How can you tell if he's a deadbeat?

At first he tried giving us money, but I rejected it because I found out through a mutual friend he got it through selling "illegal things" he's only asked about our daughter once in about 3 months, but then started sending me hurtful messages. I've been really paranoid thinking he might show up to my house try to take my daughter, I have panic attacks over this. I also think he's quiet because I think he'll take me to court... How can you tell if he's going to be around or not? Like are there any signs? He hasn't made too much of an effort with in these past couple of months and has never supported her in the past. My parents have been the ones to help me in his place