R.M. v. State, Department of Children & Families

In these consolidated cases, R.M., the Mother, and-R.N, the Father, appeal an order adjudicating their children dependent on the bases of neglect, abuse, and imminent risk of neglect and/or abuse. We affirm the order insofar as it is based on neglect, since the Department of Children and Families (“DCF”) presented competent, substantial evidence that the children’s home had an ongoing rat infestation. Consequently, DCF proved that the children were living in an environment which caused the children’s physical health to be in danger of being significantly impaired. See § 39.01(44), Fla. Stat.…