What is the crime or charge called when a person not allow another person to communicate?

Question

Friend's daughter has been at her dad's home and he won't allow her any communication with outside world, not by phone or anything. They are hours away from her. We called police and they are not being helpful at all because she can't prove custody. He doesn't have joint or any other kind of custody of child.

Answer 1

depends on where you are (country / state) .... can you advise?

Deprivation of liberty maybe, could be any one of a variety of offences relating to child neglect

Answer 2

Friend is stuck. She needs to go to court (this is a civil matter, not a criminal matter.) She needs to get a custody order in writing. The police are still not exactly going to beat down his door if he refuses contact, but you'll have something to stand on.

Friend can also request a Temproary Restraining Order.