complaint·July 6, 2023

At 8:30am on 7/6/2023, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Matthew Gallo met with licensee Elshebia Ekekwe to deliver findings regarding the complaint that was opened on 4/26/2023. Licensee's assistant was also present during the visit, as well as four day care children. It was alleged that adults smoke cannabis on the premises. Throughout the investigation, LPA conducted observations and interviewed Reporting Party, staff, and parents. During observations at the facility on 5/2/2023, LPA encountered the distinct smell of smoked marijuana emanating from the half-open garage of the home, separate from where care is provided. At the time, licensee had just returned from picking up supplies, and the adult responsible for the smoke remains undetermined. Nonetheless, further interviews provided corroborating evidence consistent in its facts establishing that marijuana was smoked by an adult on the premises. The preponderance of evidence standard has been met. Therefore, the above allegation is SUBSTANTIATED. A Type A Title 22 Deficiency has been cited on the attached LIC 9099-D. Appeal Rights were provided. An exit interview was conducted, and a Notice of Site Visit posted.