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In the Matter of Howard A.W. v. Nyah Vernell J., (Proceeding No. 1.) In the Matter of Wayne Devine P. v. ACS-Kings, and Nyah Vernell J., (Proceeding No. 2.) In the Matter of K'Mora W. Administration for Children's Services, Respondent Nyah J., Howard A.W., Nonparty (Proceeding No. 3.) In the Matter of Quam P. Administration for Children's Services, Respondent Nyah J., Wayne Devine P., Nonparty (Proceeding No. 4.)
[734] The “essential consideration” in the placement of children in a neglect proceeding and in making an award of custody is the best interests of the children, and the Family Court’s exercise of its discretion must have a sound and substantial basis in the record (Matter of Ramazan U., 303 AD2d 516, 517 [2003]; see Eschbach v Eschbach, 56 NY2d 167 [1982]; Matter of Reyes v Polanco, 83 AD3d 849, 850 [2011]; Matter of Daniel R. [Lucille R.], 70 AD3d 839, 842 [2010]). Under the totality of the circumstances, releasing the subject children to their respective fathers and granting the fathers custody of their children had a sound and substantial basis in the record and will not be disturbed.
The mother’s remaining contentions are without merit. Dillon, J.E, Eng, Sgroi and Miller, JJ., concur.