In re C.L.S., 369 N.C. 58 (2016)

per curiam, In re C.L.S., ___ N.C.App. ___, 781 S.E.2d 680 (2016)

• Citing previous published opinions, “incarceration alone … does not negate a father’s neglect of his child.” A parent can show an interest in his child’s welfare despite being incarcerated.
• There was sufficient evidence provided through the DSS social worker that the father neglected C.L.S. by failing to provide love, support, affection, and personal contact to the child from the time paternity was established up to the termination hearing. Specifically, after the father’s paternity was adjudicated, he stated he did not want to pursue reunification. Later, he expressed an interest in reunification but failed to attend appointments with the social worker. After being incarcerated, he failed to sign the case plan, meet the child, or provide financial support for the child.