John D. v. Department of Social Services

In this appeal, John D. contends that “[o]rai statements by themselves without evidence of physical and emotional injury do not constitute sexual abuse in the context of naming a perpetrator of sexual abuse under G. L.[] c. 119, § 51B[,] and the regulations thereunder.” He also argues that the evidence *126was insufficient to support a finding of child neglect made by the Department of Social Services (DSS).

This case arises from a report made to the DSS under G. L. c. 119, § 51 A, which alleged sexual abuse and neglect by John D. of his fifteen year old stepdaughter and neglect of his four year…