I don't even normally read that section in the newspaper, but today I came across it because I was looking at movie listings and saw this hysterical article

http://www.creators.com/lifestylefeatures/annies-mailbox.html?columnsName=ama

Dear Annie: A year ago, I moved with my wife and four small children to a community of some 700 residents. Recently, I learned that a local boy has a shoe fetish. He stole a girl's shoes from her house and was caught gratifying himself over them. I feel sorry for the boy. No one chooses to be that sort of person. I also feel sorry for his parents. It must be extremely discouraging to have a son with such an affliction. But the boy is a hefty, strong 18-year-old, and my two girls are 10 and 11.

I spoke to my girls to warn them not to stay too close to that boy, especially in lonely places and after dark. It turns out the girls in the neighborhood know all about this fellow. My daughters and their girlfriends won't let that young man look at their shoes, and they throw stones at him if he comes too close.

What upsets me is that it's impossible to obtain specific information on how many of these fetishists are likely to attack someone eventually. I want a better understanding of the magnitude of the problem. Can you help? — In Spite of Compassion in Canada

Dear In Spite Of: Most shoe fetishists obsess only over shoes and related items, and will not harm anyone. However, if the boy is stealing, it doesn't sound as if his behavior is entirely under control. Your girls are wise to avoid him, although they should not be throwing stones. More importantly, someone should talk to the boy's parents and ask if he is getting professional help. Since you sound both sensible and compassionate, we nominate you.