Is it legal to report my ex to his commander for unpaid child support?

So my ex is months behind on child support, and I asked a friend for help figuring out what unit he’s in and who his commander is. The idea was to report it, but I never actually contacted anyone myself. Next thing I know, he’s texting me, saying he got an email about a false report and that the National Guard is contacting the local authorities. FYI, I never made any official report, just asked my friend to look into it. Is it illegal to even ask for that info?

I don’t think it’s illegal just to ask. You didn’t actually make any report, right?

Brown said:
I don’t think it’s illegal just to ask. You didn’t actually make any report, right?

Exactly, I didn’t talk to anyone myself. My friend just asked around for info. That’s all.

Brown said:
I don’t think it’s illegal just to ask. You didn’t actually make any report, right?

Yeah, as long as no official report was filed, I doubt it’s a big deal. Your ex might just be bluffing.

What’s the big deal if he’s actually behind on child support? Sounds like he’s just trying to scare you off.

Wei said:
What’s the big deal if he’s actually behind on child support? Sounds like he’s just trying to scare you off.

That’s what I was thinking too. I even have the court order and proof he’s behind.

Wei said:
What’s the big deal if he’s actually behind on child support? Sounds like he’s just trying to scare you off.

Definitely sounds like he’s trying to intimidate you. Just keep your records handy in case it comes up again.

Did your friend actually contact his commander? That might change things a little.

Corin said:
Did your friend actually contact his commander? That might change things a little.

Nope, my friend just asked someone else for the info. No direct contact with his commander at all.

Corin said:
Did your friend actually contact his commander? That might change things a little.

Then you should be fine. Asking around isn’t illegal unless it turns into false accusations or harassment.

If he’s active duty, his commander can enforce child support regulations. Have you looked into that?

Adrian said:
If he’s active duty, his commander can enforce child support regulations. Have you looked into that?

Yeah, someone mentioned AR 608-99 covers this for active-duty members. He claims he’s active duty, so I might go that route.

Adrian said:
If he’s active duty, his commander can enforce child support regulations. Have you looked into that?

FYI, if he’s just a traditional Guardsman, those regs don’t apply. Might be worth double-checking his status.

Honestly, he sounds like he’s just trying to throw you off. You did nothing wrong by asking questions.

Tyler said:
Honestly, he sounds like he’s just trying to throw you off. You did nothing wrong by asking questions.

Thanks, I appreciate that. Just trying to figure out what my options are without crossing any lines.