In re G.Y. CA3

BACKGROUND

The minor and his parents became familiar to the Department over the course of nearly a year as a result of numerous child welfare referrals beginning in April 2018, just 10 days after the minor’s birth. The referrals alleged neglect of the minor by mother and J.Y. (father), both of whom had untreated mental health issues and were incapable of caring for the minor. In addition to allegations of poor home conditions, the minor was not meeting his developmental milestones due to mother’s failure to feed him, pick up on his cues for hunger, connect with him, care for him properly, or be consistent with medical appointments. Mother, who reported having been diagnosed with autism, depression, anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, attention deficit disorder, and epilepsy, was offered voluntary services on numerous occasions to help her meet the minor’s needs. She declined to engage in services. On March 4, 2019, the Department filed a dependency petition pursuant to section 300, subdivision (b) based on the parents’ inability to provide appropriate care due to their mental health issues. The minor was thereafter removed from the parents pursuant to a protective…