Court keeps 16-year-old at home amid ongoing truancy, mental‑health and safety concerns

At a review hearing in Lenawee County Probate & Juvenile Court, the court ordered that the child, Madison, remain placed with her mother while instructing the department and allied providers to pursue additional options, including a Qualified Residential Treatment Program assessment and possible show‑cause proceedings if services continue to be ignored.

The hearing centered on repeated truancy, safety episodes tied to mental‑health crises, inconsistent follow‑through by the mother on safety plans, and limited progress despite multiple providers working with the family. The court held a 90‑day review period and scheduled the next review and permanency planning hearing for Sept. 9 at 10:00 a.m.

Carson Howard, the guardian ad litem, reported visiting the child at home and described poor school attendance and academic performance during the reporting period. Howard said the child “did not regularly attend school” and noted concern about possible substance use and low effort in classes the child previously liked.…