I want Out!

[Unregistered]

I am 17 years old. My mother sent me away to Mexico because I ran away three years ago. I came back a year ago and I thought things would change. She hasn't changed. She has stopped hitting me though but she still treats me with such distaste that I feel like she hates me. My stepfather is wierd too. He touches my boobs and my ass in a manner that if I didn't know better id think it was accidental. I want to run away but I don't ever want to be sent back to them. Help! I mean it! I live in Santa Rosa,CA. My boyfriend has told me to go live with him but that will be the first place my mom looks for me.

[ccsmod14]

RE: I want Out!

Hi there,

Thank you for reaching out to us here at the National Runaway Safeline. It sounds like you have been having a difficult time lately since you have been back at home with your mom and your stepdad. We’re glad that you contacted us for some support and guidance, we’re here to help as much as we can.

It sounds like you do not want to live at home with your mom and stepdad because of the way that you are treated at home. It is understandable why you would not want to be in this environment, you do not deserve to be getting touched by your stepdad in this way, just as you do not deserve any type of abuse. You deserve to feel safe in your own home.

You shared that your boyfriend wants you to move in with him, but that would be the first place your mom would go to look for you. This has to be frustrating. It is really good that you have his support, though. We’re not legal experts, but generally if you leave without permission from legal guardians before the age of 18, they would have the right to make a runaway report. If a report is made, and the police find you they typically would just bring you back home. However, anyone that you stay with could potentially be charged for harboring. The way that the police handle 17 year olds can differ drastically, so one option you have is to contact your local law enforcement and just ask hypothetical questions. If you would like some help doing this, give us a call here at 1800runaway and we can help you.

We’re here to support you through all of this, 24/7. Do not hesitate to call or chat.

Best,
NRS