Attacked By Neighbor Update - Freaking Unbelievable

[rustysgurl]

All quiet here, that is until I went out to check the mail.

Apparently the son had brought his mother BACK to the neighborhood so she could collect some things from the house (in direct violation of the court's order that she NOT be back in her home).

While I was at the mailbox, he walked over and again asked me not to press charges. He said he'd convinced the other neighbor not to (which I know is a flat out lie).

I told him to leave me alone.

He said it was my fault his father's guns were taken away and his mother was now going to have "a record".

I told him to leave me alone or I would call the police (I had the phone in my hand).

He said it was my fault his mother's life was ruined, and he wished she had hit me with the rake (it took everything I had not to punch him right in the nose).

I dialed 911. He walked back over to the house.

The police were here within 3 minutes.

I told them what happened. One of the officers was the one who arrested her yesterday. They walked over to the house and I heard VERY raised voices. Son appeared extremely angry and I heard the police say, and I quote, "If you won't follow the court's order you don't leave me much choice but to arrest you AND your mother -- is that what you want???"

They packed up and left, and the police came back to my house. The officer apologized and told me if there was ANY activity back at that house, or if I was approached in ANY way, to call them immediately.

These entitled so-and-so's just don't give up, do they?

[Demovictory9]

1. ..

[iluvtennis]

42. + 1. nt

[Atticus]

2. Thank you for standing strong. nt

[Demovictory9]

3. i doubt her future includes filing for jobs that do background checks...so having a record

won't ruin her life

[RainCaster]

14. Even Walmart will do a background check

Maybe Macdonalds is her future

[LisaL]

25. Since she is retired, I don't think she is looking for a job in Walmart.

NT

[soldierant]

74. i though a large percentage of WalMart greeters were retired people.

I wouldn't know for sure, as i never go there.

[Shrike47]

26. As I remember it, the neighbor is like 80. Probably beyond looking for work.

[getagrip_already]

52. unless you want to live in public housing......

She won't be eligible for that with a record in many states.

In fact, a LOT of landlords do background checks before renting an apt. Even some assisted living centers check; they don't want violent residents.....

So she isn't beyond paying a price. Which is good.

[Grammy23]

134. Even some senior services check for a history of violence.

My mother stayed at an adult medical day care while my husband and I worked. She had dementia and needed to be in a safe place. Nearly everyone of the clients had dementia or were medically fragile. They were not set up or staffed to care for clients who were violent. Taking care of those with dementia was a big enough responsibility without the added burden of caring for violent clients.

Clients and their family members were interviewed and specifically asked about a history of violent behavior. One gentleman came through the process but turned out to have anger issues and violent actions. Once that became apparent, they had to inform his family that he could not stay. It was sad for his family but the good of the rest of the clients as well as the staff was at stake.

[Caliman73]

4. Wow. Sorry you are going through that.

I can't believe that asshole had the audacity to say it was your fault. It's your fault that his mom turned into a fucking lunatic and attacked you and your neighbor with a rake?

What happened to conservatives believing in "personal responsibility"? She did the crime, she has to suffer the consequences.

[SCRUBDASHRUB]

5. I'm so sorry you're dealing with this. Glad you called the police again.

[Baitball Blogger]

6. I'm bracing for the same kind of problem with the new neighbor.

They just moved in and put up yard art that can be taken in any of two ways. I'm hoping for the best because it's better than the previous owner's solar operated tiki torches.

[roscoeroscoe]

13. Yard art?

Intrigued!

[renate]

28. oh no!

I gave my sister solar tiki torches because they like going to beachy-resort type places. What's wrong with them? Are they okay in a back yard instead of a front yard? Now I'm worried that their neighbors are all

[Baitball Blogger]

33. I'm sure they would be fine around the pool, or for a patio party.

But in a community that is already tense... And our houses are so close that some of the things they said when they saw me out in the yard reached my ears removing all doubt that my prescence unsettled them.

[renate]

72. :facepalm: Now I get it!

Good grief I'm dumb! It didn't even OCCUR to me that they'd look like the Charlottesville tiki torches. I just thought you meant they looked tacky. I gave them glasses for tropical drinks, too, so hopefully their other meaning didn't occur to my sister and BIL either. And I'm sure they put them out on their deck rather than in front.

Well, now I feel like a dork for a whole new reason! Thanks for explaining!

[Dem2theMax]

41. Where I live, a lot of people have those solar tiki torches in their front yards.

I live in an extremely high fire zone. And the first time I saw those tiki torches, I thought someone had actually lit real ones. I was freaking out because I couldn't understand why anyone would have fire anywhere around where we live.

[Baitball Blogger]

46. Those neighbors came and went. The footnotes have been written.

It does surprise me how people expect to do business with you, however, when it's obvious that they aren't too comfortable living near you.

[grantcart]

7. Goodd thing the guns were taken

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

8. I guess the son learned a few things from his mother -

like how to be an obnoxious asshole. Does the court order include not approaching you as well as not returning to the house, and does it pertain to the son as well as the mother? If not, you might consider applying for a restraining order against the asshole son as well as his asshole mother.

[rustysgurl]

12. The court order only applies to the mother

But I just called the ADA and asked if it could apply to the son as well without filing any charges. She is checking.

[SheltieLover]

38. Good!

Hopefully, neither will ever return!

Do you have a dog that will alert you if anyone comes creeping around?

[rustysgurl]

66. A dachshund who thinks she's a rottweiler.

She barks if an ant crawls across the sidewalk.

[Delphinus]

80. Love doxies!!

[Crunchy Frog]

9. The son is an angry Kieran. Sounds like you made the right decision in pressing charges.

[procon]

10. Is there a link to the backstory?

It's like walking in to the middle of a movie, I don't have any idea what happened.

[rustysgurl]

15. Here you go. Sorry, I didn't think to include the link.

https://www.democraticunderground.com/100214564433

[LisaL]

16. There is a thread going.

Neighbor which is a Trumper apparently went berserk after Trump's loss.

[GetRidOfThem]

135. Thanks for the explanatory thread...

Sorry you had to go through that. But you are strong and firmly hold your position, I can see that.

More power to you!!!

[LisaL]

11. I guess in this case an apple didn't fall far from the tree.

NT

[Whiskeytide]

36. The rotten ones drop and splat. They never roll very far. n/t

[Beartracks]

90. Lol

============

[Ferrets are Cool]

17. This is a very scary situation rustysgurl. Please keep yourself safe

[SheltieLover]

43. Yes it is!

Entitled freaks! Violent & trying to project her horrid behavior onto you.

Magats.

[LanternWaste]

18. Fingers crossed they remain absent from your life.

May be prudent to take a few additional precautions over the next month though-- if you live alone ask a friend to stay with you (or ask to stay with them), keep your property as well lit as practical at night, that kind of thing.

Petulance, ignorance and rage are a bad combination, and your neighbor and her son seem to own them all in spades.

[rustysgurl]

21. SO Just Ordered Surveillance Cameras with DVR Backup

They're being installed tomorrow.

[Hekate]

29. Very glad to hear this!

You guys stay safe.

[SheltieLover]

53. Glad to hear!

This is really disturbing!

[Native]

65. Can you get two restraining orders?

You know damn well the son is going to be back because "mom" will need more things from the house. The fact that that he felt emboldened to raise his voice to the officers is a major red flag. He obviously has anger management issues, and he thinks he's in the right and you are the enemy. I hate to say this, but I don't think a surveillance system is enough. Please take additional measures to protect yourself. And I'm assuming you've told your neighbor about this latest development? You'll need your neighbors to be on alert as well.

[soldierant]

75. Good.

But so sad you had to go to that expense.

[JI7]

96. I recommend many people doing this.

[proud patriot]

116. good to hear

[reACTIONary]

128. Very good idea! I have them....

... and for protection from my neighbors also!

[SheltieLover]

47. Get a dog to alert you to anyone creeping about

[rustysgurl]

67. The dachshund is on high alert.

She doesn't bark at the neighbor but she DOES bark at his son.

[SheltieLover]

81. Excellent! 👏👏👏👏

Ty for letting me know!

She might bark at neighbor after altercation.

So is neighbor back in jail? Psych ward? What is status on her guns?

Please keep us updated.

[rustysgurl]

98. Neighbor is at her son's house I believe.

She's not listed as a current inmate on the Sheriff's website for our county.

Police have the guns. Son is supposed to be getting her a mental health evaluation.

[SheltieLover]

102. Ty for info

[Sherman A1]

19. You handled this correctly and the previous incident

It absolutely is NOT in any way your fault. You were assaulted and you should press charges against the person that did so.

That they cannot understand that others have rights is not your problem. Hopefully the Justice system will help to educate them a bit.

[sarcasmo]

20. See your post, thankfully you ordered a camera.

[rustysgurl]

24. We will tomorrow.

In the meantime I checked with another neighbor across the street and he says his front door camera view captures my porch. He is watching our house (as are several other neighbors)

[Hekate]

30. That is so nice. If Crazy Lady can move away, seems like your neighborhood can know amity again.

[SheltieLover]

48. Get a dog!

[sarcasmo]

49. Did the police give you any idea how many guns were pulled out of the house?

[rustysgurl]

68. Yes, 2 loaded hand guns and an unloaded rifle (plus ammunition). n/5

[pnwest]

22. Terrible to feel insecure in your own

home and neighborhood. I hope you’ve seen the last of them. Good luck!

[Aristus]

23. "It's your fault!..."

The party of personal responsibility strikes again, huh?

I hope they never bother you again...

[Shrike47]

27. You've done the right things. Hope they stay away.

[Kaleva]

31. glad that you are not dropping charges.

[DENVERPOPS]

32. THE SCARIEST THING???????

THIS COULD HAPPEN ANYWHERE AND EVERYWHERE ACROSS THE U.S.............

[ZZenith]

39. I'm not scared.

We can handle an 80-year-old with a rake and her derelict son.

Easily.

[relayerbob]

88. Not when said Dad and Mom are carrying two loaded handguns and a rifle

and the son is just as nuts

[ZZenith]

103. Still not scared.

Fuck these cowards.

[spanone]

34. insanity.

[Evolve Dammit]

35. Good God again. WTF do people not have any respect or the rule of law? Arrest them if they can't.

[mgardener]

37. I'm glad you did not back down.

She was violent. And she did not stop when the police got there
Best to let the court deal with her.


Hubby and I were walking the mall this am there was a lock down drill before we arrived so all the stores gates were down.
This nut was walking towards us, mask below his nose and in a loud voice saying "f***ing covid" stores are all closed. Didn't care there were young children and jumped to conclusions that the mall was shut because of COVID.

We did not call security but they did approach him.

[liberalmuse]

40. I'm a little scared for you.

This is insane. The son mentioned guns? Jesus. Please be safe!

[rustysgurl]

70. Police took some guns from her home yesterday.

Son wanted them released to him but the police said no ... for now. They were registered in her deceased husband's name.

[wnylib]

87. Given the attitude of the son,

it's a good thing the police are keeping the guns.

These are some scary people.

[OverBurn]

44. Thanks for the updated. I'm truly worried about you. Hang in there.

I can't believe how these morons keep blaming you. It is disturbing the way their mind works.

[SheltieLover]

51. This!👆

[lpbk2713]

45. They have no sense of accountability. Just like all rethugs.

If she has a record it will be because she initiated the entire episode.
You should not have to worry about being outside in your own yard.

Get the officer's name so you can ask for him to be dispatched the
next time because he is familiar with all the background.

[Turbineguy]

50. It's really sad that neighbors

are reduced to this. But it's a win for trump.

[dem in texas]

54. Please be careful

The mother and now the son are shifting the blame on to you. They are dangerous and you should avoid them and if they come close or try to talk to you, call 911

I was afraid to put Biden signs in my yard because of all the crazies who live in my neighborhood.

[Maeve]

55. Ok I take back yesterday's advice...DO NOT DROP CHARGES

This says it is not psychiatric, it's family choice. And continue to call for help if the behavior continues

Sheesh. Again, sorry you've had to deal with this $#!+

[colorado_ufo]

56. Sixteen years ago, The Husband and I faced a major decision.

Our house was in need of major repairs, and we needed to actually decide if we should move or renovate. We loved the location, the scenery, and convenience, but most of all, we loved our neighbors. Solid, a bit quirky, but kind, and really "dug in." I mean, they stay until they die, which means that we all take a live-an-let-live attitude, regardless of beliefs.

We wound up putting probably $100K into the house updates, but have never regretted a penny spent. Having also experienced a problem neighbor in another area, I sympathize how one bad apple can ruin your life!

[Tanuki]

57. I'm surprised the police released her to the son's custody without sending her

to an ER for an evaluation or an involuntary psych admission for assessnent, given the history in your previous post

[rustysgurl]

71. The police initially took her to the ER

then to jail. The judge released her on bond in the custody of her son (with the proviso that he obtain mental health evaluation).

[StaunchDemocrat1957]

58. Damned Shame it Had to come to That..

All Because you supported Biden!

[Hermit-The-Prog]

59. Glad you had real police respond! (Instead of a Nazi, white supremacist, MAGAt, etc)

[stopdiggin]

127. going there too. glad that the LE officers

here really got on top of this (and stayed on top) -- and made sure everyone understood they were dead serious about enforcement. Lots of times you're seeing a much more lackadaisical attitude here. "Dispute between neighbors" "Older lady" "Everybody just cool down" -- and blah, blah, blah. You're really lucky these uniforms stepped in, and stepped up. Good on them!

[trueblue2007]

60. THERE ARE CONSEQUENCES TO HER VIOLENT ACTIONS.

[flamin lib]

61. Can any of us imagine the seething turmoil bubbling inside their heads?

How can anyone walk around with that sort of rage caged up inside them? This is past politics and anger, it's time for medical intervention. They aren't well.

[Oscarthegreat]

62. Just be careful

It looks like the woman and her son have rabies. Just make sure they don't bite you.

[kimbutgar]

63. I'm glad the police backed you up.

There is no reason for anyone to attack another over a politician sign or beliefs. If I had a mf45 neighbor I wouldn’t engage them nor tear down their signs.

The election of mf45 and now his losing is going to cause more of his supporters getting more mentally ill and unfortunately deranged. We all need to be careful around them and stay safe.

[warmfeet]

64. You are a saint.

You react to confrontation much better than I do.

[rustysgurl]

73. I play poker.

It has helped me to stop, think and be patient in my response. For all I know the son was looking for a fight, and I wasn't going to give it to him.

My Dad taught me when I was a little girl that when someone says something hateful to you, don't respond. Let their words hang in the air as the last thing anyone has heard. It's taken me a while to put that into practice, but it works. Oh, I can give as good as I get, but other than venting my spleen is doesn't do much good.

[warmfeet]

85. Thank you.

I have lessons to learn. Your comments are quite thoughtful.

[moonscape]

105. Nice, and a piece of wisdom

I hope not to forget.

[BainsBane]

69. I'm glad the police are taking this seriously

That family is a real piece of work. Blaming you for their own actions is typical Trumpster behavior.

[FakeNoose]

76. I'm glad to hear that your police are awesomely understanding and responsive

It sounds to me like they handed it correctly. That neighbor knows to stay away from you now. If he does anything, it's at his own peril.

[HipChick]

77. Sorry you are going through this...

Kinda wished you had punched him on the nose. ....(but. glad you didn't..)

[C Moon]

78. Such a scary story. But it does show that the MAGAs know Trump's done.

[ancianita]

79. Good for you. You're really a good citizen and some people have to learn the hard way.

Stay strong, stick with the charges, and be thankful for your supportive neighbors, who are giving you some real help right now.

I admire your sharp judgment and courage. Thank you for the update.

[cab67]

82. The mother is probably dealing with serious mental health issues.

That *might* mitigate some of her responsibility, if the core problem can be identified and the threat she posed to you can be neutralized.

The son, on the other hand, just comes across as a bitter douchebag. No mitigation there.

[Ilsa]

83. You must also be to blame for

the sinking of the Titanic and the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand. The taking of his father's gun? Really?

Please be extra careful. These people don't take personal responsibility for their actions.

[rustysgurl]

100. I had an airtight alibi for Archduke Ferdinand.

and I never even met that iceberg.

[TomSlick]

84. In my considered legal opinion, these folks ain't right in the head.

They are competent to stand trial (it's a low standard) but they clearly are a couple bricks short of a hod.

[SleeplessinSoCal]

86. It's a very upbeat story about your police department.

That goes a long way these days.

[relayerbob]

89. Sounds like she has some serious mental health issues

well beyond just the election, and her son isn't any better. Be careful. Glad you ahve good neighbors and a good police dept.

[peacebuzzard]

91. you are a strong person.

so glad the officers were there quickly to stop further harassment. very glad they are leaving. what a relief!

[BobTheSubgenius]

92. I was engaged by the first installment your story.

I was also mildly amused, because it seemed more an outrageous anecdote than a horror story.

This is edging closer to the latter. Do take care, and be safe! I now put little past these lunatics.

[c-rational]

93. Good to hear you are ok, and sorry you have had to deal with this. Stand firm rustysgurl.

[colsohlibgal]

94. Trumpism Is A Brain Change Issue

30 or so years of pervasive right wing media has changed them. They live in a different reality from actual reality. Tests have showed actual brain changes.

Enough in some to have some of them actually firmly believe in that ridiculous Q-Anon nonsense.

They are a different species almost.

Thanks Ronald Reagan.

[Warpy]

95. The life you've ruined in the short term is Sonny's

since his mom will have to stay with him until he gets her into a care home and will likely have to ferry her to any court dates unless she straightens up enough on medication to plead guilty and just pay a fine.

You have my permission to celebrate when the "For Sale" sign goes up in the front yard.

It also sounds like there might have been other complaints against them.

Even if Mumsy ended up with a record after conviction. it would only be misdemeanor. Pity Sonny doesn't realize what sort of bragging rights having a mother with a police record would give him at his next Proud Boys get together.

[Cha]

97. It's his mother's FAULT she "ruined her life"!!!

And, she'll never learn anything with continuing to Blame others for her Insanity!

[Roy Rolling]

99. They both need intervention

The son’s as nutty as the mom.

[Buckeyeblue]

101. I would find an attorney and sue the piss out of them

Just on principal. If you don't want their money, donate it to charity. But they shouldn't be let off the hook.

[Old Crow]

104. Wow. I've read both of your posts.

This whole thing has been remarkable, bizarre, and horrid. You're handling it well. Never back off your charges. You're doing the rest of the community a favor in keeping guns out of this woman's hands and ensuring she has this attack of hers on her record. Hang in there.

[Texin]

106. Dear god. WTF!? This IS fucking Nazi Germany in real time here.

I'm glad the police witnessed her behavior personally, but my god. Everything is unhinged right now.

[pansypoo53219]

107. is the son armed?

[rustysgurl]

111. I have no idea.

Given his father was a registered gun owner, I'd say there's better than a 50/50 chance that he is.

Hence the security system and my asking the ADA to include him in the TRO.

[ansible]

113. Why are they blaming you that their guns were taken away?

[Flaleftist]

119. The son blamed the incident on her for having a Biden sign.

It almost sounds like the blame the rape victim for the clothes she wears excuse.

[Hortensis]

108. "Happy" ending. This woman's rage almost certainly

stems from irrational fear and inability to stop the giant LW forces destroying her country. This election was very possibly their last chance.

Kinda understand that feeling.

We have neighbors who believe that here rural in GA, with strong religious elements. Steve, the nicest guy in the world, in other times a fine strong man, intelligent, responsible, decent, is typical of many who don't seem to have confidence in God's ability to prevail. Instead, they're very afraid and are ranting anxiously for everyone to join their righteous armies and save the world from Satan's socialists. Unfortunately for them, they seem to have a leadership vacuum.

If we were people of faith, we'd thank god.

[paulkienitz]

109. that really sounds like it's not a mental health issue, but an attitude issue that was taught

[Joinfortmill]

110. Stay safe

[BComplex]

112. They just don't think the law applies to them.

I'm glad you're safe, rustysgurl. Please stay safe!

[SunSeeker]

114. Glad you're not taking their shit. Bravo!

[orleans]

115. PLEASE talk to your other neighbor (who is also pressing charges)

you both need to look out for each other; let them know what happened so they can be on alert.

do you have one of those ring doorbells or some security cam? that would be handy.

take care!!

[BGBD]

117. Get a gun

if you don't already have one and be ready to use it when you are in your yard.

Three minutes is a long damn time if someone attacks you. The man have already mentioned guns and is blaming you for all of her problems.

A few years ago I'd have said most people don't need a gun and would never have a cause to use it. Now, I think we're all going to need one.

[vlyons]

118. You did NOT ruin her life

She herself ruined her life by her lack of self control. She got angry and assaulted you.

[mahina]

120. To the son, my Dad would have said,

Ho, brah, your whole family stay li’dat?

[Pachamama]

121. Have you filed for TRO's (Temporary Restraining Orders)?

My recommendation is that you have your house fully lit with outside lights when its dark, have curtains and shades shut so you can't be seen from outside where you are inside your house and that you keep it locked. I also advise you do not leave your house alone to go to your Mailbox (so that you have a witness - keeps you safer) and even just check mail once or twice during week and not at the same times (mix up your routine). You can skip raking your yard for now or doing yard work - not worth taking the chance until at least things settle down.

You shouldn't be meeting in person with people anyway, but you can clearly have phone calls or video call with the other neighbor that was also assaulted and to check in with each other and being safe.

I also reccommend you check in regularly with other people to verify you are safe.

We are at a very heightened time of stress right now and it is very clear that people with mental health issues are having breaks and that Trump supporters who were already teetering on the irrational are more dangerous than ever before. This is NOT a time to be doing things as usual.

Please take care - stay inside.

[rustysgurl]

143. There is a TRO in effect now.

Thank you for your words of advice. And yes, we are changing up our routine and taking steps to ensure our safety (security cameras, etc.). Neighbors around us are also on watch, and the police have been very supportive.

Thank you again!

[Meowmee]

122. Wow that is awful

I am glad the police made them leave and you are ok. I hope maybe she will move to a home and you won’t have to be bothered with this again.

[herding cats]

123. This is a lot to deal with.

My apologies, I just now caught up with your circumstances. This whole situation is ridiculous, in so many ways. The neighbor, almost excusable as a mental lapse fed by RW hate outlets. But, the son, his remarks and the subsequent guns. That's full on an episode of dateline level nuts. Be safe and I'm so glad to hear you're installing cameras tomorrow! Take care of you and be vigilant. I know the odds are they'll just be disgruntled from afar, but assume the worst and be prepared. Then you can celebrate the goodness later when this mess is put to bed.

I'm deeply glad to hear your local police have taken this seriously and are taking care of you in this. That's an important step to your safety.

[DonaldsRump]

124. If possible, financially and otherwise, go after both of them in a civil action too

If you can, check with a lawyer to see if you have grounds to go after one or both of them in a civil action, too. While any civil action will likely be stayed pending resolution of the criminal matter, it's important to consider both criminal and civil actions from something like this: money damages can really force some people to change their tune, and, to some degree, you are a bit more in control of your own civil action as opposed to a criminal action where you have to depend on the government (e.g., ADA etc).

Best of luck and be safe. Other than the cameras, lights, and making sure you and your neighbors all look after each other, the other sage advice I read here is to get a dog!

Stay safe.

[vercetti2021]

125. I guess the saying is true

The acorn doesn't fall far from the tree or should I say nut? I'm glad you're okay but my God I think it's time you get a goddamn can of pepper spray and be ready to use it incase those two come around again.

[Chicago1980]

126. Mental midgets...

To think, you're responsible for ole gals life decisions which have her stewing in misery.

Just watch your back.

[olegramps]

129. Why were they not arrested for violation of the court order and intimidation.

[rustysgurl]

144. The police and I talked about that.

The officer said they always like to give one warning. He said that often makes more of an impression than hauling them to jail and having them feel "more" victimized. And in all likelihood, with COVID, they wouldn't spend much time there anyway.

But the officer did say if either of them came back he would haul them to jail, no discussion, end of story. So, they got their one warning, and I have that officer's name, badge number and cell phone number.

[olegramps]

147. Thanks for the reply.

[N_E_1 for Tennis]

130. Fighting the good fight, rustysgurl ,stay strong...nt

[lagomorph777]

131. Thank you for doing your civic duty. These MAGATS need to be reigned in.

[AC_Mem]

132. I'm so sorry you have had to experience this!

if this happens again - always go outside with your phone one click away from video taping and get it video. It could be what you need in a court case.

Namaste, - this truly has un-masked the ugly souls who have been hiding behind their computer screens. They are out and about now, fully un-masked and exposed for who and what they are. What puts such hate in their souls I wonder?

I hope you have a peaceful Thanksgiving,
Annette

[XanaDUer2]

133. I'm so sorry

she sounds mentally ill, but that's not your problem. God knows how many like her are out there

[Alpeduez21]

136. There are some actions I think you should take

I am sorry this happened. You are going through a tough experience. It is emotionally and mentally draining. Take time to soothe yourself. Drink tea, play cards, meditate, exercise. whatever.

You have been attacked and feel under threat. DO NOT IGNORE THESE FEELINGS. Do not let them rule you, either.

Some practical steps you can take. Keep your curtains closed. If/when you walk the dog or go for a walk in the neighborhood wear a different hat coat than usual. Change the time you normally do this maybe by 1/2 an hour. Are there any cars you don't recognize on the street? Large trees and car engines stop bullets know where they are when you are outside. Always carry your phone.

If something happens: MOVE! Do not just watch a car coming towards you(even if it's moving slowly) or one of these people coming towards you. An attacker has a plan when they attack. Your moving changes their plan and they have to readjust. If attacked make noise. Draw attention to the situation. Do not run into a shed or garage. They typically have one door and then you are trapped. Do you pick the dog up or let it's leash go? When it's time to move it is not time to convince the dog to move, too. Have a basic plan and stay alert. Scan. Scan. Scan. Your head is on a swivel. All this can be done w/o a lot of effort.

Don't buy a gun for this situation if you're not familiar with them. There is a HUGE learning curve to gun self defense. Running away is something we just know how to do. Run towards something and get behind it. Personally I like cars b/c of their stopping power and I can see through the windows.

Take solace that these people will most likely calm down. Maybe she was off her meds. The boy is an unknown if you see him dial 9-1- and be ready to dial and move. How do you carry your phone. Is it readily available or do you have to fumble around for it? Can you use it with gloves on or do those have to be removed?

[rustysgurl]

142. Very sound advice, and I thank you.

SO is going to start walking the dog for a while, as I seem to be the target of their animosity. When and if they approach him we will rethink things yet again. I always carry my phone ready to dial, and not in my pocket. That's good for picture capturing as well as security. Fortunately, with a dachshund, if trouble nears, we can scoop her up and move quickly. It's pathetic that it has to come to this, but I'm not going to be trapped in my home by these lunatics. I appreciate all your advice. As I've said before, DU folks are the best!

[ecstatic]

137. Wow! Stay safe! Survey the area before going outside

and keep your phone, pepper spray, and a personal alarm/ siren in hand. At least for the next couple months. They can be connected together via key chain. Sorry that it's come to this.

[Major Nikon]

138. Sounds like Alzheimer's or some other form of dementia

One of the early symptoms is the emotional side of the brain taking over. People lose the ability to control themselves emotionally. If her family really cares about her, they should be taking her to a specialist to be evaluated. If that's the case at least the mother has an excuse. The son just sounds like a complete asshole.

[littlemissmartypants]

139. So sorry to read you are going through this!

Clearly, the son is worried he will have to take care of his mother and not be able to warehouse her as it seems that's his plan. I hope everything goes well for you. I think the cameras are a great idea.

❤ lmsp

[Stuart G]

140. Sorry you have to deal with these idiots.

[Barbara2423]

141. Typical republican, nice when they want something. Mean when they don't get it.

[apnu]

145. I'm sorry all that happened.

I'm glad you are OK and the police in your area are rational.

Good luck, stay safe, say healthy.

[Moostache]

146. I am sorry to read your experiences

I am only heartened by one thing - an appropriate police response (at long last). I don't want to beat up on all cops, but I do get frustrated when the good ones allow themselves to be silenced in defense of the indefensible actions of the bad ones. Giving credit where credit is due, I am glad to see them following up quickly and professionally and doing their very difficult job with fairness and professionalism.

Hope this ordeal ends soon for you...