In re Falcon EE.
This case involves an appeal from a Family Court order that adjudicated Falcon EE. as an abused child and Monica UU. as a neglected child by their respondent father/step-father. The initial proceedings stemmed from Falcon EE. sustaining multiple severe injuries, including an oblique femur fracture, head and chest bruises, and vaginal lacerations, which the respondent attributed to an accidental fall. However, medical testimony refuted the accidental cause, indicating sexual abuse and non-accidental trauma, and also noted prior injuries sustained by Falcon while in the respondent's care. The Family Court found Falcon abused by the respondent and Monica derivatively neglected, based on the respondent's conduct towards Falcon creating a substantial risk of harm to any child in his care. The appellate court affirmed the Family Court's determinations, finding sufficient evidence supported the findings of abuse and neglect.