that periodically renders her unable to provide regular childcare. Petitions were also filed on behalf of the minors’ older and younger half…