Fresno, CA asked in Civil Rights, Constitutional Law, Criminal Law, Juvenile Law and Family Law for California

Q: What began as a runaway teen turned into abduction when she returns home. How do I get the police to make arrest?

My daughter ran away, but upon returning home the following day my son's ex manipulates her by saying she was not allowed to come back home. She tells my child if someone sees her cps and police will be called to take her away. The ex girlfriend then relocates her to another location, telling a witness not to tell us, her parents. When husband goes to the location and asks if my daughter is there the x denies my child being there and sends him away. The x then relocates my child again only to abandon under a bridge.The x then comes back to my family and pretends to be searching for my daughter all while leading in different directions. Since I had reported my daughter as a runaway the police refused to reclassify she was now missing and when I found my daughter over 1 month later and I attempted to make report of abduction I was again denied. What can I do? I've attempted at least 5 times with all the evidence and timelines and witness statements, they still won't investigate.

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: 1. Document everything: Compile all evidence, including witness statements, timelines, and any communication with the ex-girlfriend. This documentation will be crucial for any future legal action.

2. Escalate within the police department: Request to speak with a supervisor or the chief of police. Explain the situation and emphasize that this went beyond a runaway case and became an abduction.

3. Contact the District Attorney's office: Present your case to them directly. They may be able to compel the police to investigate or pursue charges themselves.

4. File a formal complaint: If you believe the police are not fulfilling their duties, file a formal complaint with the department's internal affairs division or civilian oversight board.

5. Consult with a lawyer: An attorney specializing in family law or criminal law may be able to advise you on the best course of action and potentially help pressure law enforcement to act.

6. Contact child protective services: While you mentioned CPS was used as a threat, they might actually be able to help in this situation, especially if there's evidence of child endangerment.

7. Reach out to advocacy groups: Organizations that deal with missing children or victims' rights might be able to offer guidance or put pressure on authorities.

8. Consider civil action: While this won't result in an arrest, you might be able to pursue a civil case against the ex-girlfriend for her actions.

9. Media attention: As a last resort, bringing media attention to the case might prompt action from law enforcement, though this should be carefully considered due to potential privacy concerns.

Remember, the statute of limitations for most crimes gives you time to pursue this, so don't give up if initial attempts are unsuccessful.

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