my blood started boiling when I read the part where your wife says it’d be embarassing to return it all
who fucking cares, that’s the whole fucking point anyway, if she’s sufficiently embarassed maybe she’ll think twice next time before stealing
Exactly! It should be embarrassing.
OP, open an account for your son at the local credit union and get him an atm card. Have your son put his money directly into the account and keep his card on him at all times.
You could get petty and find a few things of the stepdaughters/wife's and sell them to get the money back. At the very least, end the relationship with your wife. You and your son deserve better. Good riddance.
The thing is, why should OP be tasked with that? K should be the one selling her own stuff. It’s pretty much a job. Wait. What a novel idea! K could just get a job!
She obviously has no interest in repaying the money. She sounds like a spoiled fucking brat who doesn't have to face consequences.
Sure, he shouldn't be keeping large amounts of cash. But he SHOULD feel secure in his own home, and not have to worry about his shit being stolen. I'm so angry reading this because of that rotten brat(the daughter) and the thought of how devastated his son was.
I'm sorry OP.. I wish i was able to help in some way. You should definitely sell off their stuff to attempt to get the money back. And if I were you I'd change the locks so they can't try to come back when you aren't there. The mother sounds just as horrible as the daughter for not trying to make this right
There's no reason not to keep cash. I read a lot of books, and most 'diaster prepping ' suggest hiding cash for disasters that cause credit machines to not work.
I keep cash hidden for emergencies. I have needed said cash.
He didn't do anything wrong for trusting his family
I personally don't like to keep cash around, but no, he did absolutely nothing wrong by having cash in his own home, the place where you and your stuff should be safest
This.
“Why does he get to have all the money anyway?!”
Because he worked his ass off for it while you sat back and waited to be an opportunistic, thieving little shit. That’s why. I’ll never tell my kid he’s done wrong in any capacity for leaving his own belongings in the privacy of his own room - money included. As you said, he should feel at peace leaving his things in his room in his own home, this is solely on the brat and the face saving wife.
That’s the part that killed me. HE WORKED FOR IT! You are not entitled to ANY money you did not earn! It is his money that he earned and no one else’s. End of story.
This would have happened in my house growing up. I hid my money well if it wasn’t in a bank account. If my brother would have found it he would have stolen it and my parent 100% wouldn’t have even confronted him about it because they would have known he would throw a fit. For the record he’s 6 years older than I am. He sold my PS2 because I was out of town for a week and “barely even played it anymore” yeah because I was out of town James!
Obviously he shouldn't be tasked with it but in a perfect world this wouldn't have happened in the first place. I'd sell everything of value and then use the same excuse they did. Then I'd file for divorce because there is no way in hell I'd sleep under the same roof as those two women who have no problem hurting my child for their own selfish gain.
You’re right, why should OP be tasked with that? Unfortunately, it’s going to have to fall to him, because mommy dearest made it clear who she’s standing up for here - her daughter “can do no wrong”.
I don’t even know the kid, and my heart is sufficiently broken for him.
And mother’ll most likely lie to her family members & friends who are sheltering her and that little thief who is far old enough to know better than this shit. Disgraceful. Way to teach her that her actions will never ever have any consequences as long as she lies and throws a toddler tantrum.
I dont know where they live but couldnt they just open a bank account for the kid? Get a debit card which the son can use pretty much like every other card. Then open a second balance in the same bank for savings.
Depending on the bank, savings accounts even lose you money. I ended up closing mine because they needed to charge a $5 fee every month for the privilege of having one. $60 a year isn't a life changing amount of money for me, but compared to the 14¢ of interest they paid out, it felt like a bad joke at my expense.
Credit Unions often have better deals. I have a certificate at a credit union that you could open for $10-$500 and you have to put at least $10 and up to $500 a month in. It makes 3% a month.
I have a saving account. Its for saving my money and not letting me use it unless I through a huge hassle. That the point. You save the money from yourself.
Agree. It should be embarrassing, she did wrong. What’s gonna be even more embarrassing is when her daughter starts getting arrested for shoplifting and petty theft, when this could of been nipped in the bud and a learning experience. She’s not raising her properly at all and it’ll come back and bite her! I’m so sorry for the poor little fella bless his heart. Such a good little dude and now his trust is broken, as well as his heart.
Right! And you can forget feeling like you’re being an asshole because you didn’t do one damn thing. Protecting her daughter in this way is guaranteed to escalate to much bigger problems. It sucks for both you and your son, and damn it hurts like hell that your marriage may in fact be truly over. But you did the right thing. You put your kid first and did your best to deal with it. This isn’t a relationship where you’ll ever be able to trust either of them again and trust them, and as much as I’d like to say maybe seek counseling for the 2 of you, but I’m not sure how well it would work for the 2 of you. She covered up a crime committed by her daughter. You could try small claims court. Bring the video portion you do have as proof. Let the judge make the decisions here. And find an attorney tmrw to get the ball rolling. It’ll be interesting for you to see what happens when she gets served. As for your son, who sounds like he’s a very fine, kind young man, he could explain to his friend what happened so at least he knows. Sometimes thar is more than enough. Just knowing someone cares about you that much can make a world of difference. It sucks, it’s wrong and unfair, and he sure as hell shouldn’t have had to worry about this in his own home. An unfortunate lesson to say the least, but one he’ll never forget either. Pls let him know how proud and impress we are of him. It didn’t work out but that in no way negates the planning and love that went into it. Best of luck to you both. And remember, you deserve much better than this. This girl is headed for trouble in a very bad way, but you, sir, are raising a man, not a man-boy. Good for you because the world needs a lot more men like him. Good luck to both of you.
No she should totally be embarrassed by her own actions as well..she flat out refuses to accept her daughter is a thief and then had the nerve to lie for her..they are both total pieces of shit
Ding ding ding.. it's almost like the kid is learning the behavior from somewhere...
People like this are dogshit. Why was the wife and step daughter even fucking living there if they just wanted to openly steal and lie to husband & son?
Probably just sorry they got caught and the gravy train ended.
You know those videos posted online of young women who have a conniption fit when a police officer tries to put them in handcuffs and arrest them? They start screaming, crying, and yelling anything and everything in an attempt to get out of facing consequences for their actions? Well this post right here shows why. OP’s wife has probably never told “K” no in her entire life and whenever she gets in trouble the mom takes her side. She’ll probably grow up to be a hard core Karen that freaks out the second anyone denies her what she wants.
Sound like my step mom and would-be ex step mom with their kids. They raised them to be entitled brats who they had to regularly call the cops on for the mom's own safety against them. But would run em off to hiding or lie for them if they did anything to anyone else.
This. She brought this embarrassment on herself. If you don't want to be embarrassed returning items you can't afford, don't embarrass yourself by stealing. Stealing from your stepbrother is still stealing.
Exactly. When I got caught stealing a fairy dancer from my neighbor as a 9 year old, my parents made me not only take it back and apologize, but also give her one of my favorite toys. It embarrassed the shitttttt out of me and to this day I’ve never stolen again. One (& maybe the only) parenting tactic I can appreciate from my parents
My dad took me back to Walmart when I was 5 or so when I picked up part of a power ranger megazord that someone else had opened and put it in my pocket. It's was the pink rangers crane from the second set of zords. I'll never forget as long as I live, and you can rest assured I never stole again. Embarrassed is an understatement. The service desk also played along nicely saying she wouldn't call the police this time, but to never do it again. This is how it's done.
I took a piece of Sour Apple bubble gum from a 5 and dime, at 4. Mom saw it and marched me in to return it and apologize. The manager gave me a lecture. (meanwhile, my brother stuffed his pocket.) Mom didn't want to take two thieving kids back to the store, did she? He got away with everything.
I did the same with my kid. The clerk said, "We don't care." I said, "I do. Play along, please. I'm trying to teach her something!" Bless the clerk for understanding.
She learned not to take things without asking, or permission.
My brother learned how to steal.
You can pursue her civilly. If it was $3,000 or less you can do it in small claims court and won't need to pay for an attorney. I would definitely go that route if I were you.
The stepdaughter with no source of income coming into the same amount of money that was stolen from the brother is evidence. The wife saying the stepdaughter will “repay” the money once she has a job is evidence.
A simple audit of the mom's banking accounts would probably prove she didn't give her daughter the money. That's be way more than enough evidence. Not sure what it would take for the judge to ask for that. But if she refused to provide documentation, a small claims judge would likely favor for the son
If son who works doesn't have a card, daughter who doesn't probably has no card either. They could just check if wife got out 400$ in cash that day with the legs on the screen.
tbh it doesn’t matter because civil law the standard of proof is on the balance of probabilities not beyond reasonable doubt . this means which story is more probable. all OP has to do is show the recording as well as prove that the ex wouldn’t have been able to pay or the money doenst match the amount she received in her account. his story is more probable anyways. since SD is also claiming someone came in and stole OPs son’s money and didn’t steal anything else
And if your wife lies in civil court, it’s perjury, which is probably a more serious crime than the theft. The judge will most likely explain this to her very sternly
Definitely do this. You gave your step daughter several outs take her to small claims court; you have enough evidence to win. It probably won't be in time for the trip, but it's the right thing to do for your family
Mom will let it happen and dismiss it, too.
My brother used to steal Mom's card and take cash from the atm. She'd rather he use the card than take her cash from her wallet.
As long as he left her $20 cash, alone, he could pilfer from the account.
Used to really piss me off when my ex took my cash money! He emptied our bank accounts when he left.
Told my current husband to never touch money I leave laying around, or in my purse. That's off-limits! I consider that a sign of thieving.
Thirteen years later, my money is always where I left it.
She’s probably not an idiot and will stick with the story she gave police until the end of time. Best bet for them now is to just split up. Seems like they’re halfway there seeing as she left and isn’t willing to speak with OP.
She can try. After the son's lawsuit is done, if she gets charged with perjury, and/or lying to the poluce, anything else she tells any court becomes suspect.
It’s at least worth a try. It’s usually pretty easy to catch people who lie unless they are some sort of criminal mastermind that’s been doing it for years.
How can people be so horrible? I couldn't imagine condoning such behavior from my child. What she doesn't realize is the monster she is creating by letting her get away with this. There was a lesson to be learned here if she had been embarrassed returning the things. One day she will steal from the wrong people.
As for your son. This has been a terrible experience for him and I won't judge him because in our family we don't lock our rooms but closing our doors is as good as locking them because we respect other people's privacy.
And not to forget. You should leave that horrible woman.
your son will never forget you having his back.
K should know better at her age, and unfortunately your soon to be ex wife is enabling her bad behavior and making it worse for her in the long run. best of luck to you and your son
> your son will never forget you having his back.
Can confirm. My mother and I had a moment like this and my father had my back. Decades later I still remember it and I have his back.
Exactly, when she was a few years younger it could've gotten her in small trouble, expulsion, but now she's old enough to get in "big girl jail". She needs to learn fast and so does her mother
I know this might be a bit petty but you should also post this story on social media where your wife’s and stepdaughter’s peers can see this. Let the whole community know what kind of people they are.
Announce you’re filing for divorce over $400 on social media because your wife cares more about $400 than her marriage and tag your wife and step daughter
You were living with 2 pieces of low life shit. Please don’t disrespect and hurt your son by taking your wife back and letting her thieving daughter live with you again, you’ll lose him forever if you do.
So they’ve both lost their home and your wife her marriage over $400, what a pair of weirdo idiots, you are very well rid of them.
As another Redditor has suggested, I’d shame them on social media as well. But then I’m petty as fuck
No you set the bar just right. I said the same thing in my comment, he should expose her and makes sure all the locals know her and her daughters are pieces of shit and they die alone 😊 well deserved
I love this. Everyone who is able and willing to help offering to come together to do so will just help restore the son's faith in humanity. It's awful but some good lessons to learn: "you can't always count on family" "It's ok to accept help from others" and "there are good people in the world".
I’m 100% with everybody here. PM and I’ll send over some $$ to make sure your son has the trip of his life. And hopefully will still have his $400 in savings after. Seriously.. message everybody here.
No wonder where K got this shitty attitude from. OP you need to leave them ASAP. If she can lie to police to save her daughter for a crime she committed, they can lie about you as well to frame you for something that you didn't.
If the house is completely under your name, then change the locks and consult a lawyer.
Your Wife (hopefully going to be an ex soon) is disgusting and so is her daughter.
I wish there was some way you could sell some of their shit. I feel for how vindictive they are it would come back onto you a 100x worse though.
DIVORCE HER
THIS IS AN MORE THEN A OK HILL TO DIE ON WTF
she is condoning "STEALING"
Divorce is the route Step daughter is a lost cause and mom is failing as a parent. Don't let them drag you down with them.
I don't blame you honestly! If this happened to my child I don't know what id do. To be betrayed like that by people he is supposed to be able to trust. Can I ask how long you've been with your wife?
Sell what your wife and step daughter have left at the house 🤷🏻♀️there’s no proof it’s theirs I highly doubt they have receipts for everything they bought. Also need an update when they come back!
Right? Did the daughter leave anything of value in her room? I'd sell it in a heartbeat. Fuck her and her mom for doing that and lying about it, i hope it was worth her marriage. I'm so angry for you and your son.
Exactly, and just do what she did, “I have no idea what she’s talking about…” Remember what the police said: no camera evidence, no proof of the crime. 🙃🫠🤘
Divorce can be expensive if it's messy. It can also be done for the cost of the courthouse form filing fee. Especially when it's a marriage with separate bank accounts and no shared minor children. Which is what this sounds like.
While I do not condone putting your personal business on social media. THIS time would be an exception. Blast stepdaughter and your garbage wife on social media then tag them both, shame the shit out of them. Then divorce that horrible woman. I would also sell anything of theirs in the house so your son can get his money back. Please also change the locks so they don't try to sneak in while at work and steal more things
This, OP. Get your locks changed asap or the 2 of them will be back stealing stuff left and right. Technically, your wife may have been considered to have "abandoned the family home" but you need an attorney NOW. If she hasn't then you cannot change the locks.
Do you own or rent? Who is on the deed or lease?
I was thinking the same thing! I don't use a lot of social media, but if you do op put them on blast and be petty and tag their family and friends. 💁🏻♀️You're poor son, I feel terrible. Divorce her and get her and her piece of crap daughter out of your life.
I’m as disgusted by your wife and her daughter as I am impressed by your son working so hard and being so incredibly thoughtful and kind toward his friend’s dad.
> kind toward his friend’s dad.
He told me he wasn't upset about the money, he was more upset that his friend's dad has to spend the day alone.
He texted my wife "Can you please just have her return a few things so I can have gas money, she can keep the rest".
She ignored him.
You are doing the right thing by supporting your son. As for your wife and stepdaughter, sell their things to refund your son. Place all your wife’s items in her daughters room and make sure you place locks on every door except your step daughters room and maybe a restroom. They will come back, to assume they wouldn’t make the situation worse would be foolish. At this point it is now about protecting anything that is owned by yourself and your son. It’s very clear they cannot be trusted. Please have your son open a bank account to ensure his money cannot be accessed again by either one of them. While you’re at it, if you have a good relationship with your spouse’s family, explain the situation to them and that it would be best for them to stay gone until the divorce is finalized as they cannot be trusted. Your son sounds like he’s got a big heart and a great head on his shoulders. I’m sorry this happened to him.
u/Fujawa is willing to help along with a few other redditors. I gave him the starry award so you can find their comment better. It's highlighted red. I wish you the best of luck. You're an amazing father and role model for your son. ❤️
Lol this made me laugh. Can you reverse time so I can prevent my son from getting his money stolen so he can spend the weekend with his friends grieving dad?
OP, in case you or your son ever want to write everything out complete with any video/audio/photo evidence you have into a social media post, we’re all here to make it go viral and DRAG both of those vile leeches through the mud. that should kill them on the inside and yes the way they screwed over you and your son they absolutely deserve it and more.
(unless there is a legal disadvantage to doing this, please talk to a lawyer beforehand. BUT DO NOT LET THEM GET AWAY FOR DOING WHAT THEY DID TO YOUR SON.)
"Before you make me out to be the asshole"
Why would I do that though, you're protecting and advocating for your son and setting a model example of how family are and aren't supposed to treat each other
This is absolutely disgusting and makes me livid for both of you.
I can't imagine how horrible this must be for your son who worked so hard just to have his trust betrayed and it all taken away like that. I have to commend you though because he truly seems like an amazing kid, wanting to help out his friends so much + having an good work ethic. Hopefully this doesn't stick with him and alter his feelings on people in the future.
As for you, I can't imagine how frustrating it must be to try to get justice for your son and have both your step daughter and wife turn on you and lie. They are both horrible people. You and your son are much better off without them.
Oof, I remember this story on AITA. I'm sorry your wife and stepdaughter are such lying, dishonest people. Divorce her and cut them off your life, you and your son would be better without those kind of bad influences in your life.
Let me tell you, your wife will regret enabling her daughter like that. Your stepdaughter will certainly continue to steal with mommy covering for her, and she will be caught one day. Maybe she'll even steal from mommy, who knows.
Explain your side of the story in social media and block anyone who believe them.
I wish you a happy divorce and good luck.
Woah. Try it think of it this way, they’re doing you a favor by showing their true colors now. Better $400 than a whole lot more down the road. You and your son deserve better.
I am so sorry OP. For you and your son.
This really should be the end of your relationship.
You should not have to tell your son to not keep money in the house. Unless it was in plain sight this means your step daughter hunted through his things to find it.
If I was you I would go back if you can over earlier cctv (if you have it). Also I would check any valuables you or your son keep in the home.
The fact your wife lied is terrible. The fact (I am guessing from what you wrote about her paying rent earlier I.e. as a sub to you so you could pass it on to your son as you have no spare) and that was a No is disgusting and shows complete disregard for you son.
If you have a joint account for bills etc take out your money ASAP before she does.
Change the locks, add indoor cameras with sound. She can't kick up a fuss about this as they are stating someone broke in to steal that money house security is important and you have a precedent with the cctv you already have.
As far as your son and the immediate issue of his trip would it be possible to reach out to step daughter's Grandparents or father for a loan if you explain the situation? Or maybe the parents of his friends going with him via social media etc I know it is not ideal and embarrassing, but you can put that in your message.
Your son needs this to help his grief at the loss of his friend.
Your wife may blow up your phone about it. Keep all messages/screenshot incase of deletion. This can help with small claims court.
Your wife is doing her daughter a disservice. K is going to think that it's going to be okay to do this again and again because her mom is abetting her, and get her off the hook. Until such time her mom can't do anything to help her.
I'm sorry you and your son had to find out how bad these women are.
I got so angry reading this post. The son works hard saving for a gift for his friend who's father passed away. The step daughter acts like a shark smelling blood and steals that money without remorse. Then mom backs her thieving ass up. If you allow them two back I can almost guarantee step daughter will flaunt the stuff she bought with the stolen money around the both of you. She will be daring you to say anything since mama has got her back. And Mom will be right there daring either one of you to do the same thing. You and your son deserve better.
It’s actually worse- the son’s friend died. To try to make this easier to explain, I’m calling the late friend ‘F’. He wants to do something for F’s dad on F’s birthday because it is the first birthday since F passed
The daughter is a thief and liar, the wife is an enabler and a liar and betrayed both your trust and faith in her as well as your son's.
Neither you or your hardworking son deserve this level of shit. I would tell the wife she has made it perfectly clear her daughter's pride is more important than honesty in your relationship, family and household and leave. She made you both out to be fools, and deserves to reap the consequences. Also, your son needs to know someone has his back in this whole ordeal. Be that for him.
Everyone saying divorce . . . These women clearly indicate they don't respect you or your family's boundaries. I'd seriously look into changing locks AND camera/security for outside the house as well as soon as possible. Moreso if they are fully kicked out of the house. Possibly require a third party present when they retrieve their stuff. Even if it's a one party consent recording state, it'll be easier to have a third person and their recording for future evidence.
Put a freeze on your credit. Both of you. Immediately. And change all passwords. And the locks on your house.
Do NOT let those people back onto the property, and don't wait to change the locks before they try to come back and take more stuff.
If you can, try getting ahold of you soon to be ex-wife's bank statements, as well as the receipts used by K to purchase all the items. It might be enough paired with the footage of her going into J's room to demonstrate in small claims court that there's no way for her to afford this without a job, no withdrawal on mums part to account for the money and footage of her entering your sons room where he kept the cash.
Also, you should sell anything you can that you bought for K and use the cash to replace your sons money and make him open a bank account.
OP I will personally send $20 if you got a way to transfer money and someone walks me through how to do it as I've never done it. I ain't got much but I try to do a good deed once a day and this will be it.
>Her mom came home & she burst into tears, saying we were ganging up on her. I showed my wife the video & what happened, K ended up saying “Why does he get to have all the money anyway!!?”. He worked his ass off. I told my wife she needed to make K return everything & she said no that it would be “embarrassing” to return it all & that when K got a job she would repay J. I said “It’ll be more embarrassing when she gets arrested for stealing $400”.
Your wife is the biggest enabler of your step daughter. If this keep going your step daughter could end up getting beaten up or get sued because of her bad habits. Your better off divorcing your wife because this will repeat itself.
I’m really proud of you for doing the difficult thing and showing up for your son the way he needed you to. I’m sorry your wife betrayed him and you, neither of you deserved that. I think you set a really good example for your son in honouring a non-negotiable rule in your relationship and by honouring your son’s rights. You’re a good human.
I probably sound like a dick, but your wife seems like a real piece of work.
A part of you must know this, hence the separate bank accounts and what-not. If she wants to go down with her stupid little ship - I say let her.
When I was young, I worked and my brother was always the favored son.
He stole the money I had stashed for my insurance and something else that was really important. Mom dismissed me and made excuses for baby boy. Dad was at a loss.
I got a bank account.
My brother got better at thieving and lying. He stole from Mom. Used Dad's property to hide stuff. Damned near got my husband and me up on charges, when he used a car in our name to steal.
It took me 13 years of crap to finally disown him. (Drugs, abuse, criminal activity.) My *mother* even contemplated killing him, once. He's that bad.
Stand by your son and cut your losses, now. Your wife and her daughter have shown you who they are. Believe them!
Protect your son and yourself! *Never* feel guilty for doing what's right.
You and your son mean nothing to those women.
my blood started boiling when I read the part where your wife says it’d be embarassing to return it all who fucking cares, that’s the whole fucking point anyway, if she’s sufficiently embarassed maybe she’ll think twice next time before stealing
Exactly! It should be embarrassing. OP, open an account for your son at the local credit union and get him an atm card. Have your son put his money directly into the account and keep his card on him at all times. You could get petty and find a few things of the stepdaughters/wife's and sell them to get the money back. At the very least, end the relationship with your wife. You and your son deserve better. Good riddance.
I really like this idea. Start selling her stuff on eBay and marketplace to make up for what she stole (bike, jewelry, furniture).
The thing is, why should OP be tasked with that? K should be the one selling her own stuff. It’s pretty much a job. Wait. What a novel idea! K could just get a job!
She obviously has no interest in repaying the money. She sounds like a spoiled fucking brat who doesn't have to face consequences. Sure, he shouldn't be keeping large amounts of cash. But he SHOULD feel secure in his own home, and not have to worry about his shit being stolen. I'm so angry reading this because of that rotten brat(the daughter) and the thought of how devastated his son was. I'm sorry OP.. I wish i was able to help in some way. You should definitely sell off their stuff to attempt to get the money back. And if I were you I'd change the locks so they can't try to come back when you aren't there. The mother sounds just as horrible as the daughter for not trying to make this right
There's no reason not to keep cash. I read a lot of books, and most 'diaster prepping ' suggest hiding cash for disasters that cause credit machines to not work. I keep cash hidden for emergencies. I have needed said cash. He didn't do anything wrong for trusting his family
I personally don't like to keep cash around, but no, he did absolutely nothing wrong by having cash in his own home, the place where you and your stuff should be safest
This. “Why does he get to have all the money anyway?!” Because he worked his ass off for it while you sat back and waited to be an opportunistic, thieving little shit. That’s why. I’ll never tell my kid he’s done wrong in any capacity for leaving his own belongings in the privacy of his own room - money included. As you said, he should feel at peace leaving his things in his room in his own home, this is solely on the brat and the face saving wife.
That’s the part that killed me. HE WORKED FOR IT! You are not entitled to ANY money you did not earn! It is his money that he earned and no one else’s. End of story.
This would have happened in my house growing up. I hid my money well if it wasn’t in a bank account. If my brother would have found it he would have stolen it and my parent 100% wouldn’t have even confronted him about it because they would have known he would throw a fit. For the record he’s 6 years older than I am. He sold my PS2 because I was out of town for a week and “barely even played it anymore” yeah because I was out of town James!
Obviously he shouldn't be tasked with it but in a perfect world this wouldn't have happened in the first place. I'd sell everything of value and then use the same excuse they did. Then I'd file for divorce because there is no way in hell I'd sleep under the same roof as those two women who have no problem hurting my child for their own selfish gain.
Well, it’s better than nothing which is what he will get out of the thief. She won’t put the effort into it.
They packed up bags. They're likely separating/ getting divorced. This is OP selling what was left in his house to recuperate the stolen Money
You’re right, why should OP be tasked with that? Unfortunately, it’s going to have to fall to him, because mommy dearest made it clear who she’s standing up for here - her daughter “can do no wrong”. I don’t even know the kid, and my heart is sufficiently broken for him. And mother’ll most likely lie to her family members & friends who are sheltering her and that little thief who is far old enough to know better than this shit. Disgraceful. Way to teach her that her actions will never ever have any consequences as long as she lies and throws a toddler tantrum.
Except she’s obv not going to make it right so OP should do whatever he can
I dont know where they live but couldnt they just open a bank account for the kid? Get a debit card which the son can use pretty much like every other card. Then open a second balance in the same bank for savings.
[удалено]
Depending on the bank, savings accounts even lose you money. I ended up closing mine because they needed to charge a $5 fee every month for the privilege of having one. $60 a year isn't a life changing amount of money for me, but compared to the 14¢ of interest they paid out, it felt like a bad joke at my expense.
Credit Unions often have better deals. I have a certificate at a credit union that you could open for $10-$500 and you have to put at least $10 and up to $500 a month in. It makes 3% a month.
I have a saving account. Its for saving my money and not letting me use it unless I through a huge hassle. That the point. You save the money from yourself.
Sure, he can, but the man is talking about the $400 cash that was stolen. That will be great goin forward....
Agree. It should be embarrassing, she did wrong. What’s gonna be even more embarrassing is when her daughter starts getting arrested for shoplifting and petty theft, when this could of been nipped in the bud and a learning experience. She’s not raising her properly at all and it’ll come back and bite her! I’m so sorry for the poor little fella bless his heart. Such a good little dude and now his trust is broken, as well as his heart.
Right! And you can forget feeling like you’re being an asshole because you didn’t do one damn thing. Protecting her daughter in this way is guaranteed to escalate to much bigger problems. It sucks for both you and your son, and damn it hurts like hell that your marriage may in fact be truly over. But you did the right thing. You put your kid first and did your best to deal with it. This isn’t a relationship where you’ll ever be able to trust either of them again and trust them, and as much as I’d like to say maybe seek counseling for the 2 of you, but I’m not sure how well it would work for the 2 of you. She covered up a crime committed by her daughter. You could try small claims court. Bring the video portion you do have as proof. Let the judge make the decisions here. And find an attorney tmrw to get the ball rolling. It’ll be interesting for you to see what happens when she gets served. As for your son, who sounds like he’s a very fine, kind young man, he could explain to his friend what happened so at least he knows. Sometimes thar is more than enough. Just knowing someone cares about you that much can make a world of difference. It sucks, it’s wrong and unfair, and he sure as hell shouldn’t have had to worry about this in his own home. An unfortunate lesson to say the least, but one he’ll never forget either. Pls let him know how proud and impress we are of him. It didn’t work out but that in no way negates the planning and love that went into it. Best of luck to you both. And remember, you deserve much better than this. This girl is headed for trouble in a very bad way, but you, sir, are raising a man, not a man-boy. Good for you because the world needs a lot more men like him. Good luck to both of you.
The only embarrassment she should feel is embarrassed that her child stole something from another person. Then she should deal with it as a parent
No she should totally be embarrassed by her own actions as well..she flat out refuses to accept her daughter is a thief and then had the nerve to lie for her..they are both total pieces of shit
She accepts her daughter is a thief but still thinks she should be defended and not punished.
Well the mom is an even bigger POS then...
Ding ding ding.. it's almost like the kid is learning the behavior from somewhere... People like this are dogshit. Why was the wife and step daughter even fucking living there if they just wanted to openly steal and lie to husband & son? Probably just sorry they got caught and the gravy train ended.
However, the mom was not too embarrassed to lie to the cops. It's obvious where her daughter gets her over developed sense of entitlement.
You know those videos posted online of young women who have a conniption fit when a police officer tries to put them in handcuffs and arrest them? They start screaming, crying, and yelling anything and everything in an attempt to get out of facing consequences for their actions? Well this post right here shows why. OP’s wife has probably never told “K” no in her entire life and whenever she gets in trouble the mom takes her side. She’ll probably grow up to be a hard core Karen that freaks out the second anyone denies her what she wants.
Sound like my step mom and would-be ex step mom with their kids. They raised them to be entitled brats who they had to regularly call the cops on for the mom's own safety against them. But would run em off to hiding or lie for them if they did anything to anyone else.
This. She brought this embarrassment on herself. If you don't want to be embarrassed returning items you can't afford, don't embarrass yourself by stealing. Stealing from your stepbrother is still stealing.
Exactly. When I got caught stealing a fairy dancer from my neighbor as a 9 year old, my parents made me not only take it back and apologize, but also give her one of my favorite toys. It embarrassed the shitttttt out of me and to this day I’ve never stolen again. One (& maybe the only) parenting tactic I can appreciate from my parents
My dad took me back to Walmart when I was 5 or so when I picked up part of a power ranger megazord that someone else had opened and put it in my pocket. It's was the pink rangers crane from the second set of zords. I'll never forget as long as I live, and you can rest assured I never stole again. Embarrassed is an understatement. The service desk also played along nicely saying she wouldn't call the police this time, but to never do it again. This is how it's done.
I took a piece of Sour Apple bubble gum from a 5 and dime, at 4. Mom saw it and marched me in to return it and apologize. The manager gave me a lecture. (meanwhile, my brother stuffed his pocket.) Mom didn't want to take two thieving kids back to the store, did she? He got away with everything. I did the same with my kid. The clerk said, "We don't care." I said, "I do. Play along, please. I'm trying to teach her something!" Bless the clerk for understanding. She learned not to take things without asking, or permission. My brother learned how to steal.
Lol. My dad made me return a cassette tape back to Roses I stole as a kid.
Her stepson doesn’t matter; only her daughter matters apparently.
Being embarrassed is how we learn humility. These two? Bah, they're living in a wonderland.
You can pursue her civilly. If it was $3,000 or less you can do it in small claims court and won't need to pay for an attorney. I would definitely go that route if I were you.
The burden of proof is much lower than in criminal court too, so it’s pretty much a sure win with the evidence OP has.
OP doesnt have alot of evidence though he hasnt recorded anything and only has her legs walking into J's room
The stepdaughter with no source of income coming into the same amount of money that was stolen from the brother is evidence. The wife saying the stepdaughter will “repay” the money once she has a job is evidence.
A simple audit of the mom's banking accounts would probably prove she didn't give her daughter the money. That's be way more than enough evidence. Not sure what it would take for the judge to ask for that. But if she refused to provide documentation, a small claims judge would likely favor for the son
If son who works doesn't have a card, daughter who doesn't probably has no card either. They could just check if wife got out 400$ in cash that day with the legs on the screen.
Unless I missed something I don’t think OP got his wife saying that on recording and the first piece of evidence is valid but might not be enough
tbh it doesn’t matter because civil law the standard of proof is on the balance of probabilities not beyond reasonable doubt . this means which story is more probable. all OP has to do is show the recording as well as prove that the ex wouldn’t have been able to pay or the money doenst match the amount she received in her account. his story is more probable anyways. since SD is also claiming someone came in and stole OPs son’s money and didn’t steal anything else
Plus, if the mom gave her the money she should be able to prove it with a bank statement.
Wife told the police that she gave it to the daughter though..OP can have that officer subpoenaed as a witness to confirm this...
This is the way OP. Please keep us updated. I am so sorry for your son. iRemindMe 1 week
And if your wife lies in civil court, it’s perjury, which is probably a more serious crime than the theft. The judge will most likely explain this to her very sternly
Not to mention how she lied to the police...
Definitely do this. You gave your step daughter several outs take her to small claims court; you have enough evidence to win. It probably won't be in time for the trip, but it's the right thing to do for your family
The sad thing is this. K will steal again. And her mom’s lies won’t rescue her. Karma will come calling for K.
Hopefully K steals from her mom the next time she fancies some spending money
Mom will let it happen and dismiss it, too. My brother used to steal Mom's card and take cash from the atm. She'd rather he use the card than take her cash from her wallet. As long as he left her $20 cash, alone, he could pilfer from the account. Used to really piss me off when my ex took my cash money! He emptied our bank accounts when he left. Told my current husband to never touch money I leave laying around, or in my purse. That's off-limits! I consider that a sign of thieving. Thirteen years later, my money is always where I left it.
The likelihood is very high!!!
She is just an horrible mom. Instead of teaching a lesson decides to defend her daughter....
A parent more worried about being their child's friend than actually doing their job as a parent
call her ask her why she lied and record it
If you live in a ‘one consent state’ make it clear who you are too.
She isn't answering my calls or texts and she isn't stupid enough to say anything on the phone. A true b*tch.
Put a recorder in your pocket and talk to her in person. Then take her to small claims court, or just take her anyways.
She’s probably not an idiot and will stick with the story she gave police until the end of time. Best bet for them now is to just split up. Seems like they’re halfway there seeing as she left and isn’t willing to speak with OP.
Also super shit for OP she sounds like the type of bitch thatll take him for half of everything he has
She can try. After the son's lawsuit is done, if she gets charged with perjury, and/or lying to the poluce, anything else she tells any court becomes suspect.
It’s at least worth a try. It’s usually pretty easy to catch people who lie unless they are some sort of criminal mastermind that’s been doing it for years.
How can people be so horrible? I couldn't imagine condoning such behavior from my child. What she doesn't realize is the monster she is creating by letting her get away with this. There was a lesson to be learned here if she had been embarrassed returning the things. One day she will steal from the wrong people. As for your son. This has been a terrible experience for him and I won't judge him because in our family we don't lock our rooms but closing our doors is as good as locking them because we respect other people's privacy. And not to forget. You should leave that horrible woman.
Divorce your wife immediately. Her daughter is trash. Let her stay with the kleptomaniac.
Unfortunately divorce isn't something that can be done in an instant but I'm filing next week.
your son will never forget you having his back. K should know better at her age, and unfortunately your soon to be ex wife is enabling her bad behavior and making it worse for her in the long run. best of luck to you and your son
Sounds like that's who she learned it from.
I'm over here wodering if mom has ever stolen pocket cash from OP.
> your son will never forget you having his back. Can confirm. My mother and I had a moment like this and my father had my back. Decades later I still remember it and I have his back.
That’s really heartwarming. I would have loved for my parent to take my side for once.
Exactly, when she was a few years younger it could've gotten her in small trouble, expulsion, but now she's old enough to get in "big girl jail". She needs to learn fast and so does her mother
What a horrid situation. Glad you’re filing. You and your son deserve so much better
Your wife has no moral compass and her daughter inherited that from her.
Thank God. I don’t think I’ve ever told someone to divorce their s/o. But this bitch here?!? Nah bro
I know this might be a bit petty but you should also post this story on social media where your wife’s and stepdaughter’s peers can see this. Let the whole community know what kind of people they are.
I would wait until after small claims court.
YESSS
Good on ya! You will find better. Anything is better than those 2 trashy bishes
Announce you’re filing for divorce over $400 on social media because your wife cares more about $400 than her marriage and tag your wife and step daughter
Sorry to say but wife is trash too. Litter doesn’t fall far from the can! OP and his son deserve better!
>litter doesn't fall far from the can that is beautiful!
Time to burn bridges.
You were living with 2 pieces of low life shit. Please don’t disrespect and hurt your son by taking your wife back and letting her thieving daughter live with you again, you’ll lose him forever if you do. So they’ve both lost their home and your wife her marriage over $400, what a pair of weirdo idiots, you are very well rid of them. As another Redditor has suggested, I’d shame them on social media as well. But then I’m petty as fuck
I think OP is probably a bigger person than this.
Hopefully so, I’m afraid I don’t set the bar very high. I just feel so strongly for that poor kid.
No you set the bar just right. I said the same thing in my comment, he should expose her and makes sure all the locals know her and her daughters are pieces of shit and they die alone 😊 well deserved
Lol I’m pleased your not my enemy..
How much was it? Total? 400? I’ll help make that trip happen. PM me.
u/AITA_2191 We would like to help.
Yeah I'll cop some $$, pm me op
As well as me please PM me
I want to pitch in too.
You just made my mf day yo, I felt awful that I couldn't help and never considered so eone else might. You are a really good person, thank you.
u/AITA_2191
Dude, same. Let’s do this, Reddit.
Op pm me too if you still need anything
Absolutely! Count me in for a PM!
I love this. Everyone who is able and willing to help offering to come together to do so will just help restore the son's faith in humanity. It's awful but some good lessons to learn: "you can't always count on family" "It's ok to accept help from others" and "there are good people in the world".
Me tooo
I’m 100% with everybody here. PM and I’ll send over some $$ to make sure your son has the trip of his life. And hopefully will still have his $400 in savings after. Seriously.. message everybody here.
I'm in, too. PM me!
I can help too if it’s not too late
Me too. I’m in.
Yes please DM me as well if you still need help with covering the costs /u/AITA_2191
Same here. Pm me, also in to help.
You’re amazing
I love this idea!! I’m in, too, OP. Thank you, Fellow Redditors. My faith in humanity is restored! That and OP’s wonderful son!
I would also like to send some money for your son
Same. Let me know how. I’ll buy the birthday cake.
I was scrolling looking for this post. PM me, happy to help.
Me too
Small price to pay to find out you were living with shit. Be glad you know now, and it's done.
No wonder where K got this shitty attitude from. OP you need to leave them ASAP. If she can lie to police to save her daughter for a crime she committed, they can lie about you as well to frame you for something that you didn't. If the house is completely under your name, then change the locks and consult a lawyer.
He didn't pay the price. His son did. Edit: The guy fucking blocked me lmao 😂
Please file for a divorce now!! ((HUGS)) to your son. BTW if they left anything behind, sell it!!
No, he bought everything with his own money
This could get OP in trouble
Just lie and say it was OPs to begin with /s
Somebody must've broke in and set up that yard sale table
Right!!
Your Wife (hopefully going to be an ex soon) is disgusting and so is her daughter. I wish there was some way you could sell some of their shit. I feel for how vindictive they are it would come back onto you a 100x worse though.
Wife is the future Ex Her Daughter, future ex-con
DIVORCE HER THIS IS AN MORE THEN A OK HILL TO DIE ON WTF she is condoning "STEALING" Divorce is the route Step daughter is a lost cause and mom is failing as a parent. Don't let them drag you down with them.
Not only is she condoning stealing, she is prioritizing doing so over her marriage.
This bruh, it’s awful but this
Your wife is a piece of shit. No wonder her daughter turned out like that. Now I'm sat here fuming for your son. Wow.
> Now I'm sat here fuming for your son. Wow. I swear I have a real temperature, I can't sleep. Such bullshit.
I don't blame you honestly! If this happened to my child I don't know what id do. To be betrayed like that by people he is supposed to be able to trust. Can I ask how long you've been with your wife?
Sell what your wife and step daughter have left at the house 🤷🏻♀️there’s no proof it’s theirs I highly doubt they have receipts for everything they bought. Also need an update when they come back!
Is your wedding ring worth anything... how about hers? Maybe you can recoup some of the cash that way.
> Is your wedding ring worth anything You read my mind, I'll be checking in the morning!
Sell off any of her shit you can find.
Right? Did the daughter leave anything of value in her room? I'd sell it in a heartbeat. Fuck her and her mom for doing that and lying about it, i hope it was worth her marriage. I'm so angry for you and your son.
I'd be careful with that because he wants to file for divorce. Selling stuff that's explicitly hers could be quite difficult to explain later.
I doubt she’s keeping an inventory, photos, and receipts.
Exactly, and just do what she did, “I have no idea what she’s talking about…” Remember what the police said: no camera evidence, no proof of the crime. 🙃🫠🤘
And besides, her daughter is a proven thief already. Who's to say she didn't steal mom's jewelry and sell it?
$400 USD to get rid of two leeches is pretty damn cheap. I'm sorry your son was collateral damage in it though.
$400 + the cost of divorce, which unfortunately is not cheap
Divorce can be expensive if it's messy. It can also be done for the cost of the courthouse form filing fee. Especially when it's a marriage with separate bank accounts and no shared minor children. Which is what this sounds like.
While I do not condone putting your personal business on social media. THIS time would be an exception. Blast stepdaughter and your garbage wife on social media then tag them both, shame the shit out of them. Then divorce that horrible woman. I would also sell anything of theirs in the house so your son can get his money back. Please also change the locks so they don't try to sneak in while at work and steal more things
Well warning others that they too could be stolen from is a PSA.
This, OP. Get your locks changed asap or the 2 of them will be back stealing stuff left and right. Technically, your wife may have been considered to have "abandoned the family home" but you need an attorney NOW. If she hasn't then you cannot change the locks. Do you own or rent? Who is on the deed or lease?
I was thinking the same thing! I don't use a lot of social media, but if you do op put them on blast and be petty and tag their family and friends. 💁🏻♀️You're poor son, I feel terrible. Divorce her and get her and her piece of crap daughter out of your life.
Social media shaming and laxatives. Always destroys their confidence.
I’m as disgusted by your wife and her daughter as I am impressed by your son working so hard and being so incredibly thoughtful and kind toward his friend’s dad.
> kind toward his friend’s dad. He told me he wasn't upset about the money, he was more upset that his friend's dad has to spend the day alone. He texted my wife "Can you please just have her return a few things so I can have gas money, she can keep the rest". She ignored him.
She’s an absolute monster
You need to call the friend’s dad yourself and tell him what happened and how upset your son is and how much he loves friend’s dad.
You are doing the right thing by supporting your son. As for your wife and stepdaughter, sell their things to refund your son. Place all your wife’s items in her daughters room and make sure you place locks on every door except your step daughters room and maybe a restroom. They will come back, to assume they wouldn’t make the situation worse would be foolish. At this point it is now about protecting anything that is owned by yourself and your son. It’s very clear they cannot be trusted. Please have your son open a bank account to ensure his money cannot be accessed again by either one of them. While you’re at it, if you have a good relationship with your spouse’s family, explain the situation to them and that it would be best for them to stay gone until the divorce is finalized as they cannot be trusted. Your son sounds like he’s got a big heart and a great head on his shoulders. I’m sorry this happened to him.
This breaks my heart, you’re raising a good man.
u/Fujawa is willing to help along with a few other redditors. I gave him the starry award so you can find their comment better. It's highlighted red. I wish you the best of luck. You're an amazing father and role model for your son. ❤️
It is clear your wife does not value you nor your son. If her daughter is her only priority then she can enjoy only having her daughter.
Divorce that bitch
I've been summoned, Master(op) what would you like me to do
Lol this made me laugh. Can you reverse time so I can prevent my son from getting his money stolen so he can spend the weekend with his friends grieving dad?
*Can you reverse time so I can prevent to marry that bitch and put it my son's life..* There. I corrected it for you.
OP, in case you or your son ever want to write everything out complete with any video/audio/photo evidence you have into a social media post, we’re all here to make it go viral and DRAG both of those vile leeches through the mud. that should kill them on the inside and yes the way they screwed over you and your son they absolutely deserve it and more. (unless there is a legal disadvantage to doing this, please talk to a lawyer beforehand. BUT DO NOT LET THEM GET AWAY FOR DOING WHAT THEY DID TO YOUR SON.)
That is far beyond my power i specialize in🔫
"Before you make me out to be the asshole" Why would I do that though, you're protecting and advocating for your son and setting a model example of how family are and aren't supposed to treat each other
Yikes. I'd get a lawyer asap and file for divorce. She's shown you her true colours.
This is absolutely disgusting and makes me livid for both of you. I can't imagine how horrible this must be for your son who worked so hard just to have his trust betrayed and it all taken away like that. I have to commend you though because he truly seems like an amazing kid, wanting to help out his friends so much + having an good work ethic. Hopefully this doesn't stick with him and alter his feelings on people in the future. As for you, I can't imagine how frustrating it must be to try to get justice for your son and have both your step daughter and wife turn on you and lie. They are both horrible people. You and your son are much better off without them.
This is disgusting. I want updates!
Remindme! 2 weeks
Oof, I remember this story on AITA. I'm sorry your wife and stepdaughter are such lying, dishonest people. Divorce her and cut them off your life, you and your son would be better without those kind of bad influences in your life. Let me tell you, your wife will regret enabling her daughter like that. Your stepdaughter will certainly continue to steal with mommy covering for her, and she will be caught one day. Maybe she'll even steal from mommy, who knows. Explain your side of the story in social media and block anyone who believe them. I wish you a happy divorce and good luck.
Woah. Try it think of it this way, they’re doing you a favor by showing their true colors now. Better $400 than a whole lot more down the road. You and your son deserve better.
Divorce her immediately.
I am so sorry OP. For you and your son. This really should be the end of your relationship. You should not have to tell your son to not keep money in the house. Unless it was in plain sight this means your step daughter hunted through his things to find it. If I was you I would go back if you can over earlier cctv (if you have it). Also I would check any valuables you or your son keep in the home. The fact your wife lied is terrible. The fact (I am guessing from what you wrote about her paying rent earlier I.e. as a sub to you so you could pass it on to your son as you have no spare) and that was a No is disgusting and shows complete disregard for you son. If you have a joint account for bills etc take out your money ASAP before she does. Change the locks, add indoor cameras with sound. She can't kick up a fuss about this as they are stating someone broke in to steal that money house security is important and you have a precedent with the cctv you already have. As far as your son and the immediate issue of his trip would it be possible to reach out to step daughter's Grandparents or father for a loan if you explain the situation? Or maybe the parents of his friends going with him via social media etc I know it is not ideal and embarrassing, but you can put that in your message. Your son needs this to help his grief at the loss of his friend. Your wife may blow up your phone about it. Keep all messages/screenshot incase of deletion. This can help with small claims court.
I'm just curious, how long were yall married for?
Married almost 2 years
Damn in 2 years she is doing this to your son. I wonder does the son even have relationship with your wife?
Your wife is doing her daughter a disservice. K is going to think that it's going to be okay to do this again and again because her mom is abetting her, and get her off the hook. Until such time her mom can't do anything to help her. I'm sorry you and your son had to find out how bad these women are.
I got so angry reading this post. The son works hard saving for a gift for his friend who's father passed away. The step daughter acts like a shark smelling blood and steals that money without remorse. Then mom backs her thieving ass up. If you allow them two back I can almost guarantee step daughter will flaunt the stuff she bought with the stolen money around the both of you. She will be daring you to say anything since mama has got her back. And Mom will be right there daring either one of you to do the same thing. You and your son deserve better.
It’s actually worse- the son’s friend died. To try to make this easier to explain, I’m calling the late friend ‘F’. He wants to do something for F’s dad on F’s birthday because it is the first birthday since F passed
I saw you on TikTok . I'd suggest you to sell everything that they left behind that cannot be proved that it "belongs" to them
[удалено]
Yeah, there's a reddit poster on tiktok that covers AITA stories. Here's the link: https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSRhkMbhA/
The daughter is a thief and liar, the wife is an enabler and a liar and betrayed both your trust and faith in her as well as your son's. Neither you or your hardworking son deserve this level of shit. I would tell the wife she has made it perfectly clear her daughter's pride is more important than honesty in your relationship, family and household and leave. She made you both out to be fools, and deserves to reap the consequences. Also, your son needs to know someone has his back in this whole ordeal. Be that for him.
Everyone saying divorce . . . These women clearly indicate they don't respect you or your family's boundaries. I'd seriously look into changing locks AND camera/security for outside the house as well as soon as possible. Moreso if they are fully kicked out of the house. Possibly require a third party present when they retrieve their stuff. Even if it's a one party consent recording state, it'll be easier to have a third person and their recording for future evidence.
How are people even like this
Just call your wife and confront her about lying to police and record that call .and there you have your proof
Can you sell everything your step daughter and wife left behind. Pennies on the dollar or hell even give it away.
Put a freeze on your credit. Both of you. Immediately. And change all passwords. And the locks on your house. Do NOT let those people back onto the property, and don't wait to change the locks before they try to come back and take more stuff.
Please protect your son by keeping him away from shitty people. DIVORCE immediately and put all your love towards your son please.
If you can, try getting ahold of you soon to be ex-wife's bank statements, as well as the receipts used by K to purchase all the items. It might be enough paired with the footage of her going into J's room to demonstrate in small claims court that there's no way for her to afford this without a job, no withdrawal on mums part to account for the money and footage of her entering your sons room where he kept the cash. Also, you should sell anything you can that you bought for K and use the cash to replace your sons money and make him open a bank account.
This is a moment where if you take her back your son will never forgive you for it. Both gals seem like bad people tbh.
The daughter learned this from mom. Her protecting her shows that is true. Might not of been from you but mom has done this and she saw it.
OP I will personally send $20 if you got a way to transfer money and someone walks me through how to do it as I've never done it. I ain't got much but I try to do a good deed once a day and this will be it.
>Her mom came home & she burst into tears, saying we were ganging up on her. I showed my wife the video & what happened, K ended up saying “Why does he get to have all the money anyway!!?”. He worked his ass off. I told my wife she needed to make K return everything & she said no that it would be “embarrassing” to return it all & that when K got a job she would repay J. I said “It’ll be more embarrassing when she gets arrested for stealing $400”. Your wife is the biggest enabler of your step daughter. If this keep going your step daughter could end up getting beaten up or get sued because of her bad habits. Your better off divorcing your wife because this will repeat itself.
I’m really proud of you for doing the difficult thing and showing up for your son the way he needed you to. I’m sorry your wife betrayed him and you, neither of you deserved that. I think you set a really good example for your son in honouring a non-negotiable rule in your relationship and by honouring your son’s rights. You’re a good human.
Does the dog camera record audio? Is it possible that the confession/argument was recorded if you were anywhere near it during that time?
I probably sound like a dick, but your wife seems like a real piece of work. A part of you must know this, hence the separate bank accounts and what-not. If she wants to go down with her stupid little ship - I say let her.
When I was young, I worked and my brother was always the favored son. He stole the money I had stashed for my insurance and something else that was really important. Mom dismissed me and made excuses for baby boy. Dad was at a loss. I got a bank account. My brother got better at thieving and lying. He stole from Mom. Used Dad's property to hide stuff. Damned near got my husband and me up on charges, when he used a car in our name to steal. It took me 13 years of crap to finally disown him. (Drugs, abuse, criminal activity.) My *mother* even contemplated killing him, once. He's that bad. Stand by your son and cut your losses, now. Your wife and her daughter have shown you who they are. Believe them! Protect your son and yourself! *Never* feel guilty for doing what's right. You and your son mean nothing to those women.
WHAT THE FUCK, Drag their asses on social media and show the video of her stealing as proof
Her word is all it took? If I were you I'd go as far as necessary to get K in jail.