In the Matter of LB, FH# 2017-0106

Reversed - DCF did not have sufficient evidence to support allegations of abuse by Appellant mother where children's reports were determined to be unreliable. Discrepancies also existed between the children's allegations; some reported events of abuse that were unable to be corroborated by their siblings. The Hearing Officer reviewed evidence of a strained relation between Appellant and children that might indicate a desire to leave home, ultimately finding that while Appellant did hit her children, the allegations lacked detail and there was no evidence her actions caused a substantial risk of injury. Children's substance use and other illicit behavior was considered.