A Denton County mother engaged in a prolonged legal battle to regain custody of her two-year-old son from Texas Child Protective Services (CPS) made another appearance in court on Wednesday morning, only to leave without her son once again, marking 75 days of separation.
Joslyn Sanders, the mother in question, expressed her disappointment after the hearing, highlighting the emotional toll of the ongoing legal proceedings.
The case has attracted national attention due to its implications for parental rights in medical emergencies and disputes regarding medical advice provided by doctors, which CPS views as potential neglect with life-threatening consequences.
The child, Josiah Sanders, was removed from his home by CPS on December 21, 2023, after his mother discharged him from a pediatric hospital in Dallas against medical advice.
The proceedings are taking place in the 362nd Denton County District Court, presided over by Judge Bruce McFarling, where cameras are prohibited.
The child’s medical history, including a seizure in March 2023 and various health concerns documented in court, has been extensively discussed. These concerns range from feeding problems to a severe rash experienced by Josiah in the fall of 2023.
Joslyn Sanders recounted how she sought medical attention for her son’s rash at Shine Pediatrics in Richardson, where they had been receiving care since his birth. Despite disagreements over the diagnosis and treatment, Sanders maintains that she acted in her son’s best interests.
The decision to leave the hospital against medical advice and refusal to administer a prescribed antibiotic led to CPS involvement and Josiah’s subsequent removal from his home.
During the court proceedings, testimonies from medical practitioners and law enforcement officials shed light on the events leading to Josiah’s removal and subsequent custody battles.
Sanders, who has faced accusations of neglect and arrogance from CPS and the public, defended her decisions, citing her research skills and academic achievements.
The court hearing adjourned for the day due to scheduling conflicts, with Judge McFarling expected to make a decision following additional testimonies, including that of Sanders herself, next Tuesday.
Before leaving the courtroom, Sanders’ attorney requested extended visitation hours with her son, which was met with opposition from CPS attorneys citing Josiah’s strict feeding schedule. Judge McFarling ruled to maintain the current visitation schedule for the time being.
