What can I do if I′m being abused or neglected?
The abuse and neglect of children in the United States is epidemic. Approximately 3 million reports of child abuse and neglect are made each year. Three children die every day at the hands of their parents or caretakers.
- Neglect is the most common form of child maltreatment, affecting 57% of abuse victims.
- 52% of reported abuse victims are between ages 8 and 17.
- In 2003, there were 1,500 reported deaths of abuse and neglect victims.
Source: Juvenile Offenders and Victims: A National Report, National Center for Juvenile Justice (2006)
Abuse may be:
• physical (acts that cause physical injury)
• sexual (sexual activity that provides gratification or financial benefit to the perpetrator, or the person committing the abuse, such as sexual conduct, prostitution, pornography, or sexual exploitation), or
• emotional (acts or omissions that cause mental disorders in a child).
Neglect may be:
• physical (including abandonment and/or failure to provide supervision, health care, adequate food,* clothing, or shelter)
• emotional (including inadequate nurturance, or a disregard for a child′s emotional or developmental needs), or
• educational (including permitting chronic truancy, failing to comply with student attendance laws or otherwise disregarding the child′s educational needs).
Photo by Mundo Zeli
Child abuse and neglect are against the law. If you witness or hear about an incident of abuse or neglect, you should report it to the police or Child Protective Services (CPS). Every state has mandatory reporting laws spelling out the legal obligations of teachers, doctors, social workers, and anyone responsible for children. An adult who fails to report suspected abuse or neglect of a child has violated the law.
CPS is an agency of state government charged with the duty to investigate abuse, neglect, and abandonment cases. In most states, CPS provides services to families to help them to solve their problems and stay together.
For example, parents may discipline their child, but if the punishments are excessive, leaving welts or bruises, the police and courts may get involved to protect the child. If a child is removed from the home and placed in foster care, services are offered to assist in reuniting the family. If the parents are unsuccessful in their efforts, or if they refuse to cooperate, the child may stay with relatives or remain in foster care or an adoptive home.
If you′re in danger, or you know someone who′s injured or has been abused at home, tell someone you trust. A teacher, school nurse, or police officer will be able to offer assistance. If a friend tells you that he or she has been sexually molested, tell a responsible adult. Here is an informative article by Assistant New York District Attorney Jill Starishevsky who has prosecuted hundreds of sex offenders and has dedicated her career to protecting children. “10 Reasons NOT to Discuss Child Sexual Abuse in 2012″ will open your eyes to reality and answers all of the excuses parents use NOT to discuss this with their children.
You′re protected under the law when reporting suspected abuse or neglect. As long as you′re truthful in reporting, the law protects you from being sued. You may also report anonymously (without giving your name), although identifying yourself might help the investigation. If you’re in danger of being abused or neglected or you know someone who is, you can call anytime of day or night the following:
National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-252-2873
ChildHelp USA: 1-800-422-4453
A recent concern regarding childrens’ health are those who are obese. Read here for a view about taking custody of kids at risk due to their weight: ”Should Parents Lose Custody of Super Obese Kids?” http://yourlife.usatoday.com/parenting-family/story/2011/07/Should-parents-lose-custody-of-super-obese-kids/49320358/1
In October, 2011, an 8-year-old child was removed from his home in Ohio. The mother of the 200 pound third-grader was accused of not doing enough to control his weight. Government growth charts say most boys his age weigh around 60 pounds. The state agency reported that attempts over 20 months to work with the family failed and that the removal was based on medical neglect. It was approved by a judge. Sleep apnea and an increased risk of diabetes and high blood pressure were concerns in the decision in this case. Names of the mother and child were not disclosed.
This post was written by Tom Jacobs. Judge Tom is the founder and moderator of AsktheJudge.info. He is a retired juvenile judge and spent 23 years on the bench. He has written several books for lawyers and judges as well as teens and parents including the recently published 'Teen Cyberbullying Investigated' (Free Spirit Publishing). When he's not answering teens' questions, Judge Tom can be found hiking, traveling and reading.
First of all my daughter has never been a good parent. Her husband has stuck up for her in every wrong thing she has done. She has been on drugs and she has been on prescription drugs for years. She let her son quit school at 16 years old because she didn’t want to drive him and he hated school anyways. I could go on and on but too upset. I called her therapist because he is the one giving her prescription drugs at the moment. He said he couldn’t discuss it with me. I tried to tell him she is coming to him only for the prescription drugs. I told him how she smokes pot in front of her two high school kids and believe it or not so far they are really good kids. The therapist told me that sometimes people need prescription drugs to get well and I asked him does it take 15 years? That’s how long she has been on them. She sleeps all day and stays up all night. My Grandson has not a snowball’s chance making it in this world. I have begged him to go back to school. He says he’s going in the Navy but I don’t think he can do that if he doesn’t have a diploma. I am just sick.
Judge Tom’s response:
Your concern for your grandson and attempts to help him in a difficult situation might be just what he needs to succeed. Knowing you’re there for him is stability and assurance that he is loved. Stay in touch with him if he joins the service. The best to you and your family.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Okay im am an 14 year old girl !
My mother doesnt treat how i want to be treated imean she just acts like she doesnt care ! But when it comes to my 4 year old sister its everythinq ! Imean she yellls at me for no reason . tells me dont ask for nothinq , and that ineed to go with a family that wants me ! imean ijust dont understand ! Sometimes ijustw ant to runaway but ihave no wear to go to ! She’s ne ver there to take m anywhere ! And now she expecting me to pay her to take me places !
Dear Desha: We are sorry that your home life isn’t what you’d like. Maybe you should try to calmly talk with your Mom and let her know how you feel and why. If that’s not possible, maybe a relative or someone else you trust could help you. Don’t run away because the dangers you’ll face are serious. If you’re in danger of being abused, contact your local Child Protective Services. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Okay, I have a 14 year old friend who lives with her father, her father has neglected her for years and her older sister has to take care of her (Feed her, buy her clothes and shoes, and take her places). Her father is a bit of a nutcase, If she doesn’t do the dishes, he throws them in the front yard! And he never finishes anything he starts, they’ve had a bathtub in they’re living room for three years, which is now on its end in the bathroom. And because of that they only have one working bathroom. Her brother lives with them as well, three people and one bathroom doesn’t work well. She is stuck there four days a week, she is not aloud to go for walks around the neighborhood or go out with friends, she spends all her time inside. She has also been home schooled all her life, but her father doesn’t teach her anything, so its like not being schooled at all. She wants to leave but is currently to scared. What should she do?
Dear Aria: Under your state laws, if she is being abused or neglected, it may be a situation that Child Protective Services would look into. Generally, however, even if a family is as you describe, the living conditions wouldn’t merit interference by the state. You could speak with Child Welfare and explain what you know about the family. They would then decide if they can take action through a welfare check on the girl and interviewing her. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
idk what to do anymore my dad is completely insane and i cant leave bc im on tether form running away from my mom who neglected me now im stuck with my dad in which he is a recovering alchoholic and completly nuts. hes yells at me constantly and is a compulsive liar he doesnt even know what the truth is anymore he always calls me names and threatends me but the worst is when he tries to hurt me. i rly am stuck in a bad position cuz i dont want to get in trouble but im stuck with him with no where else to go. and when i say i wanna leave he prevents me its like complete havic over here
Dear Kaleigh: If you are in danger of being abused at home, you need to report this to someone you trust. Tell a teacher or counselor at school or someone else that you trust such as a close relative or friend. You could also call Child Protective Services in your area. If you don’t know the number, call the National Child Protective Services Hotline at 1-800-422-4453. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
i am so stressed idk what to do! im 15 years old and live with my mom and younger brother but for the past almost two months its pretty much me and my brother living on our own. my mom has been staying at this guys house to help him bc he was in an accident and we see my mom maybe once a day but some days i dont hear from her and when i do she bearly talks to me. my brother is 13 so we can do stuff for ourselves but we run out of food and it takes a while before we can actually get it and im tired of being responsible for vrything and everyone! i clean the house everyday and everytime she comes home she manages to find something wrong with it, she wont take me to get my licence and im tired of doing nothing! i dont even want my mom in my life im tired of how she treats me and i have tried talking to her and nothing changes..sometimes i wish i could jus get taken from her…
Dear Heather: Don’t give up on your Mom. She might be trying to do too much at one time, but everyone has to pitch in when help is needed. You’re doing great for yourself and younger brother. Be patient and hopefully your situation will improve soon. Keep talking with your Mom so she understands the stress you’re under. It might help to talk to other family members or adults you trust. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I’ve Been Abused Lately By My Brother. Funny Thing Is All My Mom Does Is NOTHING! She Yells At Him Then The Next Day She’ll Take HIS Side On Everything! He’ll Call Me Various Names And What Does She Do? NOTHING!I’ll Talk Back ‘Cause I Don’t Like People Trying To Put Me Down, I’m The Type To Defend Myself So Obviouslly I Respond Quickly But That’s What I’m Saying..No Matter What He Says Or How Badly He Leaves Me Bruise She Ends Up Taking His Side. He’s Been In Rehab Twice Because He’s Very Violent And He’s A Drug Addict. But My Mom Still Gives Him Money And Lets Him Go Out And She Never Does Anything! I Just Want Him To Go To Jail For Hitting Me And Leaving The Bruises He Did!
Dear Chuliee: You didn’t mention your age but if you’re a minor [under 18] you have a right to be protected from physical and sexual abuse. Your state laws provide for your safety and a means of reporting incidents of abuse. Try talking to an adult who you trust about this – either an aunt or uncle, grandparent or a friend’s parent. If that doesn’t work then consider notifying your local authorities, either the police or Child Protective Services.
The national helpline for Child Protective Services is: 1-800-422-4453 [ChildHelp USA] or 1-800-252-2873 [National Child Abuse Hotline].
[This is information only - not legal advice].
i was fired from my nursing home job for neglect but they failed to report it do you think they will take this to abritraction
Dear Felicia: You need to look at any papers you signed when you were hired. If you signed an employment contract, their are most likely provisions regarding termination of employment included. You are bound by the terms of the contract. If you’ve already been fired, as you say, then arbitration may not be available. If you have further questions you could contact a local employment lawyer. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
My brother and his wife separated 3 years ago. She now lives with another man with her 3 kids and a 4th child she had with her new boyfriend. My brother gets the kids every other weekend, and they seem fine and healthy. But we have gotten two emails…One from HER friend, and one from HER own brother. The emails stated that the electricity has been going out because they don’t pay it. She keeps calling the electricity company to have it turned back on telling them that there are children living there. The emails stated that there is drug use being done by her new boyfriend in the house (apparently just pot) He also goes out often and is cheating on her. This has caused her to become a heavy alcoholic were she apparently spends most of the day crying and drinking. They stated that the house is not safe for the kids and they can run around as they please. The children are 12, 7, 4.
I think it must be pretty extreme if her own brother sent us an email….Should I take action and contact social services if my brother(the dad) Isn’t doing it? Also will there be alot of trouble for me proving this is going on, considering all I have is emails, and who knows if her brother would testify in court etc? Help?
Dear Justin: We’re glad you have enough concern for the welfare of these children to write us. You could suggest to her brother that he report what he knows to Child Protective Services [1-800-422-4453 - national hotline] or Google your state’s name and “CPS” for your local number. He can report anonymously. You could do the same. However your knowledge, as you said, is second or third-hand and may not be considered a priority for an investigation. If her brother has witnessed these events and the lack of care being provided in the home, his statement is more credible. Hopefully the children will remain safe. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
hello i have a 16 year old daughter who one day last week when i ask her to help me clean up so we can move she storm to her room and start throwing things i confronted her and told her to stop and she told me to get out the way so she can close her door i told not until she calms down and stop throwing things she preceded to push me and went i grab her she started to hit and kick me so i held her down on the floor and told her she need to go call her father and ask to saty with him long story short she ran out the house to a friends and didnt come back til 3 days later when she came back i told until she talks to her father the next day she is to sleep in our back room she said no and that she wanted to stay at the old house which we still had for the next to weeks but it had no electricity so my i had my husband her stepfather walk over to check on her and stay with her the night is this a form of neglect even when it was her choice to go there. and she had supervision
Dear Tamika: Depending on the specific laws of your state, letting your daughter stay at your old house for a few days may or may not be considered neglect. Because every state has laws concerning the neglect of a child which includes not providing a child’s physical needs (food, shelter, clothing, supervision) or emotional needs, it would be best to avoid being uncertain about your situation and either bring your daughter back home with you or to her father’s house. Now that some time has passed since your argument, perhaps you could try calmly talking to her and ask her what she’s unhappy about and explain why you need her to stay at your house or her father’s house. Good luck to you and your family.
[This is information only - not legal advice.]
My step father has been molesting me since I was about 11, I’m currently 17. My mother mother and I lived with him once, but we moved out after ten months. My mother and her husband are planning on moving back in together, but i’m honestly terrified. I never told my mother I was being molested. Mainly because I was afraid. I wasnt afraid of what my step father would do to me, I was scared of what my mother would do to me. If she didn’t believe me and kicked me out, where could I go? How would I finish my education? And as sick as this may sound, I’m scared to get my step father into trouble. How can I tell her this has been happening ? My mom has found me hysterically crying in the middle of the night thinking about it, but when she asked me what was wrong I told her I didn’t know and I just felt like crying. Not only am I terrified for myself, but I’m also terrified for my two year old brother. Where can I go for help ? If i tell a school guidence councelor or a teacher, who are they required to contact ? My biological father and I do not have a relationship, will I be thrown into foster care ? If they contact the authorities will they allow me to stay with a close friend, because my friend’s family has already offered me a couch to sleep on if i ever needed it. Thank you for your time.
Dear Gabrielle: Unless you want the molestation to start over when he moves back in, you should take measures to protect yourself and your little brother. If you don’t feel comfortable speaking with a school counselor or a friend’s parents, call ChildHelp USA. A school counselor or teacher are obligated under the law to report abuse once they become aware of it. ChildHelp is an organization that advises victims of abuse and neglect. Their web site is: http://www.childhelp.org/pages/get-help
and their phone number is 1-800-422-4453.
It is possible that you’ll be removed from your home and also possible that you could be placed with your friend’s family. That is up to the court. Good luck, Gabrielle.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Am I being sexually abused? My step father often touches my genitals and asks me to touch his, but he always says it’s to see how closely i shave, and the only reason he asks me to touch him is to see if he is smooth. He has back problems so he asks me to climb on his back to help crack it. when i do he begins to pull on my underwear and when i scream he says it helped him to get a better stretch. There was another time he asked to see my chest because he wanted to know what would happen to my nipples when they got hard. he proceeded to pinch and touch my nipples until the were hard. He called me sexy because i was wearing shorts and when im sleeping i’ll wake up to him touching my legs. he used to im me when i was younger to talk shit about my mother. i’m just wondering if this is considered sexual abuse or if im over reacting ?
Dear Ella: First, you are not over-reacting. You didn’t mention your age, but if you’re under 18 this, in most states, is a crime. It is sexual abuse, possibly sexual conduct with a minor, sexual assault or other crimes depending on your age and the circumstances. It won’t be long before he wants to have intercourse, with or without your consent. Ella, if you are a minor you need to report this to someone you trust – an adult relative, a school counselor or a parent of a friend that you’re comfortable talking to. You could also contact Child Protective Services – that’s why they exist, to protect chilren and teenagers from abuse and neglect. You can call 1-800-4-a-child or your local CPS office. Good luck. Don’t let this go any further.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
Just wanted to ask not sure there really any abuse going on but my granddaughter at two years old has a fit when she has to go to her dads every two weeks. She litterly freaks out when she has to go. When my daughter gets her back she acts up very badly. She dirty and it seems like the same clothes have been woren the whole time. My granddaughter will refuse to wear the clothes again unless she actually sees you washing them. Her dad lives with he’s parents who has a lot of dogs in the house. My granddaughter has been known to get sick coming back from her dads house. She able to start talking real well and this last time she came home with a bruse on her mouth saying her dad pushed her on the steps. She don’t neccessary call her dad by dad a lot of time just by he’s first name. There other things we see but when she sees him in public she fine with him. We just wondering if there concern or what to do. We are very concern about the histerical crying when she has to go and the many dogs in the house. Not sure what to do?
Dear Lynn: Your concerns are legitimate and should be discussed openly with her father and grandparents. At the very least you or her mother can ask for an explanation regarding her clothes and the bruise on her mouth. Her behavior when she returns from a visit may be due to her age and adjusting each time to different households. Since she doesn’t display any fear or hesitation when seeing her father in public, there may not be anything to worry about as far as physical abuse. You can satisfy your suspicions, if you can call them that, by discussing this with family members and a local child therapist who might be able to offer suggestions in this regard. You might be able to obtain a free consultation for 30 to 60 minutes with a counselor. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
My granddaughter is being abused by her mother.
She has given her two black eyes and pretended she fell.
My GD wasn’t quite 2 at the time this happened withing a week of each black eye. And their are othe issues.
I want to take her and leave town because I can’t stand to see her suffer.
Dear Ms. Moffitt: If you have knowledge of a child being physically or sexually abused, it should be reported either to the police or Child Protective Services. You can call 1-800-422-4453 for the national hotline. They will direct you to your state’s hotline number. If you “leave town” with the child as you suggest, you could be charged with custodial interference or kidnapping depending on the laws in your state. You could also talk with a juvenile law or family law attorney for advice. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
my stepfather abused me beat me slapped me banged my head against tables and choked me. my mother called the police and when they got here she told a complete lie to them saying he did nothing, and i was the violent one when all i did was kick about 2 times to get him off of me and ripped his shirt. the police believed them because it was “two people against one” and they just left like nothing even happened and told me to stay home. i need to leave or get adopted, what should i do? was this right for the police to just leave me here when i feel unsafe?
Dear Brittany: You didn’t mention your age but if you are under 18, every state has child protection laws. If you are in danger of further abuse or neglect you need to tell someone that you trust. Report what’s happening to a friend’s parent, a teacher or counselor in order to protect yourself. Here are some numbers you can call for help: http://jfs.ohio.gov/ocomm_root/CustomerServicePhoneNumbers.pdf
You can also call the National Child Protective Services Hotline at: 1-800-422-4453 anytime night or day. Because the police believed your mother this time doesn’t mean they’re not available to you in the future. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
I have taken in a neighbors child who is 16 the guadian father signed papers for her to quit school we got intoa ged program now she refyses to go her mom died when she was 7 . she doesnt want to do anything but be on face book all night and sleep all day..we want to give her a better life when she is wakes up she says doesnt feel good.we want to apply for guardianship of her but how do we get her to go to school or get a job
Dear MLM: You are faced with a difficult challenge. She may feel since she’s away from her father she can pretty much do as she pleases. You need to let her know the conditions of living with you, including school/GED program and/or work. Attending school may depend on the attendance laws in your state. But even if the age is 16 where the law doesn’t require her to go, it can still be a condition that you set for her as her custodian. If appropriate, a talk with her father may help the situation. Good luck.
[This is information only - not legal advice].
My two oldest children, ages 10 and 11, just told me that 2 of their friends are being abused by their mother, verbally and physically. The boy and girl are siblings and the same ages as my kids. She also has a baby who is a year and a half old. According to my kids, these 2 kids told them this a couple of months ago – and my own children only now told my husband and I. My children also told me of one specific instance that occurred in my own home. One day this mother babysat my 4 children because I had to take my husband to the hospital for surgery. She brought all 3 of her kids with her. My 11 year old daughter told me that during the day, this mother locked her baby outside on my back deck (in the snow) for 5-10 minutes as punishment for him not listening to her! After she brought him inside she had my 2 older kids and her 2 older kids get towels and soak them in warm water to warm the little boy up. My daughter also saw the mom drinking wine in my kitchen that morning, when she was the only adult watching 7 kids. Another day, this mom brought her 10 and 11 year old to our house for a sleepover with our kids. The following morning when their mom came to pick them up, the girl was hiding in our upstairs bathroom. My daughter went in there to tell her that her mom was here, and she pulled my daughter in with her and said that her mom yells and hits her and her brothers and she doesn’t want to go home with her. She was crying. At the time I just thought the kids were having fun and that was the reason this girl didn’t want to go. Now that my daughter told me about the abuse, more things make sense to me. Things I never thought twice about, like how her kids were always ravenously hungry when they came over. How we never were invited to come to their house, she always brought her kids to ours. How her son gets so many bumps and bruises and at age 10 weighs barely 50 lbs. I am sickened that I let this woman into my house and near my own kids. She never did or said anything out of line to me or around me, but I still feel like such an idiot. Anyway, I have looked up and written down my local ChildLine number, however I have 2 questions before I make the call. First, can I report anonymously? I’ve heard each state differs on this. I live in Pennsylvania. I ask about anonymity because I have my own family to keep safe and I don’t want my children dragged into this situation. Secondly, this mother and her children recently moved in with her new boyfriend, and I do not know their new address. I know her full name, boyfriend’s full name, children’s names and birthdates, as well as where the mother and boyfriend both work, and the name of the new school the children attend. Would this information be enough to help them track down a street address on this abusive mother?
Dear Nicole: In most states you can make an anonymous report to either the police or Child Protective Services (CPS). As long as it’s made in good faith, you’re protected under the law from being charged with false reporting or invasion of privacy. You have enough information to pass on so an investigation can be completed. If you want further explanation of the process, call your local CPS office and ask about anonymous reports. Your state number is 1-800-932-0313 and the National CPS Helpline is: 1-800-422-4453. Good luck.
(This is information only – not legal advice).
i have a friend and the other day she was beaten pretty bad by a family member who is legally and adult while my friend is still a minor we live in new York and she’s not sure what she should do she’s very afraid and she’s scared to come out of her room since the family member is temporarily living with her during the altercation she was chocked pulled on the floor by her hair and received bruises on her knees and has been complaining that her head and neck hurt because the family member hit her there this family member is very dangerous and has assaulted people before she even picked up an iron and other things to throw at my friend and no actions were taken against her but my friend did threaten her with a knife to keep her away from her would this be considered child abuse because the family member pulled some of my friends hair out and beat her in the head and also what can she do because she feels unsafe in her own home.
Dear Shaneece: You didn’t mention your friend’s age but being a minor means she has the law on her side. The beating you talk about should be reported to either the police or Child Protective Services (CPS). You can contact the Silent Witness program in your police department if you don’t want to inform them of your name. You can also make anonymous referrals to CPS. The important thing is that she be protected from further assaults. The national helpline number is: 1-800-422-4453. It’s called ChildHelp USA and they will put you in touch with a local CPS office. Good luck.
(This is information only – not legal advice).
I am the grandmother of a 4 month old girl.
My daughter and her husband lived with me for over 6 months.
In this time I had pointed out several events in which their daughter was being neglected. She was not bathed on a regular basis, they applied infant tylenol to her pacifier to make her want to take it. They swaddled the pacifier into her mouth over night so she would not spit it out and them have to get up to give it to her. When I pointed out that this was unsafe, I was told to mind my own business.
Upon entering their living space I found several dirty diapers (10 – 20) old banana peels crushed soda cans empty pizza boxes and the list goes on. This has happened on more than 1 occassion.
My son in law was recently discharged from the military because he was diagnosed as being bi polar and is very rough with the baby. plopping her onto the couch to change her diaper. bouncing her in her bouncer to the point that her head is bouncing around very hard. And the list goes on.
They have since left the state and given power of attorney to my ex husband and step mom. This is fine but they still do not feel they have done anything wrong.
They will not get the help they need to raise a happy healthy child. Would it be in this child’s best interest to go for guardianship?
My concern is that they can come back to the state and take her at anytime and there will be nobody to monitor this childs wellbeing as she will be out of state.
Dear Kathy: Your concern for the child’s welfare is commendable. You might share your observations regarding their care of the baby with your ex-husband if he doesn’t already know. Now that they have custody, they also have a responsibility to see that the baby is safe and protected. If they deem it appropriate they can file for guardianship under the laws of their state. You may be able to do the same. Any legal action should be discussed with a lawyer. In an emergency, contact Child Protective Services or call the national helpline at 1-800-422-4453. All the best.
(This is information only – not legal advice).
I have two brothers who are 14 & 7. Currently my mother is running with them and keeping them out of school and doesn’t keep a stable roof over their head. Also there are other things that are hard to prove to law enforcement such as my mother’s violent outbursts and keeping food from my brothers on different occasions. She also makes the 14 year old take care of the 7 year old and leaves them alone for hours at a time with no phone or any way to contact anybody if something happened.
I believe my 14 year old brother because my mother did the same thing to me and I had to run away to get away from and still she tried to get me back after I turned 18 and she tried kidnapping my baby after I had her when I was 19. My mother is just unstable and my brother is willing to tell anyone who will help but we are all running out of hope.
I have contacted several abuse hotlines and they say call this number and I do and it is a never ending cycle. I finally called CPS and the police. She kept moving back and forth between Texas and Wyoming and keeps evading the law. The police have investigated it and said since there are no physical bruises and there is food in the fridge, they have no reason to take them away. One officer told my brother it is okay to beat your kids as long as it is not too bad.
My brother is being isolated and trying to ask for help. I don’t know what to do for him. I would love any suggestions please help me.
Dear Ashley: We’re sorry to hear about your brothers’ circumstances. Perhaps you and your 14 year old brother could try to calmly talk with your Mom and let her know how you both feel and why. If she fully understands how much her choices are negatively impacting your brothers, maybe she will try to make some changes. You could try talking to another adult or relative that you trust. If your mom agrees to your brothers living with another adult, they could move to a different household. You and your brother also could document as many specific instances of mistreatment (abuse and/or neglect), so that you have clear examples to present to the police and Child Protective Services. Since your mom continues to move from state to state, here is the number for the National Child Protective Services Hotline at 1-800-422-4453. Take care of yourself and best of luck to you and your bothers.
(This is information only – not legal advice.)
Ok..so my 16 year old girlfriend( dating for over a year) has an emotionally abusive family. They are also very physical with her little brother. They have had cps called on them many times now, but whenever CPA gets there, the parent always makes up an excuse, ad always acts to good.like it’s a perfect family. The 7 year old brother has been in and out of the psych center, and he is starting to throw tantrums again. Nothing is wrong with him(mentally or physically) and the psych center says he’s fine…but hes getting worse, and now he’s even starting to crap everywhere. The parent usually ignores him until he starts hitting them, then they yell at him, saying to go die and stuff like that. She’s the one that cooks, cleans, wakes everyone up, and takes care of her brother. She’s the “mother” of the house. She has talked to her guidance officer at school and even the cop stationed there. They have been NO help at all. And she has new bruises everyday because her brother hits her.( he’s 7) please help?
Also, in my earlier message, I forgot to mention that her dads twin brothers are both murderers, and the dad doesn’t listen to her. So talking to him will not help. He has custody of her, doesn’t want to live with her mother, who is dating a rapist. She wants to move in with her 27year old sister, but he won’t sign the papers if she asks.
Dear Michael: Your concern for your girlfriend and her little brother is commendable. Neither of them should be experiencing what you’ve described. She needs to continue reporting every incident and taking pictures of any marks or bruises left on them. She could tell the school nurse and principal and see if they can help them out. She can also contact ChildHelp USA at 1-800-422-4453. Good luck.
(This is information only – not legal advice).
When i was 14 my dad had a women he had been dating from the Philippines and her son move in with us. The first time i meet them was when they moved in. I tried to be nice but she was not accepting of how American families work. She spazzed out when ever my sisters or I would ask for money. Within 3 months they got married (because that was the visa time limit).
One weekend my dad and them went out of town to our cabin and I told him my plan was to have my mom sleep over at our house (I had my school play that weekend so it would cut driving costs). He said no; when i got home from school that Friday I was locked out of the house and a bag of my things was in the unlocked junker car in the driveway. The bag had all the random junk from my bed in it: 5 pair of pants, one shirt, no underwear or socks.
His wife could never stand my mother (my fathers ex-wife) being on the property. I got fed up with all of them and ended up living at my aunts (my mother eventually moved in with my aunt too) for 10 months. My aunt wasn’t that nice and held everything over my head, she had double standers for me compared to her own kids. She came home from work most of the time in a pissed of mood and would freak out about the smallest things. My cousins would speak to me in a condescending tone like i was below them and trashy.
(15 now) I got kicked out, which was good because I hated it at my aunts. They sent me back to my dads. The day they returned me my dad didn’t open the door till the cops he called arrived. My aunt was almost ready to call the cops too. The cop that came had had to deal with my dad not letting my older sister in before. My day tried to pawn me off on social services, or something but that did work. I ended up in a room that was filled with junk and only had about 12 sq feet to walk on. School wise he(or my uncle) drove/picked me up from school for two days. My dad didn’t drive me to school one day and the next day my mom had to take me to switch schools back to my old school because he wouldn’t.
Over the next 6 weeks I was never invited to any meals and he made me sign a contract that made me agree to chores and it also said:
My sister, mother and aunt are not allowed on the property or in the house (this is something i cant control).
Do not take anything (including dishes) out of the house.
Do not miss the school bus.
No friends are allowed over to the house.
You must provide any rides you need.
The door is locked at 8:00 p.m. be home by then.
Use the computer at the library, not the one at the house.
No moving things without permission (this was referring to the incident when i moved some boxes out of the room i was staying in.)
We need your respect and good behavior.
You are not allowed to argue.
He got angry when I said my mom had the other copy. He also told me I was not allowed to go through the window (the house is a split level and my room was in the basement). To prevent me from using the window he screwed the window shut from the outside. One day I came home from hanging with a friend at the library and I was locked out. I had to spend the night at her house.
My dad and his wife were leaving to the Philippines for a month and he planned on having my uncle watch the house, pets, and me. When he had lived with us before there were issues with him watching porn in the living room. I ended up staying with my friend that I had previously spent the night at when I had gotten locked out. After he returned back from his trip I was also back at the house within a week or so. I only stayed there for a week. No one there talked to me and I was still never invited to any meals. So I left back to my friends house, my dad didn’t stop me at the door.
I am now turning 16 in a month and have been living at my friends house for the a total of the past 7 months. My dad hasn’t given the family any money ever or even met them. When ever I would email or text my dad he wouldn’t respond until after messaging him multiple times. This was a concern when I need my insurance info for my summer job.
Our state (Minnesota) has a program called PSEO that I plan doing where you can go to college (even live on campus and in the dorms). My middle sister did this. Now that I am old enough (going into my junior year). I have been accepted into the same school she goes to. I planned on living in a dorm but I wont be able to get the money from my dad or the contract in in time. My sister said I could stay on her couch (she just turned 18 a few moths ago). She also told me to report him but I am worried that if I go to social services they wont let me do this program. Is whats happening to me considered child neglect/abandonment?
Dear Samantha: We are very sorry to hear about your situation. You definitely need to talk to an adult you trust about your circumstances whether it’s your mom, a friend’s parent, another relative, a teacher or school counselor. Your father is legally responsible for you until you turn 18, so if your basic needs aren’t being met, it may be considered neglect under your state’s laws. Reporting your father does not necessarily mean that you will not be able to enroll in the program. Please take care of yourself and let an adult know what’s going on. You also can call one of the numbers listed above in the article.
(This is information only – not legal advice.)
I am 17 yeras old, and i live in Miami Florida. I dont live with my parents, i live with my grandparents. I dont go to school anymore because i have been having so much trouble in school that i cant focus at all. My grandparents are telling me to get out of their house since im not going to school and my dad told me that i should cut my veins and tells me alot of hurtfull things and i cant go live with him because he is moving to another country and living with him is alot of problems. Currently there is a dcf investigation going on with my stepdad and i cant live with my mother either because of that and because living with her causes me alot of emotional problems. I feel like im being emotionaly abused by my father. I asked to be allowed to go work and he wont even let me do that. I really need to become emancipated to move on my own and start working. I have been researching emancipation and i already know the rules and all of that, but im having trouble because i dont have anyone to take me to a court and i dont have a lawyer or anything like that. I was wondering if there is a way that i can file an Emancipation form online and send it to a judge. I dont have any way of going to a court and file a form of emancipation in person. where do i start? HELP
Dear Alice: We suggest that you Google the name of your local court to see if they have a website. Many courts do and some include online forms to complete and file. There may be a filing fee and it may not be necessary to appear just to file for emancipation. Before you do this, however, take a look at the following which spells out the law in Florida for applying for emancipation:
http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0700-0799/0743/Sections/0743.015.html
It is not an easy status to obtain because of the requirements that you must meet. Since you’re 17, it may be better to wait until you’re 18 when you become an adult. Good luck.
(This is information only – not legal advice).
Hello, My name is Heather.I’m going to start in the beginning so you understand,It starts when I was 5 years old,My mother had a husband who was a alcoholic and abusive,He would beat me and my mother,watch me as I slept, and try killing me in my sleep (so I was told by my mother).Well my now ex-step father (the abusive one) would emotionally, psychically ,and mentally abuse me.My mother (after 9 years of me AND my brother telling her to leave him) she finally left him after he hit my grandmother.She then started being mentally abusive to me and and every time I confront her about it she denies that she isn’t she says things sometimes like “Your just like Floyd (my abusive ex stepfather)”.or ” it’s because of you my life is hell”.After a few years my mother got married again (June 2011) to someone she knew for a long time.He acts like his 4 (hes 37 or 38 ).He buys transformer collectible toys, simpsons collectibles or dirty stuff for him and my mother (I know this because they talk pervertedly almost all the time).Recently my mother has became sneaky and secretively,she hides everything I need to know like if I have a doctors appointment or if we have to be somewhere.I’ve been to a shrink actually I’m suppose to see her every two weeks (last went March,4th 2011).Every time it comes to me asking about a doctor’s appointment or If I could go to a doctor soon she says “I don’t have the money.” She was medically retired as of Feb. 15th and has chirai malformation (a brain disorder were her brain is basically to big for her skull,) And PTSD like me.We both have it serverly but mine is along with bipolar and severe depression.Recently, my boyfriend moved back to Kentucky to work so we can be supported if we ever become more than boyfriend/girlfriend.Well,my mother agreed I could visit him on weekends or something we planned for me to visit as well to him visiting me.My boyfriend has told me he would send money for me and her if she wanted to go with me to get a bus ticket to see him and back,(no money needed for us place to stay,food etc.paid for).I’ve asked her politely if we could visit him.She said that we can when we get the money.Here’s the thing I found out my mother told my boyfriends step-mother I won’t be coming until I have my GED and at least a 2 or 4 year college degree.I am a drop-out and I’m getting my GED soon my choice was that I wanted to wait a year to think and decide what I really want to be involved in to actually think it threw and if I decide sooner I’d enroll and do what I have to do.Now my mother and me CONSTANTLY fight and it’s gotten to the point she makes me fully depressed when my mother is mentioned I overly eat always and I criticize myself out loud (calling myself ugly,fat,worthless etc.).All the money goes to junk food like breakfast hot pockets,microwave pizza’s cookie cake,milk,noodles etc or bills that still have to be paid.I’ve reacted the point were I’m tired of her controlling my life.I’m tired of being depressed because she gets to me.I’m tired of laying awake at night thinking she’s going to come in and kill me.I want out I don’t care if I hurt her feelings I’m tired of being controlled.My education and life is for me and ONLY me to make not her.So how do I get out? What do I do? People keep telling me to runaway even though i keep telling them im not going to. or call CPS,i get so scared to call them.I honestly feel safer at my friends house in Kentucky.Extra information:I’m 16 and I live in Louisiana.help me please help me get free.
Additional Details.
I want to go to college in Kentucky I want to go to one school and stay there not move and transfer every where I go.I know Education is very important which is why I’ve made a goal to get my GED and go to college.I want to be the best I can be and I know I can do better then beauty school.As I said I have a friend in Kentucky who says I can live with her.I just have to get away from my mother.Note: She lives near a lot of good college in Kentucky hence why I’d like to live with her.
Dear Angel: We’re very sorry to hear about your situation. Perhaps you could try sitting down with your mom and having a heart to heart and tell her how you feel and why you would like to live with your friend. Maybe if she understands your struggles with living at home and the educational opportunities for you in KY, she may be willing to let you live with her. If she agrees to let you live with your friend, then there shouldn’t be a problem as long as your friend is 18 or you live with her and her parents. You need to talk to another adult you trust like your counselor (even if you don’t go to the appointment, try calling your counselor to talk), another relative or a friend’s parent about the situation. If you are being abused in any way, you need to call the National Child Protective Services hotline at 1-800-422-4453. Good luck and please take care of yourself.
(This is information only – not legal advice.)
i have a friend that is just 12 years old and she is getting abuse physically by her brother of 18 years old. i found out about this one day that i saw her crying outside of school and i guess she trusted me bacause she told me what was goin on in her house and i told her that whenever she needed somthing that she could of just come to my house or somethin… and after that day i though that everything got better because she didnt mension anything no more till now that she came to my house crying because her brother was hitting her and puching her and she want to know what could it happen in this situassion because she said that she just dosnt feel safe in her house no more and that she doesnt want to be there… she also told me that she alredy called the cops before but they never do anything about her they just get her in more trouble for sniching soo i dnt think that there is something that you cannot do about this situasion… soo what could or what should she do??
Dear Erika: First, you should tell an adult you trust about your friend’s situation whether it’s your parents, a teacher, school counselor or another relative. It’s important that a trusted adult know about what’s going on so they may be able to help. Your friend should do the same although she may be scared to talk to an adult, again it could help her situation improve. Ask her whether she’s told anyone else and if there is an adult in her family, at school, etc. that she trusts and feels comfortable with. Maybe if she sat down with her parents and told them about what’s happening, they could put an end to the abuse by her brother. Encourage her to tell someone. Finally, she could call the National Child Protective Services Hotline at 1-800-422-4453. CPS will investigate the matter and look into what’s going on in her home. Good luck to your friend.
(This is information only – not legal advice.)
How long after sexual abuse has happened, can a doctor tell that it has in fact occurred? I have a 1 year old son and a 2 year old daughter who are both acting strange. We were living with a friend of mine for 3 months. Both of them are showing emotional signs now that something like this could’ve taken place… but it’s been almost 2 weeks that we have been away from my friend’s place. I am not sure, I don’t want to falsely accuse him especially after he helped us out. But still would like to get them checked out to make sure. My question is since time has passed… and if something has happened…. will a doctor still be able to tell? what should I do?
Dear Tanya: Anytime a parent or caretaker suspects physical or sexual abuse of a child, a medical doctor should examine the child. Even after several weeks, there may be indications or evidence of inappropriate sexual activity that the doctor will be able to detect and explain to you. Forget your ‘friend’ and seek help for your children immediately.
(This is information only – not legal or medical advice).
My Dad has been abusing me ever since He got back from werever he went off too for the majority of my life. Instead of saying that i had done wrong, he slaps me, punches me, pushes me down, or pulls me by the hair. This has been happening for three years now. What should I do?
Dear T: No child or teenager should be abused in any way: sexually, physically or emotionally. Every state has laws against child abuse and procedures in place to protect them from abusers even if they are the parents. You need to report the abuse to the police or Child Protective Services (CPS). A national helpline you can call is 1-800-422-4453. This is the ChildHelp USA number and they will put you in touch with your local CPS office. You can also report this to a counselor at school or another adult that you trust. The authorities will investigate to see if your father’s discipline is within the law and doesn’t constitute “abuse” as defined in your state. Good luck.
(This is information only – not legal advice).
Im 19 years old and living with my mother and 12 year old brother. My mother is an alcoholic and it never used to be bad but a couple months ago it started getting so bad that I cant even consider her my mom anymore. She is seeing someone for help but will never admit she even drinks even when I catch her doing it and when I do she gets mad. Now I understand that I am perfectly capable of leaving, and if it werent for my brother I would, but I refuse to leave my brother. Due to her alcoholism, I have basically raised my brother, I consider him my son. I want him to be out of this sitution because she doesnt seem to want to get better or help herself, so my only option is to make his life better. The thing is if I call child services, im scared that they will take him away completely and put him in a foster home, and he has said he would rather stay and deal with mom than be taken away from me, he said that he either lives with me or he stays with mom. But im so worried about him. My mother has a histery of suicidal episodes, she neglects to feed him or give him his adhd medicine if im not there, she does not take care of any of her responsibilities, and she often has episodes of going completely crazy and breaking down on the floor for hours screaming and crying beforw she passes out. He shouldnt have to go theough this but I dont want to gi against his wishes. Is there anything I can do to make sure I get custody?
Dear Ashley: We’re sorry to hear about you and your brother’s situation at home. Perhaps you and your brother could try to calmly talk with your Mom and let her know how her choices are negatively impacting your brother. Maybe if she understands the extent of how your brother is affected by her behavior, she will try to make some changes. If your mom agrees to your brother living with you or another adult, the two of you could move to a different household. You and your brother also could document as many specific instances of mistreatment (abuse and/or neglect), so that you have clear examples to present to the police and Child Protective Services. CPS would work to place your brother with another relative first including you (if you can support him and yourself). The number for the National Child Protective Services Hotline at 1-800-422-4453. Take care of yourself and best of luck to you and your bother.
(This is information only – not legal advice.)
My parents recently got a divorce and my dad and I have always had a dysfuntional relationship, so I wanted my mom to have full custody of me. When they got divorced I didn’t talk to the judge that day because they would have just kept arguing about it if I did and they wouldn’t be divorced. So now I am required to go to my dad’s place every other weekend. I went this weekend and i decided to just ignore him completely because every time we talk, we’re arguing. I was sitting on the couch listening to my ipod ignoring him. He got mad and starting yelling at me but I didn’t pay attention. I just turned up my ipod. He then starting screaming at me louder. Then he yanked my headphones off of my head and threatened that he was going to throw it away if I continued to ignore him. I forcefully put my headphones back on and continued to ignore him. He leaned in again towards me like he was going to pull them off again or even hit me, so I leaned back into the couch dodging him. And I yelled for him to leave me alone and to stop. He finally did, but I was scared afterwards. I went outside and called my mom and talked to her about it. I cried when I was trying to tell her about it. I am afraid of him and I don’t want to go over there anymore. He’s never really cared about me. I believe he just doesn’t want to have to pay any money. That’s why he’s keeping me. Is this considered abuse or neglect? I have plenty more to tell but I don’t want to be a burden. Thanks.
Dear Sydney: We’re sorry to hear about your situation and how you’re feeling. While physical abuse is easier to define, emotional and verbal abuse are not as clear and even the courts may struggle to define when such abuse is occurring. It’s good that you tell your mom about these events and when you feel uncomfortable or scared. Perhaps you could also try speaking with a school counselor. Maybe if you tried sitting down and calmly talking to your dad about how you feel, he would understand where you’re coming from and make more of an effort to have a good relationship with you. Keep in mind that it goes both ways and if your dad is willing to make an effort and try to make things better, you will have to meet him in the middle by also making an effort. If you’re uncomfortable talking to him, you could try writing him a letter and again, calmly and respectfully explain to him how you feel. Finally, if you’re in fear of your safety and don’t know what to do, you can call the National Child Service Hotline at 1-800-422-4453. Take care and good luck.
(This is information only – not legal advice.)
My granddaughter, who is now 10 years old, refuses to see her father. She claims she has been sexually abused, but no one seems to believe her. She now has her own attorney, her mother and father each have their own attorney. My granddaughter has seen the judge, who does not believe my granddaughter. She refuses to go to school on the days her father is picking her up from school. I have been to my daughter’s house on these days and have tried to convince her to go to school. She is to meet her father, along with her paternal grandmother at a public place three times. When her grandmother picks her up, she does not take my granddaughter to the public place where they are to meet. This was set up by the judge. I don’t know where to turn for help.
Dear Eileen: We suggest that you pass this information on to your granddaughter’s lawyer. He or she needs to know what’s going on so she can be properly represented in court. Her attorney’s job is to look out for her best interests and advise the court of her position regarding custody and visitation. Good luck.
(This is information only – not legal advice).
iam a 14 year old teen , ive been malested b my god father , beat on by my grandparents and im currently with my mom who beats me , she threatens to kill me and beat me and put me in a foster home , my real dad is trying really hard to come rescue me but she wont let him , im scared for m safety and i dont know what to do , she still beats me , m older sister abuses me to and doesnt get in trouble my mom takes her side , ive been stressed out and depressed and ive attempted suicide because i hate it hear , is there any way the police can escort me from the house to where my dad can come get me so i can be safe and happy again ? someone please help me
Dear Damonica: No one has the right to abuse you – physically, psychologically or sexually. If you’re in danger you should report what’s happening to an adult you trust such as a teacher, school counselor, parent of a friend, relative, or the police or Child Protective Services. There is help in these situations but you have to ask for it. Someone has to be aware of what’s happening to you at home. You can call the national ChildHelp line at: 1-800-422-4453 anytime of day or night. The same goes for 911. Whatever is going on, Damonica, we care about you and so do a lot of other people. Suicide is not the answer. The Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255. This is a confidential resource for you to get help and LIVE. Your life has just started and it will get better for you. But you must speak out and not keep everything to yourself. All the best, Damonica.
(This is information only – not legal advice).
My uncle is currently divorcing his wife of 6 yrs. she was cheating on him and then she ran off with him and left their 2 kids and my uncle…now I don’t have a problem with that but I do have a problem with her now boyfriend. See my uncle has 2 little girls ages 3 and 5. and the smaller one says that the man touched her and that he hurt her down there. She is 3 so Im pretty sure she is not lying also the oldest one says that the man touches her mommy in front of them and that he hits and screams at her. My uncle is scared to call cps because he fears that he wont get to see his children again (he is not the abuser) please help any kind of advice will help. (houston Tx)
Dear Vanessa: We’re glad you’re looking out for the welfare of these young girls. Assuming the girls are telling the truth, this guy should not be with them especially when no one else is around. Touching them in a sexual manner is just the beginning. Someone has to notify the police or Child Protective Services to put an end to this. Either you, their father or both of you can report this. Your uncle may also want to speak with a lawyer who practices family or juvenile law. He can go to court and obtain an order of protection against the boyfriend that prevents him from having any contact with them. Many courts around the country offer free legal advice to the public by lawyers who donate their time. You can contact your local court and ask about this program. Good luck. Do whatever is necessary to protect these girls.
(This is information only – not legal advice).
Yeah my dad is always neglecting me like he doesn’t even care bout me or even love me. Like he always picks on me calling me fat and all this plus he always screams at me for no reason. Another thing is he doesn’t even buy me the things I need he only buys the things that he likes. Also he always says ti me go with your mom it’s like he doesn’t want me there. Plus when he says he loves me he doesnt mean it nd when I do nice things for him he never smiles at me or says thank you. But sure to my big brother he does it nd he always has money for pickup trucks but never for his kids. Like my mom is the only person that actually buys me clothes and everything and he doesn’t nd especially my mom really has no money because she’s in debt unlike my dad which has alot.
Dear Jhonathan: We’re sorry to hear of your situation at home. Maybe you can talk calmly with your Mom & Dad about living with your Mom. If he’s serious when he tells you to go to your mother’s home, maybe you can reach an agreement that’s satisfactory to everyone. Good luck.
(This is information only – not legal advice).
My 8 year old nephew often returns home from his fathers house with bruises and fat lips. He says that he is just wrestling with his 14 year old step brother and that is how he gets the bruises.. He did confide in me once that a bruise on his back was from when his step mother when she tried to make him go downstairs and he pulled away from her and hit his back on the fridge. Almost every time He comes back to his mothers house he has bruises, a fat lip, or hemorrhage marks on his arms and this concerns me. His mother takes photos of the bruises and is also concerned about him but she has not called cps. She has informed the father but he says boys will be boys. I’m not sure if this is just considered roughhousing among siblings. I have three kids of my own and they rarely ever leave bruises on each other after roughhousing. Am I being overly protective of my nephew or should I call cps myself if his mother won’t? I don’t want to cause unnecessary drama but I am concerned about my nephews welfare at his fathers house.
Dear Liz: You have a right to be concerned about your nephew’s welfare. An occasional injury on a child is normal, as you know. But repeated injuries are reason to investigate further. We can’t tell you what to do or how to proceed, but keeping the child’s welfare first and foremost in mind is key. An investigation by the police and/or Child Protective Services may get to the bottom of what, if anything, is happening when he visits his father. Good luck.
(This is information only – not legal advice).
Hey my name is Maria nd yeah I know one of my friends is struggling with his stupid dad. Like his dad always picks on him nd his little brother nd my friend at school always tells me that he wants to move with his mom. Since he always protects his older son nd not his youngest nd plus he threatens him that hell take him to the military. When really I think his dad should just either go to jail or not allowed with his kids. Screaming at him for stupid things like once. When I came over his dad try talking to me but I dont like his dad because of how he treats him. Nd plus his whole family treats him like crap so what should I do to help my friend oh I forgot one last thing his dad use to spank him with the belt naked or with a stick please help!!!!
Dear Maria: Perhaps your friend could try sitting down and calmy talking with his dad and his mom, either together or separately, about how he feels and how he would like to live with his mom. If everyone agrees to this arrangement, then there shouldn’t be a problem. But if there are court orders in place giving custody to his dad, then his parents would have to go back to the court to get the custody orders modified. If your friend believes he is being abused or neglected, he needs to call Child Protective Services at 1-800-422-4453. You may want to encourage him to talk to an adult he trusts about the situation whether it’s your parents, a school counselor or another relative. Take care and good luck to your friend.
(This is information only – not legal advice.)
Yeah sorry if Ive done this twice but my dad really doesn’t know to quit abusing and neglecting me already like. The other day a police man came to our house and my dad told a complete lie saying that me and my little brother always play video games and do nothing around the house. But me and my brother always do everything around the house and the reward we get is food. He never gets us clothes school supplies always never has money for his kids but yet he has money for pickup trucks. I don’t wanna call the police because I’m too scared what he might do to me or the national abuse hotline. His name is Ricardo P Garcia he lives in 207N 800W Orem,Utah 84057 please help me I’m desperately needing help ASAP.
Dear Jhonathan: We are very sorry to hear about your circumstances. You need to immediately talk to an adult you trust about your circumstances at home. This may be another relative, a friend’s parent, teacher, school counselor or church member. They will be able to help you. It’s extremely important that you and your little brother are not in a dangerous situation or abusive household. If you call the National Child Protective Services hotline, you can report any abuse or neglect anonymously and your dad would not know what led to CPS investigating the living situation at your house. Here is the phone number: 1-800-422-4453. Please take care of yourself and your little brother. Talk to an adult you trust or call the number above.
(This is information only – not legal advice.)