When Portsmouth Police officers start dialing Children Protective Services, it’s usually a sign something’s gone seriously wrong.
In just a few days, officers were called to multiple homes where children were caught in the middle of chaos — from shocking abuse claims to violent fights and neglected toddlers wandering into danger.
“Mom Said She’d Kill Us” — Disturbing Allegations at Local Home
Officers were first called to a Portsmouth home after a disturbing report from a child.
- The child told a caller her mother performed sexual acts in front of the kids.
- She also said her mom threatened to kill them, promising to “break every bone in their face.”
- The caller added the home was infested with roaches and there was no food in the house.
Police went to the scene immediately and contacted Children Protective Services, who arrived about an hour later.
Officers took a full report, and CPS began their investigation into the home.
Domestic Violence on Thomas Avenue
The next day, just before 4:30 p.m., County 911 transferred a frantic call to Portsmouth officers.
A woman could be heard screaming for help, claiming a man had picked her up and slammed her across a table.
In the background, police could hear the man yelling back, and moments later, he told dispatch the woman had assaulted him and he wanted her out.
When officers arrived:
- They detained the female suspect,
- Notified CPS because children were present,
- And arrested the woman after interviewing both parties.
Toddler Found Wandering Near Traffic
Later in the week, police rushed to 17th Street after a woman found a 3-year-old boy alone near the Oasis Convenience Mart — narrowly avoiding being hit by a car.
- Officers located the child’s home and family.
- CPS was called in again, and workers met police at the scene to investigate.
A Pattern That Can’t Be Ignored
Three calls. Three homes. Three times Children Protective Services had to step in.
- 👮 Police can respond fast, but they can’t fix what happens behind closed doors.
- 🧒 CPS helps make sure kids aren’t left in dangerous or chaotic situations.
- 📞 If you see neglect, hear threats, or spot a child in danger — call it in.
👉 Bottom line: Portsmouth officers can’t be everywhere, but they’re seeing too many kids living on the edge. Sometimes the hardest calls are the ones that start with a whisper — and end with flashing lights.