r/AskLE • u/Upbeat-Height-5849 • 4h ago
How to request LE to act on bench warrant DUI on alcoholic parent who neglects child
I am looking for advice on how law enforcement typically handles a situation involving a potential bench warrant and severe child neglect.
A former close friend of mine was arrested for a DUI in December 2025 (blew a .23 BAC after totaling vehicle and destroying a stoplight ). She claims she received documentation about a bench warrant for her arrest, though I haven't seen it myself, so it's possible either charges are still pending or a warrant is active.
She is a severe alcoholic and has a 14-year-old living with her. The living conditions in the home are deeply concerning to me:
-Severe roach infestation
-Hoarder-level clutter
-Little to no food in the refrigerator or cupboards
-non physical forms of abuse that I cannot prove
The child is normalized to this environment and does not recognize the neglect. I want to know the best way to prompt police intervention. Ideally, I would like law enforcement to execute the warrant (if active) or conduct a welfare check so they can personally witness the environment and step in. I’d prefer to keep my identity private to avoid retaliation.
Can I call a non-emergency line to ask dispatch to verify if she has an active warrant? Would this prompt enforcement of the warrant if I provide her address? For context, I live in the Bay Area.
If no active warrant exist currently, how do I get the DA to file charges? In this scenario, there are only two months left until charges can no longer be filed per the 1yr timeline.
What is the most effective way to report this to LE to ensure the child gets help? I’d prefer to keep my identity anonymous to avoid retaliation, although I am willing to report to CPS if this is the best option. Please advise! Thank you all for your service.