M.C.

BACKGROUND

The Del Norte County Department of Health and Human Services (Department) received a referral from law enforcement after officers searched Mother’s residence and found mushrooms, meth pipes, marijuana paraphernalia, concentrated cannabis, brass knuckles and butterfly knives. It also appeared the occupants were hoarders, as there were large piles of items. Some of the piles were over seven feet tall, presenting a hazard to the children. Mother was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana over 28.5 grams, possession for sale, receiving stolen property, and carrying a dirk or dagger. Two days later, Mother tested positive for methamphetamine, benzodiazepines, and marijuana. K.C. and C.C. were immediately removed from her custody. The Department filed a juvenile dependency petition alleging failure to protect the children, leaving them without support, and abuse of a sibling under section 300. The petition further alleged Mother has a substance abuse problem that impairs her ability to adequately supervise and care for the children, and she engages in criminal activity that places the children at…