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This message was self-deleted by its author (LuckyCharms) on Wed May 24, 2023, 04:25 PM. When the original post in a discussion thread is self-deleted, the entire discussion thread is automatically locked so new replies cannot be posted.
sarcasmo
(23,968 posts)LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)are they difficult to get?
Also, I don't think that would stop her.
marble falls
(71,919 posts)DetroitLegalBeagle
(2,504 posts)They give you a paper trail for future legal action. But they are just a piece of paper and do absolutely nothing to protect you. If someone is willing to attack you, that piece of paper isn't going to dissuade them.
marble falls
(71,919 posts)... charges are being assembled. breaking the order is anything from just getting to close to having laid hands on the "protected".
Usually something like this without any arrest history of violence ends up in mediation.
wnylib
(26,008 posts)on getting a restraining order. IMO, they don't provide much protection against someone who sounds so irrational. But it would at least put her on notice that law enforcement is aware of a problem with her. Sometimes that's enough to discourage people from escalating their behavior.
Maybe a tall fence would help keep both her and the dog off of your property. The kind that blocks vision.
CentralMass
(16,971 posts)any incidents either. Try to put in in a spot the isnt obvious.
OAITW r.2.0
(32,133 posts)Nothing worse than a douchebag 15 lb dog. And I like dogs.
ecstatic
(35,075 posts)or is she always like that now? I would just keep my distance. Don't say anything to either one of them. Block the dog somehow. De-escalate. The male neighbor seems cool, but the problem is, she's also dealing with a bunch of other random guys too and you don't know what they're capable of. Avoid any further triggering topics with her (the dog seems to be the biggest trigger).
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)She's really really fucked up even when she is not.
She lies, and she has had screaming matches with 2 other neighbors.
Her kids are young. There is a house behind me, but you have to walk about a quarter mile around the block to get there. One of the dogs ran off and ended up at this house behind me. The kids went and got the dog, and they they were too young to go all the way around the block like that all alone, and the neighbor behind me got into a shouting match with her when the mother went to pick up her kids after driving around the neighborhood looking for her kids and the dog.
marble falls
(71,919 posts)... if I were you. So far there doesn't seem any real cause of action unless you or your wife want to try to file for assault because of her screaming at you in your yard.
I'd sure work and try to keep things on an even keel with the neighbor, though.
Whatever you do will fall onto your neighbor, too, in the end.
If you have an honest fear for your safety - start with the lawyer before the cops get involved.
niyad
(132,430 posts)you and your wife are having to deal with this. Since you are 65, the first thing I would do is call your Area Council on Aging. This would probably qualify as elder abuse. They should be able to direct you to the appropriate resources. I would also call animal control for your area, find out if anything can be done about the dog.
Keep your cell ohone handy, hit record if she comes near you.
Others will have much better advice, I am sure. But know that we are holding you both in love and light.
hugggggggs
intrepidity
(8,582 posts)I'm going through the same thing with my neighbor, minus the crazy girlfriend part.
No advice here, but I hope some others show up with some wisdom.
Sorry this is happening, I legit think tfg and the gop have unleased all the crazy that is infecting everyone.
PoindexterOglethorpe
(28,493 posts)Are they allowed to roam freely at all times? I hope not. Call the appropriate authorities about the dog.
You might also want to consider building a fence. Personally, I would never live in a neighborhood where the yards don't have fences.
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)They have a huge lab too. Both dogs are let out without leashes.
I'm buddies with the lab., I love that dog, even though he pisses in my garage occasionally.
The husband is timid, and I'm worried about escalating the crazy with her. I fear she would retaliate against my dog, who barks sporadically for about 3 minutes a day when I let him out. We are always outside with him when he is in our fenced backyard, and he is not aggressive at all. I'm worried if I take action, she will try to kill him.
I honestly don't mind the dogs being on my property, but I don't want to get bit by the little one.
vanlassie
(6,248 posts)No more public indulging. You are right to think deescalating is the way to go.
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)Imagine two mechanics in her driveway staring at you while she is yelling, and then your neighbors looking at you while all of this is going on.
It was either laugh or get pissed off.
I chose to laugh and told her to have a good evening as she went back into her house.
I'm not the type of person not to have some reaction while someone is lacing me out like that. Laughing is the least offensive.
vanlassie
(6,248 posts)Regards.
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)PoindexterOglethorpe
(28,493 posts)Do it. Do not excuse the little dogs.
This does tend to affirm why I don't like dogs. I mean, when was the last time you worried about someone's cat killing your cat? But dogs. Yeah, dogs.
Oh, and dogs bark. They bark and they bark and they bark and you can hear them half a block away. When was the last time you heard the neighbor's cat meow? Other than if it had gotten into your house?
ecstatic
(35,075 posts)They have gotten into fights. They cry sometimes. And they're super loud.
MutantAndProud
(855 posts)I honestly dont have an answer for when people around you go nuts or haywire. Ive had an ex-roommate turn out that way after promising to help me with a guy I faced abuse from years back. That mans partner and the ex roommate *and* my mother *and* my sister in social work all got together to start laying it on me about how I needed mental health care and should call the 988 hotline
for talking about and reporting past abuse. Hollywood betrayal style.
I did get an eval just to get a professional opinion which was quick, because no, no signs of mental health problems but definite proof of family interference and toxic drama. My dad is retired and unable to help with all of this and probably doesnt know what to believe anymore.
So. I feel for you. Unfortunately unless you observe or are faced with violence or property intrusion the only thing you can do is a noise complaint if the ordinance supports it
which may just make things worse. When terrible people start self reinforcing each others toxicity
its hell. Some people thrive on it, and if they have money behind them its even worse since they can pay to change peoples minds or get a harassment campaign.
Wish I knew a better way. Open to suggestions for my situation too. I just want a level partner and a quiet corner to live in peace in these days.
pandr32
(14,270 posts)I am not surprised her kids have bad behavior. She's socialized them.
I would guess your friend next door is abused and being used. It won't end well.
Get something on camera with sound and get a restraining order against her. You need to protect yourself, so every time she breaks the restraining order call the cops. I would also show proof to your neighbor about the guys coming and going while he's at work.
Deuxcents
(26,912 posts)The advice about cameras is what I would suggest, too. He said, she said doesnt get it anymore..video doesnt lie. I also think the girlfriend is the real problem ..I hope she doesnt turn violent for you and your wife or for your neighbor. Be cool and good luck.
Tetrachloride
(9,623 posts)emphasize the guy is a good guy and the possibility of meth
orleans
(36,912 posts)and so sorry that you and your wife went through all this
i feel like i'm just summarizing what others have written --but they all seem like good ideas:
i would also suggest a fence. we had a fenced in back yard but ended up putting a fence around the side yard. the front gate in the side yard (that faced the street) had a lock on it.
you might call the police tomorrow and see if there is a leash law. possibly file a complaint about the off leash dog and it's attack/nipping behavior. ask the cops what a complaint entails and then decide.
i don't know if you should talk to a lawyer or a cop about that neighbor's behavior and words and that you are scared/worried/concerned that she might escalate the situation. ask about restraining order and what it entails.
think it over.
and maybe look into a couple cameras for the outside.
Dan
(5,179 posts)orleans
(36,912 posts)in the yard and they could chase around and not wear a leash or escape.
the side yard fence got installed after a couple of my douchebag "friends" taped a couple firecrackers to my bedroom window. funny joke, right? but i guess they ran away before they could lite them. or maybe they didn't even try. we put the fence up anyway.
Ms. Toad
(38,634 posts)You might try adult protective services.
progressoid
(53,179 posts)If things escalate, you need evidence.
cilla4progress
(26,525 posts)Neighborhood squabbles can turn violent quickly..
I don't need to tell you that!
I'm so sorry you have to go through this!
Response to LuckyCharms (Original post)
cilla4progress This message was self-deleted by its author.
ForgedCrank
(3,093 posts)personal opinion of course, but the boyfriend seems willing to work it out. Calling the police or using a protective order makes it an even bigger problem for him. I'd say your best approach for a long-term solution is to be patient and work with him only, and let him try to deal with the nut. You shouldn't have to, let him do it. He'll maintain his respect for you at the same time. Going the legal route could earn you a second enemy. Just tell him you are trusting him to handle it, and be patient. I'm guessing eventually, and for reasons having nothing to do with you or your wife, she will probably be ejected from his home.
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)He's got a lot to lose.
Very successful business.
He also has been in cuffs and had a restraining order on him.
Cops are over there constantly.
I think he knows in his heart if he fucks up again, he will lose everything.
My wife, who is very intuitive, commented tonight that this will cause him to throw her out.
ForgedCrank
(3,093 posts)to navigate this sort of crap that none of us welcome.
I go by the good night of sleep rule. Mortal danger aside, I don't respond when angry or upset, I always wait until the next day when I've had a good rest and my vengeance instinct has had time to run out of steam on it's own. The rule has served me well, kept me out of a lot of trouble, and helped me find amicable solutions.
I'm sure the neighbor will also appreciate not having to deal with law enforcement if there is a history there. Of course, how long you are willing to wait it out is something only you can decide.
Having a shitty neighbor is the worst. It happened to me once as well, and it just makes daily living less enjoyable all around. I do hope it works itself out for you.
pnwmom
(110,260 posts)And does Lucky know that she as male friends who come over and smoke weed with her?
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)he violated it, so they dragged him out of his work in cuffs.
I know about the male friends and the weed and the beer and whatever else because I can see it happen. It's only a few feet away from me.
I've also seen the current girlfriend rolling around in the grass, half naked, talking loudly to herself.
I don't care about the weed. Everyone on my street smokes weed, including me.
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)Issues with CPS
Pitbull (since euthanized) biting babysitter in the face
Issues with his children claiming abuse
yardwork
(69,364 posts)There's a lot of good advice in this thread. Perhaps the best advice is to speak to a lawyer, lay everything out, and get advice about how to protect yourself.
I wouldn't engage directly with any of them. Seriously. Both the adults sound unstable and potentially dangerous to you and your wife.
bringthePaine
(1,806 posts)canetoad
(20,769 posts)With a moderate ice (meth) problem. Her behaviour, pugnacity, language and aggression are pretty much what you'd expect from a tweaker.
On the other hand, I have pretty good neighbours. Several smoke weed and we have a sort of growers club. The way things stand with you and your neighbours girlfriend right now is precarious. I really mean that. If she's on ice, expect the unexpected.
OTOH, your relationship with the man sounds strained but unbroken. I really think you should back away, grit your teeth and bear it, and let her boyfriend deal with this. If she moved in, she can move out. I would really hope that after this latest episode, he is starting to see things in a different light.
Right now, the last thing I'd be doing is escalating the aggression and unpleasantness. I know - stand your ground and all that. The American way and freedom. IMO, neighbours are a great resource until someone like this fucks up the system of live and let live. If ice/meth is involved, you will never fix her. Believe me.
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)I'm really wrestling with what to do here.
I'm wondering if I should at least file a police report to get it on record, but again, I'm afraid of escalating the crazy.
canetoad
(20,769 posts)But which record, and where?
Can you trust the local cops not to make it worse? If push comes to shove, this thread right here is 'getting it on record'.
wnylib
(26,008 posts)It would establish with LE that there is a problem in case you need to call police for help in the future. It can also be the groundwork for getting a restraining order if it comes to that later.
IbogaProject
(5,911 posts)In negotiations you have to offer the other side away out. That said this is a mess and I hope it blows over or neighbor finds out about her social life.
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)Also, there are no negotiations with her. In the most diplomatic way I could muster, I asked her previously to take care of certain issues because she is causing problems in the neighborhood.
Goes in one ear and out the other, she doesn't care about others at all.
diva77
(7,880 posts)(even though she's completely in the wrong and then some) and say you were having a bad day or something and perhaps bring her flowers from you & your wife. Then avoid all interaction after that.
I'm only thinking of your safety and how to mitigate the danger.
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)canetoad
(20,769 posts)It's the kind of thing Jesus would have done, if you're into that stuff.
And...you will catch her on the back foot cos this is totally unexpected. Go for it.
rubbersole
(11,222 posts)Ring camera and a fence. We got a camera and it made US feel less vulnerable when we weren't home. (Minor thefts in the neighborhood.) They work really well for the cost. Avoid her and take care.
LakeArenal
(29,949 posts)Always be up front with the guy.
Tell him you will take legal action.
I had an attorney friend write a cease and desist request. That worked for me because the lawyer mentioned they needed to prove ownership of their roaming dogs. This neighbor never took their dogs or feral cats to vet so they couldnt prove ownership.
Once they were served with the letter it got better but they finally moved.
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)A lawyer's letter, directly to her.
Keeps the cops out of it, for now.
Thanks.
womanofthehills
(10,988 posts)If the dog is small, you can probably get away with a small fence. I would not report her dog or call anyone. Never ever a good idea to say you would harm someone elses dog, esp when you have a dog. Lots of people are into revenge.
I wouldnt laugh either or be reactive. Just because someone is yelling, you will de-escalate things by being non reactive.
Our whole neighborhood had a problem with one psychopathic guy. He told me he had a book on revenge and he would leave stuff in peoples yards (way out in country) so people knew he had been on their land. He was a potter and left little pieces of his pottery on my neighbors & my land - kind of like Im watching you. He left a tiny noose in one yard. Your neighbor sounds reasonable though.
Grumpy Old Guy
(4,319 posts)herding cats
(20,049 posts)You need to log her for your own protection JIK she does decide to escalate things.
You can handle them one of two ways.
1 - You make it obvious you're installing them in hopes she will tone down her attacks and be more cautious knowing she's being recorded. A benefit of this is it could help keep your own dog safe.
2 - You install discreetly and simply use them to log any possible issues you may need to bring further legal actions if this should escalate further.
After doing the cameras (you definitely need them) I'd avoid the girlfriend as much as possible and use the homeowner (boyfriend) as your contact. Explain you're not comfortable dealing with her any further at this point. If something happens, text or call him. It's his home and he's ultimately the one who has been permitting her to abuse you and he's the one who will need to put an end to it if this is not going to escalate further.
Again, get some cameras for your own protection. From my experience people like her tend to lie, a lot. It's better to have video proof on your side to prevent such, or at least prove your side of things.
Warpy
(114,614 posts)You might not want this woman anywhere near your house, but right now, it's not your circus, not your monkeys. Boyfriend must be OK with her variety of entertaining her friends or he would brush her butt out of there. You can bet he notices the house is a mess and the garbage is full of empties.
The dog is not responsible, his idiot owner is. Unfortunately, it might be up to you to cope. Hardware stores sell cheap wire fencing and metal fence posts for relatively little money. The only other thing I can suggest is making friends with it via a bag of dog treats. If the dog learns to like you, she'll put it on a leash in record time.
Right now, she's content to screech profanity. At some point, she might screech in front of the boyfriend. Should she wave a weapon, including a kitchen knife, call the police. At that point you can put the fear of the law into her.
Sadly, there is little we can do about assholes, it is not illegal to be an asshole, even a screaming, abusive one. I've always let such people put on a show, but I've always had the gift of convincing assholes I'm more dangerous than they are, and sometimes that's even true. I certainly know more words than they do.
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)Sick of dancing around this.
Thanks for all the suggestions.
BlueWaveNeverEnd
(14,235 posts)BlueWaveNeverEnd
(14,235 posts)"Maam, what do you want us to do?" big city police
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)I didn't know it was you
Hekate
(100,133 posts)I also vote for giving Child Protective Services a call. This is a bad situation. Of course if you call the cops at some point, you can pretend they were the ones who called in CPS and save yourself that added grief.
I am so sorry, LuckyCharms. This is awful for you and your wife.
Hermit-The-Prog
(36,631 posts)Haven't read all the responses; you may already have received better advice.
Her response sounds like meth-heads I've avoided. I'd set up a video camera -- like a dash cam -- that can record several hours per sd card.
A spray bottle (as in a plant mister, or for spraying a mist of window cleaner) filled with vinegar will discourage the dog without risking breaking a bone. Set it for a stream the first time so you can wet that face from a distance. Might not have to do it again.
Ampulae
(22 posts)You mentioned Meth. People who do meth behave this way. Extreme agitation especially when sober. I know that seems strange, but it is so. Erratic behavior is a hallmark. She and all her gang of visitors are potentially dangerous.
If the boyfriend doesn't know this is going on (he'd have to be blind), he should be informed asap, because he is in the most danger of all.
Aside from that, look to your safety with all vigilance. If the authorities have visited as often as you've stated and haven't caught them with the goods yet, perhaps they will one day. However, you may not wish to call them, but informing the police that you believe Meth is being used next door, is in your best interest and, indeed, the best interest of all the neighbors, as there is an significant criminal element inherent.
Wishing and hoping for all the best for you and your wife.
Nevilledog
(55,078 posts)Beforehand, I'd check to see if she has a criminal history. Most jurisdictions have a way to check this online. You want as much information about this psycho as you can get.
First question to boyfriend would be about firearms. If you feel comfortable with his answer, I'd tell him about the daytime booty/drug calls. I'd also tell him about any criminal history she might have if you find out she has a criminal record.
I'd lay out what you want to see changed about the situation. Dogs on leashes, a stop to her screaming profanity at you and the wife. I'd let him know that things need to change, and that you'll take action through the authorities if things don't improve.
Lastly, I'd try to assure him that you value him as a neighbor and have no animosity towards him. Divide and conquer can be very useful.
Please stay safe and protect yourself with cameras.
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)348 AM my time, just got home.
Drove to the Village police department.
Doors were locked, could only get into the lobby.
Used the lobby phone to call the dispatcher.
Dispatcher told me that because of my location, it would fall under the jurisdiction of the sheriff instead of the Village police.
Dispatcher dispatched a sheriff deputy to where I was parked. he was there in 5 minutes.
Relayed the situation to him. He filed a report and I got a report number.
He said I would need to go to the Town judge for a restraining order, and it may be possible to get one based on what I reported to him, but there is also a chance it would be declined.
He told me to see if it happens again, and if it does, see the Town judge, give him the report number, and I would have a good chance at that time to get a restraining order.
The guy next door was very apologetic when I spoke to him this evening, and basically told me that he can't handle her and I in no way deserved how I was treated by her.
Told him I appreciate that, but it doesn't really help me if he can't control his family.
Now, I wait and see what happens. I feel better that at least it is now on record.
I'm not going to let this shit happen again. My wife is still crying, and I haven't slept.
Nevilledog
(55,078 posts)Did you get any info about weapons in the house? I'd want to know if there were guns, and include that in any application for a restraining order.
Your neighbor needs to step up and get rid of her, but the situation may be complicated by the young kids. She might have no where to go and/or no money to relocate.
Maybe ask him if there's anything you can help him with that would facilitate her to GTFO.
Give the wife a big hug.
You did good.
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)I have not seen him yet today to ask about the weapons.
He just had a kid with her last year. He's almost 60, she's in her 30's. She has 4 kids by 4 different men.
Nevilledog
(55,078 posts)Response to LuckyCharms (Original post)
DFW This message was self-deleted by its author.
DFW
(60,182 posts)If she did, I doubt you would still be alive and posting. I just hope you are in a state where it isnt easy to acquire one without a permit. In the meantime, Id follow other posters recommendations and cameras installed, with audio. It sounds like youll need the recordings, and sooner rather than later.
no_hypocrisy
(54,903 posts)That sends a decided message.
You get your evidence. Your wife can also testify.
Basis of a TRO: harassment, disorderly conduct, threat of harm, etc.
If she continues after the permanent restraining order, she can get arrested and convicted of violating a court order.
allegorical oracle
(6,479 posts)speak after she phone-cussed me out one day over nothing. She's rarely pleasant, but is at least reasonable unless she's been drinking and doing weed at the same time, which is usually all day, every day. Then it's like her head explodes.
Would suggest, if possible, to completely fence your yard. That might solve the dog issue. Then ignore the hell out of her. One day maybe your male neighbor will find some courage and give her the boot. I'm fortunate -- my rude neighbor and I are separated by about 15 acres of land.
marble falls
(71,919 posts)Niagara
(11,850 posts)I've been wondering why you have been so quiet lately.
Your newly acquired neighbor is definitely a bully and is using her dog as a harassment tool and most likely is a tweaked out meth head.
I would inquire about a fence promptly to keep the biting dog off your property. I would also invest in a recording doorbell system for you and your wife's protection.
I would record any and all interactions discretly with meth head, type out all previous interactions so that it's all documented with dates and time of occurrence.
I'm hoping that this link will be able to help you out.
:https://homeguideexpert.com/how-to-deal-with-difficult-neighbours/#:~:text=If%20the%20neighbour%20repeatedly%20keeps,Contact%20your%20local%20authority.
I wish you and Mrs. Lucky a safe, reasonable and productive solution soon.
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)There's something really wrong over there.
I could write a book about how many times the cops have been over there.
One time during the pandemic, it was about 1000pm.
This was before weed was made legal in my state.
I was upstairs hitting the bong, and the house smelled like weed.
Cop rings OUR doorbell and my wife talked to him through the porch screen.
Cop wanted to know if we knew anything about an altercation next door.
Thought I was going to get busted for smoking weed in my own home.
MayReasonRule
(4,099 posts)We were the first individuals in the entire history of the state of Louisiana that employed a law firm to represent them in an effort to have Peace Bonds issued.
They had threatened murder and mayhem.
The judge issued the Peace Bonds.
The children were removed from the home.
The neighbors moved.
Their dilapidated roach and rat infested house was renovated.
Their children have flourished under the tutelage of their grandmother three doors down.
Everyone else in the neighborhood was afraid to go up against them.
We rose to the challenge, prevailed and are prospering, as is our neighborhood.
Reason ruled.
May reason rule in your instance as well!
BlackSkimmer
(51,308 posts)Does it not completely encircle your yard?
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)Where I was standing was on the part that runs parallel to the street, and separates a portion of the backyard from my side yard. Backyard is completely fence enclosed, side yard is not.
I was standing on one side of that fence in the side yard, wife was standing on the other side of the fence in the backyard.
BlackSkimmer
(51,308 posts)Back and both sides fenced, but one side was too large to fence at the time (regret that now), so there is an exposed portion on that side.
Hell, I'd have a moat if I could!
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)If I wanted to enclose the side yard I'd have to run quite a bit of fencing which is cost prohibitive for me right now unless I went with some kind of cheap DIY type of thing.
Marthe48
(23,175 posts)Maybe when it's not charging you, give it a treat. If friending isn't possible, you can get a free dog whistle app, which may slow the dog down. But depending on frequency, you might have a rw militia showing up on your lawn
Former neighbors had a Jack Russell that would run at me when I was trying to get the mail. They had a yellow lab that went after other dogs. We ended up calling the police after the jack russell bit my husband's leg. No wound, but the dog was escalating.
I do my best now to at least talk to neighbor dogs, and tell them they are good dogs. Seems to help a little.
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)The big dog loves us. The little dog, not so much.
Marthe48
(23,175 posts)Someone suggested a super soaker squirt gun.
Maybe s quirt of water combined with a starling noise. And that might work on the mean woman too
Seriously, be careful of yourself and your loved ones. At least when we had the problem, gun play wasn't a top 3 option.
LuckyCharms
(22,645 posts)filed a police report in the middle of the night.
Wife just told me that the guy just walked both dogs to their backyard gate on a leash. First time EVER.
The enormity of what happened is hitting me this morning. Yesterday was the worst I've ever been harassed without it coming to blows, and that has not happened since I was young.
Marthe48
(23,175 posts)You might help the neighbor man realize what a pickle he's in. Maybe he will see the relationship in a different way and get counseling or a lawyer.