Child Fined for Urinating in His Own Yard: A Matter of Legality and Justice

In Piedmont, Oklahoma, a singular incident has shaken a quiet community: Dillan Warden, an innocent three-year-old child, was fined while urinating in his own backyard. The scene, though it may seem surreal, has become the subject of discussion regarding the legality and justice of the actions taken by local authorities.
When Dillan found himself in the physiological need to urinate, he instinctively responded to nature's call and headed to his yard to fulfill this basic need. However, his act was abruptly interrupted by the arrival of Kenneth Qualls, a police officer who happened to be passing by.
Qualls, with excessive zeal, decided to fine young Dillan with an astronomically high sum of $2,500.
The public reaction to this incident has been unanimous in condemning Officer Qualls' actions. The question many are asking (me included) is: is it fair to fine a child for such an innocent act, especially when it occurs on their own property?
From a legal standpoint, there are several considerations to take into account. Firstly, there are laws that govern the behavior of minors, but often these laws are oriented towards behaviors involving property damage or violence. The act of urinating in one's own yard does not fall into these categories and therefore raises questions about the legitimacy of the fine imposed on Dillan. There is the concept of private property and the rights of property owners to manage and control what happens within their boundaries.
The backyard is a sacred space for many families, where family members should feel free to act naturally and privately. Fining a child for such an intimate act on their own property
raises doubts about the violation of property rights and the disproportionality of the police officer's reaction.
I think there is a big issue of justice and fairness in law enforcement. While it is understandable that police officers must enforce laws and maintain public order, it is equally important to exercise a certain degree of discernment and understanding in situations involving such young children. The fine imposed on Dillan appears not only excessive, but also lacking in compassion and common sense.
I've concluded that, Dillan Warden's ordeal raises important questions about legality. and justice. Fining a three-year-old child for urinating in their own backyard seems not only excessive, but also unjust and counterproductive. It is hoped that local authorities reconsider the decision made and
adopt more reasonable and compassionate measures in dealing with similar situations in the future. We should all strive to protect the innocence and dignity of our children, even when it comes to small everyday acts like this.
This story reminds me of a funny, personal anecdote that happened over 15 years ago. A neighbor of mine called me and asked if her nephew could use my bathroom, as theirs was unavailable due to ongoing renovations.
I replied to the lady, "Of course, there's no problem at all."
The lady took her nephew by the hand and brought him into my garden, where she had him urinate on my hedge.
I thought he should have used my bathroom, as is normal, but instead she had him casually pee in my garden.
Certainly, the matter doesn't shock me, but to this day, I still can't understand the reasons behind that weird gesture!
Thanks for reading!