Readers in California are likely familiar with the popular website Facebook. The social media website is used by millions of people to keep in contact with relatives and friends. One man, however, recently found that the site can also be used by official agencies, such as those tasked with investigating cases where back child support is owed.
The man posted a profile picture of himself surrounded by cash. The picture was apparently seen by a number of people, including the custodial parent of his 3-year-old child. This is the same person to whom the man owed several years of back child support payments.
The information posted on the website was presented to a court. A search warrant was obtained as a result. Now, the court has issued a warrant for the arrest for the father, and he could face as many as 11 years in prison for falling to pay.
Child support payments are often ordered in California when parents of a minor child separate. The money is intended to be used by the custodial parent for the care and support of a child. When a person finds that they are owed child support, they may wish to review the applicable laws of our state to determine which methods may be used to help locate a noncustodial parent and collect the payments that are owed. Conversely, those who are obligated to pay child support they cannot afford may benefit by filing a formal application to modify an existing court order. To prevail, the noncustodial parent will need to show that there has been a substantial change in financial circumstances that was due to circumstances beyond their control.
Source: ABC News, “Facebook Money Pics Bust Dad for Allegedly Dodging Child Support,” Alexa Valiente, March 22, 2013
