Reporting Child Abuse and Violence Against Children
One of the biggest reasons why child abuse continues on in silence in this country is that neighbors, friends, family members do not report any suspicious behavior. Many children’s lives would have been saved if there were previous reports documented by law enforcement or the Division of Family and Children’s Services (DFCS), also known as Child Protective Services (CPS) in some states. Perpetrators of crimes against children often go free because of no prior documented police record, only to eventually kill a child. Very few people report suspected abuse or neglect! If Casey Anthony’s parents and extended family or friends would have reported something suspicious in the child’s life, Caylee may not have died.  If you suspect abuse OR the neglect of a child, please make a report with your local police as well! This is critical and it must be documented.
People who call to report suspected abuse do not have to be sure maltreatment has occurred. They simply report what they have seen or heard. The authorities will investigate and confirm whether or not abuse has occurred. People who call are asked to give the name and location of the child and the name of the suspected perpetrator.
Reports are confidential and those who call do not have to give their name. However, it is most helpful to the child in the long run if the reporter is willing to give his or her name and address and, if necessary, testify in court.
The job of protecting children starts in the community. While certain people are required by law to report child mistreatment, anyone can make a report of suspected abuse. The sooner the authorities know about a child, the faster they can move to help!