In the Matter of DZ & SCZ, FH# 2017-1224

Affirmed - DCF had reasonable cause to support a finding of neglect and physical abuse. The Appellants, the guardians of the reported children, disputed the allegation of physical abuse. However, a police report and corroborating eyewitness statement provided sufficient evidence that the Appellants slapped and hit the child in the face while spitting at him. Moreover, one of the children possessed diagnosed cognitive delays while the other was a substance exposed newborn increasing the substantial risk of serious injury to the child. As such the Department's decision was upheld.