DEAR ABBY: We are good friends with our neighbors the "Smiths." Our oldest son is their youngest son's best friend. The problem is their oldest son, "Joey." Tonight we came home to find that Joey had broken into our garage and stolen the liquor we had stored there. When Mr. and Mrs. Smith confronted him, he took off.
This is not the first time Joey has vandalized our home or stolen from us, and we are fed up. It would be sad to sacrifice our relationship with his parents, but we don't know what else to do.
Should we press charges? Or would that open a whole new can of worms with Joey? Do you think he might take his anger out on our kids? I don't know what's best. Part of me wants to throw the book at him; part of me is afraid of the repercussions. What would you do? -- HAD ENOUGH IN MINNESOTA
DEAR HAD ENOUGH: I'd make my decision based on the number of times Joey had acted out. Since this is not the first time he has vandalized your home or stolen from you, I'd put the Smiths on notice that if anything further happens, the police will be involved. Their son is in serious need of counseling and possibly drug rehabilitation. Also, he needs to learn that there are serious consequences for his actions. If he threatens your children, it may be necessary to get a restraining order.