The girl remains in state custody while the Department of Family and Protective Services works to determine the best course of action. They say they have made progress in solving the case that landed on their desk more than a week ago.
The child was left in the emergency room at Baylor Medical Center in Dallas on December 5th.
NBC 5 attended Thursday's hearing and officials said relatives have come forward to take custody of the child. Officials said the department was able to locate a birth record that listed the child's full name and mother.
Officials told NBC 5 the child could only say his name. During Thursday's hearing, DFPS explained the challenges at the beginning of the case.
An official said, “There was confusion simply because the child's full name was not known.'' “But at this time, we have confidence that the child in CPS care is the child whose name is on the birth certificate.”
NBC 5 was asked not to identify the child in its reporting. However, during the hearing, we learned that the state had requested an expedited home study for relatives who volunteered to take on the role of caregiver.
George Robb is a criminal defense attorney who has handled dozens of custody cases in North Texas. Although he had nothing to do with the case, he was able to explain the child custody process.
“If there is an inheritance or hierarchy, and if neither the mother nor the father is suitable due to issues such as abandonment or abuse, it often goes to a close relative, such as an adult brother or sister's grandparents,” Rob said. Told.
He said the child's potential health and educational welfare will be assessed by social workers and psychologists.
“They're not looking for a mansion,” he said. “They're trying to ensure a safe environment.”
Officials at the hearing said they were indeed one step closer to placing the child.
“The department is conducting a preliminary investigation and background check, and so far everything has been confirmed,” DFPS officials said.
As for adults who leave children behind, they could be charged with felony child endangerment, depending on the circumstances, Robb said.
According to DFPS, the state's Baby Moses law “gives parents who are unable to care for their children a safe and legal option to leave their infants with staff in designated safe locations.” However, the Baby Moses Law applies to intact and safe infants under 60 days of age.
By the way, “safe place” is not the same thing. A safe place is a place where children under 18 can go to get immediate help and safety. Safe Place locations include libraries, YMCAs, fire stations, public buses, various businesses, and social service facilities.
