Overweight Toddler Goes Home
A 3-year-old girl taken into state custody more than two months ago because she weighed 120 pounds smiled broadly as she returned home with her mother Friday afternoon.
Anamarie Martinez-Regino was allowed to return home under a court-approved agreement.
A "Welcome Back" sign was on the front porch and the house was decorated with purple and pink balloons for a party celebrating the girl's return. Her grandmother hugged her in front of the house; then the girl, her mother and grandmother went inside.
"They're so excited. They're so happy. I'm so happy for them. Our community has pulled together, and it's about time they get her back," said family friend Renee Pacheco.
The family made no comment to reporters gathered outside the family home. A gag order placed on all parties in the case by a state judge remains in effect.
Anamarie had been in the custody of the Children, Youth and Families Department since Aug. 25. At 3.5 feet tall, she was three times heavier and 50 percent taller than an average 3-year-old when she was taken away.
It was not known how much she weighed Friday. She did not appear much different from photos released at the time she was taken into state custody.
A state social worker had said the girl would die unless she followed a special diet, exercised more and used a breathing machine when she slept. The state also accused her parents, Adela Martinez and Miguel Regino, of feeding her solid food after a doctor recommended a liquid diet.
Anamarie's parents have defended their care of their only child. They have maintained that her weight problem is probably due to a medical condition, but doctors have been unable to find any such cause.
Under the agreement approved last month by state District Judge Tommy Jewell, they admitted no wrongdoing. Jewell said a gag order he imposed in September would remain in place, but did not specify how long.
Media organizations including The Associated Press have appealed to the state Supreme Court to lift the order.
By Susan Montoya Bryan