In the Matter of MBDS, FH# 20191254

Reversed - DCF did not have reasonable cause to support the allegation of neglect by Appellant father when 1) the allegations that Appellant left his 12-year-old daughter alone in an unfamiliar area was found inaccurate, as she was with a cousin and on the curb in front of Appellant's house; 2) reports of the incident, especially those by mother, were inconsistent throughout the investigation; and 3) the actions by Appellant were in response to a common behavior of the child, being disrespectful regarding her cellphone. Especially given the child's age, DCF did not have sufficient evidence to prove that Appellant's actions placed the child in danger or posed substantial risk to her safety or well-being.