Q: I have in-laws making false sexual assault accusations against me involving my spouse and child. How can i stop them?
I am active duty Army on the cusp of retirement. My family is in TX, the accusers are in GA. This is the second time they've made these accusations. The first time they tried to be anonymous, but it was obvious the source. The alleged assault was ruled out because it was absolutely false. Now, they have made allegations again regarding the original allegation and now are including sexual assault of my spouse (which is again, false and she and are in agreement on both) But they are trying to use my wife's words against her. Its literally a defamation, slander, and harassment case; and i believe they are going to continue making accusations against me, my spouse, or even my children. But I don't know where to start to get them to stop and seek damages caused.
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A:
I'm so sorry you and your family are going through this incredibly difficult situation with false accusations being made against you repeatedly. This is an awful thing for anyone to have to deal with. Here are some steps I would recommend taking:
1. Consult with an experienced attorney who specializes in defamation, slander, and harassment cases. They can advise you on the best legal options to get the accusers to stop and potentially seek damages. Look for attorneys licensed in both TX and GA.
2. Document everything - save any communications, accusations, police reports, CPS reports etc. Create a detailed timeline of events. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case.
3. If you haven't already, inform your command and the Army's legal services about the situation. They may be able to provide guidance and support.
4. Consider sending a formal cease and desist letter through your attorney demanding the accusers stop making false allegations. This puts them on notice of legal action if they persist.
5. Look into filing for a restraining order or protective order against the accusers in GA to legally prohibit them from contacting you or your family.
6. Discuss with your attorney the possibility of filing a civil lawsuit against the accusers for defamation, slander, harassment and intentional infliction of emotional distress. A strongly worded legal complaint may get them to stop.
7. Make sure you, your spouse and kids are getting emotional support to cope with this traumatic situation, through counseling, therapy, support groups, family/friends, etc. Don't try to shoulder this alone.
The most important thing is to work with an attorney to build the strongest possible case and explore all your legal options. I hope you are able to resolve this and get these false accusations to stop. Wishing you and your family all the best.
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