The abduction of a child is likely one of the fears of parents nationwide, including in Texas. This fear is often even more of a reality for divorced parents. Many parents who have been awarded child custody live in constant dread of the other parent trying to take a child away. Unfortunately, incidents of child custody interference are not uncommon.
An amber alert was issued on a recent Sunday morning after a 4-year-old boy was taken from his father’s care. A report indicates that the abduction followed an altercation between the child’s parents at a grocery store on the previous evening. The mother’s boyfriend apparently joined the argument and allegedly assaulted the father. The police were called, but the mother and her boyfriend had already left with the little boy.
When the amber alert went out the next morning, the mother also received it on her cell phone. This prompted her to call the police department and allowed the police to take charge of the child. He was returned to the care of his father, who is the custodial parent. A spokesperson for the police said it will be up to the district attorney to decide whether any charges will be filed.
Texas parents who have any reason to suspect child custody interference or abduction of their children may find comfort in knowing that there are precautionary steps that can be taken. It may be beneficial to consult with an experienced child custody attorney. A family law lawyer can work with law enforcement and the court system to guard against incidents of custodial interference, including the imposition of limitations on visitation and parental rights in appropriate circumstances.
Source: kmtr.com, “Amber Alert canceled after Eugene boy located“, Sept. 6, 2015
