Abusing children is against the law, so is failure to report child abuse.
To report suspicions of child abuse in Texas,
- call 24 hours a day, toll free 1-800-252-5400.
- If the situation is an emergency, call 911 for local law enforcement.
- If the situation does NOT require an immediate response, you can opt to report on-line at www.txabusehotline.org.
When you make a report, be as specific as possible. Be prepared to tell what happened and when. Be sure to tell about all injuries or incidents you have observed or what the child has told you about, including dates and times.
Make your report as soon as possible, but no later than 48 hours. Bruises and marks can start to fade.
Be ready to provide as much of the following information as you can:
- Child’s name, age and address
- Child’s grade and school (if applicable)
- Brief description of the child
- Current injuries, medical problems or behavioral problems
- Parents’ names, home address and place of employment
- Names and ages of any siblings in the home.
- Relationship between the child and the suspected abuser
- Name and locating information about the suspected abuser
Will the person know I reported him or her? Your report will be confidential and is NOT subject to release under the Open Records Act. The law provides for immunity from civil or criminal liability for innocent persons who report even unfounded suspicions, as long as your report is made in good faith. Your identity will be kept confidential.
What if I’m not sure? If you suspect a child has been abused, but are not positive, report it. If you are unsure if it is abuse, call the hotline and they can advise you if the situation fits the definition of abuse.
Source: Texas Department of Family & Protective Services tdprs.state.tx.us/
Want more info?
Go to: http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/Contact_Us/report_abuse.asp
