Hello everyone,
Location: Texas
I’m reaching out for advice and guidance on how to navigate a difficult and sensitive situation. I am currently 19 years old from Texas and qualify as an Unaccompanied Homeless Youth (FAFSA). I was forced to leave home due to ongoing domestic abuse, primarily involving my father, who struggles with alcoholism.
The process of finding stability has been emotionally and physically exhausting, but I’ve been working to collect and organize evidence to support my case. Recently, I was able to recover data from an old cloud backup that includes:
- Audio recordings and text messages in which my father makes threats (e.g., saying I wouldn’t be allowed to eat unless I swore secrecy), admits to physical violence, and is verbally abusive.
- Video footage of him attempting to physically assault me.
- Messages from my sister that further confirm the abuse.
- Statements and support from professors and teachers who have been aware of my situation and can speak to its impact.
Given this documentation, I’m hoping to better understand what legal outcomes might be possible. Is this kind of evidence sufficient for authorities to take action? Could charges be filed, and if so, what could that process look like? I have not had any support from my parents for quite some time, and this situation—while deeply traumatic—is still fairly recent (within the last year).
Any advice on how to move forward or connect with the right resources would mean a great deal to me. Thank you for your time, guidance, and support.