In re Martha Z.
This case involves an appeal from two orders of the Family Court of Chemung County concerning the adjudication of child abuse and neglect. The respondents, Vernon Z. and Connie Z., are the parents of two daughters, Martha and Margaret. The proceedings were initiated after Martha disclosed an incident of sexual contact by her father. Family Court found the father abused and neglected Martha, the mother neglected Martha, and both parents derivatively neglected Margaret. Respondents appealed, challenging the credibility and corroboration of Martha's statements. The Appellate Division affirmed the Family Court's findings, noting that Martha's out-of-court statements were sufficiently corroborated and the mother failed to dispute her neglect.