Iron Bowl Ruse Nets Child Support Deadbeats

Collecting child support in Georgia and elsewhere can seem like a full time job for many parents waiting for a check from their children's other parent. The law does provide means to collect delinquent support, including garnishment of wages and attachment of assets levied against non-paying parents.

Social Security payments may also be docked, and past due child support payments are not dischargeable in bankruptcy. Moreover, states cooperate with one another through the Uniform Reciprocal Enforcement of Support Act. Yet, still thousands of cases of unpaid child support remain.

In Opelika, the Lee County Sheriff's Office (LHSO) just took child support enforcement measures to a new level. With an "A" for creativity, the office targeted suspects owing a combined total of more than $270,000 in back support.

Dubbed "Iron Snare," the LHSO mailed announcements on letterhead of a fake organization dubbed the "Charter Club of Lee County." Recipients were told they had won tickets to the 2011 Iron Bowl, the annual football game between Auburn and Alabama. Addresses were obtained from arrest warrants issued for unpaid child support.

A big party was planned for July 29 on Second Avenue in Opelika, complete with videotaped highlights of the 2010 Iron Bowl. Balloons, streamers and music completed the ruse. Winners were told they had to bring a copy of the letter plus a photo ID to claim their tickets. Instead, they were arrested. One man asked if he still got the tickets (sorry, pal).

Once arrested, suspected were taken to the Lee County Detention Center to await bail hearings. Those arrested each owed child support totaling anywhere from $25,000 to $75,000. The sheriff said the intent of Iron Snare was to impress on those owing child support their need to take some responsibility. Failing that, the LHSO intends to help matters along.

While the ruse appears to have met some success, child support is no laughing matter. It is intended to contribute to the expenses necessary to raise a child, for which the suspect has responsibility. Those owed child support at times find the system outdated and slow to react. A Georgia attorney experienced in child support matters and family law issues may offer some understanding and assistance to those seeking monies owed for their children's expenses.