Help asap

[Unregistered]

my boyfriend is 17 years old and we live in vermont. Both of his parents are emotionally and mentally abusive, and his dad is beginning to become physical. I told him he can stay with me and I would help him but he's afraid of being returned home by police and getting in even more trouble. What are the runaway laws in Vermont? If he's 17 can the police even do anything if his parents report it?

[ccsmod3]

Re: Help asap

Hello and thanks for reaching out,

We're sorry to hear how your boyfriends parents are emotionally and mentally abusive and you mentioned lately even physical. Abuse of any type can be hard and he doesn't deserve it and at the same time we recognize not everyone is comfortable making an abuse report or if they do, a case isn't always opened depending on how much evidence there is unfortunately. It sounds like you and your family are open to him staying with you, but he has some concerns.

We aren't legal experts and can't speak for the police, but there can be crimes associated with helping a runaway. Harboring a runaway in particular since you both live in Vermont (avoiding crossing state lines with a minor.) We cannot say for sure he'd be returned home by police or if they'd give any other options. If we know a nearby city, we can look up legal aid to hopefully get more information on the runaway laws. You and your boyfriend are also welcome to reaching out directly either by Live Chat if you prefer to talk online or by calling 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929.) Hopefully this gives you both a start and we hope to chat with you soon!