IIn a poignant interview posted today on the popular YouTube channel Soft White Underbelly, 14-year-old runaway Billy shared his harrowing journey to the streets. The interview comes just days before his custody by LAPD on October 14, 2024, as documented on Santa Monica Closeup. Born in Inglewood, California, Billy’s life was fraught with instability and trauma from a young age, moving frequently due to family issues until settling in Lancaster. His early childhood was marked by abuse and addiction within his family, leading to him being placed under the care of his aunt.
Billy detailed his experiences of living under his aunt's guardianship for a decade, a period that provided stability despite ongoing personal struggles. From habitual running away beginning at age seven to engaging in petty theft and fighting to protect his siblings, his actions reflected a tumultuous upbringing. His narrative took a darker turn as he recounted a severe incident of violence involving his sister, which resulted in police intervention and his subsequent detention in juvenile hall.
Describing his life as a series of escape attempts from various caregivers and group homes, Billy’s story is a stark reminder of the failings of the child welfare system to provide stable, supportive environments for vulnerable youth. His journey through homelessness introduced him to a community of skaters and eventually led him to Venice Beach, where he met Daisy, a local healer who took him under her wing. Daisy plans to support Billy through an emancipation process, aiming to provide him a semblance of stability and control over his life.
Throughout the interview, Billy expressed a mixture of resilience and resignation to the hardships he’s faced, revealing a deep-seated desire for normalcy and a chance at a better future. His story underscores the critical challenges faced by runaways and the importance of supportive community networks that can offer more than just temporary shelter, but a chance to heal and rebuild.
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