Saturday, February 25, 2012

The Aftermath

This is a follow-up to my post "Crimes of Domestic Violence."

The police were here for several hours.
Both the husband and the wife were booked into jail. Their two children were taken by child protective services. Their dog was taken by animal control.

Why such a dramatic outcome? One word: Drugs.

I was shocked to hear from one of the police deputies that they found drugs in the house. Not just some - a lot. From what I saw hauled out by the decontamination unit there were 3 different marijuana plants as well as several bags of weed, and many growing implements. They filled an entire back of a pickup truck with what they hauled out.

It was quite a scene.

Our apartment manager got all of us residents that were home within our little street circle together about 10 minutes after they left.
He informed us all of what had happened (without going into details) and encouraged us to call the police if/when we saw or heard anything suspicious. He commended me, while leaving me anonymous, for doing the right thing and calling police. He said that with where the office is located compared to where our circle is it is hard for him to hear what happens. He also expressed how he is most concerned for the children that live in our little area, as there are many.

James (the manager) informed us all that when it comes to any physical violence that takes place on the property there is a "3 strikes, you're out" rule. He also said that there is a zero tolerance for drugs.

So... I know that these neighbors are being evicted.

In talking with all of my neighbors that attended our little meeting I discovered more information about the domestic violence that had been taking place next door.

I was heartbroken to find out that their neighbors on the other side had heard the husband throw the woman down the stairs previously. They also could smell the marijuana through the vents in the ceiling. I was in shock that they had not contacted police themselves. What were they waiting for?!

I am carrying a prayer in my heart today for those two little children. They are both so young. I think their daughter is maybe 2, and their son only a matter of months old. I hope with all my heart that their mother is able to go through the necessary steps to get them back, and be a good mother to them.

Today was a sad day.

2 comments:

Swinging On Small Hinges said...

Krystin, you were so brave! We have been so fortunate that with all of our apartment dwelling we have always had really good, not scary, neighbors. Good job on calling it in! Those poor babies, I hope they are going to be ok.

. said...

Scary, sad and unfortunately way too common! I'd guess that over 80% of the kids we've taken in are because of drugs and everything that ensues.. Good for you!