Some 1,300 children die each year and the rest sometimes carry physical and emotional scars for the rest of their lives. Child Abuse is mistreatment or neglect of children by parents or caretakers resulting in injury or harm.
Any citizen is encouraged to report child abuse.
All professionals who have a special working relationship or contact with children are mandated by law to report actual and suspected abuse. Reports must be made immediately by telephone and in writing, within 36 hours of receiving the information concerning the incident. Professionals required to report include medical personnel, teachers, mental health workers, social workers, childcare personnel, commercial film and photographic print processors and law enforcement officers. Failure to report may result in criminal action. Mandated reporters are not liable for civil damages or criminal prosecution as a result of making a report.