Dear Miss. Ellie:

I love my fiance and love his daughter tremendously. When we are together and pick up the little girl for visitation I have noticed bruising, and it is increasing. I know all little kids play and fall; I know I did. But, when I asked her about the bruise on her cheek she said mommy hit her. In the last month, this has happened three times now and I am terrified, my boyfriend is scared and terrified. We walk on egg shells around the mother that she will take her away, she has before.

Child abuse in Murfreesboro??

Dear Child Abuse:

I started this response out with a litany of reasons to call the police, but I erased them all. We are stewards of children, you call the Murfreesboro Police NOW 615-849-2670 or call the Tennessee Child Abuse Hotline 877-237-0004 or 877-542-2873. There is nothing more important today that for you to do this NOW. You love her, I understand love. You are doing this because you love her. Also, you must protect her, you must report any and all abuse of any child, you must. 

If you need to talk more, I am here to listen, please email and I will respond immediately. I will also email you under separate cover. 

Ellie

Side Bar: The author of the letter did contact the local police who opened an investigation. The investigation is ongoing and the child has been removed from the home and is in the care of the father.

Send your letters to murfreesborovoiceaskellie@gmail.com