How would you have dealt with this?

[cally]

I was walking home with my dog close to nightfall. It was later and more secluded than I expected so I was going home fast. I looked over and there was a man grabbing a young woman's/teen's arms and arguing with her. I think they knew each other well. I watched as I approached and it appeared that she wanted to walk past him and move past him but he wasn't allowing it. I heard him saying that she was mean for not wanting to be her friend. I started to walk past and then turned back when I saw him moving her towards a secluded playground. I then told him and her to move away from each other and said something about allowing her to go. They moved away from each other and she told me that she was OK. I asked her if she wanted help and she said no so I left. Should I have done more?

[bliss_eternal]

1. Sounds like you did your best.

If you had a cell on you, perhaps calling someone (police) to check the situation out.

I can appreciate your concern, and willingness to assist in such a situation. It was very kind of you to do so. But, as a solitary bystander you also had to be protective of yourself. I hate to bring something like this up--but we never know when such situations are authentic or when someone is attempting to pull us in (for some sick reason. Ted Bundy pretended to be hurt, to draw women in. Men holding women hostage, have made their captives ask other women for directions, so the kidnapper could abduct someone else.) Not trying to freak you out or be an alarmist, but one must always be aware that when alone we are vulnerable. As such, you still have to be careful and protective of yourself. ;)

You did your best, and more than many would have done in similar circumstances. :)

[raccoon]

2. Well done. I agree with other poster that if you'd had a cell, you might've

called the cops.

[ThomCat]

3. You did more than the vast majority of people would have done.

I hope it was enough to defuse the situation.

[cally]

4. Thanks all for your input

I didn't have my cell phone so I couldn't call. (I need to bring it with me.) I debated whether it was safe for me to intervene and decided that I should at least try.

[Branjor]

5. Scary situation....

I wonder if it was the presence of your dog which saved you.

[cally]

6. I don't think so since he's a seven month puppy

I had just left a dog park which was one block away. I probably could have screamed loud enough to get attention if I felt threatened.