In re Isaac L. CA2/7

INTRODUCTION

Jose L. (Father) appeals from a jurisdiction/disposition order declaring his son, Isaac L., to be a dependent child of the court pursuant to Welfare and Institutions Code section 300, subdivision (b), and ordering him to participate in domestic violence and sexual abuse counseling. He contends there is no substantial evidence Isaac was currently at risk of physical harm due to domestic violence or inappropriate touching. We reverse as to the jurisdictional finding based on inappropriate touching, and otherwise affirm.

FACTUAL AND PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND

On November 10, 2014, Isaac’s 16-year-old half-sister, Y.D., was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon after she attempted to stab their mother, Miriam S. (Mother), with a knife. At that time, the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) received a referral alleging general neglect by Mother and emotional abuse as to eight-year-old Isaac and three other half-siblings: 13-year-old O.D., 10-year-old M.C., and two-year-old Ethan R. A children’s social worker (CSW) interviewed the four younger children and their cousins, who were at the family home at the time of the incident. They said that Mother found…