In the Matter of EC, FH# 2017-0120

Reversed - DCF did not have sufficient evidence to support allegations of sexual abuse by Appellant where testimony from the child/alleged victim was determined to be unreliable. The child only disclosed sexual abuse in an argument with her mother regarding sexual activity, and later struggled with her disclosure in the forensic interview. There is also doubt surrounding child’s motivation to disclose and her credibility based on investigations with police and the child’s school. Appellant stated that the child and mother sought to tarnish her reputation and character, and cited other unsupported reports to DCF.