Dear Abby: How do we handle family tension after a legal issue?
A couple is struggling with family disagreements after setting strict boundaries to protect their children from a close family member who was arrested for child pornography.
Liam Carter 
Navigating family dynamics after a serious legal crisis is never easy, especially when children are involved. A concerned parent recently reached out to Abigail Van Buren regarding a difficult situation: a close family member was arrested for child pornography and has since been released from jail.
Setting Necessary Boundaries
The parents have implemented a strict policy: this relative is not permitted around their children under any circumstances. While the husband and wife are united in this decision, the husband's mother is pushing back, accusing the couple of “breaking up the family.” She argues that the relative should be allowed near the children as long as supervision is provided.
Prioritizing Safety Over Guilt
In response to the inquiry from the Texas parent, Van Buren was clear: stick to your guns. She emphasized that the primary responsibility of a parent is to protect their children from known threats. Keeping the family unit intact does not supersede the safety of the children, and the couple should not succumb to the guilt tactics being used against them.
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Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. You can contact the column at www.DearAbby.com or via mail at P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
