Lincoln, NE asked in Family Law, Child Custody, Child Support and Sexual Harassment for Florida

Q: Would it count as kidnapping if I picked them up a friend in an abusive household and kept them safe in another place.

father is a rapist and physical/mental abuser, mother physically/emotionally abuser. Police have been called on numerous occasions and have done nothing. Mother has "kicked out" my friend and called police stating that they ran away. Threaten to kill if police or cps is called. Cps has been called but nothing proven. Friend is over 13 but under 18. Have helped them through many breakdowns and almost attempted suicides. I feel like I'm the only one that can help them get out of their because of previous police and cps statements.

I live in Nebraska and am trying to figure out the best way I can help within the legal ways.

2 Lawyer Answers
Tami Lane Augen
Tami Lane Augen
Answered
  • Divorce Lawyer
  • West Palm Beach, FL
  • Licensed in Florida

A: This is a difficult question if DCF is not taking any action. It is unclear who called DCF. Your friend can call the abuse hotline herself. She can also continue to call. Your friend can contact the authorities herself as well. Further, your friend may want to reach out to another trusted adult such as a clergy member, a guidance counselor, a friend's parent, etc. You can also continue to make DCF reports as well through the hotline. She needs to be honest with the DCF case worker in terms of advising them what is going on.

Terrence H Thorgaard
Terrence H Thorgaard
Answered
  • Freeeport, FL
  • Licensed in Florida

A: To answer the question, no it wouldn't be kidnapping, although the parents might be able to accuse you of some other crime.

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