In re A.E. ( 2014 )

[Cite as In re A.E., 2014-Ohio-4540.]
IN THE COURT OF APPEALS OF OHIO
THIRD APPELLATE DISTRICT
SENECA COUNTY
IN RE:
CASE NO. 13-14-14
A.E.,
DEPENDENT CHILD. OPINION
[TONYA CURRIER - APPELLANT].
IN RE:
CASE NO. 13-14-15
J.E.,
DEPENDENT CHILD. OPINION
[TONYA CURRIER - APPELLANT].
Appeals from Seneca County Common Pleas Court
Juvenile Division
Trial Court Nos. 21250003 and 21250004
Judgments Affirmed
Date of Decision: October 14, 2014
APPEARANCES:
Lisa A. Miller for Appellant
Tiffany F. Hoyt for Appellee, Seneca County DJFS
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
WILLAMOWSKI, P.J.
{¶1} Respondent-appellant Tonya Currier (“Currier”) brings this appeal
from the judgment of the Court of Common Pleas of Seneca County, Juvenile
Division, terminating her parental rights and granting custody of the children to
the Seneca County Department of Job and Family Services (“the Agency”). For
the reasons set forth below, the judgment is affirmed.
{¶2} In November 2006, A.E. was born to Currier and Jonathan Eastman
(“Eastman”). R. 1.1 J.E. was born to Currier and Eastman in January 2008. R. 1.
On August 9, 2009, the Agency filed complaints alleging that A.E. and J.E. were
neglected and dependent. Tr. 106-107. The trial court adjudicated the children as
dependent on September 4, 2009. The case was closed in 2010 after significant
progress was made on the case plan and the children were returned to their
parents. Tr. 112.
{¶3} A second complaint alleging that A.E. and J.E. were neglected and
dependent was filed on February 7, 2012. R. 1. The basis for the complaint was
that Currier had attempted to commit suicide by cutting her wrists when her
children were present. An ex parte order was issued placing the children in the
temporary custody of Eastman. R. 3. On May 2, 2012, Dawn DeRan (“GAL”),
1
There are two different records before this court, the record for trial court case number 2125003 and
concerning A.E. and the record for trial court case number 21250004 and concerning J.E. The docket
sheets indicate that the filings in each case appear to be identical. Thus, both records will be referenced as
“R” and the docket number. The hearings were combined, so the transcripts will be identified independent
of the case numbers.
-2-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
the guardian ad litem for the children filed her written report recommending that
A.E. and J.E. remain in the custody of Eastman. R. 26. An adjudication hearing
was held on May 8 and June 4, 2012 R. 32. The magistrate determined that the
children were dependent, but found them not to be neglected. Id. The trial court
approved and adopted the magistrate’s recommendation on June 7, 2012. Id. A
judgment entry of the agreed disposition continuing the temporary custody of A.E.
and J.E. in the home of Eastman was filed on June 26, 2012. R. 34. The case plan
filed by the Agency on June 8, 2012, was approved as filed on June 27, 2012. R.
35. The case plan required Currier to complete the following requirements: 1)
cooperate with a psychological evaluation and follow the recommendations; 2)
take her prescribed medication as prescribed; 3) participate in mental health
counseling and follow the recommendations of her counselor; 4) keep her children
from harmful situations by recognizing what situations are harmful; 5) follow all
court orders and not engage in criminal activity; 6) participate and complete a
parenting class; 7) complete an alcohol/drug assessment and follow
recommendations; and 8) sign all releases requested by the Agency. Id.{¶4} On August 1, 2012, the Agency filed an amended case plan after the
six month review and the amended case plan was approved by the trial court on
August 27, 2012. R. 47. The amended case plan indicated that Currier had
completed her parenting class. Id. However, the case plan indicated that there
-3-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
were still several concerns regarding Currier’s mental health issues. Id. On
September 7, 2012, the Agency filed a motion for an ex parte order placing A.E.
and J.E. in foster care. R. 59. The reason for the request was that Eastman had
allegedly violated his probation and was in jail awaiting a hearing. Id. The trial
court granted the ex parte motion that same day. R. 61. An amended case plan
placing the children in foster care was approved by the trial court on September
14, 2012. R. 66.
{¶5} A review of the case was held on November 13, 2012. R. 82. The
parties all agreed that it was in the best interests of A.E. and J.E. to remain in the
temporary custody of the Agency. Id. Currier was granted unsupervised visits
with the children. Id. A semi-annual review of the case plan was conducted on
January 28, 2013. R. 92. The review indicated that Currier was making
insufficient progress on the case plan as to making better decisions regarding
relationships and violating the order of the trial court that she have no contact with
William Omlor (“Omlor”). Id. The trial court approved the amended case plan on
February 12, 2013. R. 93. The amended case plan required Currier to meet the
following requirements: 1) follow all recommendations of the psychological
evaluation; 2) take prescribed medication correctly; 3) participate in mental health
counseling and follow recommendations; 4) keep children from harmful
situations; 5) not engage in criminal activity; 6) follow all court orders; 7)
-4-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
complete a parenting class; 8) complete an alcohol/drug assessment and follow
recommendations; 9) attend and participate in recommended counseling services
until successfully discharged; 10) sign all releases requested by the Agency; 11)
provide own transportation to and from visitations; 12) learn and demonstrate
effective ways to control impulsive decisions; 13) complete joint counseling with
Omlor; 14) be honest with case manager and service providers; 15) follow all
terms of probation; 16) maintain stable housing; and 17) manage her finances
effectively by creating a budget. Id.{¶6} The next case review by the trial court occurred on June 12, 2013. R.
101. At that time, the trial court placed the children in the temporary custody of
Currier under protective supervision by the Agency. Id. This disposition was
agreed upon by all the parties. Id. The case plan was amended to reflect this
change. R. 102. On July 24, 2013, the Agency filed a motion for an ex parte
motion to place the children back into the temporary custody of the Agency. R.
106. The trial court granted the motion the same day. Tr. 107. A full hearing was
held on July 26, 2013. R. 111. At that time, the trial court overruled the motion
for temporary custody and the children were returned to Currier. Id.{¶7} On July 25, 2013, a semi-annual review of the case plan was
conducted. R. 112. The review indicated that Currier had made some progress as
to her counseling. Id. The recommendation was to continue with temporary
-5-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
custody by the Agency.2 Id. On July 30, 2013, Currier attempted suicide by
taking 30 pills. R. 113. Currier was subsequently charged with inducing panic
and was held at the Seneca County Jail. Id. J.E. and A.E. were left in the care of
Omlor during that time. Id. The Agency filed a “Notice to the Court Regarding
the Status of These Cases”. Id. Based upon the Agency’s filings, the trial court
held a hearing and returned the children to the temporary custody of the Agency.
R. 118. On August 7, 2013, the trial court approved the amended case plan
returning custody to the Agency and changing the goal back to reunification. R.
119. Another amended case plan was approved by the trial court on August 12,
2013. R. 122. This case plan required Currier to complete the following
objectives: 1) have no direct or indirect contact with Omlor; 2) take her prescribed
medication correctly; 3) keep her children safe; 4) not engage in any criminal
activity; 5) follow all court orders; 6) sign all releases requested by the Agency; 7)
demonstrate effective ways to control impulsive decisions; 8) be honest with all
service providers and the case manager; 9) follow terms of probation; and 10)
maintain stable housing. Id.{¶8} On September 4, 2013, Currier filed a motion requesting temporary
custody of the children. R. 124. That same day, the Agency filed a motion
requesting permanent custody of the children. R. 125. The Agency alleged that
2
At the time of the review, the ex parte motion giving the Agency temporary custody had not yet been
reversed by the trial court.
-6-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
Currier had been unable to achieve stability in her mental health, impulse control,
or housing. Id. The magistrate overruled Currier’s motion on that same day. R.
130. On November 13, 2013, Currier filed a motion for a new attorney and a new
guardian ad litem for herself.3 R. 140. The basis for the motion was that Currier
felt that her guardian ad litem was working with the Agency and not in her best
interest and she felt that her attorney was just “worn out” by the case. Id.Currier’s motion was denied by the magistrate on November 15, 2013. R. 141.
{¶9} On December 4, 2013, the GAL filed her final report. R. 145. The
GAL indicated in her report that the frequent changes of care-givers had “had
serious negative effects on [A.E.’s] development and acting out behaviors. Id.Although the parents have tried to provide a stable environment for the children,
they have failed. Id. The GAL recommended that permanent custody be granted
to the Agency. Id. A hearing before the magistrate was held on the motion for
permanent custody of the children on December 9, December 10, December 11,
December 13, December 16, and December 17, 2013. R. 173. At the hearing, the
following relevant testimony was presented by the Agency.4
{¶10} Dr. Daniel Cruikshanks (“Cruikshanks”) testified that he had
completed two evaluations of Currier for the Agency. Tr. 11. The first was
3
Due to Currier’s mental health issues, a guardian ad litem had been appointed for her as well as for the
children.
4
Additional testimony relevant to Eastman’s parenting is not included as Eastman did not appeal from the
trial court’s judgment.
-7-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
completed in January of 2010 and the second was completed in April of 2012. Tr.
12, 43. According to Cruikshanks, Currier suffers from bipolar mood disorder,
antisocial personality disorder, and borderline personality disorder. Tr. 15, 20, 53.
People with diagnoses like Currier’s are extremely difficult to treat because they
are incapable of learning from their experiences. Tr. 32, 41. “They’re unable to
see the consequences that happened as a result of their behaviors to recognize that
those, in fact, are the result of the behaviors, and [adjust] their behaviors
accordingly.” Tr. 41. Cruikshanks was concerned that Currier did not appear to
be taking medications correctly and used alcohol to self-medicate. Tr. 60.
Cruikshanks testified that based upon the records he has seen, Currier appeared to
be repeating the patterns that would be expected of one with her diagnoses. Tr.
66. Her Facebook postings were described by Cruikshanks as “textbook”
examples of her clinical profile. Tr. 68-69. An effect of Currier’s diagnoses is
that it comes with patterns of lying, deceit, and manipulation. Tr. 69.
Cruikshanks concluded that in his opinion, there is nothing to indicate that Currier
will be able to make any substantial progress in her mental health treatment within
the next year. Tr. 70. The only consistency he saw in Currier’s life was the
predictable chaos and unstable manifestations that surround her. Tr. 71.
{¶11} On cross-examination, Cruikshanks testified that despite alleged
reports that Currier was using marijuana, all of her drug screens were negative.
-8-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
Cruikshanks also testified that many of the scales on the tests he gave Currier were
in the normal range. At the time of the 2012 evaluation, Currier’s bipolar issues
were being effectively managed by medication. Tr. 89. Additionaly, Cruikshanks
testified that some people with diagnoses similar to Currier can successfully parent
children and that Currier provides adequate care for the children. Tr. 90-98.
Finally, Cruikshanks admitted that all of his testimony about the negative
consequences on the children was based upon generalized opinions, not on Currier
and her children as he did not complete a parental capacity evaluation and had not
observed Currier with her children or spoken with the children. Tr. 91.
{¶12} Jesusa Behee (“Behee”) testified that she was the caseworker for the
2009-2010 case plan involving Currier and the children. Tr. 104. The children
were adjudicated dependent on September 4, 2009, and placed in a kinship
placement. Tr. 112-13. The case was closed in 2010 and the children were
returned to Currier in August or September. Tr. 133. Behee admitted on cross-
examination that Currier would have needed to have substantially complied with
the case plan in order to have her children returned to her. Tr. 149. Behee also
testified that she supported the reunification of the children with Currier in 2010
and made that recommendation to the court. Tr. 153.
{¶13} The Agency’s third witness was the GAL for the children. The GAL
testified that the foster home had become home for the children. Tr. 167. J.E.’s
-9-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
behavior was a little defiant, but was probably learned from his sister. Tr. 168.
A.E., on the other hand, has many challenging behaviors and will have melt downs
where she starts screaming and then suddenly stops. Tr. 169. In the GAL’s
opinion, Currier is very truthful about loving her children and wanting them back,
but her chaotic life is damaging to the children. Tr. 171-72. The GAL also
testified that the children love Eastman and Currier very much. Tr. 176.
However, due to Currier’s subsequent suicide attempt in July where the children
were returned to foster care, she recommended that permanent custody be granted
to the Agency. Tr. 180. On cross-examination, the GAL testified that although
the relationship between the children and the foster mother is good, the
relationship between J.E. and A.E. is filled with conflict. Tr. 207, 209. The GAL
was unsure whether the children should be placed together. Tr. 208. The GAL
also testified that the children love Eastman and that A.E. draws family pictures of
her with Currier and Eastman.
{¶14} Jennifer Jaeck (“Jaeck”) testified that she is the foster mother and the
children were placed with her on September 7, 2012. Tr. 219. A.E.’s behavior in
the home is troubling as she has tantrums, throws things, lies, and steals. Tr. 222.
J.E.’s behavior is easier, though he is hard to focus and sometimes angrily screams
in her face. Tr. 223. Jaeck described A.E. as a manipulative child. Tr. 226. Jaeck
testified that she did not know if she would be interested in adopting the children.
-10-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
Tr. 228. On cross-examination, Jaeck testified that the children loved each other,
but would fight. Tr. 231. She also testified that she supervised visits between the
children and Currier and that they are clearly bonded to each other. Tr. 233.
{¶15} Currier’s counselor Patricia Abrahamson (“Abrahamson”) also
testified for the Agency. Abrahamson testified that she began working with
Currier in 2011 due to issues Currier was having with relationships. Tr. 243.
Currier left after nine sessions, but returned in 2013 for individual and couple’s
therapy with Omlor. Tr. 244. In Abrahamson’s opinion, Currier’s relationship
with Omlor was volatile. Tr. 244. Abrahamson’s last session with Currier was
October 30, 2013, when Currier just stopped appearing. Tr. 245, 248. During
counseling, Currier was making progress toward her treatment goals. Tr. 248.
Abrahamson testified that she was “devastated” when she learned that Currier had
lied to her about having contact with Omlor. Tr. 250.
{¶16} Jason Windsor (“Windsor”) of the Tiffin Police Department testified
that he was called on July 30, 2013, to help find Currier because she had possibly
taken a bunch of pills in a suicide attempt. Tr. 283. He later learned that she was
found at Omlor’s home. Tr. 284. Prior to that Windsor knew Currier from
domestic disturbance calls between Currier and Eastman. Tr. 285. The children
were present during those times, but they did not involve physical altercations. Tr.
285. In the years he had worked as an officer, he personally had responded to five
-11-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
calls involving Currier. Tr. 286. The department as a whole had at least 50
different incidents. Tr. 286. The latest contact he had with Currier was November
4, 2013, when he found her crying in the park, worried about losing her children.
Tr. 287-88. He told her to see her counselor, though there were no threats of self-
harm at that time. Tr. 287-88. On cross-examination, Windsor clarified that the
50 reports ranged from 2007-2013, were only reports, not charges, and some of
them involved Eastman and Omlor as well. Tr. 291.
{¶17} Larry Mackling of the Seneca County Sheriff’s Department testified
that he responded to a call concerning Currier on July 30, 2013. Tr. 294. He was
dispatched to Omlor’s home to do a welfare check. Tr. 295. When he arrived, he
found her very tired and incoherent. Tr. 295. Currier told him that she had taken
30 Risperidone, one milligram each. Tr. 296. Emergency services were then
called. Tr. 296. Over the years, he had personally responded to ten or more calls
involving Currier. Tr. 298. Most of the disputes involving Currier and Omlor
concerned the parenting of their child. Tr. 300.
{¶18} Crystal Brady (“Brady”) testified that she was the managing
caseworker for this case and began working with Currier in March of 2012. Tr.
337. The reason for the original complaint was that Currier had taken the children
to Omlor’s home, in violation of a civil protection order, and had made a suicide
attempt with the children present. Tr. 339. The children were adjudicated
-12-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
dependent on May 8, 2012, and placed in the temporary custody of Eastman. Tr.
339. The children were removed from Eastman’s custody on September 7, 2012,
when he was arrested for a probation violation. Tr. 343. The children were then
placed with Jaeck until they were returned to Currier on June 12, 2013. Tr. 347.
The children were returned to Currier because she had made progress on the case
plan. Tr. 348. The children were then removed from Currier on July 24, 2013,
because she and Omlor had separated and Currier was having trouble meeting the
children’s basic needs due to her financial limits. Tr. 249. On July 26, 2013, the
children were returned to Currier. Tr. 355. The children were then returned to
foster care after Currier attempted suicide on July 30, 2013. Tr. 356.
{¶19} Brady testified that Currier had successfully completed the goal of
getting a psychological evaluation and correctly taking her medication. Tr. 370.
Currier had participated in counseling, but had four different counselors during
that time. Tr. 370-71. According to Brady, Currier had stopped seeing Mel
Proctor (“Proctor”) at the end of May 2013, then saw “Jackie” for a couple weeks
before beginning couples counseling with Abrahamson. Tr. 372. Currier then
stopped seeing Abrahamson because Currier had lied to her and was afraid to go
back. Tr. 373. Currier had then began counseling at Firelands with a new
therapist in November 2013. Tr. 373. In Brady’s opinion, Currier’s progress as to
mental health counseling was insufficient because she had not been able to
-13-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
establish a relationship with a counselor and be honest with them. Tr. 374. Brady
also felt that Currier had not made progress concerning keeping the children safe
since she had custody of the children when she attempted suicide on July 30, 2013.
Tr. 375. Additionally, Currier had taken the children to Omlor’s second story
apartment after he moved out, and put J.E. on the porch roof so that he could help
her break into Omlor’s apartment. Tr. 376. In the prior six months, Brady had
seen five to ten police reports regarding Currier. Although Currier reported that
she had learned some techniques to help her control her impulsive behavior, Brady
did not see any progress in the area of honesty. Tr. 379. Additionally, Currier had
not signed a release for them to get information from her obstetrician, though she
was bringing them reports from the doctor. Tr. 382. Finally, Currier has failed to
maintain stable housing in Brady’s opinion. Tr. 386. Currier had been
hospitalized twice for suicide attempts and appears to put her romantic
relationships before her children. Tr. 401-402. Brady recommended that
permanent custody be granted to the Agency. Tr. 408.
{¶20} On the positive side, Brady testified that the children interact well
with Currier. Tr. 385. On cross-examination, Brady admitted that Currier had
made good parenting decisions. Tr. 439. Brady also admitted that the fact that
Currier’s psychiatrist has not returned reports to the Agency is not Currier’s fault,
but just reluctance on the part of the doctor. Tr. 441. Currier’s obstetrician had
-14-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
sent confirmation that Currier was in compliance with her medication. Tr. 441.
Brady testified that the counseling with Proctor ended because Currier had
completed all the goals he had set for her. Tr. 443. Currier had switched from
Proctor to “Jackie” for couple’s counseling, and then switched to Abrahamson
because Jackie’s internship was ending and Currier was going to be switching no
matter what she wanted. Tr. 447. Brady admitted that Currier was compliant with
her probation requirements, had passed the drug and alcohol screening, and had
had no positive drug screens. Tr. 455, 468. The only area where Currier was
dishonest was in regard to her relationship with Omlor. Tr. 454. Currier also had
been required to stop taking the psychotropic medicine while pregnant. Tr. 496.
Finally, Brady testified that Currier loves her children and provides care for them.
Tr. 501.
{¶21} Currier then testified on her own behalf. Currier testified that she
had been living in a duplex in Tiffin since August 2013. Tr. 556. All rent and
utilities were paid and she was employed as a cashier at a local gas station. Tr.
558. Currier had a valid driver’s license, a vehicle, and insurance on the vehicle.
Tr. 5559. Currier testified that she was, as of the hearing, taking Zoloft for
depression and Vistaril Hydroxyzine for her anxiety, as prescribed by her
obstetrician. Tr. 561. Once her baby was born, she intended to return to her
psychiatrist for management of her medications. Tr. 563.
-15-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
{¶22} At the time of the hearing, Currier testified that she was receiving
mental health counseling at Firelands. Tr. 564. At Firelands, she has a case
manager who helps her with getting services and classes she needs. Tr. 565. She
also has a counselor who is helping her work on her trust issues. Tr. 565. Currier
admitted that she had lied to Abrahamson about her relationship with Omlor. Tr.
568. According to Currier, she did so because Abrahamson had made her dislike
of Omlor clear and Currier did not feel it was productive to discuss it with
Abrahamson. Tr. 568. As to her prior counselors, Currier testified that Proctor
had released her from counseling because she had met the goals he had set. Tr.
571. She then went to Jackie for couples counseling, but found a new counselor
when Jackie’s internship ended. Tr. 571. Currier admitted that her mental health
“goes down when [she’s] in relationships” and she then makes poor decisions. Tr.
573. She testified that the first “suicide attempt” was not really meant to kill
herself, but to express her frustration and anger with Omlor. Tr. 573. Currier
acknowledged that the children should not have seen that and that it was not
healthy for them. Tr. 574. Currier testified that she now understood that she has
to take time to become her own person before she can build a relationship with
someone else. Tr. 578.
{¶23} Currier admitted that she had often violated court orders not to see
Omlor. Tr. 582. She felt that since that relationship had reached a final
-16-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
conclusion, she was better at controlling her impulsive decisions. Tr. 587.
Although she has lied in an effort to manipulate people, she was only dishonest
with the caseworker as it related to her relationship with Omlor. Tr. 591. Currier
testified that she did not believe she would be able to manipulate her new
counselor due to the counselor’s background treating drug addicts, but admitted
that she had manipulated Abrahamson. Tr. 593.
{¶24} Currier testified that her children are very attached to her, that she
loves them, and that they love her. Tr. 595-96. She also claims that she was
careful to make sure the kids were not present when she took the pills in her
second suicide attempt. Tr. 599. Although Currier is angry, she identifies this
anger as different than her prior anger. Tr. 603. Her prior anger was a rage, this is
anger at herself for not working harder at getting her kids than at forming a
relationship. Tr. 603.
{¶25} On cross-examination, Currier admitted that on July 30, 2013, she
took 30 pills, but did not know why, only that she felt everything was hopeless.
Tr. 619. She admitted to lying to Brady about the number of pills she took
because she was afraid they would take her children. Tr. 619. She also admitted
that she had made a comment that J.E. had made her uncomfortable, but that it was
not him, but rather his behavior was inappropriate – i.e. sexual in nature, and she
-17-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
was concerned that it was not being addressed.5 Tr. 621. Currier agreed that the
children needed to continue in counseling and suggested they could be counseled
at Firelands as well. Tr. 624-25.
{¶26} The magistrate also conducted in camera interviews with A.E. and
J.E. A.E. indicated that her first choice would be to live with Eastman, but she
wanted to visit with Currier for three days in a row. Tr. 664-67. She also
indicated that she would like to visit with Jaeck. Tr. 664-67. A.E. described her
visits with Currier as good. Tr. 668. J.E. indicated that he would like to live with
Jaeck, but indicated that his second choice would be Currier and Eastman equally.
Tr. 671-72. J.E. also indicated that he likes being with his sister, A.E. Tr. 673.
{¶27} On December 23, 2013, the Agency filed its closing arguments. R.
158. Currier filed her closing arguments on December 27, 2013. R. 160. On that
same day, Currier’s counsel filed a motion to withdraw. R. 161. The motion was
granted by the trial court on December 31, 2013, and a new attorney was
appointed for Currier. R. 162 and 163. On January 2, 2014, the magistrate issued
its recommendation that Currier’s parental rights be terminated and permanent
custody of the children be granted to the Agency. R. 164. The trial court
5
Interestingly, soon after Currier reported inappropriate sexual behavior and the children were returned to
the foster home, the foster mother reported finding J.E. and another boy in the bedroom engaging in
inappropriate behavior. Jaeck reported that J.E. told her the other boy had told him how to play the game.
The response was that since J.E. was in respite care, he could sleep anywhere, so not to let J.E. and the
other boy sleep in the same room anymore. Jaeck was told to explain to the boys that it was wrong and to
“[e]xplain to [Currier] that children explore but they need to understand what is appropriate.” R. 110,
Father’s A.
-18-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
approved and adopted the magistrate’s recommendation that same day. Id. On
January 15, 2014, Currier’s new counsel filed preliminary objections to the
magistrate’s decision and requested an extension to file additional objections. R.
166. Currier’s supplemental objections to the magistrate’s decision were filed on
March 28, 2014. R. 177. The Agency filed its response to the objections on April
14, 2014. R. 178. On May 6, 2014, the trial court overruled the objections and
granted the Agency’s motion for permanent custody. R. 179. Currier filed her
notice of appeal from this judgment on June 4, 2014. R. 184. On appeal, Currier
raises the following assignments of error.
First Assignment of Error
The trial court erred when it failed to appoint [Currier] new
counsel after both [Currier] by motion and trial counsel on the
record at hearing agreed the relationship was in such a state that
effective representation and communication between client and
counsel was impossible in violation of her due process rights.
[Currier’s] due process rights were further violated when the
trial court granted trial counsel’s motion to withdraw before the
magistrate’s decision was filed and [Currier’s] wishes as to
objections were considered.
Second Assignment of Error
[Currier’s] due process rights were violated by trial counsel’s
ineffective assistance. Trial counsel failed to secure an
independent expert to assist in [Currier’s] defense when
[Currier’s] mental health was the central issue in the [Agency’s]
case. Trial counsel further failed to object to the portions of
testimony from the [Agency’s] expert where he relied upon
hearsay that was provided either directly from the case worker
or in reports provided by the [Agency]. Trial counsel failed to
-19-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
call any witnesses in [Currier’s] defense in a permanent custody
proceeding, a proceeding known [as] the death penalty of
juvenile law.
Third Assignment of Error
The trial court’s judgment should be reversed because it was
against the manifest weight of the evidence in finding there was
clear and convincing evidence sufficient to grant [the Agency’s]
permanent custody motion or in finding that [the Agency] used
reasonable efforts to return the child to one of his parents.
In the interest of clarity, we will address the assignments of error out of order.
{¶28} In the third assignment of error, Currier claims that the trial court’s
findings were against the manifest weight of the evidence. The right to raise
one’s own child is a basic and essential civil right. In re Murray, 52 Ohio St.3d
155, 556 N.E.2d 1169 (1990). “Parents have a ‘fundamental liberty interest’ in
the care, custody, and management of their children.” In re Leveck, 3d Dist.
Hancock No. 5-02-52, 5-02-53, 5-02-54, 2003-Ohio-1269, ¶6. These rights may
be terminated, however, under appropriate circumstances and when all due
process safeguards have been followed. Id. When considering a motion to
terminate parental rights, the trial court must comply with the statutory
requirements set forth in R.C. 2151.414. These requirements include, in pertinent
part, as follows.
(B)(1) Except as provided in division (B)(2) of this section, the
court may grant permanent custody of a child to a movant if the
court determines at the hearing held pursuant to division (A) of
this section, by clear and convincing evidence, that it is in the
-20-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
best interest of the child to grant permanent custody of the child
to the agency that filed the motion for permanent custody and
that any of the following apply:
(a) The child is not abandoned or orphaned, has not been in the
temporary custody of one or more public children services
agencies or private child placing agencies for twelve or more
months of a consecutive twenty-two-month period, or has not
been in the temporary custody of one or more public children
services agencies or private child placing agencies for twelve or
more months of a consecutive twenty-two month period if, as
described in division (D)(1) of section 2151.413 of the Revised
Code, the child was previously in the temporary custody of an
equivalent agency in another state, and the child cannot be
placed with either of the child’s parents within a reasonable time
or should not be placed with the child’s parents.
***
(2) With respect to a motion made pursuant to [R.C.
2151.413(D)(1)], the court shall grant permanent custody of the
child to the movant if the court determines in accordance with
division (E) of this section that the child cannot be placed with
one of the child’s parents within a reasonable time or should not
be placed with either parent and determines in accordance with
division (D) of this section that permanent custody is in the
child’s best interest.
(C) In making the determination required by this section * * *, a
court shall not consider the effect the granting of permanent
custody to the agency would have upon any parent of the child.
A written report of the guardian ad litem of the child shall be
submitted to the court prior to or at the time of the hearing held
pursuant to division (A) of this section * * * but shall not be
submitted under oath.
***
(E) In determining at a hearing held pursuant to division (A) of
this section * * * whether a child cannot be placed with either
-21-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
parent within a reasonable period of time or should not be
placed with the parents, the court shall consider all relevant
evidence. If the court determines by clear and convincing
evidence, at a hearing held pursuant to division (A) of this
section * * * that one or more of the following exist as to each of
the child’s parents, the court shall enter a finding that the child
cannot be placed with either parent within a reasonable time or
should not be placed with either parent:
(2) Chronic mental illness, chronic emotional illness, mental
retardation, physical disability, or chemical dependency of the
parent that is so severe that it makes the parent unable to
provide an adequate permanent home for the child at the
present time and, as anticipated, within one year after the court
holds the hearing pursuant to division (A) of this section or for
the purposes of division (A)(4) of section 2151.353 of the Revised
Code;
***
(14) The parent for any reason is unwilling to provide food,
clothing, shelter, and other basic necessities for the child or to
prevent the child from suffering physical, emotional, or sexual
abuse or physical, emotional, or mental neglect.
R.C. 2151.414. A court’s decision to terminate parental rights will not be
overturned as against the manifest weight of the evidence if the record contains
competent, credible evidence by which a court can determine by clear and
convincing evidence that the essential statutory elements for a termination of
parental rights have been established. See In re B.G.W., 10th Dist. Franklin No.
08AP-081, 2008-Ohio-3693 and In re Nevaeh J., 6th Dist. Lucas No. L-06-1093,
2006-Ohio-6628, ¶ 17 (citing In re Forrest S., 102 Ohio App.3d 338, 657 N.E.2d
307 (6th Dist. 1995)).
-22-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
{¶29} A review of the record in this case indicates that there was
substantial evidence presented that Currier suffers from a bipolar mood disorder,
anti-social personality disorder, and borderline personality disorder. As a result of
these issues, she is resistant to treatment and places her own desires ahead of the
needs of the children. No one denied that Currier loved her children or that they
loved her. Everyone testified that there was a strong bond between Currier and the
children and that she was capable of making good parenting decisions when her
mental illness was not an issue. However, there was ample testimony that Currier
has repeatedly placed the children in dangerous situations and has provided little
stability for them. As recently as July 2013, Currier attempted to commit suicide
by overdosing. Although the children did not witness this attempt, her feelings of
hopelessness caused her to make a decision without considering the needs of her
children or the effect her decision would have on her children. The pattern of this
type of behavior has been repeated numerous times. This has put her children in a
position of desiring to spend time with her, but preferring to live with other
people. The testimony was clear that it was unlikely that Currier would be able to
care for her children within the next year and that the children needed stability.
Thus, the judgment of the trial court was not against the weight of the evidence.
The third assignment of error is overruled.
-23-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
{¶30} In the first assignment of error, Currier claims that the trial court
erred by not granting her motion for new counsel, which was made approximately
a month before the hearing.
In order to warrant a substitution of counsel during trial, the
defendant must show good cause, such as a conflict of interest, a
complete breakdown in communication or an irreconcilable
conflict which leads to an apparently unjust verdict. * * If a
court refuses to inquire into a seemingly substantial complaint
about counsel when he has no reason to suspect the bona fides of
the defendant, or if on discovering justifiable dissatisfaction a
court refuses to replace the attorney, the defendant may then
properly claim denial of his Sixth Amendment right. * * * In the
absence of a conflict which presents such a Sixth Amendment
problem, the trial court has discretion to decide whether to grant
a continuance during the course of trial for the substitution of
counsel, and that decision will be reversed only if the court has
abused its discretion.
United States v. Calabro, 467 F.2d 973, 986 (2nd Cir.1972) (citations omitted).
“In the absence of such a Sixth Amendment concern, the decision of a trial court
to refuse substitution of counsel will be reversed only if the court has abused its
discretion.” State v. Richey, 6th Dist. Sandusky No. S-09-28, 2011-Ohio-280, ¶30.
{¶31} On November 13, 2013, Currier submitted a motion to the court
requesting new trial counsel. R. 140. The basis for the motion was that Currier
did not trust her attorney and felt that her attorney was disclosing confidences to
the Agency. Id. The motion was overruled without a hearing on November 15,
-24-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
2013.6 R. 141. The motion was denied because the matter was set to be heard
starting December 8, 2013, and six days had already been set aside. Id. The
magistrate determined that the motion was for the purpose of delaying the
proceedings. Id. In addition, counsel for Currier advised the trial court that there
was an issue between her and Currier which was “creating a significant
ineffectiveness for Ms. Plummer [Currier’s GAL] and I.” Tr. 323. In handling the
issue, the magistrate merely told Currier that he had appointed “the most
competent and diligent counsel” that he could find. Tr. 326. The magistrate also
told Currier that her counsel had “done a fine job advocating for [Currier]. Tr.
327. Currier did not renew her motion for new counsel. Apparently, the biggest
problem between Currier and her counsel was that Currier did not trust her
counsel. However, on appeal, Currier does not indicate how this prejudiced her.
A review of the record indicates that Currier’s counsel was prepared for the
hearing, had issued a subpoena for a witness, fully cross-examined the witnesses,
and generally protected the interests of her client. Based upon the record before
this court, we cannot find that the trial court abused its discretion in denying
Currier’s motion for new counsel. The first assignment of error is overruled.
{¶32} In the second assignments of error, Currier claims that she was
denied effective assistance of counsel.
6
The magistrate stated there was a “non-oral hearing”, but the only thing reviewed was the letter as no
other party had filed a reply. The magistrate states that the letter has been reviewed. This is not a
“hearing” of any kind, it is merely a ruling on the motion.
-25-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
In evaluating whether a petitioner has been denied effective
assistance of counsel, this court has held that the test is “whether
the accused, under all the circumstances, * * * had a fair trial
and substantial justice was done.” State v. Hester (1976), 45
Ohio St.2d 71, 74 O.O.2d 156, 341 N.E.2d 304, paragraph four of
the syllabus. When making that determination, a two-step
process is usually employed. “First, there must be a
determination as to whether there has been a substantial
violation of any of defense counsel’s essential duties to his client.
Next, and analytically separate from the question of whether the
defendant’s Sixth Amendment rights were violated, there must
be a determination as to whether the defense was prejudiced by
counsel’s ineffectiveness.” State v. Lytle (1976), 48 Ohio St.2d
391, 396–397, 2 O.O.3d 495, 498, 358 N.E.2d 623, 627, vacated on
other grounds (1978), 438 U.S. 910, 98 S.Ct. 3135, 57 L.Ed.2d
1154.
On the issue of counsel’s ineffectiveness, the petitioner has the
burden of proof, since in Ohio a properly licensed attorney is
presumably competent. See Vaughn v. Maxwell (1965), 2 Ohio
St.2d 299, 31 O.O.2d 567, 209 N.E.2d 164; * *915 State v.
Jackson, 64 Ohio St.2d at 110–111, 18 O.O.3d at 351, 413 N.E.2d
at 822.
State v. Calhoun, 86 Ohio St.3d 279, 289, 1999–Ohio–102, 714 N.E.2d 905.
{¶33} Currier alleges that her counsel was ineffective for three reasons: 1)
failing to obtain an independent psychological evaluation and expert to counteract
the testimony of Cruikshanks; 2) failing to object to Cruikshanks testimony and
report that was based upon hearsay evidence not admitted; and 3) failing to call
additional witnesses to support Currier’s case. We will first address the failure to
obtain an independent psychological evaluation. The law in Ohio is well settled
that when the mental health of a parent is the predominant issue in a permanent
-26-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
custody case and the State requires the parent to have a mental health evaluation
by the expert chosen by the State, the parent is entitled to have an independent
expert evaluation done at the expense of the State. See In re Shaeffer Children, 85
Ohio App.3d 683, 621 N.E.2d 426 (3d Dist. 1993); In re Brown, 1st Dist.
Hamilton No. C-850878, 1986 WL 13385 (Nov. 26, 1986); In re Elliott, 7th Dist.
Jefferson Nos. 03JE30, 03JE33, 2004-Ohio-388; In re Harmon, 4th Dist. Scioto
No. 00CA2694, 2000 WL 1424829 (Sept. 25, 2000); In re Hogle, 10th Dist.
Franklin No. 99AP-944, 2000 WL 33231609 (June 27, 2000); In re Jeffrey S., 6th
Dist. Lucas No. L-96-178, 1998 WL 879652 (Dec. 18, 1998); and In re Egbert, 99
Ohio App.3d 492, 651 N.E.2d 38 (12th Dist. 1994). There is no dispute that in
this case Currier’s mental health was the predominant issue and her counsel did
not request an independent evaluation. However, Currier bases the alleged
ineffectiveness on the premise that if an independent evaluation had been obtained
and if that evaluation had revealed a different result, then Cruikshanks testimony
would not have been as damaging. The record is devoid of any evidence that the
results would be different. Without this evidence, this court has no basis for
determining that the alleged error would have affected the outcome and thus is
harmless.
{¶34} Currier also claims that her counsel was ineffective for failing to
object to Cruikshanks reference to hearsay evidence as the basis for his
-27-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
conclusions without said evidence being admitted. “The facts or data in the
particular case upon which an expert bases an opinion or inference may be those
perceived by the expert or admitted in evidence at the hearing.” Evid.R. 703.
There is no question that Cruikshanks last met with Currier in 2012. His opinion
of her current situation was based on police reports and agency records, most of
which were not admitted as evidence at trial. Thus, the admissibility of his
opinion could have been challenged pursuant to Evidence Rule 703. However,
this was a trial to the bench and there was other evidence regarding Currier’s
mental state. Her counselor through November of 2013 testified as to her mental
state. There was testimony presented that in July of 2013, Currier had attempted
suicide. There was testimony regarding her many interactions with law
enforcement based upon her mental health. Given all of the evidence, we cannot
say that the outcome would have been different if the objectionable material was
excluded. Thus, Currier’s counsel was not ineffective for failing to object to it.
{¶35} Finally, Currier claims that her counsel was ineffective for failing to
call additional witnesses. The decision of counsel whether to call witnesses is a
matter of trial strategy that will not usually be second guessed on appeal. State v.
Conway, 109 Ohio St.3d 412, 2006-Ohio-2815, 848 N.E.2d 810, ¶113. The record
contains no proffer as to what the additional witnesses would have said. Although
Currier claims that the witnesses could have shown that she was a good parent,
-28-
Case Nos. 13-14-14 and 13-14-15
this issue was not in dispute. Even the Agency admitted that Currier had good
parenting skills and took care of her children. However, the issue was that when
Currier was having times of instability due to her mental health issues, she did not
provide good care for the children. Instead, Currier exposed them to dangerous
situations and trauma as they witnessed her irrational behavior caused by her
mental illness. This court has no evidence before it that would indicate that the
witnesses could have testified to this issue, thus this court cannot find that the
outcome likely would have been different. The result is that Currier’s counsel was
not ineffective for failing to call additional witnesses. Based upon the record
before us, the second assignment of error is overruled.
{¶36} Having found no error in the particulars assigned and argued, the
judgments of the Court of Common Pleas of Seneca County, Juvenile Division,
are affirmed.
Judgments Affirmed
ROGERS and PRESTON, J.J., concur.
/jlr
-29-