Commissioner of Department of Social Services v. Dixon
Patricia Dixon appealed a Family Court order that found her children, Michael, Patricia, and Diana, neglected and continued their custody with the Onondaga County Department of Social Services (DSS). The neglect finding stemmed from Dixon's severe alcohol addiction, which led to her inability to provide proper supervision and care for her children. The case detailed a history of neglect adjudications and removals of her children, including Diana, who required specific health attention. The appellate court unanimously affirmed the Family Court's determination, concluding that the evidence of Dixon's continued alcohol abuse justified the finding of neglect under the Family Court Act. The court noted Dixon's right to reapply to Family Court upon demonstrating a substantial change in her conduct.