I seek advice regarding a search of my home conducted last month by the Los 
Angeles County Division of Children and Family Services and the Los Angeles 
Police Department. This search was instigated by my vindictive ex-wife, who 
lost a custody battle. Two Police officers and a DCS social worker appeared 
at my doorstep at about midnight, and threatened me with arrest if I didn't 
step away from my doorway to let them in. Each of my three children were 
woken and interrogated by the social worker, who asked them questions about 
"being left alone," i.e. having their older sister babysit. (The children's 
ages are almost 5, 9, and almost 12. The oldest child babysits infrequently, 
and for short periods of time.) The oldest child was particularly upset 
because the social worker also asked her which parent she liked the best. She 
has had frequent nightmares after this incident. During the
interrogation, two more squad cars arrived. Before they left, my livingroom 
was swarming with Police. One of these officers followed me throughout my 
home, and looked around the premises.
So far, I have written letters of complaint to an LAPD police captain, an LA 
County supervisor, and the U.S. Attorney's office in Los Angeles. The only 
response so far has been from the LAPD, which claimed that it acted 
appropriately.
I am considering filing a civil suit against the City of Los Angeles and 
County of Los Angeles for violating my 4th Amendment rights. I would 
appreciate any advice on who to contact or how to proceed.
--- SLMAIL v4.5a  (#2154)
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