Question for MA P.O.

[heavensent]

I was just wondering if anybody can tell me if it is legal to throw your teenage daughter out on the streets? I know someone who has done so. The girl has since turned 17 but was 16 when she was first thrown out. The girl calls me constantly for food money and is sleeping wherever she can.:(

[MK219]

I suggest you contact a lawyer. I do know that a 17year old is considered an adult here. But at sixteen, it might depend on the circumstances.

[BrickCop]

You should call the Massachusetts Department of Social Services (DSS) for info.

I believe 'victims' are considered an "adult" at 17 but I'm not 100% certain on that. I know 17 is considered an adult in Massachusetts for criminal suspects.

The mother could be subject to prosecution for any child abuse/neglect inflicted prior the the girl's 17th birthday.

If you do not call DSS I would at the least, contact your local police department as there may be more going on at that household.

[Deuce]

No, a mother cannot throw her child out of the house when 16 or 17 to avoid being a parent. Call MA DSS and drop a dime on her. Or call the PD in her town and if warranted they will initiate a 51A on mom. Unless she's a runaway and not giving you the whole story:eek: Then she's a CHINS runaway and get her a** locked up.....

[Deuce]

Sorry, just to clarify, if she's 17 already PO's can't CHINS her (arrest her as a runaway). But she's still considered a juvenile, so IF she's telling you the truth DSS is the route.

[heavensent]

Thank you all for the info. I will certainly call DSS AND the P.D. in that town.:)