Judge finds Dustin King neglected children; court takes jurisdiction and keeps children in DHHS care

Lenawee County Probate & Juvenile Court — The court found on the record that Dustin King neglected his children and took personal jurisdiction, ordering the children to remain in the care of the department (DHHS) pending a dispositional hearing set for 11 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 4.

The finding followed testimony and photographic evidence presented by the department and testimony from Mr. King, who acknowledged that at the time the petition was filed the children had been living in a tent in the backyard. The court cited a deputy’s photographs and testimony showing the children “unprotected” and exposed to hazards, including a propane tank near the children and trash and debris in the area. The judge said there was a “preponderance of the evidence” that at least one allegation in the petition was true and that King, as the legally responsible parent, had “neglected to provide proper or necessary support,” including housing and care.

Why it matters: The adjudication…