I used to let my neighbors kids use our trampoline until we fenced in our yard and added an above ground pool. We lock the gates to avoid entry into the backyard and access to the pool. Today I caught movement in my backyard out of the corner of my eye and was stunned to see 3 of my neighbors kids jumping on my trampoline. The gates were locked so they used a ladder on their side and put a chair into my yard to climb onto! I was very angry and would like to know what my rights are. I live in North Carolina. Ther mom had to know what they were doing because she was home and they have a huge sliding glass door overlooking their backyard.

The dad told my other neighbor that he couldn't believe that we had put a lock on the gate? We have a pool and trampoline in our yard, why wouldn't we want to keep them locked up to prevent unwanted access.

I am so upset that they would do this. Please give me some advice about how I should handle this mess.

Thanks

My suggestion is to post "Keep Out" and "No Trespassing" signs prominently where you think the kids are trying to come into your yard. Keep the pool covered also if you can for safety reasons. If you catch the kids there and the parents do not get them, call the police and they will start possible juvenile proceedings against them for the offenses.