State ex rel. H.M v. T.M.

11 The mother appeals a judgment vacating custody of her daughter, H.M., from the State to H.M.’s father. We affirm.

FACTS

On May 9, 2008,1 five-year-old H.M. was removed from her mother’s custody and placed in the custody of the State of Louisiana, Department of Social Services (“DSS”), after she reported that Raymond Ray, a male friend of her mother, had touched her genitals with his hand.2 A medical examination on May 8 had revealed vaginal sex abuse and possible anal sexual abuse. H.M. was placed in the home of the Tuckers, neighbors who had raised H.M. for most of her life. H.M.’s parents…