Opinion ID: 1972406
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: facts

Text: The mother, a member of a recognized band of Indians located in Maine [hereinafter Band], grew up in foster care. She married in 1979 and thereafter gave birth to A and B. Both children are also members of the Band. The mother, who is mildly mentally retarded, has been the subject of DHS scrutiny for over 10 years. The primary issues have been unsanitary living conditions, neglect of her children, inability to protect them from sexual abuse, mental illness and substance abuse. Support services from both DHS and the Band have been provided to her. In 1988, DHS petitioned for and was granted custody of A and B. Reunification was unsuccessfully attempted. The court issued a cease reunification order in 1990. The department subsequently filed a petition for termination of parental rights to A and B, which the District Court approved.