In Re Keara J. et al.

This is a termination of parental rights case involving siblings, Keara J. and Sierra J. (collectively “the Children”), the minor daughters of Christie J. (“Mother”) and Kenneth J. (“Father”). The Department of Children’s Services (“DCS”) received a referral from Keara’s pediatrician concerning her persistent lack of growth and development; at some 16 months old, she weighed only 19 lb., and was unable to walk, stand, or speak. DCS immediately removed Keara from her parents’ custody and filed a petition to terminate both parents’ rights, alleging that Keara was severely abused as a result of her parents’ neglect. Because of the severe abuse of Keara, she and her later-born sister, Sierra, were placed in separate foster homes. After a bench trial, the court granted the petition and terminated both parents’ rights to the Children. Mother and Father appeal. We affirm.