What can I do if someone I need to serve a restraining order to has disappeared?

I filed a restraining order in Los Angeles, but the person I need to serve left the state. I have no clue where they are. The judge suggested contacting law enforcement to trace their cell phone, but I don’t know what qualifies for that kind of action. It’s a really dangerous situation—the person is holding their wife captive, using threats and drugs to control her. Any advice on what to do?

This sounds really serious. Law enforcement usually needs evidence of immediate danger or a legal order to trace someone’s phone.

StephieStephie said:
This sounds really serious. Law enforcement usually needs evidence of immediate danger or a legal order to trace someone’s phone.

Yeah, I’m trying to figure out how to prove the danger without being able to locate them first.

StephieStephie said:
This sounds really serious. Law enforcement usually needs evidence of immediate danger or a legal order to trace someone’s phone.

Maybe getting a lawyer involved could help? They might know how to push the case forward.

If the wife is being held captive, this could be considered a form of kidnapping. Report it to the police under that angle.

Shiloh said:
If the wife is being held captive, this could be considered a form of kidnapping. Report it to the police under that angle.

I wasn’t sure if it qualified, but it definitely seems like that now that you mention it.

Shiloh said:
If the wife is being held captive, this could be considered a form of kidnapping. Report it to the police under that angle.

It does. Coercion and keeping someone drugged are major red flags. Definitely let the police know.

You could try hiring a private investigator if the police aren’t acting quickly enough. They might be able to track them down.

AnswerAces4 said:
You could try hiring a private investigator if the police aren’t acting quickly enough. They might be able to track them down.

That’s an idea. I’ll look into it, though I’m worried about the cost. Any idea how much it might be?

AnswerAces4 said:
You could try hiring a private investigator if the police aren’t acting quickly enough. They might be able to track them down.

It depends on how much work is involved, but some offer flexible rates or payment plans.

Have you tried reaching out to the wife’s family or close friends? They might have some leads on where she could be.

Tan said:
Have you tried reaching out to the wife’s family or close friends? They might have some leads on where she could be.

I’ve tried, but it seems like no one knows anything—or they’re not willing to share.

Tan said:
Have you tried reaching out to the wife’s family or close friends? They might have some leads on where she could be.

That’s tough. Maybe someone will speak up if they understand how dangerous this is.

FYI, asking for a welfare check on the wife could be another way to involve law enforcement.

Tate said:
FYI, asking for a welfare check on the wife could be another way to involve law enforcement.

Good idea. I’ll bring that up with them and see if they’ll do it. Thanks!

Tate said:
FYI, asking for a welfare check on the wife could be another way to involve law enforcement.

Hope it helps. It’s such a scary situation, but keep pushing for action.