My neighbor is 72 and has custody of her 10 year old great granddaughter. This child has severe behavioral problems and is quite big for her age. Recently, the child was arrested for punching the great grandma in face. This was a hard punch, blood gushed out of my neighbors nose and mouth. I did not see it happen just the aftermath. Child arrested and sent to mental hospital for one week. I was stunned that they released her back to the great grandma. My neighbor told the psychiatrist she was scared of the child. Yet they still sent her back. I thought police were obligated by law to inform adult protection service if they suspect elder abuse. The child was charged with a felony assault of an elderly person. Should I call APS and report this?
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I can't imagine that the situation is not already being monitored. Without wishing to be callous towards your neighbour - though 72 is barely "elderly" nowadays, not really - it isn't so much the risk to her that would be of concern as her ability or lack of it to provide the environment this child needs.
How long has she been in your neighbour's custody? Do you know anything about the history that led up to her arrival?
And, besides, is the kid creating an identifiable problem for you and other neighbours?
They do say it takes a village to raise a child. It's not unreasonable for you to wish they'd pick on some other village, mind; it's just that there might be better ways to be a good neighbour than agitating to get the poor lady's great-grandchild sent to jail.
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