in the Interest of A.A.T., a Child ( 2016 )

Fourth Court of Appeals
San Antonio, Texas
MEMORANDUM OPINION
No. 04-16-00344-CV
IN THE INTEREST OF A.A.T., a Child
From the 63rd Judicial District Court, Val Verde County, Texas
Trial Court No. 31,313
Honorable Enrique Fernandez, Judge Presiding
Opinion by: Marialyn Barnard, Justice
Sitting: Sandee Bryan Marion, Chief Justice
Marialyn Barnard, Justice
Jason Pulliam, Justice
Delivered and Filed: December 28, 2016
AFFIRMED
This is an appeal from a trial court’s order terminating appellant mother’s (“Mother”) rights
to her child, A.A.T. 1 On appeal, Mother contends: (1) the trial court erred in excluding certain
testimony from Mother’s expert; (2) the evidence is legally and factually insufficient to support
the jury’s findings under section 161.001(b)(1)(D), (E), and (O); and (3) the evidence is legally
and factually insufficient to support the jury’s finding that termination was in A.A.T.’s best
interest. We affirm the trial court’s order.
1
After all parties rested and closed, A.A.T.’s father (“R.T.”) signed an affidavit of voluntary relinquishment. He is
not a party to this appeal.
04-16-00344-CV
BACKGROUND
The record shows the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (“the
Department”) first became involved with Mother in November 2013, when the Department
received a referral regarding Mother’s fourth child, J.G. At that time, in addition to J.G., Mother
had three older children, A.R., A.N., and C.N. She was also pregnant with A.A.T., who was born
in July 2014 and is the child who is the subject of this parental termination appeal. After his birth,
A.A.T. was removed by the Department based on injuries suffered by J.G. 2 Because the facts in
J.G.’s case directly affect A.A.T.’s case, we begin with the applicable facts from J.G.’s case as
background.
According to Mother’s testimony, when she returned home from work on November 19,
2013, she noticed injuries to J.G.’s face. Mother testified her mother (“Grandmother”) said J.G.
had fallen off the bed onto the wood floor. Mother and her four children lived with Grandmother,
and Grandmother watched J.G. while Mother was at work. Mother took J.G., who was
approximately seven months old at the time, to the emergency room for injuries to both sides of
his face and his forehead. The evidence established that medical personnel believed the injuries
were the result of abuse — specifically, the injuries on each side of the face were made by strikes,
i.e., slaps, to the baby’s face. The emergency room doctor, Teofilo Sanchez, testified the injuries
appeared older than stated and at least the injuries to each side of the baby’s face appeared to be
the result of multiple slaps with a hand. Dr. Sanchez stated the injuries fit neither with the timeline
presented by Mother and Grandmother, nor with the claim of a fall from a two-foot high bed.
Admittedly, in his report, Dr. Sanchez stated the injuries were the result of a fall. However, Dr.
Sanchez testified he placed this in his report because at the time the cause of J.G.’s injuries was
2
By this time, J.G. and his three older siblings had already been removed by the Department based on injuries suffered
by J.G.
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disputed. And, indeed, the Department was contacted by the hospital and opened a case, placing
the matter in family-based services. Grandmother was no longer permitted to care for the children,
who were placed in a protective daycare while Mother was working.
On December 13, 2013, J.G. was examined by pediatrician James Louis Lukefahr of the
Center for Miracles (“the Center”). The Center reviews and provides expert consultations with
regard to the medical aspects of child abuse investigations. Dr. Lukefahr testified he reviewed the
emergency room records and agreed with Dr. Sanchez that J.G.’s facial injuries were not the result
of a fall, but a result of a series of hand slaps to the face — slaps Dr. Sanchez described as “fairly
forceful.” Because there were questions regarding the cause of J.G.’s facial injuries — abuse as
opposed to a fall — Dr. Lukefahr ordered a skeletal survey to determine if J.G. had suffered any
broken bones as a result of the November incident; none were found.
Around Christmas time, Mother, accompanied by R.T., returned to the hospital with J.G.,
who was suffering from congestion. He was prescribed medication and thereafter, Mother took
him home. On December 31, 2013, Mother testified that at approximately 2:00 a.m., she was
awakened by J.G., who was crying and fussy. Mother denied he was upset at any point earlier in
the day. As she changed his diaper, she noticed his left leg was swollen. Mother testified she
believed he might be suffering from a reaction the previously prescribed medication, so she took
J.G. to the emergency room. Again, R.T. accompanied them to the hospital.
At the emergency room, an X-ray revealed J.G. had suffered two fractures to his left leg
just above the ankle. Dr. Lukefahr subsequently described these fractures as a “pretty dramatic
fracture of the left tibia just above the ankle,” and a “pending fracture” of the fibula. 3 According
to Department caseworker Melanie Torres, Mother suggested that perhaps one of her older
3
Dr. Lukefahr testified a fracture is referred to as “pending” when it occurs in small children where the bone is bent,
but not completely broken.
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children had accidentally dropped J.G., resulting in the fractures. J.G.’s leg was placed in a cast
and he was again referred to the Center for additional examination. Dr. Lukefahr conducted a
second full skeletal survey of J.G. on January 17, 2014. At that time, the skeletal survey revealed
three additional fractures: (1) two fractures to the left arm — both the ulna and radius were broken
close to the left wrist, and (2) a single fracture to radius — the larger bone — of the right arm.
Dr. Lukefahr testified the arm fractures showed signs of healing, and therefore, were more
than ten days old. A radiologist estimated they were two to three weeks old. Thus, J.G. it appeared
suffered five fractures in the span of less than one month. Dr. Lukefahr stated J.G. would have
been in pain and would have likely cried and screamed at least for the first few hours after the
fractures, perhaps as long as two days. Moreover, he would have stopped using his arms. Mother
claimed she was unaware of the fractures — other than the previously diagnosed fracture to the
left leg, testifying she did not notice any damage or signs of pain. Dr. Lukefahr testified “a
reasonable mother would have known something serious was wrong with the child.”
As for the left leg fractures, the doctor stated the “bone was also bent pretty significantly,”
“angulated,” and that some kind of force was used to “snap that bone and bend it off in an angle.”
He said it would have required “really a significant amount of force” to be applied to cause the
fractures, which he opined occurred simultaneously.
Mother suggested J.G.’s injuries were caused: (1) when his older siblings dropped him; (2)
by organic bone issues — Vitamin D deficiency, metabolic bone disease, Osteogenesis Imperfecta;
or (3) when he was aggressively pulled from a crib with slats at daycare. Dr. Lukefahr testified
J.G.’s injuries were not consistent with being dropped by a sibling — the siblings were of a young
age and the height at which they would have held J.G. was not sufficient to cause the injuries, and
J.G. was not of an age where he could have held his arms out to catch himself in such a fall. Dr.
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Lukefahr opined the arms fractures required “a lot of force,” and it was unlikely they were the
result of a fall. Dr. Lukefahr’s opinion was the same regarding the leg fractures.
As to alleged organic causes for J.G.’ injuries, Dr. Lukefahr stated he tested J.G. to rule
out a vitamin deficiency or metabolic bone disease. Dr. Lukefahr also ruled out Osteogenesis
Imperfecta — not by genetic testing — but once J.G. was removed from the home, he suffered no
additional fractures. The doctor opined that if a child has multiple fractures over the course of a
month, but none thereafter, the child does not suffer from Osteogenesis Imperfecta. In a
subsequent skeletal survey, no new fractures were found.
One of the managers from the protective daycare testified and provided evidence that the
daycare did not use slatted cribs at the time J.G. was there. Although Mother and R.T. testified
they saw such cribs when they picked the children up from daycare, the director stated that at the
time of J.G.’s care, only netted bassinets were used for infants in accordance with mandated
requirements. According to the director, the slatted cribs were removed and replaced in January
2013, eleven months before J.G. began attending.
As set out above, the Department submitted evidence from doctors and others to establish
J.G.’s injuries were the result of abuse. As for the facial injuries, the Department admitted in
discovery responses they were caused by Grandmother, but subsequently suggested this may not
have been the case — based on who the Department believed caused the multiple fractures. The
Department presented evidence that beginning in October 2013 and through the end of the year
(and perhaps to date), Mother was engaged in a relationship with R.T., becoming pregnant with
A.A.T early on in the relationship. R.T. is admittedly the father of A.A.T, but he is not the father
of any of Mother’s other children, including J.G. The evidence suggested all of J.G.’s fractures
occurred during the course of the relationship — though both Mother and R.T. denied the existence
of any relationship in the past or present. There was evidence R.T. was in the home during the
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times J.G. was injured — though he and Mother denied it. Mother’s three oldest children made
statements to their current caregiver that R.T. hit them with a belt or spanked them when they
asked for food, cried, or refused to get up in the morning. 4 R.T. claimed he never really spent any
time in the home and had little to do with the children. Yet, all three children described R.T. as
“mommy’s boyfriend,” and even stated they were told by Mother to call him “dad.” They also
stated R.T. grabbed J.G. by the leg and pulled it, causing J.G. to hit his head on the floor, and there
was some evidence from Mother and R.T. that he was in the home the day before J.G.’s leg
fractures were discovered.
Ultimately, the Department sought to terminate Mother’s parental rights to J.G. and her
three older children based primarily on the injuries to J.G. Specifically, the Department alleged
Mother: (1) knowingly placed or knowingly allowed the children to remain in conditions or
surroundings that endangered their physical or emotional well-being; (2) engaged in conduct or
knowingly placed the children with persons who engaged in conduct that endangered their physical
or emotional well-being; and (3) failed to comply with the provisions of a court order that
specifically established the actions necessary for her to obtain the return of her children, who had
been in the Department’s custody for more than nine months as a result of removal for abuse or
neglect. See TEX. FAM. CODE ANN. § 161.001(b)(1)(D), (E), (O) (West Supp. 2016). The
Department also alleged termination would be in the children’s best interests. After a jury trial,
the jury found Mother violated the provisions of the Code as alleged by the Department and that
termination would be in the bests interests of the children. See In re A.A.R., 04-15-00464-CV,
2016 WL 231964, at *5 (Tex. App.—San Antonio 2016, no pet.) (mem. op.); see also TEX. FAM.
CODE ANN. § 161.001(b)(1)(D), (E), (O). In accordance with the jury’s verdict, the trial court
4
A.R., A.N., and C.N. were placed with the paternal grandmother of A.N. and C.N. J.G. was later placed in the home
as well.
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signed an order terminating Mother’s parental rights to A.R., A.N., C.N., and J.G. Mother
appealed to this court, challenging the sufficiency of the evidence supporting the jury’s findings
of the statutory grounds for termination. A.A.R., 2016 WL 231946, at *1. We affirmed the order
of termination, holding the evidence was sufficient, both legally and factually, to establish Mother
violated subsection (E), i.e., she engaged in conduct or knowingly placing her children with
persons who engaged in conduct that endangered the physical or emotional well-being of her
children. Id. at *6; see TEX. FAM. CODE ANN. § 161.001(b)(1)(E).
After A.A.T.’s removal, the Department prepared a new service plan for Mother (and R.T.)
with a stated goal of reunification. The trial court held the statutorily-required status and
permanency hearings. Ultimately, the Department moved to terminate Mother’s parental rights to
A.A.T., asserting the same grounds as in the previous termination action. See TEX. FAM. CODE
ANN. § 161.001(b)(1)(D), (E), (O). After a lengthy final hearing, at which Mother appeared with
appointed counsel, a jury found Mother: (1) knowingly placed the children or allowed the children
to remain in conditions that endangered their physical or emotional well-being; (2) engaged in
conduct or knowingly placed the children with someone who engaged in conduct that endangered
their physical or emotional well-being; and (3) failed to comply with the provision of a court order
that specifically established the actions necessary for her to obtain the return of A.A.T., who had
been in the Department’s custody for more than nine months as a result of removal for abuse or
neglect. See TEX. FAM. CODE ANN. § 161.001(b)(1)(D), (E), (O). The jury also found termination
of Mother’s parental rights would be in A.A.T.’s best interest. See id. § 161.001(b)(2).
Accordingly, the trial court rendered an order terminating Mother’s parental rights. Thereafter,
Mother perfected this appeal.
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ANALYSIS
As noted in the introduction, Mother contends: (1) the trial court erred in excluding certain
testimony from Mother’s expert; (2) the evidence is legally and factually insufficient to support
the jury’s findings under section 161.001(b)(1)(D), (E), and (O), see id. § 161.001(b)(1)(D), (E),
(O); and (3) the evidence is legally a factually insufficient to support the jury’s finding that
termination was in A.A.T.’s best interest. See id. § 161.001(b)(2). We will address the trial court’s
exclusion of the expert testimony first.
Exclusion of Expert Testimony
In her first issue, Mother contends the trial court erred in excluding testimony from her
expert, Dr. Marvin E. Miller. Although the trial court determined Dr. Miller, a pediatric geneticist
and pediatrician, is an expert in genetics, it concluded his hypothesis of temporary brittle bone
disease (“TBBD”), which the doctor also referred to as metabolic bone disease, was unreliable,
failing to meet the standards required under Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharms., Inc., 509 U.S. 579
(1993) and E.I. du Pont de Nemours & Co. v. Robinson, 923 S.W.2d 549 (Tex. 1995).
Standard of Review
Appellate courts review a trial court’s ruling on the admissibility of evidence for an abuse
of discretion. Gharda USA, Inc. v. Control Solutions, Inc., 464 S.W.3d 338, 347 (Tex. 2015);
Ford Motor Co. v. Aguiniga, 9 S.W.3d 252, 262 (Tex. App.—San Antonio 1999, pet. denied).
This includes rulings on the reliability of expert testimony. Gharda USA, Inc., 464 S.W.3d at 347;
Aguiniga, 9 S.W.3d at 262. A trial court abuses its discretion if it acts arbitrarily, unreasonably,
or without reference to any guiding rules or principles. In re R.O.C., 131 S.W.3d 129, 134 (Tex.
App.—San Antonio 2004, no pet.) (citing Robinson, 923 S.W.3d at 558). A reviewing court
should not find an abuse of discretion simply because it might have ruled differently or because
the trial court committed a mere error in judgment. Id. at 134–35. “Admission of expert testimony
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that does not meet the reliability requirement is an abuse of discretion.” Gharda USA, Inc., 464
S.W.3d at 347–48 (quoting Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. v. Mendez, 204 S.W.3d 797, 800 (Tex.
2006)). In other words, when “an expert’s testimony lacks a reliable scientific basis, its admission
by the trial court constitutes an abuse of discretion.” R.O.C., 131 S.W.3d at 135 (quoting Aguiniga,
9 S.W.3d at 262). Exclusion of evidence, even if erroneous, does not entitle an appellant to a
reversal unless the exclusion probably resulted in an improper judgment. JLG Trucking, LLC v.
Garza, 466 S.W.3d 157, 161 (Tex. 2015); see TEX. R. APP. P. 44.1(a)(1).
Application
The crux of the decision to terminate Mother’s parental rights to her four older children
and to seek termination of her rights as to A.A.T. was based on the numerous fractures suffered by
J.G. in the span of approximately one month, and in light of those injuries, Mother’s failure to
recognize risks to her children and acknowledge the abuse suffered by J.G. Mother’s expert, Dr.
Miller, sought to opine that J.G. suffered from TBBD or metabolic bone disease, which Dr. Miller
described as referring to multiple unexplained fractures (“MUFs”) in infants. The Department
filed a motion to exclude Dr. Miller’s testimony, alleging it was unreliable.
Expert testimony is most commonly presented in the form of an opinion. Aguiniga, 9
S.W.3d at 262. Thus, it is “especially important” a for trial court to scrutinize such evidence for
“scientific reliability,” particularly when it is based “upon novel scientific theories, sometimes
referred to as ‘junk science.’” Robinson, 923 S.W.2d at 554. Whether a proffered opinion rises
to the level of admissible evidence is determined by the rules of evidence. See generally TEX. R.
EVID. 702; Aguiniga, 9 S.W.3d at 262. Rule 702 requires that an expert be qualified “by
knowledge, skill, experience, training, or education,” and that his testimony assist the trier of fact
in understanding the evidence or determining a fact in issue. TEX. R. EVID. 702. In addition,
expert testimony must be relevant — sufficiently tied to the facts of the case such that it will aid
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the jury in resolving a factual dispute — and reliable — grounded in the methods and procedures
of science, i.e., more than subjective belief or unsupported speculation. Robinson, 923 S.W.2d at
556; Aguiniga, 9 S.W.3d at 262. In Robinson, the Texas Supreme Court espoused six factors that
it determined would be helpful in determining whether expert testimony is reliable: (1) the extent
to which the theory underlying the expert’s testimony has been tested; (2) the extent to which the
technique relies upon the subjective interpretation of the expert; (3) whether the theory has been
subjected to peer review and/or publication; (4) the technique’s potential rate of error; (5) whether
the underlying theory or technique has been generally accepted as valid by the relevant scientific
community; and (6) the non-judicial uses which have been made of the theory. See Robinson, 923
S.W.2d at 556–57. However, application of these factors does not preclude a trial court from
measuring an expert’s methodology under the analytical gap analysis set out in Gammill v. Jack
Williams Chevrolet, 972 S.W.2d 713, 726 (Tex. 1988). Transcontinental Ins. Co. v. Crump, 330
S.W.3d 211, 215–16 (Tex. 2010); Mack Trucks, Inc. v. Tamez, 206 S.W.3d 572, 579 (Tex. 2006).
Under this analysis, the trial court must determine whether there is “too great an analytical gap
between the data and the opinion proffered.” Crump, 330 S.W.3d at 215–16 (quoting Gammill,
927 S.W.2d at 726) (quoting Gen. Elec. Co. v. Joiner, 522 U.S. 136, 146 (1997)). In other words,
the two methods of review are not mutually exclusive. Crump, 330 S.W.3d at 215–16; Tamez,
206 S.W.3d at 579. As the court reiterated in Crump:
[I]n very few cases will the evidence be such that the trial court’s reliability
determination can properly be based only on the experience of a qualified witness
to the exclusion of factors such as those set out in Robinson, or, on the other hand,
properly be based only on factors such as those set out in Robinson to the exclusion
of considerations based on a qualified expert’s experience.
330 S.W.3d at 216 (quoting Whirlpool Corp. v. Camacho, 298 S.W.3d 631, 638 (Tex. 2009)).
At the Daubert/Robinson hearing, Dr. Miller testified to his belief in the existence of
temporary brittle bone disease, which he also referred to as metabolic bone disease. Dr. Miller
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opined that the presence of certain factors in infants with MUFs could indicate the presence of
such disease. Dr. Miller opined the disease could result in fractures in infants — fractures that
might otherwise be determined to have resulted from abuse — even during normal care routines.
Dr. Miller advised that he undertook a study of MUFs in infants in 1994. He then explained
his research process from which he concluded the following factors are indicative of the existence
of metabolic bone disease, i.e., TBBD: (1) maternal and/or infant Vitamin D deficiency; (2) fetal
bone loading; (3) gestational diabetes; (4) intrauterine growth retardation; (5) maternal use of
medication; (6) premature birth; and (7) the existence of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Dr. Miller
stated a child with the hypothesized disease usually does not have bruising, but will on occasion.
And he admitted there would be swelling if the fracture were to a “long bone.” To his knowledge,
there was no mention of any swelling or bruising to the J.G.’s arms, suggesting to him the existence
of metabolic bone disease.
As to Mother and J.G., Dr. Miller stated “there was historical evidence that some of the
risk factors might be present.” Dr. Miller admitted, as to Vitamin D deficiency, that in March
2014, J.G. tested in the normal range, but because this was several months after the fractures were
found, he could not make a judgment as to the possible existence of a deficiency at that time. He
opined Mother might have had this risk factor because of her BMI, but he did not know. He also
opined that because Mother was “relatively small” and J.G. was of normal birth weight, there might
have been intrauterine growth retardation due to confinement — this might have caused decreased
bone density in the womb. He also opined, though he had no proof, that Mother might have
suffered from Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome because she reported that she bruises easily, suffers from
constipation, and suffers dizziness when she stands. There is no diagnostic test for the syndrome.
Dr. Miller thought that if Mother suffered from the syndrome, J.G. might as well, and those with
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the syndrome have lower bone density and are at a slightly greater risk of fractures than the general
population.
Based on his research and subsequent hypothesis of the possible existence of metabolic
bone disease, i.e., TBBD, in infants with MUFs, Dr. Miller opined there “is a strong possibility”
that J.G.’s fractures resulted from metabolic bone disease, i.e., TBBD. He further advised that
J.G.’s x-rays “looked abnormal . . . and were consistent with what I call metabolic bone disease.”
He noted “abnormal bone mineralization” in certain bones. He said this raised the strong
possibility that J.G.’s fractures were not necessarily caused by abuse, but the fractures could be
“fragility fractures” that could occur during routine handling of a young infant with metabolic bone
disease, i.e., an infant with “a skeletal system that’s weaker than normal,” or even during the
skeletal surveys. However, he admitted it was not possible to make an accurate judgment of bone
density simply based on an x-ray unless there is osteopenia, i.e., “a washing out of the bone.”
On cross-examination, Dr. Miller stated his belief that J.G.’s x-rays appeared abnormal
prompted him to “look for the risk factors” he believes indicate the existence of metabolic bone
disease of TBBD. He acknowledged that while in Mother’s care, J.G. suffered numerous fractures,
but once removed, he suffered no additional fractures. He said J.G.’s condition “seem[ed] to be”
temporary. In Dr. Miller’s view, J.G. suffered the disease based on what happened while he was
in the womb, but that over time, the condition resolved itself.
According to Dr. Miller, he initially used the phrase TBBD, but because the phrase was
“politically charged” and metabolic bone disease is “more comprehensive,” he started using the
phrase metabolic bone disease instead of TBBD. He admitted the chairman at Wright University
where he works had advised him three or more years ago to stop doing consulting work with regard
to TBBD. He conceded the concept of TBBD is controversial, acknowledging that many pediatric
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child abuse specialists do not believe in its existence. He further conceded the idea that a Vitamin
D deficiency causes brittle bones in infants is also very controversial.
Dr. Miller admitted he never spoke directly to Mother, nor did he examine her or J.G. He
was unable to say with reasonable medical certainty that Mother or J.G. had a Vitamin D
deficiency. Similarly, he could not say whether Mother or J.G. suffered from Ehlers-Danlos
Syndrome. Dr. Miller admitted J.G. was a full-term infant and there is no evidence any medication
taken by Mother during pregnancy would have led to metabolic bone disease. He acknowledged
there was no evidence Mother suffered from gestational diabetes or that J.G. suffered from
intrauterine growth retardation. Dr. Miller also admitted fractures that result from his theory of
metabolic bone disease “usually occur” in the first six months of an infant’s life. However, it is
undisputed that no fractures were noted in J.G. until he was seven months old. He concluded by
admitting he could not rule out the possibility that J.G. was abused, resulting in the noted fractures.
Dr. Miller’s testimony, when considered as a whole, shows Dr. Miller could not say for
certain that Mother or J.G. suffered from any of the risk factors he contends are indicative of
infantile metabolic bone disease. Dr. Miller was able to opine only that Mother and/or J.G. might
have had three of seven noted risk factors. Thus, he was unable to show his pre-determined risk
factors — even assuming their presence is indicative of the existence of his hypothesized metabolic
bone disease — supported a conclusion of metabolic bone disease with regard to J.G. See
Gammill, 972 S.W.2d at 726–27. There was an analytical gap between Dr. Miller’s data and his
proffered opinion that J.G. suffered from metabolic bone disease, resulting in the fractures. See
id.
Moreover, the Department presented evidence from expert Dr. Maria Gisela Mercado-
Deane, a pediatric radiologist and consultant for the Center. Dr. Mercado-Deane, after establishing
her qualification, first testified about a conference she attended just two weeks before the
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termination hearing. She testified the conference, which was entitled “The Imaging of Child
Abuse: From Exam Room to X-ray Room to Court,” drew attendees from the fields of child abuse
and neglect, pediatrics, radiology, orthopedics, neurology, and emergency medicine. According
to the doctor, Dr. Miller’s theory of metabolic bone disease was discussed at the conference where
it was criticized. Dr. Mercado-Deane testified Dr. Miller’s theories “are not accepted in the
community of child abuse experts.” She stated his ideas have not been proven, stating they are
pure speculation. The doctor advised there has not been any publication establishing proof with
regard to Dr. Miller’s ideas and theories.
Dr. Mercado-Deane pointed to an article entitled “Critical Review of Temporary Brittle
Bone Disease,” which was prepared by the ad hoc committee on child abuse for the Society for
Pediatric Radiology (“SPR”). The article was endorsed by both boards for the SPR and the
European Society for Pediatric Radiology (“ESPR”) at their 2005 meeting. In that article, the
members of SPR and ESPR stated the purpose of the article was “to instruct courts on the most
current and widely accepted imaging methods and to refuse expert testimony that lacks a sound
medical basis.” The members sought to “expose irresponsible medical expert testimony in the
field of pediatric diagnostic imaging.” In that article, the authors discuss Dr. Miller’s theory of
TBBD, refuting it and specifically stating the methodology and reliability of the theory is wrong
and unreliable. In the article, the authors stated that the key concept “in this alleged condition is
that a young infant had a problem that made the bones susceptible to fractures for a short period
of time, but the condition resolved spontaneously, leaving no pathology to identify.” The authors
advised it was their “professional responsibility to provide the courts with reliable scientific
information” and “a diagnosis of TBBD does not meet this standard because it lacks appropriate
grounding in scientific methods and procedures.” The authors stated the theory “is based on the
unsupported speculation and subjective beliefs of [a] small number of medical professionals,” and
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allowing the presentation of evidence in court on this theory creates a grave risk that non-scientific
fact finders will be misled or confused by “unreliable and/or irrelevant expert opinion.” The
authors of the article concluded this would threaten the quality of legal decisions and poses “an
unacceptable risk to the safety of children.” In sum, the article strongly advised evidence on the
theory of TBBD should not be admitted as evidence in court.
Dr. Mercado-Deane then pointed to a second article published in February 2016 — just a
month before trial — entitled “The Etiology and Significance of Fractures in Infants and Young
Children: A Critical Multidisciplinary Review.” According to the doctor, the article was put
together by a coalition of experts from the SPR and includes information regarding Vitamin D
deficiency and brittle bones, among other things. In the article, the authors concluded Vitamin D
deficiency “does not have direct correlation to bone disease.” As Dr. Mercado-Deane pointed out,
this refutes Dr. Miller’s assertion that Vitamin D deficiency is indicative of metabolic bone
disease, i.e., TBBD. The article specifically advised that courts are not proper forums for the
presentation of “new or unsubstantiated theories of causation of disease.” The article concluded
the “[c]ourts can avoid promulgating unsubstantiated and unsafe theories and opinions by relying
on medical and ethical guidelines from,” among others, “the Society for Pediatric Radiology and
the American Academy of Pediatrics.” And, as is particularly pertinent here, the article stated:
As an example, the Committee on Child Abuse of the Society for Pediatric
Radiology helped refute the legitimacy of temporary brittle bone disease, a disease
that has not been proven to exist.
(emphasis added)
The doctor also contradicted Dr. Miller’s assertion that x-rays of J.G.’s bones showed
“loose zones.” She testified the zones described by Dr. Miller were actually the result of “normal
healing of a fracture.” Dr. Mercado-Deane stated the healing fractures were not indicative of
mineralization issues, opining that J.G.’s bones were “normal in mineralization.”
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As to some of the information relied upon by Dr. Miller in developing his theories,
particularly a study by Dr. Kathy Keller and Dr. Patrick Barnes, Dr. Mercado-Deane testified the
study was flawed — not just in her opinion, but in the opinion of several commentary authors.
The Keller and Barnes study was for the purpose of engendering discussion, not as an answer to
infant fractures. The doctor provided detailed criticism of the study. She also noted that in 2013,
an article advised that “[t]he hypotheses set forth in Keller and Barnes thus remain hypothetical
and unsubstantiated,” and “[p]erhaps better stated, the hypotheses of Keller and Barnes have been
disproved.” According to Dr. Mercado-Deane, when Dr. Keller presented her findings at the 2008
annual meeting of the SPR, people left because the presentation was “so outrageously not accepted,
and there were [sic] even some booing.”
Dr. Mercado-Deane testified, in sum, that the prevailing thought about TBBD among
pediatric radiologists and child abuse experts is that it does not exist. Put another way, she stated
Dr. Miller’s ideas regarding metabolic bone disease are not generally accepted by pediatricians or
other medical doctors. She stated Dr. Miller’s ideas about TBBD cannot even be categorized as a
theory; rather, he merely has opinions because there is no proof, only conjecture. The doctor stated
there are two peer-reviewed articles on TBBD — one by Dr. Miller and one by Drs. Keller and
Barnes — and both have been refuted. And, in fact, there are numerous medical articles that state
TBBD is not a valid theory and does not, in fact, even exist. The doctor stated her concern
regarding presentation of Dr. Miller’s ideas to a jury, stating that she fears jurors might interpret
his ideas as “proved science when it is not.” She then went through each of the factors Dr. Miller
opined might be attributable to J.G. and/or Mother and testified that none of them have a proven
association with the type of bone fragility Dr. Miller discusses.
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The Department also presented evidence from Dr. Lukefahr at the Daubert/Robinson
hearing. 5 As previously noted, Dr. Lukefahr is a child abuse pediatrician and is board certified in
both general pediatrics and child abuse pediatrics. Dr. Lukefahr testified that during his career, he
has become familiar with the idea of TBBD. He stated that as a pediatrician, he does not recognize
such a disease. Although he knows many other pediatricians, he does not know of one that
endorses the ideas propounded by Dr. Miller. According to Dr. Lukefahr, the idea “defies logic,”
stating:
[T]he idea that a child could suddenly develop a medical condition at the age three
months or so that is then totally gone by 12 months, it’s not logical, it doesn’t — it
defies common sense. And in actual fact, it does turn out that there’s no scientific
evidence that’s ever been put forward to support it.
Dr. Lukefahr pointed to two articles that contradict Dr. Miller’s ideas. First, in an article entitled
“Vitamin D Status in Abused and Nonabused Children Younger Than 2 Years Old With
Fractures,” the authors stated that low Vitamin D levels are common in the United States, but there
is no difference in such levels between children with fractures due to abuse and children with
fractures due to accidents. Thus, according to Dr. Lukefahr, this strongly suggests that low
Vitamin D levels are not associated with increased fractures, disqualifying law Vitamin D as a
“factor” for Dr. Miller’s theory. The second article, “Evaluating Infants and Young Children With
Multiple Fractures,” is a clinical report from the committee on child abuse and neglect of the
American Academy of Pediatrics. The report is prepared by the committee, but then it goes
through five or so levels of review with the Academy before it is released. Relevant here, the
article, which Dr. Lukefahr testified is the “kind of thing” he follows in his work, states that a few
articles have hypothesized the existence of TBBD, but the existence of such a disease “is neither
5
Mother challenged Dr. Lukefahr’s testimony under Daubert/Robinson. Thus, some of his testimony at the hearing
related to his qualifications and the reliability of his opinions, as well as his testimony as to the lack of reliability of
Dr. Miller’s theory of metabolic bone disease, i.e., TBBD.
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clinically validated nor generally accepted by expert professionals and should not be invoked to
explain multiple fractures in an infant.” (emphasis added). According to the article the idea that
an infant’s bones are especially vulnerable to fractures for a short period of time due to some
unknown metabolic abnormality or due to decreased fetal movement in utero is neither valid nor
generally accepted.
As to J.G., Dr. Lukefahr testified his bone chemistry and architecture were normal. He
was seven months old before his first fracture, sustained all the fractures in a short time period,
and then the fractures ceased after that. Thus, there is nothing to suggest J.G. has any kind of
underlying bone disease, “including hypothetical bone diseases.” Dr. Lukefahr stated J.G.’s
Vitamin D levels were normal within two weeks of the onset of his fractures, negating the idea of
fractures resulting from Vitamin D deficiency. He reviewed Mother’s prenatal records and found
her pregnancy “uneventful.” Given the records show normal movement by J.G. while in the
womb, it is unlikely there was fetal bone loading. Dr. Lukefahr also discounted the existence of
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, which he stated is not associated with bone fractures, as well as
intrauterine growth retardation. According to Dr. Lukefahr, if there had been intrauterine growth
retardation, it would have been reflected in lower birth weight, but J.G. was seven pounds, twelve
ounces at birth — normal. He also noted J.G. was a full-term baby — discounting another possible
factor as set forth by Dr. Miller.
Finally, although Dr. Miller claimed some bone scientists have advised him his ideas have
merit, even he admitted his ideas have received criticism. In fact, according to Dr. Miller, another
doctor wrote an editorial critical of the concept of TBBD, which appeared in a peer-reviewed
journal.
When we consider the Robinson factors, several seem inapplicable, including the extent to
which the theory has been tested and the potential rate of error. See Robinson, 923 S.W.2d at 557.
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However, Dr. Miller’s theory regarding the existence of metabolic bone disease, i.e., TBBD, has
been negatively peer-reviewed in several publications. Id. And, the evidence shows his ideas are
based on his subjective interpretation regarding the existence of the factors that in his opinion
denote the existence of metabolic bone disease. And, the Department provided evidence from two
experts who testified Dr. Miller’s theory has not been generally accepted by the relevant
community. Id. Dr. Mercado-Deane even denounced it as a theory, describing as merely an idea.
Moreover, the Department presented through its witnesses several medical articles that specifically
renounced the existence of such a disease. Id. As stated by one of those articles, the existence of
such a disease “is neither clinically validated nor generally accepted by expert professionals and
should not be invoked to explain multiple fractures in an infant.” Finally, it seems that if Dr.
Miller’s theory has been used only for judicial purposes — for the specific purpose of defending
parents accused of abuse. Id.
Based on the foregoing, we hold the trial court did not err in excluding Dr. Miller’s
testimony relating to metabolic bone disease, i.e., TBBD. The Department presented sufficient
evidence for the trial court to conclude, in its discretion, that Dr. Miller’s theory was unreliable
due to an analytical gap between the data and his conclusion and under the Robinson factors. See
Gammill, 972 S.W.2d at 726–27; Robinson, 923 S.W.3d at 557.
Legal and Factual Sufficiency
In two issues, Mother challenges the legal and factual sufficiency of the evidence regarding
the findings under section 161.001(b)(1) and the finding that termination was in the best interests
of A.A.T. pursuant to section 161.001(b)(2). We will address each challenge in turn. We begin
by setting out the standard of review, which is applicable to Mother’s challenges under both section
161.001(b)(1) and 161.001(b)(2) of the Texas Family Code (“the Code”).
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Standard of Review
A parent’s right to her child may be terminated only upon proof by clear and convincing
evidence that: (1) the parent committed an act prohibited by section 161.001(b)(1) of the Code;
and (2) termination is in the best interest of the child. Id. § 161.001(b)(1), (2); In re J.O.A., 283
S.W.3d 336, 344 (Tex. 2009); In re B.R., 456 S.W.3d 612, 615 (Tex. App.—San Antonio 2015,
no pet.). “Clear and convincing evidence” is “proof that will produce in the mind of the trier of
fact a firm belief or conviction as to the truth of the allegations sought to be established.” TEX.
FAM. CODE ANN. § 101.007 (West 2008); see J.O.A., 283 S.W.3d at 344; B.R., 456 S.W.3d at 615.
Because termination of parental rights results in permanent and unalterable changes for both parent
and child, courts have held due process is implicated, requiring the use of the heightened clear and
convincing standard of review. In re A.B., 437 S.W.3d 498, 502 (Tex. 2015); In re D.M., 452
S.W.3d 462, 468–69 (Tex. App.—San Antonio 2014, no pet.); In re E.A.G., 373 S.W.3d 129, 140
(Tex. App.—San Antonio 2012, pet. denied). Given the foregoing, we must determine whether
the evidence is such that a fact finder could reasonably form a firm belief or conviction that a
parent violated an alleged statutory ground and termination was in the child’s best interest. A.B.,
437 S.W.3d at 502; In re J.P.B., 180 S.W.3d 570, 573 (Tex. 2005) (citing In re J.F.C., 96 S.W.3d
256, 266 (Tex. 2002)).
In reviewing a legal sufficiency challenge in termination cases, we view the evidence in
the light most favorable to the trial court’s findings and judgment, and resolve any disputed facts
in favor of the trier of fact’s findings if a reasonable fact finder could have so resolved them. Id.
We must disregard all evidence that a reasonable fact finder could have disbelieved and consider
undisputed evidence even if such evidence is contrary to the trier of fact’s findings. Id. In other
words, we consider evidence favorable to termination if a reasonable fact finder could and
disregard contrary evidence unless a reasonable fact finder could not. Id.
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In a factual sufficiency review, we still give due deference to the trier of fact’s findings,
avoiding substituting our judgment for that of the fact finder. In re H.R.M., 209 S.W.3d 105, 108
(Tex. 2006). “If, in light of the entire record, the disputed evidence that a reasonable factfinder
could not have credited in favor of the finding is so significant that a factfinder could not
reasonably have formed a firm belief or conviction [in the truth of its finding], then the evidence
is factually insufficient.” Id. (quoting J.F.C., 96 S.W.3d at 266).
When conducting a sufficiency review, we may not weigh a witness’s credibility — as it
depends on appearance and demeanor; these are within the domain of the trier of fact. J.P.B., 180
S.W.3d at 573. Even if evidence regarding appearance and demeanor are found in the appellate
record, we must nevertheless defer to the fact finder’s reasonable resolutions. Id.
Section 161.001(b)(1) — Grounds for Termination
At trial, the jury was instructed it could terminate Mother’s parental rights if it found by
clear and convincing evidence that: (1) Mother violated subsections (D), (E), or (O) of section
161.001(b)(1), and (2) termination would be in A.A.T.’s best interest. Mother challenges the
sufficiency of the evidence as each to of the statutory grounds upon which the jury was charged.
However, only one statutory ground is necessary to support a judgment in a parental-rights
termination case. See In re A.V., 113 S.W.3d 355, 362 (Tex. 2003); In re E.W., 494 S.W.3d 287,
291–92 (Tex. App.—Texarkana 2015, no pet.). Accordingly, when, as here, multiple statutory
grounds for termination are alleged and the trial court issues a broad-form question asking the jury
whether the parent-child relationship should be terminated, we must uphold the jury’s finding if
any of the statutory grounds alleged supports it. See Spurck v. Tex. Dept. of Family & Protective
Servs., 396 S.W.3d 205, 221 (Tex. App.—Austin 2013, no pet.) (citing In re B.K.D., 131 S.W.3d
10, 16 (Tex. App.—Fort Worth 2003, pet. denied)). In other words, if multiple predicate grounds
are found by the trier of fact, an appellate court may affirm based on any one ground because only
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one ground is necessary for termination. E.W., 494 S.W.3d at 292. Thus, if we determine the
evidence is sufficient to support any one of the three grounds for termination submitted to the jury,
we need not address Mother’s challenge to the remaining grounds. See id.
The jury was instructed that it could terminate Mother’s parental rights if it determined
termination would be in A.A.T.’s best interest and Mother violated one of three statutory grounds
for termination, including that she failed to comply with the provisions of a court order that
specifically established the actions necessary for her to obtain the return of A.A.T. See TEX. FAM.
CODE ANN. § 161.001(b)(1)(O). Mother contends the evidence is legally and factually insufficient
to support a finding that she failed to comply with section 161.001(b)(1)(O). We disagree.
The order Mother was required to comply with was the court-ordered service plan, which
set out the tasks and goals Mother need to complete and attain in order to regain custody of A.A.T.
and avoid termination of her parental rights. The evidence shows Mother was presented with a
copy of the service plan, which was explained to her in the presence of her attorney, and that she
signed the plan on September 14, 2014. Under the plan, Mother was required to complete, among
other things, the following tasks and attain the following goals:
(1) provide proof she is able to support herself and her children independently;
(2) continue working with HUD to obtain a residence of her own and provide proof
of same on a monthly basis;
(3) submit to a psychological evaluation and follow recommendations, giving
honest and open answers to questions;
(4) attend bi-monthly counseling sessions with Dr. Rachel Goodman Yates and as
a result:
(a) demonstrate how she will manage risk factors in her home,
(b) verbalize her understanding of the impact of physical abuse on J.G., her
older children, and A.A.T.,
(c) acknowledge the seriousness of the injuries suffered by J.G.,
(d) acknowledge the injuries suffered by J.G. were due to abuse, not medical
problems or physical abnormalities, and
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(e) have the ability to identify signs of child abuse and describe ways to identify
potential abusers
(5) acknowledge and describe her responsibility to manage risk factors in the home
and demonstrate that she understands she is ultimately responsible for her
children’s safety;
(6) acknowledge the potential for future abuse;
(7) be able to identify signs of abuse and describe appropriate interventions if
needed;
(8) demonstrate empathy toward her children, especially J.G., for the physical
abuse he suffered and demonstrate an understanding of the impact of physical
abuse on her children;
(9) demonstrate an understanding of the importance of providing a safe home for
her children; and
(10) demonstrate an understanding of the seriousness of the injuries sustained by
J.G. while in her care and in the care of her family members.
Much of Mother’s service plan was directed to understanding risk and recognizing and
acknowledging the abuse suffered by J.G. As Department worker Melanie Torres testified, A.A.T.
was taken from Mother almost immediately after his birth based on the Department’s prior removal
— and the trial court’s ultimate termination — of Mother’s four older children based on abuse
suffered by J.G. According to Ms. Torres, although Mother completed some services, she failed
to complete the mandated counseling with Dr. Yates, thereby failing to attain the goals set out in
the service plan — particularly those relating to risk and abuse. Ms. Torres testified Mother
discontinued counseling with Dr. Yates after the first termination trial at which her rights to her
four older children were terminated. Mother voluntarily discontinued counseling; she was not
discharged.
According to Ms. Torres, Mother continued to assert J.G. was injured accidentally and
denied any knowledge of the source of his injuries, despite claims of abuse by her three older
children and evidence from medical providers. She continued to deny J.G. was abused by family
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members or R.T., establishing a failure to attain the several of the service-plan goals set forth
above.
Similar testimony was provided by Dr. Yates. Dr. Yates also testified Mother stopped
attending therapy in May 2015 without being discharged. Dr. Yates found it telling that Mother
discontinued counseling after a visit with A.A.T. at which Mother appeared to have suffered
injuries such that she was unable to pick up or carry A.A.T. on her own. Dr. Yates confronted
Mother about her injuries, but Mother refused to speak about the incident, stating she needed to
speak to her attorney. Evidence in the record showed the injuries occurred during a domestic
violence incident with R.T. Although Mother testified she was the instigator in the situation and
denied she suffered injuries at the hand of R.T., there was evidence to the contrary.
Dr. Yates testified that when Mother began therapy, she was encouraged by Mother’s
progress. However, progress ended when Dr. Yates began confronting Mother with regard to the
abuse suffered by J.G. and the choices Mother made with regard to the men in her life — all of
whom, the evidence established, had criminal backgrounds. According to the doctor, Mother
began her “big pull away” after Dr. Yates confronted her about the domestic violence incident with
R.T. Dr. Yates never saw Mother again after that. Although Dr. Yates attempted to call Mother
on “many occasions,” dropped by her place of employment, and sent messages to Mother through
the Department caseworker, Mother never responded.
Dr. Yates stated the Department’s main concern with regard to Mother — as reflected in
the tasks and goals of the service plan — was her inability to assess risks to herself and her children
by continually engaging in relationships with unsuitable men. Mother’s inability to assess risks
endangered her children, and Mother was defensive when confronted with these issues. According
to Dr. Yates, Mother: (1) never demonstrated how she would manage risk factors in her home; (2)
was unable to verbalize her understanding of the impact of physical abuse on J.G. and the other
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children; (3) never acknowledged the seriousness of J.G.’s injuries and, in fact, was never even
able to describe the injuries; (4) never admitted J.G.’s injuries were the result of abuse as opposed
to medical issues or physical abnormalities; and (5) although she made some progress in her ability
to describe ways to recognize potential abuse and identify the signs, she was still unable to
understand “risk factors in general” or recognize unacceptable romantic partners. According to
the doctor, Mother lacks the ability to assess risk, and as a result, the doctor believes Mother will
end up in other relationships similar to those she entered before thereby endangering herself and
her children. Dr. Yates testified that even though A.A.T. is not one of the original children that
first prompted the necessity of removal and counseling, the child should not be returned to Mother
because Mother is still unable to assess risk, exposing A.A.T. to the same sort of situations that
resulted in J.G.’s injuries and ultimately, termination.
In sum, Dr. Yates opined that Mother is unable to see the risks created by her behavior and
the potential behavior of other adults who have access to her children. According to Dr. Yates,
R.T. was simply an example of Mother’s inability to assess risk. The doctor stated Mother tends
to overlook “tendencies and behaviors that would indicate to her” that certain people could be
injurious to her children. Dr. Yates testified Mother was simply unable to see and assess risks to
herself and her children.
Based on the evidence set out above, as well as other evidence in the record, we hold the
jury, which is entitled to judge witness credibility, could have reasonably formed a firm belief or
conviction that Mother failed to comply with the provisions of her service plan relating to risk
recognition and assessment, as well as recognition and acknowledgement of the abuse suffered by
J.G. See A.B., 437 S.W.3d at 502; J.P.B., 180 S.W.3d at 573.
Moreover, although Mother obtained a home of her own at one point, she ultimately moved
back in with her mother — the home where J.G. was injured. Pursuant to the service plan, Mother
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was required to obtain her own home. It is undisputed that she ultimately failed to complete this
service-plan task. We recognize Mother testified she was unable to secure housing through HUD
because she did not have custody of her children. However, any excuses for failing to comply
with a provision in a court-ordered service plan is only considered under a best interest analysis,
not in an analysis relating to a parent’s alleged failure to comply with the terms of the service plan.
In re L.C., Nos.13-13-00437-CV & 13-13-00438-CV, 2013 WL 6730181, at *6 (Tex. App.—
Corpus Christi Dec. 19, 2013, no pet.) (mem. op.) (citing In re M.C.G., 329 S.W.3d 674 S.W.3d
674, 676 (Tex. App.—Houston [14th Dist.] 2010, pet. denied) (supp. op.); In re T.N.F., 205 S.W.3d
625, 631 (Tex. App.—Waco 2006, pet. denied) (observing that “the statute itself does not make a
provision for excuses”), overruled in part on other grounds, In re A.M., 385 S.W.3d 74, 78 (Tex.
App.—Waco 2012, pet. denied)). “The Family Code does not provide for substantial compliance
with family services plan.” L.C., 2013 WL 6730181, at *6 (quoting M.C.G., 329 S.W.3d at 676).
Accordingly, we hold the jury could have reasonably formed a firm belief or conviction that
Mother failed to comply with the provisions of her service plan that required her to obtain housing.
See A.B., 437 S.W.3d at 502; J.P.B., 180 S.W.3d at 573.
Having determined there was sufficient evidence — legally and factually — for the jury to
conclude Mother failed to comply with certain requirements of her service plan pursuant to section
161.001(b)(1)(O), we need not address Mother’s sufficiency challenges to grounds (D) or (E). See
E.W., 494 S.W.3d at 292. We now turn to Mother’s sufficiency challenges to the jury’s best
interest determination.
Section 161.001(b)(2) — Best Interest
This court recognizes, as we have time and again, there is a strong presumption that
maintaining the parent-child relationship is in a child’s best interest. In re R.R., 209 S.W.3d 112,
116 (Tex. 2006) (per curiam). However, that presumption disappears when evidence to the
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contrary is presented. In re A.I.G., 135 S.W.3d 687, 692 (Tex. App.—San Antonio 2003, no pet.).
Moreover, there is a competing presumption which provides that permanently placing a child in a
safe environment in a timely manner is also in a child’s best interest. B.R., 456 S.W.3d at 615; see
TEX. FAM. CODE ANN. § 263.307(a) (West Supp. 2016). In Holley v. Adams, 544 S.W.2d 367,
371–72 (Tex. 1976), the Texas Supreme Court set forth factors a trier of fact could consider when
making a best interest determination:
(1) the desires of the child;
(2) the emotional and physical needs of the child now and in the future;
(3) the emotional and physical danger to the child now and in the future;
(4) the parental abilities of the individuals seeking custody;
(5) the programs available to assist these individuals to promote the best interest of
the child;
(6) the plans for the child by these individuals or by the agency seeking custody;
(7) the stability of the home or proposed placement;
(8) the acts or omissions of the parent which may indicate that the existing parent-
child relationship is not a proper one; and
(9) any excuse for the acts or omissions of the parent.
Id. Here, the jury was charged that in determining whether termination would be in A.A.T.’s best
interest, it could consider the Holley factors. In addition, the jury was instructed, without objection,
that it could consider: (1) the children’s age[s] and physical and mental vulnerabilities; (2) the
magnitude, frequency and circumstances of harm to the child; (3) whether the children ha[d] been
the victim of repeated harm after the initial report and intervention by the department or other
agency; (4) whether there is a history of abusive or assaultive conduct by the child’s family or
others who have access to the children’s home; and (5) whether the child’s family demonstrates
adequate parenting skills, including providing the children under the family’s care with protection
from repeated exposure to violence even though the violence may not be directed at the child. See
TEX. FAM. CODE ANN. § 263.307(b)(1), (3), (4), (7), (12). The trial court then instructed the jury
that neither the Holley factors nor those from section 263.307(b) were exclusive, advising the jury
it could consider “other factors in determining the best interest of” A.A.T. Moreover, the jury was
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not required to find evidence of each and every factor before finding termination would be in
A.A.T.’s best interest. See In re C.H., 89 S.W.3d 17, 27 (Tex. 2002). As the supreme court stated
in C.H., “The absence of evidence about some of these considerations would not preclude a
factfinder from reasonably forming a strong conviction or belief that termination is in the child’s
best interest, particularly if the evidence were undisputed that the parental relationship endangered
the safety of the child.” Id. In addition, based on the “other factors” instruction, we find the trial
court was advising jurors they could consider, among other things: (1) the acts or omissions as
found under section 161.001(b)(1); (2) circumstantial evidence; (3) subjective factors; (4) and the
totality of the evidence. See In re R.S.D., 446 S.W.3d 816, 820 (Tex. App.—San Antonio 2014,
no pet.).
The jurors were also provided with definitions of “endanger,” and “abuse or neglect of the
child.” Jurors were advised “endanger” meant to expose to loss or injury, to jeopardize, and that
it was not necessary that a parent’s conduct be directed at A.A.T. or that A.A.T. actually suffered
an injury. See In re D.M., 58 S.W.3d 801, 811 (Tex. App.—Fort Worth 2001, no pet.). “If a parent
abuses or neglects the other parent or children, that conduct can be used to support a finding of
endangerment even against a child who was not yet born at the time of the conduct.” In re C.J.F.,
134 S.W.3d 343, 351 (Tex. App.—Amarillo 2003, pet. denied). Pursuant to the trial court’s
definition, the jury could find A.A.T. was endangered if it found abusive, violent, aggressive, or
detrimental behavior by a parent that endangered the physical or emotional well-being of another
parent or another child. “[D]omestic violence, want of self-control and propensity for violence
may be considered as evidence of endangerment.” Id. Endangerment was further defined to
include acts and omissions that occurred before or after A.A.T.’s birth. C.J.F., 134 S.W.3d at 351.
Thus, the jury was entitled to consider whether Mother’s actions, with respect to her four older
children, constituted endangerment or abuse and neglect as to A.A.T. for purposes of termination.
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See In re K.N.D., 424 S.W.3d 8, 10 (Tex. 2014) (holding that parent’s history with other children
is relevant to determination of whether child removed for “abuse of neglect”).
1. Desires of the Child
The evidence shows that at the time of trial, A.A.T. was not yet two years old. Thus, he
was unable to express his desire regarding conservatorship. See TEX. FAM. CODE ANN.
§ 263.307(b)(1) (child’s age and physical and mental vulnerabilities); Holley, 544 S.W.2d at 371–
72. However, the Department presented, and the jury was entitled to consider, evidence regarding
A.A.T.’s current placement and the time spent with Mother in evaluating his desires. See In re
U.P., 105 S.W.3d 222, 230 (Tex. App.—Houston [14th Dist.] 2003, pet. denied). “When children
are too young to express their desires, the fact finder may consider that the children have bonded
with the foster family, are well-cared for by them, and have spent minimal time with a parent.” In
re J.D., 436 S.W.3d 105, 108 (Tex. App.—Houston [14th Dist.] 2014, no pet.).
The evidence established A.A.T. was removed from Mother and R.T. two days after his
birth. Since that time, he has been with his current foster family. According to Ms. Torres, she
has seen A.A.T. many times with his foster parents. She advised he is doing “great” in the foster
home and is “bonded to the caregivers, the family.” Ms. Torres testified A.A.T. is part of all family
functions, is a “happy kid,” and in “very good health.” In fact, he blended in with the foster family
from the start and calls his foster parents “mama and dada.” Ms. Torres said the foster parents
love A.A.T. The foster father is a disabled veteran who stays home with A.A.T. and two other
children whom the family has adopted.
Department caseworker Megan Martinez also testified about A.A.T.’s relationship with his
foster family, stating he has a strong bond with his foster parents and foster siblings. She described
the foster home as “safe,” “loving,” and “secure.” According to Ms. Martinez, the foster parents
meet all of A.A.T.’s physical and emotional needs and “would love to adopt” him. Moreover, the
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foster mother is related to the current caregivers of A.A.T.’s four half-siblings, and they have
already conducted visits between the siblings and intend to continue this practice.
Ms. Martinez testified that although Mother initially visited A.A.T. regularly, she stopped
visitation in January 2016, and thus at the time of trial, had not seen A.A.T. for several months.
Ms. Martinez stated it was Mother’s responsibility to call and set up visits. Admittedly, Mother
had to travel some distance for visitation, but Ms. Martinez testified she offered Mother gas cards
and rides if necessary.
More specific testimony about Mother’s visitation with A.A.T. was presented through
assistant caseworker Melody Salazar. Ms. Salazar testified she is responsible for setting up
visitation, transporting children for visitation, and monitoring visitation. She was responsible for
visitation between Mother and A.A.T. Mother was permitted three visits per month. Ms. Salazar
stated that in this case, visits are set up and she then calls or texts Mother to confirm. The parties
meet at the Department office in Uvalde, with Ms. Salazar picking up A.A.T. and transporting him
to the office.
Ms. Salazar testified that since September 2015, Mother has had approximately six visits
with A.A.T. She stated that in the months before trial, there were “[p]robably eight, ten maybe”
visits where Mother confirmed, but failed to show up. Ms. Salazar advised that in January,
February, and March of 2016 — the three months preceding trial, there were no visits between
Mother and A.A.T. Ms. Salazar stated that although she contacted Mother, she received no
response. In November and December there were only two visits each month. She testified that
even when Mother showed up for visitation, she was frequently late. Ms. Salazar opined that travel
and money should not have been a bar to visitation because the Department offered Mother money
to pay for visits, and in fact on one occasion, when Mother asked, the Department provided her
with a gas card. On a separate occasion, when Mother advised she lacked funds to travel to Uvalde,
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Ms. Salazar advised that the Department would provide Mother with money for travel expenses.
Mother agreed, but then never showed up. Ms. Salazar concluded that since January 2016, Mother
has expressed no interest in seeing A.A.T.
Ms. Salazar testified that when she observed visits between Mother and child, she saw no
bonding. She stated Mother “doesn’t hug him and love on him and stuff.” According to Ms.
Salazar, Mother shows no affection toward A.A.T., sometimes sleeping during visits.
Although Mother attempted to show it was the Department’s fault that visitation fell off,
Ms. Salazar denied it, stating she attempted to contact Mother to set up visits, but Mother was
unresponsive. Although she admitted she did not try to contact Mother through her attorney, she
advised that it was Mother’s responsibility to contact her with regard to visitation.
2. Emotional & Physical Needs/Emotional & Physical Danger
A.A.T. was less than two years old at the time of trial — approximately twenty months old.
Thus, he is very young and will require constant emotional and physical support for many years.
See TEX. FAM. CODE ANN. § 263.307(b)(1); Holley, 544 S.W.2d at 371–72; In re J.G.M., No. 04-
15-00423-CV, 2015 WL 6163204, at *3 (Tex. App.—San Antonio Oct. 21, 2015, no pet.) (mem
op.). His age renders him vulnerable if he is left in the custody of a parent who is unable or
unwilling to protect him. See TEX. FAM. CODE ANN. § 263.307(b)(1); Holley, 544 S.W.2d at 371–
72; J.G.M., 2015 WL 6163204, at *3. As Dr. Yates testified, Mother was never able to demonstrate
her ability to recognize risk or acknowledge the injuries to J.G. were the result of abuse. These
failures portend risk to A.A.T. if he is returned.
Mother’s inability or unwillingness to protect her children, including A.A.T. — thereby
placing them in physical or emotional danger — was demonstrated by the repeated abuse suffered
by J.G. — abuse that Mother, even at the second termination trial and after hearing from various
medical professionals, refused to accept or acknowledge. See TEX. FAM. CODE ANN.
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§ 263.307(b)(3) (magnitude, frequency, and circumstances of harm to child); id. § 263.307(b)(4)
(whether child has been victim of repeated harm after initial report and intervention by
Department); id. § 263.307(b)(12) (whether child’s family demonstrates adequate parenting
skills); Holley, 544 S.W.2d at 371–72. The Department presented evidence that J.G. suffered
repeated abuse from November 19, 2013, through the end of December 2013. See TEX. FAM. CODE
ANN. § 263.307(b)(3); id. § 263.307(b)(4); id. § 263.307(b)(12); Holley, 544 S.W.2d at 371–72.
According to the evidence, someone slapped J.G. repeatedly across the face — at least twice. And,
J.G. suffered five fractures over the course of less than a month — fractures medical experts
testified were the result of abuse. Nevertheless, Mother, even at trial, refused to acknowledge
J.G.’s injuries were the result of abuse. See TEX. FAM. CODE ANN. § 263.307(b)(12); Holley, 544
S.W.2d at 371–72. Mother continued to claim J.G. was not slapped, but fell off a bed. As for the
fractures, despite medical evidence to the contrary — and testimony from her three older children,
Mother continues to insist J.G.’s injuries were accidental — dropped by an older sibling or injured
when pulled from a slatted-crib at daycare — or the result of an organic or medical condition.
Mother testified she has not been shown that J.G. was abused, claiming she has never been shown
a shred of evidence that he was abused. See TEX. FAM. CODE ANN. § 263.307(b)(12); Holley, 544
S.W.2d at 371–72. Mother specifically stated her continued belief that J.G. was neither
intentionally injured nor abused. See TEX. FAM. CODE ANN. § 263.307(b)(12); Holley, 544 S.W.2d
at 371–72. When asked whether she thought a seven-month-old (J.G.’s age at the time of the
fractures) could break all those bones by himself, Mother stated: “I couldn’t tell you. I’m not a
doctor.” Yet she refused to accept the medical evidence showing that, in fact, the fractures could
have only been the result of abuse by someone with access to her children — access she admits
was limited to her family and R.T. See TEX. FAM. CODE ANN. § 263.307(b)(12); Holley, 544
S.W.2d at 371–72.
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There was also evidence of endangerment of Mother’s three older children. The children
made statements that Mother’s paramour, R.T., who is A.A.T.’s father, hit them with a belt. See
TEX. FAM. CODE ANN. § 263.307(b)(12); Holley, 544 S.W.2d at 371–72. They advised their
caregiver, L.R., who was the paternal grandmother of the two older girls, that if they asked for
food, cried, or did not want to get up in the morning, R.T. would hit them or they would be spanked.
Despite this, Mother instructed her older children to refer to R.T. as “dad.” Mother denied any of
this ever happened. See TEX. FAM. CODE ANN. § 263.307(b)(12); Holley, 544 S.W.2d at 371–72.
The evidence also showed that Mother’s choices with regard to her relationships with men
presented danger to her children. See TEX. FAM. CODE ANN. § 263.307(b)(12); Holley, 544 S.W.2d
at 371–72. All four fathers of Mother’s five children have served time in prison or jail. They also
were known to use drugs. Moreover, there was evidence of domestic violence between Mother
and R.T. See A.I.G., 135 S.W.3d at 692 (holding that domestic violence may be considered as
evidence of endangerment). If we accept Mother’s own testimony, she herself committed domestic
violence against R.T. as a result of jealousy — despite claiming she and R.T. were not in a
relationship. Id. Mother’s relationship choices are further evidence supporting Dr. Yates’s
opinion that Mother never met the goal of recognizing risk to herself and her children. See TEX.
FAM. CODE ANN. § 263.307(b)(12); Holley, 544 S.W.2d at 371–72.
Mother’s prior and continuing choices portend future instability, thereby endangering
A.A.T. See B.R., 456 S.W.3d at 616. Her past conduct suggests similar conduct would recur, i.e.,
that she would be unable to recognize risk, thereby subjecting any child in her care to potential
danger, including abuse. See B.R., 456 S.W.3d at 616. Mother’s refusal to accept the evidence
regarding abuse creates physical and emotional danger for A.A.T. should he be reunited with
Mother.
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3. Parenting Abilities/Available Programs
The evidence of Mother’s continued refusal to recognize and acknowledge the repeated
abuse suffered by J.G., as well as that suffered by her three older children, is also relevant to
Mother’s inability to properly parent. See TEX. FAM. CODE ANN. § 263.307(b)(3); id.
§ 263.307(b)(4); id. § 263.307(b)(12); Holley, 544 S.W.2d at 371–72. So too, is her refusal to
complete therapy with Dr. Yates, resulting in Mother’s failure to attain those goals set out in her
service plan — specifically recognition of risk and acknowledgement of abuse. See TEX. FAM.
CODE ANN. § 263.307(b)(12); Holley, 544 S.W.2d at 371–72. Mother, as detailed above, has
chosen to disbelieve medical evidence of abuse or the claims of abuse by her own children.
As stated above, the Department created a service plan tailored for Mother’s needs —
specifically based, in part, on the abuse of J.G. — and the trial court adopted the plan as a
requirement for reunification. See TEX. FAM. CODE ANN. § 263.307(b)(12); Holley, 544 S.W.2d
at 371–72. Yet Mother, by her own admission, chose to discontinue therapy when her therapist
began to challenge her refusal to acknowledge the abuse and inability to recognize risk. See TEX.
FAM. CODE ANN. § 263.307(b)(12); Holley, 544 S.W.2d at 371–72. The service plan mandated
that Mother complete therapy with Dr. Yates and achieve the goals of therapy — particularly
recognition of risk and acknowledgement and acceptance that J.G. was abused. However, Mother
voluntarily withdrew from therapy, despite Dr. Yates’s best efforts to re-engage her. See TEX.
FAM. CODE ANN. § 263.307(b)(12); Holley, 544 S.W.2d at 371–72.
4. Plans for Child by Those Seeking Custody/Stability of Home or Proposed Placement
Mother’s lack of stability is demonstrated by the evidence of set forth above regarding her
continued refusal to accept her children were abused and her complete inability to assess or
recognize risk. See TEX. FAM. CODE ANN. § 263.307(b)(3); id. § 263.307(b)(4); id.
§ 263.307(b)(12); Holley, 544 S.W.2d at 371–72.
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In addition, Mother has been unable to procure her own housing, returning to her mother’s
home, the very home in which J.G. and the older children were abused. See TEX. FAM. CODE ANN.
§ 263.307(b)(12); Holley, 544 S.W.2d at 371–72. The evidence suggests the injuries to J.G.’s face
were caused by his maternal grandmother, yet Mother chose to return to this home while testifying
she could provide a separate, proper home for A.A.T. Moreover, Mother’s inability to recognize
the risk her relationships create for her children — due in part to her failure to complete therapy
— suggests continued instability even if Mother were able to obtain a home of her own. See TEX.
FAM. CODE ANN. § 263.307(b)(12); Holley, 544 S.W.2d at 371–72. Mother’s relationships were
admittedly with men with criminal backgrounds and drug problems — though she denied knowing
this in some instances. This is yet another indication of instability of any potential home she might
obtain.
A.A.T. is in a home with loving foster parents and foster siblings. See Holley, 544 S.W.2d
at 371–72. The foster parents desire to adopt A.A.T. and have demonstrated an intent to allow
him to continue to develop a relationship with his half-siblings, who already love him. A.A.T. is
doing well in the home, thriving in fact, and he considers his foster parents his “mama and dada.”
He has been with them his entire life, but for two days. All the testimony established this home is
loving and stable, providing A.A.T. with every physical and emotional need. See id.
5. Acts or Omissions Indicating Parent-Child Relationship Not Proper/Excuses
The evidence of acts or omissions by Mother that indicate she had an improper relationship
with her children are those set forth above in our discussion of Mother’s acts that physically and
emotionally endangered them, particularly Mother’s refusal to acknowledge or accept the abuse
suffered by all four children, but particularly J.G. See Holley, 544 S.W.2d at 371–72. Mother
presented a myriad of excuses for her acts and omissions. See id. The excuses consisted of, with
regard to the abuse, her contention that she was never presented with “a shred” of evidence that
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J.G. was abused. In support, she presented evidence from private investigator Frederick Knoll Jr.
— a former and subsequent Del Rio police officer — who opined it was highly possible J.G.’s
facial injuries were the result of a fall. He also opined that at least the left leg fractures were caused
when an older child dropped J.G. As to the other fractures, Officer Knoll testified he did not
believe they were the result of abuse due to an absence of bruising, swelling, and redness. He
dismissed the abuse allegations provided by Mother’s three older children in forensic interviews
and to L.R., stating the children “seemed a little confused,” but not expanding on this claim.
However, Officer Knoll admitted he was never told that Dr. Sanchez believed J.G.’s facial bruising
was the result of multiple slaps, stating he wished he had been told. Although he was aware Dr.
Lukefahr believed the fractures were the result of abuse, he was never advised that a full skeletal
survey of J.G. was ordered and completed in early December 13, 2013, and that it was clear. He
also admitted R.T. had access to J.G. at the times his injuries must have occurred. Officer Knoll
also admitted the only person he interviewed who was in the home at the time of the alleged abuse
was Mother. Despite this, the officer continued to opine there was no abuse.
Mother also had excuses for her failure to obtain a home, blaming HUD for refusing to
provide her with a suitable home until her children were returned. She also excused her failure to
complete therapy, testifying she stopped therapy because she was tired of being asked to admit the
existence of abuse or blame that abuse on R.T. when she did not believe there was any abuse, much
less that either R.T. or her mother were responsible for it. She also attempted to excuse the failure
to visit A.A.T. during the months preceding trial, blaming the Department for failing to schedule
visits or provide her with resources to attend.
Summation — Grounds & Best Interests
Based on the evidence, the jury could have determined Mother failed to complete her
service plan by failing to complete therapy, reach goals set out in the plan, or obtain proper
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housing. She failed to demonstrate an ability to recognize risk or acknowledge and accept that
abuse was perpetrated on J.G. and her older children. The jury could have also determined Mother
exposed her children to risk, and ultimately actual abuse, endangering their physical and emotional
well-being. Mother engaged in, or was the victim of, domestic violence, which would also create
danger for her children. Mother’s actions since November 19, 2013, suggest continued
dysfunction and instability. See B.R., 456 S.W.3d at 616; M.R., 243 S.W.3d at 821 (holding
evidence of parent’s unstable lifestyle can support fact finder’s conclusion that termination is in
child’s best interest).
Therefore, based on the foregoing, we hold the evidence produced — as to the relevant
Holley factors, as well as those set out in the applicable portions of section 263.307(b) of the Code
— was such that the jury could have determined termination was in the best interest of A.A.T. See
TEX. FAM. CODE ANN. § 263.307(b); Holley, 544 S.W.2d at 371–72. In other words, the evidence
is such that jurors could have reasonably formed a firm belief or conviction that termination was
in A.A.T.’s best interest. See J.P.B., 180 S.W.3d at 573.
CONCLUSION
We hold the trial court did not abuse its discretion in excluding the proffered testimony
from Mother’s expert, Dr. Miller, with regard to his ideas relating to metabolic bone disease or
TBBD. We therefore overrule Mother’s first issue. We further hold the evidence is legally and
factually sufficient to have permitted the jury to find Mother violated section 161.001(b)(1)(O) of
the Code by failing to comply with the requirements of her court-ordered service plan and that
under section 161.001(b)(2) of the Code, termination was in A.A.T.’s best interest. Thus, we
overrule Mother’s second and third issues. In sum, we affirm the trial court’s termination order.
Marialyn Barnard, Justice
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