So I (30s f) used to know someone named "Anna" (30s f). Back at the time we used to be best friends, used to go to the same school had the same hobbies and would spend a lot of time at each others places. You know typical best friend stuff.
After finishing school I have moved to a different country, we tried to stay friends but basically time and internal drama got in the way and we stopped talking. Like we follow each other on social media but thats about it and the last time we spoke was over 10 years ago. Due to some issues with the way she was acting I have decided not to try and rekindle and stay away from her and her family.
This week a friend in common has sent me an article from a local newspaper from our hometown. She and her family are getting prosecuted by the country and all of her and her family’s property has been seized by the government. They are looking to recover an amount in mid 9 digits and so far got about low 9 digits. Regardless the amounts in question are insane amount of money to live more then comfortably for the rest of your days.
Now the common friends insist I should message Anna and support her as she is going through a lot. I have refused immediately, reminded them she is in custody and also bears responsibility and in no way I am trying to communicate with her now. They are free to talk to her themselves but we haven’t been friends for over a decade.
Because of this I was called an asshole and have since been approached by more people from school calling me an asshole for not supporting Anna.
NTA.
You haven’t spoken to this person in a decade because of her egregious behaviour.
This situation literally has nothing to do with you and you shouldn’t be involved in any way.
If those individuals care so much, *they* can support Anna right now.
I’d lay down strict boundaries with those friend / people from school and if crossed, consider blocking / going no contact.
This isn’t a “oh they need $2k to get back on their feet” situation. This is a “they’re being hunted by the government” situation. This is absurd to even ask of you.
This story sounds made up but just in case, NTA. You are in a different country than her and haven’t been close for a long time, no one should care if you support a rich girl or not.