Full question:
My neighbor left his kids in school, locked his house and has still not returned. Its been a week now and the kids for the time being are staying with us. My neighbor has not even called once to check on them. Can I file a complaint against my neighbor for leaving his kids without arranging for their care and support? We live in Rhode Island.
- Category: Minors
- Subcategory: Support
- Date:
- State: Rhode Island
Answer:
Yes, you may file a complaint against your neighbor for he has left his kids behind without any arrangements for their care in his absence. In Rhode Island, a parent may be considered guilty of a criminal offense (misdemeanor) if he intentionally leaves or fails to provide his/her kids with support and care, In this case, if your neighbor is found guilty by the court, then he may have to face imprisonment up to 6 months.R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-2-1
“Abandonment or nonsupport of spouse or children
Every person who shall abandon his or her spouse or children, leaving them in danger of becoming a public charge, or who shall neglect to provide according to his or her means for the support of his or her spouse or children, or who shall neglect or refuse to aid in the support of his or her spouse and/or children, except as otherwise provided for in § 11-2-1.1, shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be punished by imprisonment for not more than six (6) months.”
This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.
