Incident investigation·October 21, 2025

On October 21, 2025, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA), Paul Garcia conducted an unannounced Case Management Incident Inspection. LPA met with Director Michelle Vanhook, then toured the facility and took a census. The purpose for the visit was to discuss a self-reported Unusual Incident Report received at the Fresno Community Care Licensing Office (CCL) on October 14, 2025, where child #1 (C1) was removed from the facility by a Kern County Senior Deputy Sheriff (Badge # 1532), and two (2) Kern County Department of Human Services (DHS) workers. On October 13, 2025, at approximately 4:30 pm, a Kern County Senior Deputy Sheriff contacted facility Director Michelle Vanhook by phone. The purpose of the Deputy\342\200\231s call was to ask when C1 was normally picked up from care by his/her mother. Director Michelle Vanhook was familiar with the Deputy; however, she confirmed her identity by calling the deputy back. No further information was shared with facility Director, Michelle Vanhook. Later at approximately 5:40 pm, the Kern County Senior Deputy Sheriff and two (2) DHS employees arrived to pick up C1 along with child\342\200\231s belongings. The deputy and two (2) DHS employees identified themselves by presenting their department issued identifications then requested custody of C1. Facility Director Michelle Vanhook complied with their request after taking photocopies of their department issued identifications. DHS staff and the deputy did not provide any documentation nor reason for taking custody of the child. Later at approximately 6:00 PM, while on her way home, Staff 1 (S1) observed C1s mother\342\200\231s vehicle being searched by Deputy Sheriffs on the side of the road. Based on information obtained, this incident appears to be an isolated incident but due to the uniqueness of circumstances, LPA will elevate the technicalities surrounding the exchange of custody of the child to Management. This facility met appropriate reporting requirements. Per Title 22, Division 12, Chapter 1, of the California Code of Regulations, no deficiencies are cited. Exit interview conducted with Director, Director Michelle Vanhook. This report is to be made available to the public upon request. LIC 9213 Notice of Site Visit to be posted for 30 days.