Neighbor Harassment Legal Advice

Summary

The user is facing harassment, invasion of privacy, stalking, and threats of violence from neighbors. They have reported these incidents to the local police multiple times but have not seen any action taken. The neighbors actions include filming the users daughter, threatening to kill their dog, screaming at them, making false reports, and posting a video of the daughter on Facebook. The user has taken steps to protect their privacy and has collected evidence of the harassment. They have applied for a Personal Protection Order (PPO) but it was denied due to lack of urgency. The user has also reported specific threats to the police.

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Wanda Whitaker
Hello Wanda Whitaker, nice to meet you. Could you please describe the legal issue you're facing?
Harassment, invasion of privacy, stalking, threats of violence from neighbors
I'm sorry to hear that, Wanda. Have you reported these incidents to the local police?
Yes. * reports so far.
What actions have the police taken in response to your reports?
None, really. They say it's all legal as long as the neighbors are on their property.
What specific actions are your neighbors taking that you believe constitute harassment and invasion of privacy?
Filming my daughter at all times, threatening to kill our dog, screaming at us from their house and yard, making false reports on us, putting a video of my daughter on Facebook.
Have you asked your neighbors to stop these actions or taken any steps to protect your privacy, such as installing curtains or fences?

In Michigan, harassment can be considered a criminal offense.
Yes to all of these.
What was the response of your neighbors when you asked them to stop these actions?

In Michigan, stalking and harassment are illegal. You may consider filing a Personal Protection Order (PPO).
They say we're doing things to them that aren't true. Like looking in their basement window, saying our dog is constantly barking, lying to the police.
Have you collected any evidence of their harassment, such as videos, photos, or witnesses?

In Michigan, evidence can be crucial in proving harassment or stalking.
Yes. Photos and video.
Have you considered seeking a restraining order against your neighbors?

In Michigan, you can apply for a Personal Protection Order (PPO) at your local county court. For you, that would be the Michigan Court in your county.
Yes. We applied for an ex parte PPO as to the fact threats are getting more numerous and violent. The ex parte was denied and are waiting for a court date to be given.
What was the reason given for the denial of the ex parte PPO?

In Michigan, denial could be due to insufficient evidence or the judge not deeming the threat immediate.
They said it didn't seem to be urgent enough.
They said it didn't seem urgent enough
What evidence did you present when applying for the ex parte PPO?
Copies of police reports, pictures, dates, times, etc. Of all incidents
Copies of police reports, pictures, dates, times, etc of all incidents
What is the nature of the threats made by your neighbors?
Beating up my daughter, killing our dog,
I'm sorry to hear about this. Have you reported these specific threats to the police? In Michigan, making threats of physical harm is considered assault and is illegal.
Yes. The neighbors denied everything
Yes. They deny everything
What was the police's response to these specific threats?