Dear Prudence,
I have a friend whose husband took a plea deal in a case of possession and distribution of child pornography. It’s possible that he will be out with time served soon, although that remains unclear. I don’t care to share any space with him. I expect her to try to bring him back into social circles we share as if nothing happened. She is also in denial over the seriousness of his crime (he maintains innocence and ignorance or blames drunkenness and depression). How should I handle the possibility that I may be surprised in the future by this guy’s presence at some social event? Also, should I be disturbed by my friend’s denial and minimizing of her husband’s offense?
—Need Some Space